The introductory years of this decade have put a spotlight back on the classic staycation, with families up and down the country seeking new places to visit, new sights to see, and new eateries to trial.
In this article, we are looking at a county known for the likes of TOWIE and its close proximity to London, diving beneath the surface of Essex and looking at exactly what Essex and its cities, towns and villages have to offer.
A staycation is a holiday which is centred around your home country, introducing you to new places without the need for a passport, and without the static demand of airport queues. Since the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic, staycations have not only been the safest means of vacationing – they have also been our only option – and that has opened tourist spots across the UK up to an influx of visitors.
So, why Essex?
Did you know that Chelmsford is known as the birthplace of Radio?
That’s because Chelmsford is the site of Marconi HQ, which opened in 1912 and ran until its closure in 2006 – during which time Marconi pioneered long-distance radio in 1920.
Aside from this interesting spark of history, Chelmsford is one of those locations which truly has everything to offer and more, boasting rural villages surrounding the urban town which is packed full of restaurants and shops but still manages to hold onto some rural charm – with cobbled streets and a river running through the centre.
Moving away from Essex’s central cities and towns, you begin to hear, see, and smell the delights of the water and the riverbanks which outline the majority of South Essex. From the River Crouch to the banks of the Thames which run along Leigh-on-Sea and Southend-on-Sea, Essex is a place where you can enjoy everything from beachside arcades to riverside sailing, Paddleboarding, or cruising on a canal boat.
Accommodation stretches upwards and outwards in waves, with a vast array of flats, waterside properties, caravan sites and hotels on offer – suitable for all kinds of holidaymaker.
Southend-on-Sea is the epitome of the British staycation, home to some of Essex’s best views over the river, and the site of many great restaurants, bars, and attractions for families and adults alike. Stay in central Southend for the buzz of a vibrant city surrounded by action, or move West towards Leigh-on-Sea for a more relaxed and calming waterside experience.
GREAT RESTAURANTS AND BARS
You don’t have to have seen TOWIE to know that Essex is full of some of the UK’s best and most extravagant bars. With so many options, staycationers can revel in whatever mood or atmosphere takes their fancy, from the quiet luxury of a seafront Bistro on the water, to the wild excitement of one of the county’s city centre bars.
Safe to say, no matter your age, budget, or dietary requirements, Essex will offer you plenty of options.
Of course, the number one requirement for many staycations at the moment is having plenty to do, whether that be activities for children or attractions to suit the whole family. Essex may be close to London, but the blend of urbanisation and rural surroundings you will find in the county mean that every day is different – whether you fancy a day in the Southend theme park, or a hike through one of Essex’s many nature reserves. It’s all available – you simply have to look for it. Plan your trip today with Sorted Stay.