Essex Live and News
Essex Live and News is the county’s premier digital platform delivering comprehensive, timely coverage of everything that matters across Essex. Founded as a specialized transport information service, we’ve evolved into a trusted source for breaking news, in-depth features, and essential local insights serving over 150,000 monthly readers. From Chelmsford to Colchester, Southend to Harlow, our dedicated team of journalists brings Essex communities together through quality reporting that celebrates our county’s unique character while keeping you informed about the issues that impact your daily life.
Welcome to the New Essex Live and News – Your Complete Guide to Essex County
From transport updates to comprehensive local coverage – we’ve expanded to serve you better!
Welcome to the refreshed Essex Live and News portal. While we began our journey focusing exclusively on Essex’s public transport and bus services, we’re excited to announce our expansion into comprehensive coverage of everything Essex has to offer. Our mission remains the same: providing accurate, timely, and relevant information to help you navigate life in this vibrant county.
Top 10 Things to Know About Essex in 2025
- Chelmsford’s City Center has completed its £200 million regeneration project
- Southend-on-Sea continues to thrive after receiving city status in 2022
- Stansted Airport has added 15 new international routes in the past year
- The A12 widening project is progressing with completion expected by 2027
- Colchester Castle Park has been awarded Green Flag status for the 15th consecutive year
- Harlow Science Park has attracted 12 new technology firms creating over 500 jobs
- Essex County Cricket Club celebrated winning the County Championship
- The Essex Way walking trail has been fully renovated with new signage and facilities
- Electric bus fleets now serve 65% of urban routes across the county
- Tiptree’s jam factory celebrated its 150th anniversary with a royal visit
Our Evolution: From Buses to Broader Coverage
When we launched Essex Live and News five years ago, our primary focus was helping Essex residents navigate the county’s complex public transport system. We provided detailed bus timetables, service alerts, and in-depth coverage of transport developments across Chelmsford, Colchester, Southend, and beyond.
While this specialized coverage earned us a dedicated readership, we consistently received feedback requesting broader coverage of Essex life. After careful consideration and months of preparation, we’re proud to unveil our expanded platform, covering everything from breaking news and community events to leisure activities and historical features.
This transformation represents more than just a wider content scope—it’s a renewed commitment to serving as Essex’s premier digital information hub. Our team has grown to include specialized journalists covering various aspects of county life, while maintaining our transport expertise that readers have come to rely on.
What’s Happening in Essex Today
Essex continues to evolve as one of England’s most dynamic counties, blending rich history with modern development. From the coastal charm of Southend-on-Sea to the historic streets of Colchester, our county offers diverse experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Major Essex Development Projects 2025-2030
| Project | Location | Investment | Expected Completion | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Essex Garden Communities | Colchester/Braintree/Tendring | £1.2 billion | 2035 | 43,000 new homes, employment zones, sustainable transport |
| Purfleet-on-Thames Regeneration | Thurrock | £1 billion | 2030 | Film studios, creative industries hub, 2,850 homes |
| Chelmsford Riverside Development | Chelmsford | £400 million | 2028 | Mixed-use retail, offices, 500 apartments, riverside park |
| Southend Airport Business Park | Southend | £150 million | 2026 | Innovation center, logistics hub, sustainable business units |
| Harlow Science Park Expansion | Harlow | £130 million | 2027 | Advanced manufacturing, life sciences, digital technology hub |
| Basildon Town Centre Renewal | Basildon | £300 million | 2029 | New residential quarter, entertainment complex, public spaces |
The past year has seen significant developments across Essex. Chelmsford’s city center regeneration project has transformed the urban landscape with new retail spaces and residential developments. Meanwhile, Harlow’s science park continues to attract technology firms, creating hundreds of new jobs for local residents.
Transportation remains a key focus, with the A12 widening project progressing and consultations ongoing about potential improvements to the A120 corridor. Rail users have welcomed additional services on the Great Eastern Main Line, though challenges remain with reliability during peak hours.
Local governance has seen changes too, with several councils implementing new initiatives to address climate concerns, housing needs, and economic development. The Essex County Council’s “Future of Essex” vision continues to shape policy decisions affecting everything from education to social care.
