Video clips of Essex
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so hopefully the few video clips below will give you more than that. These short films were taken at various destinations around Essex to give you a flavour of what to expect when you visit.
If you have any video clips you wish to share with our online community please get in touch with Elli on 01245 430239 or email
So, sit back, relax and enjoy the show!
Discovery Coast
Essex has one of the longest coastlines of any English county, it certainly has the longest pleasure pier in the world. Indeed Essex boasts a real maritime flavour. The resorts of Southend, Clacton, and the quieter resorts of Walton and Frinton offer all the traditional fun of the seaside and much more. Less well know is the quieter side of the coast where ports steeped in heritage, such as Harwich, can be found. Maldon and nearby Mersea Island have been described as the 'New Brittany'. You can sample famous seafood in rustic family run restaurants serving fresher than fresh world famous Colchester Oysters, whilst watching the boats bobbing in the water. Get a sense of true maritime Essex by taking a trip on one of the many Thames Barges moored at Maldon. Alternatively, visit the coastal towns of Burnham-on-Crouch (the Cowes of the East) and Brightlingsea that come alive with yachts during the boating season.
Maldon Mud Race
The Maldon Mud Race is a fun race normally held in December or January. Due to severe weather conditions this year it took place in Easter. During the event around 250 participants, most of them dressed up in costume, dash aross the River Blackwater (approx 457m) in a bid to come first. The race can only take place when the tide is low enough to allow participants to run across safely. Participants start from one bank and make their way through water to the other side, negotiate over 200 metres of mud along the river and then return to the original riverbank.
Burnham-on-Crouch, the major town of the Dengie, has great places to stay and eat, riverside walks and pubs, art galleries, gorgeous Georgian homes and even an eccentric octagonal bell tower, Burnham's best known landmark, you have to duck your head under on the High Street. Burnham is the major yachting centre on the eastern seaboard and nicknamed the Cowes of the East, hence it comes as no surprise that it has four yachting clubs.
Colchester - The View Finder Trail with Michael Goodey
The View Finder Trail was originally installed in 2005 and initiated by Colchester based artist Michael Goodey. Michael was inspired by 20th Century landscape painter Lucien Pissarro's painting of a particular Colchester view across Hilly Fields and also by the town's distinctive skyline.
Essex Country Show at Barleylands
What was once an Essex farming family's informal gathering of half a dozen steam engines is now the finest and largest rural event of its type in the South East attracting more than 30,000 visitors each year. The show, which takes place at Barleylands focuses on agricultural history and rural crafts. Whether it's the size and power of the steam engines - which you can steer yourself - helicopter rides, specialist food hall, children's amusements, arena events or the huge variety of over 200 craft and trade stands, we cater for the whole family.
ESSEXstreetdiversions
ESSEXstreetdiversions, devised, programmed and managed by Chelmsford Borough Council's Cultural Events Team. Here you can see scenes from the 2009 event. This unique, free festival of international outdoor performance will bring many more surprises this year! Dozens of artists from across the globe descend on Essex annually to perform a rich variety of beautiful, bizarre & absurd shows of the highest standard - often including many UK or regional premieres. ESSEXstreetdiversions film produced by Arklight Media.
Frinton-on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze
Walton-on-the-Naze is a mixture of seaside and wildlife and is a well known yachting area. The resort is a favourite with families with children due to the superb safe sandy beaches, but if you are looking for a quieter resort visit the tranquil and untouched Frinton-on-Sea with its golden beaches and tree lined avenues. The Naze Tower is a truly unique visitor and is a must for any visitor to the area.
Maldon part one
Located just 40 miles N.E. of London, Maldon is a town which is worth exploring. Maldon was granted a Royal Charter by Henry II in 1171 and it is a fascinating mixture of old and new. The first delight for visitors is its High Street with its interesting buildings housing individual shops which are great to browse, whilst taking time to experience the impressive array of places to eat and drink.
Maldon part two
Hythe Quay is part of the old port of Maldon and the area played a crucial part in the prosperity of Maldon through the centuries. Some of the well restored Thames Sailing Barges moored there are available for charter, or offer short trips, giving the opportunity to sail aboard these graceful craft.
Maldon part three
In an area with stunning landscapes, breath-taking coastal views and majestic architecture, it is hardly surprising that the area provides constant inspiration for both local and visiting artists and photographers. The work of these artists can be seen throughout the year at various museums, art galleries and shops, and at the various events and activities.
Mersea Island
Mersea Island is the most easterly inhabited island in the UK, located marginally off the coast of the county of Essex, 9 miles (14 km) to the southeast of Colchester. It is situated in the estuary area of the rivers Blackwater and Colne. The beaches, beach huts and the good Essex weather are a great attraction as are the many events taking place throughout the year. But what is most memorable is the fresh seafood. You can sit in a restaurant beside the sea, watch the daily catch to be brought in and savour it a few minutes afterwards together with some Mersea wine and beer from the island's own vineyard and micro-brewery.
