Things to Do

Why ours is a county of cyclists

Lycra at the ready, ladies: Essex is awash with two wheels (and a basket) right now and with good reason – the county's vast rural backdrops serve up some trailblazing cycling routes. Here's how to get back in the saddle and stay in your oh-so-scenic lane
What’s on in Essex and beyond this August

Summer is saved! There’s a whole month of outdoor festivities ahead of us, from fun on the farm and drive-in-cinema date nights, to pop-up exhibitions and family theatre – we've got the inside track on what's hot and happening right now
Where to get your water sports fix this summer

Nothing beats that first sun-kissed wash of water hitting your toes, but the Big Blue is more than just a holiday fling. From windsurfing and wakeboarding to SUP yoga and wild swimming, these Essex waterways are making a splash in the world of fitness, too
What’s in: 10 new things to watch this week

Lazy day in front of the telly? Yes please! Here are the hottest new films and TV shows for you to sink your teeth into. Just add popcorn.
The hottest haunts to hit post-lockdown

As some of the county’s coolest stores, cultural must-sees and family-friendly parks tentatively start to reopen their doors and gates to the public again, we’ve got the lowdown on where to head for your social(ly distanced) fix right now
Discover Essex’s most scenic waterside walks

If the idea of a park picnic leaves you cold and another trip to the beach bores you, it's time to explore the patchwork of picturesque waterways Essex is renowned for. From languid strolls along tumbling streams to full-on river safaris, here's some of the region's most immersing routes
Essex scenic picnic spots you need to know now

'Tis officially the season to picnic, but if you're worried about crowds or just fancy a change of scene, fear not: you and your hamper are sorted. Here's seven off-the-radar hangouts for the ultimate field day
Staying in? The best of what’s on

Virtual beauty masterclasses, hot new Netflix releases, high brow theatre (and low brow Love Island) - it's all going on online this week. Stream if you wanna go faster!
The staying in boredom buster

It's a bit nippy for the sunlounger this week so head for the sofa instead - and get stuck into this week's best new at-home culture picks.