Q: What’s the difference between Flex, Semi-Flex, Advance, Standard and Non-Flex rates?

Flex – Pay now or on arrival, fully refundable with free cancellation up to 1pm on the day of arrival . Our most flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to 1pm on the day of arrival. You can also amend your booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date). Semi-Flex – Pay now, fully refundable with free cancellation up to three full days before arrival. Fairly flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to three full days before arrival. No refunds after that date. You can also amend your booking date at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date). Advance – Pay now, fully refundable with free cancellation up to 28 full days before arrival, free to amend thereafter until the day of arrival. Fairly flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to 28 full days before arrival. No refunds after that date. You can also amend your booking date at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date). Standard – Pay now, non-refundable. Free to amend booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival. Slightly flexible rate – you won’t be able to cancel and get a full refund, but you can amend your booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date). Non-Flex – Pay now. No amends or refunds. Our least flexible rate – you won’t be able to cancel or amend your stay after booking.

Question 1

What places are like Essex?

Accepted Answer

If you enjoy the mix of coast, countryside, and lively towns that Essex is known for, there are plenty of places that have a similar feel. Take a look at our hotels in Colchester, Clacton-on-Sea, Harlow, Southend-on-Sea, Basildon, Brentwood, Thurrock and Waltham Abbey.

Question 2

What is Essex famous for?

Accepted Answer

Essex is known for its diverse mix of beautiful countryside, vibrant seaside towns and rich history. The county has stunning coastlines with popular beaches like Clacton-on-Sea, Frinton-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze, where you can enjoy traditional seaside fun and impressive piers, including the historic Southend Pier – one of the longest in the world. Essex also has a fascinating Roman heritage, especially in Colchester, Britain’s oldest recorded town, with well-preserved Roman walls and archaeological sites. Beyond history and nature, Essex is popular for lively nightlife hotspots such as Brentwood, Basildon and Chelmsford, drawing crowds for music, bars, and entertainment. Plus, it’s known for great shopping destinations like Lakeside Shopping Centre and bustling local markets. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, cultural experiences or simply relaxing by the coast, Essex has a little bit of everything.

Question 3

Does Essex have nice beaches?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Essex boasts plenty of picturesque beaches and seafronts, especially around Clacton-on-Sea, Frinton-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze. One standout is Southend Pier, a historic Victorian pier that’s packed with activities and great for a fun day out. Whether you want to relax by the sea or explore the lively coastal spots, Essex’s beaches have something to offer.

Question 4

What is the main town in Essex?

Accepted Answer

Essex doesn’t have just one main town, as it’s home to several key towns, each with its own character and attractions. However, Chelmsford is often considered the main city in Essex, known for its lively shopping streets, restaurants and cultural venues like the civic theatre and museums. Chelmsford also has excellent transport links to London, making it a popular spot for visitors and commuters. Other popular towns in Essex include Colchester, which is famous for its Roman history, and Southend-on-Sea, well-known for its seaside appeal and pier.

Question 5

Is there anything to do in Essex?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely – Essex has loads to explore, especially if you’re after a mix of nature, family fun, seaside spots and history. Just outside London, it’s great for short breaks or day trips. Nature lovers can enjoy peaceful walks through Epping Forest, along the Roman River in Colchester or through the countryside near Waltham Abbey. For families, Colchester Zoo is a must-visit with over 5,000 animals and lots of interactive exhibits. If you're into history, check out Colchester Castle Museum or Audley End House near Saffron Walden. Hedingham Castle is another great stop for views and a bit of medieval history. Fancy some sea air? Head to Clacton, Frinton or Southend-on-Sea for beaches, piers and amusements. Don’t miss Southend Pier, the longest pleasure pier in the world, or the rides at Adventure Island. There’s great food and shopping too – from fresh seafood on Mersea Island to browsing local stalls at Saffron Walden market, or retail therapy at Lakeside Shopping Centre.

Question 6

Does Essex have a good nightlife?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Essex has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of spots to enjoy a night out. Brentwood is especially well known, thanks to The Only Way Is Essex, and it's a popular place for bars, clubs and late-night fun. Basildon and Chelmsford also have busy nightlife areas with a great mix of pubs, cocktail bars and live music venues. Whether you're after a big night or a relaxed drink, there's something for everyone.

