If you’re travelling to the UK, you’ll likely be tempted by the big cities of London, Edinburgh and Manchester, as they’re all very popular with tourists for multiple reasons. However, sometimes the most rewarding places to visit are those that take you away from the hustle and bustle, giving you a more personal experience that you can’t replicate anywhere else. There’s plenty of up and coming cities and towns in the UK that make for great places to visit with your friends, family or partner, so there’s plenty of choice.
One of the underrated gems of the UK is Essex. Gaining some popularity after the hit TV show ‘The Only Way is Essex,’ the county became well-known for its cheeky British humour due to the cast of characters that were portrayed on screen. However, what the show didn’t show viewers was the beauty behind one of the most historic counties in the country. There’s so much of the past that’s just waiting to be learned about within this region, giving you so many wonderful experiences in every town within it.
This guide will explore Essex in more detail, giving you an in-depth guide into what you should be getting up to while you’re visiting the county. We’ll touch on some of the must-see locations, as well as providing a whole host of activities that you can do during your stay. Continue reading to learn more.
Often cited as the most photographed village in England, this north Essex gem features a picturesque village green, a pond and traditional cottages. It’s perfect for those who are looking for a quaint travel experience, where they can take their time to digest some of the best sights while enjoying a coffee and sandwich at one of the local cafés.
You can also visit the historic Guildhall to see its interactive museum, local library and learn about its history as a prison, school and home for the poor. There’s so much history in this village, so there’s a learning opportunity around every corner.
A town rich in history, known for its timber-framed buildings and the nearby Cressing Temple Barns. The town holds nearly 300 listed buildings and was once a major center for the wool trade, boasting a market charter from 1256. This gives you the chance to wander through the town center, which boasts nearly 200 listed buildings and independent boutiques where you can find some fantastic vintage items.
No matter if you’re going to Coggeshall with your family or friends, there’s some lovely hikes that you can do through the hills. You’ll find many photo opportunities throughout this walk, making your trip definitely worthwhile.
Located in Constable Country, Dedham offers scenic walks along the River Stour and top-tier dining at The Sun Inn. This means that you can enjoy a long walk that stretches your legs before enjoying a few pints at one of the most famous pubs in all of Essex. You can even rent a boat from Dedham Boathouse and enjoy a leisurely trip on the river, which can provide you a good few hours of fun.
Dedham Art and Craft Centre is great to explore with three floors of arts, crafts and unique gifts in a converted church. If you go with your family, you can get your kids involved with some local crafts as they create something unique.
This charming, tidal destination is renowned for its vibrant colourful beach huts and locally-caught seafood, particularly at The Company Shed. Visitors can enjoy rustic dining, explore the Cudmore Grove Country Park with its coastal views and fossil-rich beaches, or visit the Mersea Island Vineyard. It’s one of the most popular spots for taking tours and tasting local Essex wines.
The tidal road connecting the island to the mainland can get submerged, offering a unique experience for visitors. It can be great for a romantic walk, as you hold hands with your partner and walk down the coastline.
The Blue Flag award-winning beach at Dovercourt Bay was often praised as a picturesque hidden gem within the county of Essex. Known for its calm atmosphere, it features unique 19th-century cast-iron lighthouses built in 1863 and offers family-friendly amenities along its extensive promenade.
The promenade also features a skate park, a model yacht pond and a boating lake, giving you a lot of things to get up to. It is ideal for strolling and water sports, with views of Felixstowe and the Harwich and Languard Forts.
This 380-acre private island in Essex’s Blackwater Estuary is renowned as a luxury retreat and celebrity getaway accessible via a tidal causeway. It offers high-end holiday rentals, including cottages, apartments and grand houses often used by musicians and famous guests. It’s perfect for those who want to splash out on a romantic getaway for them and their partner.
While it’s not an island that you can just visit on a whim, it’s the perfect place for those looking for a one-of-a-king experience.
This historic country house hotel near Colchester was famously painted by John Constable and is one of the most beautiful structures in Essex. Guests have access to the University of Essex’s gym, squash courts and tennis courts, giving you a bunch of activities to enjoy while you stay. The grounds also offer walking trails and the hotel provides garden games like croquet.
If you’re looking for the best place to eat, we recommend The Liberty shopping centre in Essex where there’s so many different options. You can go to the Gingham Kitchen, Super Sushi or Moana Poke Bowl, so you’ll have many choices depending on what you’re fancying on the day. After you’ve enjoyed your meal, you can explore some of the high-end stores that the facility has to offer, giving you a full day out.
For your next UK stay, we hope that you feel inspired by this article and consider travelling to Essex. It’s got so many wonderful villages, islands and eateries that will make your trip very worthwhile. No matter the town you travel to, you’re sure to find all you’ll need and more.
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