Clacton-On-Sea Hotels

Local attractions

All the pleasures of the promenade are on show in Clacton. Its ornate Victorian arcades and impressive pier is ideal for a leisurely seaside walk. Hours can be spent reliving your favourite childhood holidays as you play games, win prizes and enjoy some vintage Clacton entertainment. The Clacton carnival is a family favourite along with the Clacton Air Show which gives unrivalled opportunities to see classic planes such as the Spitfire soar through the clear blue sky.

Clacton beach is a particularly scenic section of the Tendring holiday peninsula's 36 miles of long, sandy beaches. Pristine and award-winning, the beach is perfect for traditional seaside fun. Full of lovely cafés and restaurants, along with plenty of entertainment venues, the beach can be a hive of activity as well as offering secluded areas for football and other games. Ride the donkeys, indulge in an ice-cream and relax in the sun amid the delights of the seaside.

The elegant pier also boasts a large helter-skelter which may prove irresistible for young and old alike.

After the joys of the merry-go-rounds and seafront frolics, St Osyth's beach is an untouched, quiet beach ideal for a peaceful sunset walk along the surf. The beach also hosts a great Sunday market selling local produce.

Shopping

Clacton on Sea is blessed with a bustling retail scene with many established brands having a presence in the area. Clacton Factory Outlets features a variety of independent and specialist stores offering up to 60% off High Street prices.

After dark

Complementing the daytime fun is Clacton's thriving nightlife. The town has two historic theatres that regularly host popular shows with famous showbiz names. The West Cliff also runs the country's last remaining traditional summer show.

Dining out

When visiting the seaside, you cannot miss out on some classic fish and chips as you sit and admire the wonderful sea views. The Sheldrake is a popular old-fashioned pub with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. For a bar with a modern chic edge, the Wall Lounge offers a lively ambiance with great live music.

Where to stay to be near the popular attractions

Clacton-on-Sea, nested graciously on the southeast coast of England in the county of Essex, teems with scenic landscapes and thrilling attractions. With a plethora of available accommodation options in the area, it becomes essential to choose a location that provides easy access to the main points of interest.

One location to consider is near the renowned Clacton Pier. Hotels in this area provide close proximity to this historic space that is home to an amusement arcade, a fairground and an array of shopping spots – all generously dispersed along the Victorian-built structure. Staying near the Pier also ensures easy access to Clacton's beautiful beach with its golden sands and calm sea, an ideal spot for those seeking a serene, coastal experience.

The seaside district of West Clacton is another attractive proposition. With a selection of resorts and seafront hotels, this neighbourhood emanates an invitingly relaxed atmosphere and grants its dwellers swift access to the sandy stretches of Martello Bay. For those with an interest in history, the Martello Tower, an old British fortification, sits nearby.

For visitors who prefer to stay in the busy heart of Clacton, there's the Central ward. Lodging options here range from upmarket hotels to budget guesthouses, all conveniently positioned close to the railway station, shopping centres and various dining venues. Furthermore, staying in Central Clacton places the visitor within a comfortable distance of the Princes and West Cliff theatres, making it ideal for those inclined towards arts and culture.

Visitors with a preference for a more serene environment may find an appeal in Great Clacton. This residential area, on the town outskirts, boasts quieter accommodation options such as cottages and B&Bs. Despite being a more laidback locale, it still provides easy access to the town's major attractions and the added advantage of quick getaways to nature trails and outdoor parks.

In contrast, Jaywick, located to the southwest, may cater to those who enjoy a more colourful, vibrant atmosphere. This area, recognised for its unique architectural style, is a hub of seaside amenities and benefits from being close to Clacton's golf course.

Where to stay with a family

Located on the picturesque coast of Essex, Clacton-on-Sea is a popular destination for families seeking a seaside getaway. With its magnificent beaches, vibrant amusement parks and lively atmosphere, it is the perfect place to create unforgettable memories with loved ones. But with so many accommodation options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to stay with a family.

When it comes to choosing a neighbourhood, families should consider the convenience and safety of the area. The Marine Parade neighbourhood, located close to the seafront, is an ideal choice for families. It offers easy access to the beach and various entertainment options, such as the popular Clacton Pier, without the hustle and bustle of the town centre. Additionally, the nearby Martello Bay Beach, with its calm waters and family-friendly facilities, is perfect for a day of sun and sea with the little ones.

