Writer Vickie was born in Basildon and grew up in Billericay, attending Mayflower High School. She’s just about to launch her world-premiere production of The Flood, running at The Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch from 3 to 18 March. “Based on the flood that hit Canvey Island in 1953, it’s an epic story of friendship across 100 years and about what a place called home really means,” she tells me during our chat.

But where else would you find Vickie when she’s not busy with rehearsals and making sure her play runs as perfectly as can be? Here’s a few cool spaces she hangs out in when she’s time.

The Blue Egg, Great Bardfield

“This place has everything in one: café, farm shop, garden centre and little outdoor patio and play area for the kids. It also has resident goats, pigs and chickens! The cakes are to die for; the food’s all cooked on site and it’s all so good it’s hard to choose what to eat.”

Battlesbridge Antique Centre, Battlesbridge

“I love having a mooch around the antique markets here, especially The Old Granary. Each floor is a treasure trove and at the top is a café with views across the River Crouch. I love vintage furniture, especially mid-century and G Plan. I also collect 1970s Hornsea pots so am always on the hunt.”

Norsey Wood, Billericay

“I’ve walked through Norsey my whole life – even when I should have been running while participating in cross country races with school! I’ve collected conkers, spotted toadstools and climbed on fallen branches. The ancient woods are beautiful year around, but you can’t beat bluebell season – it’s spectacular.”

Orsett Hall, Grays

“Orsett Hall is glamorous without feeling intimidating. I’ve been to many happy occasions here, from birthday parties to the best one being my own surprise baby shower. The afternoon teas are delicious and they do a cute one for kids. The spa does an amazing massage, and the brunch at Café Sartoria is lovely.”

Chelmsford Museum, Chelmsford

“My parents took me and my brothers here a lot as kids, and I loved it so much I had a birthday party here where I made a worksheet for friends to fill in! It’s been expanded over the years and I now bring my own kids along. I find it nostalgic and comforting – and a huge reminder of how rich in history Essex is.”

Want to know about some more fab places to visit in Essex this month? Head to our February what’s on guide.

My favourite Essex places: playwright Vickie Donoghue￼

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My favourite Essex places: playwright Vickie Donoghue