The 4-star Stansted Novotel (formerly the Hilton) is the perfect hotel near Stansted airport if you're looking to start (or end) your trip in style, close to the terminal. The hotel runs a shuttle bus to the terminal every half an hour, that will whisk you to check-in in just 6 minutes - so there's no need to worry about lengthy transfers!

In true Novotel fashion, the hotel is tastefully styled throughout and facilities are of a high standard. The modern bedrooms are equipped with plenty of homely mod-cons including free wifi, flat screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, not to mention a free morning paper! Before heading up to bed, however, be sure to try a dish from the vibrant hotel restaurant or enjoy your favourite tipple in the bar/lounge. For any fitness fanatics you'll be pleased to know there's even a 24 hour gym if you fancy squeezing in a pre-holiday workout.