Staycations are a great way to save money and Romford is lucky enough to have the stunning Essex countryside on its doorstep.
Dotted across the borough are campsites, glamping spots and holiday parks, which often put on activities for all the family.
Below are four top-rated staycation picks, all within two hours of Romford.
Lee Valley Campsite, Chingford
Woodland glamping cabins at Lee Valley Campsite, Sewardstone (Image: Visit Essex)
Lee Valley Campsite, Sewardstone is located on the outskirts of Chingford – under 40 minutes away from Romford by car.
The campsite gets four stars on TripAdvisor, with many reviewers commenting on how easy it is to get into central London – the bus stop is right outside the entrance to the site – or explore River Lee Country Park.
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The campsite offers pitches for tents and caravans, camping pods and “cocoons” and larger holiday homes.
Naze Marine Holiday Park, Walton-on-the-Naze
Naze Marine Holiday Park is on the Essex coast, based in the seaside town on Walton-on-the-Naze, which is around an hour and a half away from Romford.
The Parkdean resort earned a 2025 Travellers’ Choice Award from TripAdvisor and is described by Visit Essex as the “perfect location for families looking for a fun and energetic holiday”.
Families can stay in both caravans and lodges, and look forward to a host of on-site activities from laser quest to crazy golf and arts and crafts.
Mersea Island Holiday Park, Colchester
Mersea Island Holiday Park overlooks the Blackwater Estuary, and can be reached from Romford in around an hour and 20 minutes.
The park is rated 4.3 stars on Google and TripAdvisor and has won numerous awards from Visit England over the years.
It offers an indoor heated swimming pool, children’s play area, private beach and clubhouse with entertainment.
Chigborough Camping and Glamping, Heybridge
Chigborough Camping is on the outskirts of Maldon, around an hour’s drive from Romford.
Nestled amongst fishing lakes, the campsite is a “peaceful, rural oasis” from which to explore the Blackwater Estuary or the historic market town of Maldon, according to Visit Essex.
It has both camping and glamping options and get 4.3 stars on TripAdvisor.