Stay tuned for daily updates on breaking news, weather alerts, traffic conditions, and community events happening across Essex. Our dedicated team of local journalists brings you stories that matter.
Discover Essex’s Hidden Gems
Beyond the well-known attractions, Essex harbors countless hidden gems waiting to be explored. Our new “Discover Essex” section showcases:
Essex’s Top-Rated Attractions in 2025
| Attraction | Location | Category | Visitor Rating | Best Time to Visit | Adult Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colchester Zoo | Colchester | Family/Wildlife | 4.8/5 | Weekday mornings | £26.99 |
| Audley End House | Saffron Walden | Historic | 4.7/5 | Spring/Summer | £19.50 |
| Mersea Island | West Mersea | Coastal | 4.8/5 | Summer weekends | Free |
| RHS Garden Hyde Hall | Chelmsford | Gardens | 4.9/5 | April-September | £13.95 |
| Layer Marney Tower | Colchester | Historic | 4.6/5 | Sunny weekdays | £12.00 |
| Epping Forest | Epping | Nature | 4.7/5 | Autumn | Free |
| Southend Pier | Southend | Coastal | 4.5/5 | Summer evenings | £6.00 |
| Hedingham Castle | Halstead | Historic | 4.8/5 | Event days | £9.50 |
| Hatfield Forest | Bishop’s Stortford | Nature | 4.7/5 | Weekday mornings | £8 (parking) |
| Colchester Castle | Colchester | Historic | 4.6/5 | Rainy days | £11.95 |
Historic Villages with Character
Essex boasts some of England’s most picturesque villages, each with unique charm and historical significance. Finchingfield, often described as Essex’s most beautiful village, features a classic village green, duck pond, and windmill creating a quintessentially English scene. Thaxted combines a magnificent church, restored windmill, and medieval guildhall in one stunning location.
Dedham, in the heart of Constable Country, offers Georgian facades and connections to the famous painter. Castle Hedingham impresses with its Norman keep, while Wivenhoe balances maritime heritage with a creative, bohemian atmosphere.
7 Must-Visit Essex Villages
- Finchingfield – Picturesque village green, historic windmill, and medieval bridges
- Thaxted – Spectacular church, windmill, and guildhall in one compact village
- Dedham – Heart of Constable Country with Georgian architecture and river walks
- Castle Hedingham – Medieval village dominated by its impressive Norman castle
- Wivenhoe – Riverside setting with artistic community and maritime heritage
- Stock – Traditional village with ancient woodland and award-winning pubs
- Tillingham – Remote coastal village with distinctive weather-boarded cottages
Nature Reserves and Walking Trails
Nature enthusiasts will find abundant green spaces throughout Essex. Hatfield Forest represents one of the finest examples of an ancient royal hunting forest, with centuries-old trees and diverse wildlife. The Naze at Walton offers dramatic cliffs, fossil-hunting opportunities, and panoramic coastal views.
Hanningfield Reservoir combines water views with woodland walks and excellent birdwatching opportunities. For longer hikes, the Essex Way spans 82 miles from Epping to Harwich, passing through ancient woodland, open farmland, and historic villages.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Families are well-served with diverse attractions throughout the county. Adventure Island in Southend provides thrilling rides with seafront views, while Colchester Zoo ranks among the UK’s finest zoological gardens with over 220 species.
The award-winning Great Notley Country Park features Essex’s longest play trail and the “Sky Ropes” adventure course. History comes alive for younger visitors at Hedingham Castle, where medieval events and reenactments regularly take place.
Independent Shopping Experiences
Essex offers remarkable shopping beyond the major retail centers. Leigh-on-Sea’s independent boutiques, art galleries, and craft shops provide unique finds in a charming setting. Saffron Walden’s twice-weekly market continues an 800-year tradition, while Battlesbridge Antiques Centre has become a destination for collectors and interior designers.
Tiptree’s famous jam factory includes a fascinating museum and shop, while Great Dunmow’s high street maintains a selection of independent retailers that have successfully resisted chain store domination.
