There is much more to Essex than TOWIE and if you have ever thought of visiting or moving to our glorious county, here are 13 reasons why you totally should:
1. We’ve got the world’s longest pier
At 1.34 miles long, Southend pier is the longest in the world. You can either hop aboard the shuttle train or take a brisk walk in the sea air down to the cafe and enjoy a hot drink surrounded by a view of the Thames Estuary.
Jamie Oliver fans will also know that his TV series Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast is filmed in their pop up cafe at the end of the pier which has been visited by some very famous guests including Kate Hudson and Ellie Goulding.
2. A proper British seaside day out
As well as the world’s longest pier, Southend sea front is also home to arcades, restaurants, pubs, a large theme park and a shopping centre. You can while away long summer days in and out of the arcades, eating chips with a wooden fork, playing crazy golf next to the sea and winding up in a lively pub full of music.
3. Beautiful Essex beaches
Our county is home to Walton on the Naze, Frinton on Sea, Shoebury East Beach and Brightlingsea to name just a few amazing beaches.
4. London is on your doorstep
If you fancy taking in a show or gig or even just the hustle and bustle of the city then another great thing about living in Essex is that our wonderful capital is only a short car or train journey away. Travelling into town to take in the tourist attractions whether it is shopping on Oxford Street, drinks in Camden or wandering around the Tower of London is an easy day trip.
5. Lakeside
Aka the best shopping centre in the South. Intu Lakeside just off of the A13 (and near the M25) not only has a vast array of shops but eateries and a champagne bar too.
6. Talking of shopping…
For all of you fellow shopaholics out there, Essex is a great place to spend some of your hard earned cash. As well as Lakeside there’s Basildon Eastgate and Westgate, five minutes from the A127 and for all your designer needs at bargain prices there is Freeport in Braintree which has outlets such as Hollister, Ted Baker, Gap and Tommy Hilfiger to name just a very few. Plus you are only a short car or train journey away from Westfield, Stratford.
7. Exciting tourist attractions for kids (and adults too!)
You could visit the animals at Colchester Zoo or perhaps learn about life in The Secret Cold War Nuclear Bunker in Kelvedon Hatch. There are also lots of great farms such as Old McDonalds Farm in Brentwood or the Sealife Adventure Aquarium in Southend.
8. And if you’re looking for something a little more grown up…
Why not try the theatre? Essex has a vast array such as the Queens Theatre in Hornchurch or The Mercury Theatre in Colchester.
9. Foodie adventures
If you fancy something a bit different why not try The Smart School of Cookery in Danbury or sample English wine at the Dedham Vale Winery and Estate in Boxted.
10. Essex is full of history!
Colchester is Britain’s oldest recorded town and for a time was the Roman capital of Britain. There is also still evidence of Roman settlement in Great Dunmow, Chelmsford and Braintree.
If you are interested in experiencing Norman British life then Mountfitchet Castle is a great day out or if you enjoy exploring historic landmarks then Audley End house and gardens in Saffron Walden is a must see.
There is also over 300 years worth of history to learn about at the Royal Gunpowder Mill in Waltham Abbey.
11. We love to eat
There’s such a vast array of places to eat out for all different tastes from Thai and traditional pub grub to gourmet food.
Alec’s Restaurant in Brentwood serves bar and grill food and is a popular choice as well as the Chop Bloc US-style steakhouse in Chelmsford.
Or, for gourmet food with locally sourced ingredients you must book a table at The Magic Mushroom in Barleylands.
12. …and drink
If it’s night life you’re after Essex is full of pubs and clubs whether you want live music, DJs and VIP treatment or a place to chill out with your friends.
Asylum in Chelmsford is popular for fans of alternative music while The After Office Hours bar in Colchester is known for its cocktails.
13. We’ve even got our own airport
According to a recent survey by ABTA – The Travel Association, one in five Brits consider a holiday abroad a necessity rather than a luxury. If that’s the case, it’s a good job Essex is not only near to Gatwick and Heathrow but also has two of its own major airports at Stansted and now at Southend which has recently been extended. Great news for those who love a bit of sun!
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