Essex (a stunning coastline, pretty villages, Epping Forest)

Mersea Island, Leafy Dumas

Essex is a large mostly rural county in East of England, with (after Devon) having England’s second longest coastline. Not all about the Dartford Tunnel, find windmills, pretty villages and country pubs.

The Essex coast is stunning. And there are even little islands that look like they belong in the Caribbean! Plus two historic cities of Colchester and Chelmsford.

If out walking, follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe (learn how to upright an overturned sheep). Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms, cliffs and toxic plants/trees. 

At the coast, keep dogs away from nesting birds and sand dunes. Read how to keep dogs safe by the seaside. Check beach bans before travel. 

Colchester (Britain’s ancient city)

This was the first recorded ever city in England, so great if you like your history. Dating back to Roman times.

The other city of Chelmsford is not so old. Due to a fire in a prison in the 70s (it had to close down temporarily), this is where the inside scenes for the film Porridge were filmed).

Clacton-on-Sea (and other Essex towns)

The Essex coast is very pretty, but alas some towns have become run-down due to lack of investment. Nigel Farage recently won a by-election here (one ward is one of the most deprived areas in England with mattresses on the seafront), but he has not done anything about it in 2 years).

It’s a shame as the coastline is fantastic. It could be a real tourist site, with some love and care. And bring some much-needed income into the area and good jobs.

Mersea on Sea (a Caribbean island?)

This is an island not far from Colchester. It’s a tidal causeway (so check tide times before driving over). It looks like the Caribbean, a secret gem!

Southend-on-Sea

This has a very long pier and is a popular seaside resort. It was the constituency of former MP Sir David Amess who was tragically murdered a few years back.

Like Ann Widdicombe, he worked tirelessly for animal welfare, especially against trophy hunting (imports are still not banned in the UK, due to some in the House of Lords trying to delay the Bill).

The Dedham Vale

This is a rural beautiful landscape, associated with John Constable, the Suffolk artist. He also painted many scenes around the Stour Valley.

Epping Forest 

This lies on the western edge of Essex near Greater London and offers many walking routes, in one of the best green spaces.

Saffron Walden

This is one of the prettiest towns in Essex, with historic streets and timber-framed buildings housing indie shops and market spaces.