Essex is easily one of England’s most iconic counties. Not all the stereotypes are great, but everybody knows an Essex boy or girl that absolute love. Furthermore, there’s no doubt that the South East is very accommodating to its guests.
Whether it’s a day trip or a longer stay, there are many wonderful things to see and do in Essex. Here are five reasons that a trip there should be on your bucket list for 2016.
World’s Longest Pleasure Pier
Southend-on-Sea might not be the tourists attraction that is was back in the 1960s and 70s. But the seaside resort still has plenty to offer, including the world’s longest pleasure pier. A summer walk along the mile-and-a-quarter pier is a lovely day out for any family. You can’t beat walking back with fish and chips too.
Meanwhile, the nearby Adventure Island theme park is a great way to spend an afternoon too. Or you could just grab your bucket and spade and head to the beach.
Great Food And Nightlife
We’ve all seen the programme TOWIE. Of course, it is a little over the top. Nevertheless, Essex is a very vibrant county for nightlife while there are some fantastic restaurants too.
The Boadicea is one of Colchester’s greatest night spots, and you’ll be guaranteed to have a great time in the bar / restaurant. Let’s face it, the great nightlife is one of Essex’s key selling points. If you go to the right places, you will not be disappointed.
Natural Beauty
In truth, Essex isn’t heralded as one of Britain’s great beauty spots. There’s no secret that it can’t match the Lake District or other top areas. However, there’s still plenty of great locations to enjoy throughout the county.
There are an abundance of seaside resorts and lakes to enjoy. Meanwhile, Chelmsford’s RHS Gardens is a truly awesome place to walk and relax with the family or with a romantic partner. They have various events taking place throughout the year too, which can inject a little-added fun to the adventure.
Shopping
Essex folk are known for paying a lot of attention to their looks. Whatever your thoughts are on that subject, it does make way for some truly wonderful shopping centres. And they don’t come much better than Lakeside.
The indoor shopping centre is perfect at any time of year. Meanwhile, the plethora of shops should keep every guest satisfied. In truth, it’s probably one of the best centres in the country. Moreover, it offers free parking too. So you can shop until you drop without fear of a huge parking charge too.
Location
When visiting a place for a week stay, there’s always the temptation to take a day trip to a nearby attraction. The proximity of Essex to London is another huge selling point. With these tips, you’ll be sure to make the most of your day out in the city too.
The exact location of your stay will dictate exactly how far away you are. But even Southend is only an hour away from London’s Zone 1. No matter where you are in the county, London is well within reaching distance.
very informative and somewhere i do plan on visiting as ive friends near Romford
Romford is in London, not Essex.
In the London Borough of Havering in east London.
Mm, this article doesn’t mention Romford!
Essex sounds like a wonderful city to visit
Essex is a county not a city.
I know, this is why I refer to it as a county, haha 🙂
I’ve never been but thanks for the advice
Perhaps one for 2016? 🙂 xx
My dad lives on the border of Essex – plenty to see and do!