Culinary Destinations
The county’s food scene deserves exploration, from coastal seafood restaurants to countryside gastropubs. West Mersea’s Company Shed offers the freshest oysters and seafood in simple surroundings, while Maldon’s tidal salt marshes produce the world-famous Maldon Sea Salt used by chefs globally.
The historic Mistley Thorn serves outstanding locally-sourced cuisine, and numerous rural pubs like The Compasses at Pattiswick have earned recognition for exceptional food in idyllic settings.
Transport & Travel – Our Foundation
While we’ve expanded, we haven’t forgotten our roots. Our enhanced transport section continues to provide:
Essex Public Transport Comparison
| Transport Mode | Coverage | Frequency | Cost | Reliability Rating | Environmental Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Essex Buses | Urban centers + some rural | Every 10-30 mins (urban) | £4.50 day ticket | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ (65% electric) |
| Arriva Buses | North & West Essex | Every 15-60 mins | £5.00 day ticket | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ (35% electric) |
| Greater Anglia Trains | Major towns to London | 2-4 per hour | £25.70 off-peak return to London | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| c2c Trains | South Essex to London | 4-6 per hour | £20.90 off-peak return to London | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| DaRT 5 (Demand Responsive) | Rural northeast Essex | On-demand | £3-£5 per journey | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Stansted Express | Stansted to London | Every 15 mins | £20.70 single | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
Bus Services Across Essex
Our comprehensive bus coverage remains unmatched, with detailed information on routes operated by First Essex, Arriva, NIBS, Stephensons, and smaller local operators. We provide real-time service updates, coverage of timetable changes, and analysis of how policy decisions affect bus users.
Recent developments include the expansion of electric buses in Colchester and Chelmsford, new demand-responsive services in rural areas, and ongoing debates about subsidized routes as local authorities face budgetary pressures.
Rail Connections
Essex’s extensive rail network links communities and provides vital connections to London. Our coverage includes service updates on the Greater Anglia and c2c networks, infrastructure improvements, and advocacy for better passenger facilities.
The Elizabeth Line’s eastern extension has transformed journey options for many Essex residents, while discussions continue about potential improvements to the Southend Victoria line and branch lines serving communities like Braintree and Walton-on-Naze.
Road Network Developments
From major highways to country lanes, Essex’s road network faces increasing pressure from development and rising car ownership. We track major projects like the A13 widening, monitor congestion hotspots, and report on maintenance issues affecting drivers.
Our interactive traffic maps help commuters avoid delays, while our campaigning journalism highlights road safety concerns and advocates for improvements at accident blackspots.
Essex’s Most Congested Roads (2025 Data)
- A12 between Chelmsford and M25 – Average delay: 24 minutes during peak hours
- A127 Southend Arterial Road – Average delay: 19 minutes during peak hours
- A1306 through Thurrock – Average delay: 17 minutes during peak hours
- A414 through Harlow – Average delay: 15 minutes during peak hours
- A133 into Colchester – Average delay: 14 minutes during peak hours
Stansted and Southend Airports
Essex’s two airports serve as important economic drivers and gateways to international destinations. We cover route developments, passenger experiences, and the environmental and infrastructure challenges associated with aviation growth.
Recent coverage has included Stansted’s expanding long-haul offerings and Southend’s positioning as a hassle-free alternative to larger London airports.
Sustainable Transportation Initiatives
As climate concerns grow, Essex has seen increasing investment in cycling infrastructure, electric vehicle charging networks, and integrated transport planning. We highlight innovative approaches to reducing carbon emissions while maintaining mobility.
Community-led initiatives like bike-sharing schemes, walking buses for schools, and car-pooling networks feature regularly in our reporting, alongside official policy developments.
