Fall in love with Essex this Valentine’s

1st February 2026

Visit Essex, the county’s tourism organisation, reveals the county’s most romantic locations. 

Fall under Essex’s spell this Valentine’s, with stunning sunsets, romantic boltholes plus fine food and drink to enjoy. 

Councillor Mark Durham, Chair of Visit Essex explains why the tourism organisation is keen to shine a light on Essex’s most dreamy locations. He said: “Essex is blessed with 350 miles of beautiful coastline, it’s the ideal place to watch the sunset, especially with an oyster or two, plus a glass of the county’s finest wines.”

He added: “St Valentine’s has become a key date in the tourism calendar and Visit Essex is keen to highlight what’s on offer to tourists and happy couples in our lovely county.”  

The top five most romantic things to see and do in Essex: 

1   Sunsets by the sea
In the winter months grab a blanket and head to the Essex coast to watch the sunset. Stunning views of the sun dipping into the sea are best on Mersea Island, as well as Brightlingsea, Burnham on Crouch and Southend-on-Sea.     

2   Romantic boltholes
Everyone enjoys a ‘get away from it all’ short break and there’s plenty of romantic stays to be enjoyed across the county. Top romantic boltholes include Orchard Cottage at St Osyth Priory, with a private wood-fired hot tub. Accommodation includes a luxurious double bed, shower and kitchen plus stunning countryside views. Or for seclusion opt for Water Lily Lodge in White Colne, a beautiful cabin set by the lake’s edge. Cabins include hot tub, wood burner, shower room and self-catering facilities. A standout opulent stay with a difference is on offer at Hedingham Castle in their Royal Chamber. The room offers a sumptuous four poster bed and double bath, all set in the heart of the historic castle. 

3   The food of love
Enjoy fine dining at some of Essex’s most romantic pubs. Step into the Galvin Green Man in Great Waltham near Chelmsford to indulge in beautifully cooked Great British classics. Treat yourselves to the ultimate date night  at the Eight Bells in Saffron Walden. The sixteenth century timber framed building offers mediaeval charm in a contemporary setting. Couples can opt for private booths for intimate dining. Foodies will love the Mistley Thorn near Manningtree. The menu offers fresh local produce, including Mersea oysters and locally caught fish. The pub also offers beautifully styled cosy rooms. The Mistley Cookery school is just a short walk away, ideal for lovers of fine food to learn a trick or two. 

4   Most romantic places to say ‘I do’
From fairy light lit woodlands to majestic stately homes, Essex offers the perfect backdrop for a couples big day. Hylands Estate in Chelmsford offers the ultimate in grandeur. Their banqueting room is bedecked in gold leaf, and its spiral staircase offers wedding photographers the perfect shot. Or go boho and celebrate your partnership at Dedham Vale Vineyard in the Stour Valley. Wander through the pretty wood to a clearing to say your vows under the prettiest of fairy lights.  

5   Raising a toast to St Valentine
Essex has the fastest growing number of vineyards in the UK. It is also home to some great wineries, which produce award-winning wine. Head to Saffron Grange near Saffron Walden. The vineyard shares the same geology as the Champagne region of France, which is why their sparkling wines are some of the best. Or take a meander down the Crouch Valley from Burnham towards Chelmsford. Stop off at Crouch Valley, Clayhill and New Hall vineyards and choose a bottle of their finest.  

To discover more, go to www.visitessex.com.