Tolleshunt Knights, near Colchester · ★★★★ 4.4 (2,409 reviews) 194 rooms · 2 golf courses · Spa & leisure · Resort-style · From £120 B&B
★★★☆☆ 3.0 (2,412 reviews) → TripAdvisor
Five Lakes Resort is a sprawling leisure complex in rural Essex, a former Crowne Plaza now under Village Hotels, with two 18-hole golf courses, a full spa, and 194 rooms on 130 acres of lakes and woodland. Centred around five fishing lakes, it’s a self-contained destination 20 minutes from Colchester, ideal for active families or golfers seeking variety.
Rooms are modern and functional: Standard doubles with king beds and lake views, up to Family Suites with bunk beds and PlayStation consoles. The Vibe Spa features an indoor pool, sauna, nine treatment rooms for facials and massages, and a state-of-the-art gym with classes like spin and yoga. Dining options abound: the lakeside Brasserie for steaks and seafood, the casual Vibe Kitchen for burgers, and the golf clubhouse for light bites—all using local suppliers like Layer Marney pork.
With tennis courts, crazy golf, and kids’ clubs, it’s geared for multi-generational stays, plus conference facilities for business. Free parking and shuttle to Colchester add ease.
Pros
- Endless on-site activities for all ages
- Strong golf and spa facilities
- Good value for families/groups
- Lakeside setting for relaxation
Cons
- Large-scale feel lacks intimacy
- Some dated elements in common areas