Essex Communities Spotlight
Essex is defined by its diverse communities, each with its unique character. Our regular spotlights feature:
Essex Towns at a Glance
| Town/City | Population | Known For | Key Industries | Average House Price | Notable Events |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chelmsford | 178,400 | County city, V Festival site | Technology, retail | £389,750 | 3foot People Festival |
| Colchester | 197,200 | Roman history, garrison | Tourism, education | £341,200 | Oyster Festival |
| Southend | 183,100 | Longest pleasure pier | Tourism, aviation | £322,600 | Southend Airshow |
| Basildon | 187,500 | New Town architecture | Manufacturing, retail | £315,800 | Basildon Festival |
| Harlow | 89,600 | Sculpture town, science park | Pharmaceuticals, technology | £309,400 | Harlow Carnival |
| Braintree | 53,300 | Outlet village | Retail, manufacturing | £329,700 | Braintree Folk Festival |
| Clacton | 52,000 | Seaside resort | Tourism, retirement | £216,400 | Clacton Airshow |
| Brentwood | 79,700 | TOWIE location | Financial services, retail | £521,300 | Brentwood Festival |
Chelmsford: Essex’s Cathedral City
As Essex’s county city, Chelmsford blends historic architecture with contemporary development. From the 15th-century cathedral to the ultra-modern Anglia Ruskin University campus, the city showcases Essex’s evolution.
We cover Chelmsford’s vibrant cultural scene, centered around the Civic Theatre and Essex Records Office, alongside developments in its retail centers and business parks. The city’s sporting heritage, particularly Essex County Cricket Club, features prominently in our coverage.
Colchester: Britain’s Oldest Recorded Town
Colchester’s Roman heritage provides a foundation for a community that values both history and innovation. Our Colchester coverage spans archaeological discoveries, the flourishing arts scene centered around Firstsite gallery, and the town’s rapidly evolving university quarter.
We track Colchester United FC’s fortunes and the diverse cultural festivals that reflect the town’s cosmopolitan character. Development issues, particularly balancing growth with heritage conservation, feature prominently in our reporting.
Southend-on-Sea: Essex’s Premier Resort
Recently granted city status, Southend combines traditional seaside attractions with ambitious regeneration plans. Our coverage spans the tourism economy, cultural developments like the Focal Point Gallery, and the challenges of seasonal business patterns.
Southend Airport’s expansion, the iconic pier’s preservation, and marine conservation efforts along the estuary all feature in our reporting. We also highlight the diverse communities that make up the city, from Leigh-on-Sea’s artistic enclave to Thorpe Bay’s affluent neighborhoods.
Harlow: New Town Heritage
Designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd after World War II, Harlow represents an important chapter in urban planning history. Our coverage tracks how this planned community continues to evolve, with particular focus on its sculpture collection, modernist architecture, and developing science park.
We report on community initiatives addressing the challenges common to New Towns, from building renovations to social cohesion projects that bring together diverse residents.
Basildon, Brentwood and Beyond
From Basildon’s bold modernist vision to Brentwood’s blend of rural charm and London influence, we cover Essex’s diverse south. Canvey Island’s unique flood protection challenges, Billericay’s historic high street, and Wickford’s community spirit all feature in our local reporting.
Business & Economy
Track Essex’s economic development with coverage of:
Essex’s Top Employers
| Company | Sector | Location | Employees | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Motor Company | Manufacturing | Dunton | 3,000+ | Technical Centre, R&D hub |
| Stansted Airport | Aviation/Travel | Stansted | 12,000+ | Third largest London airport |
| University of Essex | Education | Colchester/Southend | 2,800+ | World-class research institution |
| Basildon University Hospital | Healthcare | Basildon | 4,300+ | Major trauma center |
| Selex ES | Defense/Technology | Basildon | 2,200+ | Advanced electronics manufacturer |
| DST | Financial Services | Basildon | 2,000+ | Financial technology solutions |
| AstraZeneca | Pharmaceuticals | Harlow | 1,500+ | Research and development campus |
| Essex County Council | Public Sector | Chelmsford | 7,800+ | Local government services |
| Port of Harwich | Maritime/Logistics | Harwich | 1,400+ | International shipping and freight |
Major Employment Sectors
Essex’s economy spans traditional industries and emerging sectors. We track developments in the county’s key employment areas, from the Port of Harwich’s logistics operations to Chelmsford’s growing financial services cluster.