Another great option is the Holland-on-Sea neighbourhood, situated just a short drive away from the town centre. This peaceful area is perfect for families looking for a more relaxed and tranquil stay. With its beautiful sandy beach and tranquil gardens, it provides a serene setting for quality family time. Families can also enjoy exploring the nearby wildlife reserves and nature trails, making it an ideal choice for those who love the great outdoors.

The Premier Inn Clacton-on-Sea Seafront Hotel, located in the Marine Parade neighbourhood, offers spacious family rooms equipped with all the necessary amenities. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant and a children's play area, making it a convenient and comfortable option for families.

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Travelodge Clacton-on-Sea Central Hotel is a great choice. Located in the heart of the town, it offers easy access to various attractions and amenities. The hotel also offers family rooms with extra beds and cots available upon request. Families can also make use of the hotel's free parking and complimentary breakfast, making it a practical choice for a family holiday.

Where to find cheap hotels

Located on the sunny coast of Essex, Clacton-on-Sea is a popular holiday destination for families and beach lovers. But with its impressive seaside location comes the misconception that it's an expensive place to stay.

One of the best ways to save money on accommodation in Clacton-on-Sea is by staying in the town centre. This area offers a variety of budget-friendly hotels, ranging from small B&Bs to larger chain hotels. Visitors can also find a plethora of amenities such as shops, restaurants and entertainment options, making it a convenient place to stay.

For even more affordable options, consider staying in the outskirts of the town centre. The areas of Jaywick and Holland-on-Sea offer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, as well as cheaper hotel rates. These areas are still within close proximity to the beach and other popular attractions, making them a great choice for budget-conscious travellers.

For those looking for cheaper hotel chains, there are a few options to choose from in Clacton-on-Sea. Travelodge and Premier Inn are two popular choices, offering comfortable and basic accommodation at an affordable price. These hotels are often located in or near the town centre, making it easy to explore all that Clacton-on-Sea has to offer without breaking the bank.

To save even more money, consider travelling during the off-season or during weekdays. Clacton-on-Sea sees a surge of visitors during the summer months, leading to higher hotel rates. By visiting in the shoulder season or during weekdays, visitors can find cheaper hotel deals and have a more peaceful stay.

Party and nightlife in Clacton-on-Sea

Clacton-on-Sea offers a vibrant scene when the sun goes down, with a plethora of options straddling venues for partygoers and night-owls alike. As dusk gives way to vibrant streetlights, this seaside town in Essex comes alive, ignited by its premium nightclubs, trendy bars, exclusive discos and throbbing music venues.

An engaging atmosphere can be found in the heart of the town centre. It is here that several entertainment venues line the streets, with Marine Parade being a notable example. This busy street is well-known for its array of trendy nightclubs and bars, offering a mix of live music and DJs spinning tunes until the early hours.

Amongst renowned nightlife venues in Clacton is the Loft, a nightclub that leaves no stone unturned in providing high-energy music and a dance floor that often witnesses revelling until dawn. It becomes a focal point for late-night entertainment, presenting an enticing line-up of national and international DJs.

Live music enthusiasts may find their heart’s content at the West Cliff Theatre, famed for being a well-respected concert venue. It's an energetic hotspot where diverse music genres converge, from rock to classical, catering to the most eclectic of music tastes. As well as music, comedy and dance performances are also part of this venue's thriving entertainment scene.

Lively pubs and bars also feature prominently when it comes to Clacton-on-Sea's nightlife. Notable mentions include the Martello Bar, known for its lively bar scene and casual atmosphere, and Eldo's Bar, known for its selection of quality drinks and comfortable ambience.

While featuring several vibrant party areas, Clacton’s nightlife is also complemented by its quieter spots. JJ’s Bar, for instance, offers seaside views and an ambient setting, making it an ideal location for those seeking a more relaxed night out.

It's worth noting that although Clacton-on-Sea is a fine destination for nocturnal activities, the wider region of Essex is also rich in nightlife possibilities. Towns such as Colchester and Chelmsford offer an array of dining and drinking establishments, along with live music venues, contributing to the overall appeal of the county in terms of night-time entertainment.