Explore

Explore the diverse county of Essex – visit beautiful coastal towns and enjoy Blue Flag beaches, go for a rural walk in the breathtaking Essex countryside, with our many nature reserves and discovery parks, or discover fantastic restaurants whilst diving into the vibrant culture of our towns and cities. Essex has everything from a rich historic past to being the birthplace of some iconic talents that you are sure to know! Discover the top Icons of Essex, voted for by the public, here.

Coastal Destinations

The Essex coastline is one of the longest in the UK at a whopping 350 miles! Along it, you’ll find quaint towns and villages such as Maldon, Mersea Island, and Brightlingsea – peaceful spots for those looking to escape the chaos of day-to-day life – as well as fantastic seaside resorts for family breaks or days out in Clacton-on-Sea and Southend-on-Sea. Discover beautiful beaches in Essex, such as Albion Beach in Walton-on-the-Naze, and Frinton-on-Sea beach lined with picturesque beach huts.

Countryside

If you prefer soil over sand, explore the beautiful Essex countryside. Essex Wildlife Trust have multiple Discovery Centres and Parks around the county that offer amazing walks, picnic spots, bird watching, and more. Travel to Epping Forest, just a short journey from London, to lose yourself in the 2400 hectare ancient woodlands. Alternatively, visit the charming Dedham Vale in the heart of Constable Country and see for yourself the landscape that inspired artist John Constable. There are many wonderful walks in Essex for dog lovers and ramblers alike to enjoy, as well as quaint country pubs to keep you refreshed during your exploration of the rural gems of the county.

Towns & Cities

Quaint market towns and vibrant cities make Essex a fantastic place to live and visit. Saffron Walden, named as the Best Place to Live in the UK by the Sunday Times in 2025, is a medieval market town with buildings rich in heritage and character, and home to Audley End House and Gardens. Colchester, Britain’s 1^st City, is steeped in Roman history with fantastic landmarks such as Colchester Castle, great family days out and attractions including the iconic Colchester Zoo, and more. Known as the birthplace of radio, Chelmsford is a city with something for everyone – shop and eat to your hearts content with options to suit all tastes, catch a show at Chelmsford Theatre, visit the outstanding Hylands Estate, or wander the gardens at RHS Garden Hyde Hall.

History of Essex

Over the years Essex has played various roles in history, and has been shaped by many cultures from Vikings and Romans to Ancient Britons and Normans. Today, you can still see the mark that has been left on our county by those who inhabited the land before us. Simply walk through Colchester’s city centre to see what remains of the Roman Walls and Theatre, or visit The Chapel of St Peter on the Wall in Bradwell-on-Sea, the oldest church in England built by St Cedd, the Patron Saint of Essex. Throughout the county there are many stories to be told, old and new, through the fantastic heritage sites and museums that we are lucky to have today.

Famous People

Essex has talent, too! Many famous faces are from our wonderful county. Ever heard the names Richard Madeley, Helen Mirren, or Anne-Marie? From bestselling author Martina Cole, to Chris and Jeff Galvin (the only brothers in the world to both hold Michelin Stars), singers such as Olly Murs and Charli XCX, the TV presenter and mathematician Rachel Riley – it’s not just the place that makes Essex special, it’s the people, too.