Stansted Airport remains one of the county’s largest employers, while manufacturing continues to thrive in specialized areas like Harlow’s pharmaceutical sector and Basildon’s automotive supply chain.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Essex’s entrepreneurial spirit drives numerous success stories. Our business coverage highlights innovative startups emerging from the county’s universities, scale-up businesses attracting investment, and traditional family firms adapting to changing markets.
The county’s science parks and innovation centers feature prominently, alongside profiles of business leaders making an impact beyond Essex’s borders.
High Street Transformation
Like communities nationwide, Essex towns face changing retail patterns. Our reporting tracks both challenges and creative responses, from pop-up shops revitalizing vacant units to experience-focused businesses bringing new life to traditional shopping areas.
We highlight successful independent retailers, campaign for policies supporting local business, and examine how technology is transforming consumer behavior.
Property Market Trends
Essex’s property market reflects its diverse character, from London commuter hotspots to affordable coastal communities. Our coverage includes market analysis, development proposals, and planning decisions affecting housing supply.
We track commercial property trends, rural land values, and the challenges of providing affordable housing in high-demand areas. Expert commentary helps readers understand factors influencing their most valuable assets.
Education & Family
Navigate life in Essex with our family-focused content:
Top Performing Essex Schools (2025 Rankings)
| School | Location | Type | Age Range | Outstanding Features | Progress Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colchester Royal Grammar | Colchester | Grammar | 11-18 | Academic excellence, Oxbridge success | +0.98 |
| Chelmsford County High | Chelmsford | Grammar | 11-18 | STEM focus, music program | +0.92 |
| King Edward VI Grammar | Chelmsford | Grammar | 11-18 | Historic institution, sports excellence | +0.87 |
| Westcliff High School for Girls | Westcliff | Grammar | 11-18 | Arts program, community engagement | +0.85 |
| St Martin’s School | Hutton | Comprehensive | 11-18 | Technology specialization, inclusivity | +0.76 |
| Davenant Foundation | Loughton | Faith | 11-18 | Performing arts, leadership development | +0.71 |
| The Boswells School | Chelmsford | Academy | 11-18 | STEM excellence, sports achievements | +0.69 |
| The Bromfords School | Wickford | Academy | 11-18 | Rapid improvement, community focus | +0.67 |
| Saffron Walden County High | Saffron Walden | Academy | 11-18 | Rural location, broad curriculum | +0.65 |
| St John Payne | Chelmsford | Faith | 11-18 | Catholic ethos, comprehensive support | +0.63 |
Schools and Educational Excellence
Essex boasts outstanding educational institutions at all levels. Our education coverage spans school performance, innovative teaching approaches, and policy changes affecting students and parents.
We celebrate academic achievements, spotlight exceptional teachers making a difference, and examine challenges from funding pressures to inclusion initiatives for pupils with special educational needs.
Family Activities and Resources
From rainy day indoor options to outdoor adventures, we compile comprehensive guides to family-friendly Essex. Seasonal activity roundups, holiday camps, and free entertainment options feature prominently.
Parent reviews help families discover hidden gems, while our events calendar ensures you never miss suitable activities. We also highlight support services available to families facing challenges.
Higher Education Landscape
Essex’s universities and colleges contribute significantly to the county’s character and economy. We cover research breakthroughs, community engagement initiatives, and the international connections bringing global perspectives to Essex.
The University of Essex’s human rights expertise, Writtle University College’s agricultural innovation, and Anglia Ruskin’s medical school feature alongside coverage of further education colleges preparing students for diverse careers.
Food & Dining in Essex
Essex’s culinary scene deserves recognition for its diversity, quality, and celebration of local produce.