Question 7

Is Essex good for shopping?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Essex has some great shopping spots. If you’re after a big shopping experience, Lakeside in Thurrock is a huge centre with thousands of high street brands. You’ll also find great options at the Victoria Shopping Centre near Southend-on-Sea and the High Chelmer Shopping Centre in Chelmsford. For something a bit different, check out the independent market at Saffron Walden, held on Tuesdays and Saturdays, where you can find unique local goods.

Question 8

What trains run in Essex?

Accepted Answer

Essex benefits from excellent train connections that link the county to London, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire. Key routes serve popular towns and cities across Essex, making travel convenient for commuters and visitors alike. Plus, Stansted Airport is easily accessible by train.

Question 9

What’s the difference between Flex, Semi-Flex, Advance, Standard and Non-Flex rates?

Accepted Answer

Flex – Pay now or on arrival, fully refundable with free cancellation up to 1pm on the day of arrival. Our most flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to 1pm on the day of arrival. You can also amend your booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Semi-Flex – Pay now, fully refundable with free cancellation up to three full days before arrival. Fairly flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to three full days before arrival. No refunds after that date. You can also amend your booking date at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Advance – Pay now, fully refundable with free cancellation up to 28 full days before arrival, free to amend thereafter until the day of arrival. Fairly flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to 28 full days before arrival. No refunds after that date. You can also amend your booking date at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Standard – Pay now, non-refundable. Free to amend booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival. Slightly flexible rate – you won’t be able to cancel and get a full refund, but you can amend your booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Non-Flex – Pay now. No amends or refunds. Our least flexible rate – you won’t be able to cancel or amend your stay after booking.

Question 10

What time is check-in and checkout?

Accepted Answer

Our standard check-in time is 3pm. For an additional fee*, you can start your stay sooner with early check-in from 11am. Add early check-in to your stay while making your booking, or afterwards by managing your stay in your Premier Inn account. Early check-in is subject to availability and not available at all Premier Inn hotels.

Checkout is by 12 noon on your departure date. If luggage storage is available, our teams will be happy to store any bags for you if you’d like to check out before 12pm.

*Prices and times will vary depending on date and location.

Question 11

Can I check in early?

Accepted Answer

For an additional fee*, you can start your stay sooner with early check-in from 11am. Add early check-in to your stay while making your booking, or afterwards by managing your stay in your Premier Inn account. Early check-in is subject to availability and not available at all Premier Inn hotels.

*Prices and times will vary depending on date and location.

Question 12

What is Premier Inn CleanProtect™?

Accepted Answer

In 2020 we launched Premier Inn CleanProtect™, our rigorous, daily cleaning method that’s used throughout our UK & Ireland hotels. Developed in partnership with Diversey, a global leader in cleaning and hygiene products for the healthcare and hospitality industries, our promise seeks to give you extra peace of mind so you can always book and stay with confidence.

Check-in - minimising contact at reception and providing hand sanitiser in most public areas for peace of mind.

Bed linen and towels - laundering all our linen and towels at over 60°C to thermally disinfect them, so you can enjoy a great night’s sleep. We’ve also placed spare pillows in a zip-up bag, for extra peace of mind.

Equipping our teams - providing our team members with all the equipment and sanitisers they need, as well as always operating in the safest way possible for our teams and guests.

A generous serving of safety - you can relax knowing that enhanced cleaning measures are in place throughout our restaurants. Tables are cleaned between visits and contactless payment is in place too, so you can dine safely and comfortably with us every time.

Clean on request - if you'd like your room cleaned during your stay with us, just let us know at reception and use the handy door hanger on the back of your door by 12pm each day.

Question 13

What facilities are provided for customers with disabilities?

Accepted Answer

Most Premier Inns have specially-adapted rooms allowing easier access for customers with disabilities. If there is no specially-adapted room available at the hotel of your choice, we will be happy to offer you alternative accommodation at a nearby Premier Inn. If you have difficulty walking, but do not need a specially-adapted room, please feel free to request a room near reception on the ground floor for easy access.

If you'd like get in touch, you can reach out to our specialist team via email at pi.accessible@whitbread.com or call us on 0333 0919 817 between 9am and 5pm Monday-Friday (calls charged at local rate).

Question 14

Can I bring my pet to a Premier Inn hotel?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, with the exception of trained assistance dogs, we don't allow pets to stay at our hotels.

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