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With the financial disturbance of the recent recession still being felt by many and the pound at a relative low, myriad Brits have been opting to ease off on the plane tickets and, instead, holiday on home soil. And, moreover, it seems now that even those unaffected by the downturn are increasingly choosing to stay in Blighty for their breaks. So, in order to delve into the newfound attraction that staying home holds for holidaymakers, we have written the following as a guide to some of the very best places to visit, sights to see and things to do, all without ever leaving the shores of the UK.

For those of a rather adventurous mindset, the county of Essex offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activity and white-knuckle excitement. NOMAD Sea Kayaking, for example, now organise and lead trips along the Essex, Dorset and Suffolk coasts, catering to all ages and abilities. Similarly, the Southend Marine Activities Centre on Thorpe Bay makes for a fine day out for beginners and the more advanced alike, offering various short courses in just about everything water-based, from windsurfing, jet-skiing and yachting to powerboat driving and banana-boating.

Home to over fourteen thousand listed buildings (with no less than one thousand of these classified officially as 'outstanding'), the county of Essex has long been a holiday haven for history buffs and architectural admirers. Fyfield Hall, one of the oldest extant timber-framed houses in the country, is certainly worth a visit of an afternoon – as is Layer Marney Tower, an impressive structure with the title of England's tallest Tudor gatehouse. However, for a slightly longer break steeped in history, a thorough exploration of Colchester, England's oldest recorded town, is highly recommended. Fortunately, accommodation in the area is largely inexpensive, with a number of cosy bed and breakfasts situated nearby in the outlying villages, such as Elmstead or West Bergholt.

If looking for a scenic drive to fill a long summer's day, or even a just a brief trip out to spend the afternoon amidst more appealing surroundings, then the route out to the ancient Epping Forest is certainly worthy of consideration. Easily accessible from either the A414 or the A113, the forest is a beautiful place to spend a day, with seemingly countless miles of rural walking interspersed with the occasional pub for a spot of lunch. To extend the trip just a little and to take in some quirky local history, a visit to the nearby 'Secret Nuclear Bunker' in Kelvedon Hatch makes for an interesting few hours. Just take the A128 south from Chipping Ongar, then continue along Brentwood Road to the village, before following the large, brown signs to the bunker.

If you live a little too far from Essex to take your own car across to the county for a trip, then don't fret; for, with cheap car hire at East Midlands airport readily available, getting around in the area really has become remarkably easy of late.

Turn your thoughts on Holidaying in the UK into reality and visit the historical county of Essex...

© EssexTouristGuide.com

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