Think you know Essex, then think again! Essex is full of surprises and hidden gems, not to mention its diverse people that are always there with a warm and friendly smile to welcome you.
Did you know that Rupert Grint, Dame Helen Mirren, Henri Chopin and Dick Turpin are all from Essex? It is home to a number of celebrity chefs, authors, artists, actors, and sports people. Whilst many of these people are in the public eye we have a whole county of people full of interesting and unique stories, for example, did you know the latest Nobel prize winner was from Colchester, the founder of Harvard university was from Essex and we have scientists that work with NASA? We also have stately homes that have been owned by the same families for generations, with fascinating stories, and local food producers providing food nationally and internationally.
Essex is known for its world- famous Colchester Oysters and Tiptree Jam, Chelmsford is the birthplace of radio, we have Britain’s oldest wooden church and the driest climate, and, you can still see the roman circus remains in Colchester. Many of the rich and famous have chosen Essex as their home, Cressing Temple was owned by the Knights Templar.
Essex is a wonderful place to live, study, work, invest and of course visit. The county includes the UK’s first town and newest city plus a plethora of historic and thriving towns and villages. Essex also boasts excellent universities, cutting-edge industry and stunning scenery all within an hour’s commute to the city of London. We’re proud to be from Essex and we want the rest of the world to know what a wonderful place Essex is too.
Many think of Essex as nightclubs and beauty salons and if that’s what you like we have plenty of them, but, did you know it is also a great place for quiet walks, a boat trip or paddle boarding on the river, seal watching, wine tasting at vineyards, spa breaks, cycling with the family, watching wildlife on island nature reserves or just enjoying a great meal out. It is so close to London but can feel a million miles away. No wonder it has become a popular filming location.
Come and Visit Essex, its extraordinary people and places it might just surprise you.
If you don’t believe us hear it from others.
‘An interesting insight into a county we think we already know from TV shows. A great opportunity to discover nature, different businesses, charming historic towns and villages and some incredible food, particularly at Mersea. Nice to see a different side to Essex!’
Laura Millar, Travel Editor, The Metro newspaper. (August ’20)
‘When I think of Essex, I think of the coast – traditional seaside resorts and fun on the pier – and the cities. But as one of the biggest counties in England, it shouldn’t be surprising that there’s far more to discover beyond the stereotypes, as I was reminded on a weekend. There’s far more to Essex than you might think…’
Cathy Winston, Travel Writer, Blogger, Mummytravels (October ’20)
We want to introduce you to some of the amazing people that help to make our county great.
For more information log on to www.visitessex.com