Exquisite Essex

Whether it’s a quality English vineyard with stunning estuary views, a Royal Horticultural Society garden or an historic sailing barge experience, there are so many exquisite experiences just waiting to be discovered in Essex.  

Essex enjoys a mild, dry climate with plenty of sunshine, perfect for growing vines and the wine now produced in our region rivals some of the best in the world.  Check out New Hall, Crouch Ridge and Clayhill Vineyards, all of which benefit from being close to the coast.

Wilkins & Sons of Tiptree have held the Royal Warrant since 1911 and their range of products are consumed in five-star hotels, luxury cruise liners and grace the most extravagant hampers.  Visit their fruit farm, museum and tea  room for an exquisite afternoon tea – opt for the Little Scarlet strawberry jam, unique to Tiptree.

Associated with the well-known, rogue TV antique dealer, Lovejoy, Essex has plenty of places to lose yourself in browsing antiques.  The riverside complex of antique dealers at Battlesbridge will keep treasure hunters happy for hours!  If you love shopping, why not spend a while browsing the boutiques of Leigh-on Sea.

Oysters symbolise the ultimate luxury and Colchester Native oysters, cultivated off Mersea Island, are a local delicacy.  Try the best, in a relaxed, rustic setting, at the Company Shed down on Mersea waterfront.