For a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend away head to the Essex countryside and recharge your batteries.

Essex is a largely rural county with small market towns, traditional villages and tiny hamlets linked by quiet country lanes. Undulating farmland is interspersed with small woodlands, the views interrupted by mighty oaks and ashes presided over by the hurrying skies.

The Essex countryside is a walking paradise, whether you want to cross the country from south-west to north-east using the well-known Essex Way or other smaller countryside trails or coastal walks. Country parks and open spaces can be found all over Essex and they offer a great variety of activities; choose from woodland trails, old historic parkland and even a modern working farm. Learn about the working countryside by visiting a vineyard or discover the secret life of insects at a nature reserve. Alternatively celebrate summer at a Hay Making Festival whilst sampling real Essex fare such as asparagus and "Little Scarlet" strawberries.