Essex’s Fine Dining Highlights
| Restaurant | Location | Cuisine | Price Range | Signature Dish | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Flitch of Bacon | Little Dunmow | Modern British | £££ | Aged Essex beef | Michelin-starred, historic building |
| Haywards | Epping | Modern European | £££ | Forager’s plate | Chef’s garden, seasonal menu |
| Galvin Green Man | Chelmsford | Gastropub | ££ | Essex pork | Bib Gourmand award, riverside setting |
| The Sun Inn | Dedham | Modern British | ££ | Mersea oysters | 15th-century coaching inn, local sourcing |
| Le Talbooth | Dedham | Fine Dining | £££ | Thetford Forest venison | Riverside terrace, wine excellence |
| The Magic Mushroom | Billericay | Modern European | ££ | Wild mushroom soufflé | Local farm partnerships |
| The Anchor | Hullbridge | Seafood | ££ | Blackwater estuary platter | Riverside views, boat-to-plate ethos |
| Square 1 | Great Dunmow | Modern British | ££ | Slow-cooked Essex lamb | Intimate setting, chef-owned |
| Rubino Kitchen | Chignal St James | Italian | ££ | Hand-made pasta | Rural setting, cooking classes |
| The Lion Inn | Boreham | Modern British | ££ | 40-day aged steaks | 15th-century inn, cocktail expertise |
Farm to Table Excellence
Essex’s fertile farmland provides exceptional ingredients for the county’s restaurants. From Tiptree’s world-famous fruit farms to Mersea Island’s oyster beds, local produce features prominently on menus countywide.
We highlight restaurants championing Essex ingredients, profiling chefs with commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. Seasonal guides help readers enjoy the best produce at its peak, from asparagus season to autumn game.
Diverse Dining Experiences
Essex’s restaurant scene spans fine dining to casual excellence. Our reviews cover everything from Michelin-recognized establishments like The Flitch of Bacon to beloved family-run cafes serving communities for generations.
International cuisines flourish throughout Essex, reflecting diverse communities and sophisticated palates. We spotlight authentic experiences, from Southall-rivaling curry houses in Harlow to outstanding Mediterranean restaurants along the coast.
Food Festivals and Events
Throughout the year, Essex celebrates its food culture through vibrant events. The Maldon Food Festival, Cressing Temple’s food fairs, and numerous farmers’ markets showcase the county’s producers and chefs.
Our comprehensive event coverage helps readers plan culinary adventures, while behind-the-scenes features introduce the personalities maintaining Essex’s food traditions and developing new ones.
Essex Coastline & Beaches
With over 350 miles of coastline—the longest of any English county—Essex offers remarkable maritime experiences.
Essex’s Top Beaches Ranked
- Walton-on-the-Naze – Blue Flag beach with golden sand, beach huts, and fossil-hunting cliffs
- Frinton-on-Sea – Pristine sand, genteel atmosphere, and Victorian charm
- Mersea Island West – Famous for seafood, colorful beach huts, and quiet beauty
- Southend-on-Sea – Classic seaside fun with Britain’s longest pleasure pier
- Brightlingsea – Family-friendly with sailing heritage and a beach pool
- Clacton-on-Sea – Traditional resort with sandy beaches and entertainment
- Shoeburyness East Beach – Quieter alternative with excellent water quality
- Dovercourt Bay – Historic Low Lighthouse backdrop and safe swimming
- Thorpe Bay – Upscale residential area with well-maintained shoreline
- Leigh-on-Sea Bell Wharf Beach – Small but atmospheric with excellent cockle sheds
Beach Destinations
From Southend’s bustling shoreline to secluded coves, Essex beaches cater to all preferences. We provide comprehensive guides to family-friendly beaches, dog-walking spots, and locations offering water sports and coastal activities.
Practical information on facilities, parking, and water quality helps readers plan perfect beach days, while seasonal features highlight different coastal experiences throughout the year.
Maritime Heritage
Essex’s relationship with the sea has shaped its history and character. Our heritage coverage explores the county’s shipbuilding traditions, fishing communities, and maritime archaeology.
From Harwich’s connection to the Mayflower to Brightlingsea’s oyster industry, we celebrate the skills and traditions that continue to influence coastal communities.
Coastal Wildlife and Conservation
Essex’s coastline provides crucial habitat for diverse wildlife. Our environmental reporting covers conservation initiatives protecting rare species, volunteer opportunities for those wanting to contribute, and educational resources for understanding coastal ecosystems.
The internationally significant wetlands of the Essex coast feature prominently, with seasonal guides to birdwatching and wildlife photography opportunities.
Famous Essex Personalities
Essex has produced and attracted remarkable individuals who have made their mark across diverse fields:
- Dame Helen Mirren – Oscar-winning actress born in Leigh-on-Sea
- Jamie Oliver – Celebrity chef and food campaigner from Clavering
- Damon Albarn – Blur and Gorillaz musician who grew up in Colchester
- Alastair Cook – England cricket captain and Essex CCC player
- Olly Murs – Chart-topping singer from Witham
- Grayson Perry – Turner Prize-winning artist raised in Chelmsford
- Dermot O’Leary – TV presenter born in Colchester
- Maggie Smith – Acclaimed actress born in Ilford
- Joe Thomas – Actor from “The Inbetweeners” from Chelmsford
- V.S. Naipaul – Nobel Prize-winning author who lived in Wiltshire
- Russell Brand – Comedian and actor from Grays
- Denise Van Outen – TV presenter and actress from Basildon
- Keith Flint – The Prodigy frontman who lived in Essex
- Dick Turpin – Infamous highwayman born in Hempstead
- Anne Boleyn – Henry VIII’s second wife who lived at Rochford Hall
Upcoming Essex Events 2025
| Event | Location | Dates | Category | Highlights | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| V Festival Revival | Hylands Park, Chelmsford | July 19-20 | Music | International headliners, multiple stages | £85-£175 |
| Clacton Airshow | Clacton-on-Sea | August 21-22 | Aviation | Red Arrows, vintage aircraft | Free |
| Colchester Oyster Feast | Colchester | October 24 | Food | 800-year tradition, gourmet seafood | £75 |
| Leigh Folk Festival | Leigh-on-Sea | June 26-29 | Music/Culture | UK’s largest free folk festival | Free/£15 VIP |
| Essex Book Festival | County-wide | March 1-31 | Literature | Author talks, workshops, readings | £5-£15 per event |
| Chelmsford Marathon | Chelmsford | October 19 | Sports | Charity run, city route | £45 entry |
| Burnham Carnival Week | Burnham-on-Crouch | September 25-30 | Community | Floats, fair, fireworks | Free |
| RHS Hyde Hall Flower Show | Chelmsford | August 5-9 | Gardening | Plant sales, expert advice, displays | £12.95 |
| Saffron Walden Maze Festival | Saffron Walden | August 15-17 | Heritage | Celebrating historic turf maze | Free |
| Southend Shakedown | Southend | April 6 | Motoring | Classic motorcycles, seafront display | Free |
Connect With Us
We value community input more than ever. Share your stories, photos, and Essex experiences through:
- Our expanded social media presence across platforms
- Community contributor program featuring diverse Essex voices
- Letters to the editor addressing county-wide concerns
- Event submissions ensuring comprehensive coverage
- News tips hotline for breaking stories
- Reader photography showcasing Essex’s beauty
- Comment forums facilitating constructive discussion
Essex by the Numbers
- 1,420 square miles – Total area of Essex
- 1.86 million – Population as of 2025
- 350+ miles – Length of Essex coastline (longest of any English county)
- 2 cities – Chelmsford and Southend-on-Sea
- 12 districts – Administrative divisions within the county
- 57 nature reserves – Protected wildlife areas
- £41.8 billion – Annual economic output
- 86% – Percentage of land classified as rural
- 38 minutes – Fastest train journey from Chelmsford to London
- 1991 – The year Stansted became London’s third airport
- 77% – Homeownership rate (above UK average)
- 3rd largest – Ranking of Essex economy among English counties
About Our Transition
As we evolve from focusing solely on buses to covering all aspects of Essex life, we welcome your feedback. This expansion reflects our commitment to serving the Essex community with relevant, engaging content that celebrates our county’s unique identity while providing practical information for daily life.
Our editorial team has grown to include specialists in key areas from education to environment, while maintaining our transport expertise. We’ve invested in digital infrastructure allowing faster updates and enhanced multimedia content, ensuring you receive information in formats that suit modern lifestyles.
Bookmark Essex Live and News for your daily dose of local insight, and join us on this exciting new journey exploring everything that makes Essex extraordinary.
Stay connected with Essex Live and News – Your comprehensive guide to life in Essex County.