Leigh Broadway is home to a range of independent shops (Image: Anna Willis)
Every town, village, and city in has its own unique tale to tell and character to share.
Some parts of the county, like Colchester and Chelmsford, are steeped in history, while others, such as Saffron Walden, boast rolling countryside.
Essex also lays claim to one of the UK’s longest coastlines, dotted with stunning that attract thousands each summer hoping for warm weather, sunshine, and a chance to take a dip in the sea.
in the county include Clacton and Southend, while Frinton and Leigh-on-Sea also draw a significant number of visitors.
However, Leigh-on-Sea stands out from the more bustling and populated seaside destinations. It offers a smaller sandy beach for visitors to enjoy, but the town itself is packed with enjoyable activities.
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Leigh-on-Sea in Essex (Image: Matt Lee/EssexLive)
The charming town, where vibrant beach huts bask in the sun, is home to many independent businesses that line the busiest shopping areas.
A stroll down Broadway in the town centre reveals a variety of shops, including local butchers like T, reports .
Harrison, Jez Boutique for the latest women’s fashion, and Warburtons for new jewellery, among many others.
If you’re in the mood for a bite to eat, the options are plentiful. From the highly-rated Italian restaurant Cucina, to Ugo’s popular pizza joint, Manoly’s Thai cuisine, and The Estuary’s modern classics, there’s something for everyone.
Leigh Bistro, a family-run establishment, comes highly recommended, with customers reportedly treated like royalty.
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Sunrise at Old Leigh, Leigh-on-Sea (Image: Getty)
This quaint town, with a population of just under 10,000, is a favourite among commuters. Regular c2c trains run to and from London Fenchurch Street, with the journey taking just over an hour.
Frequent bus services operate to and from Southend-on-Sea, and Southend Airport is conveniently located nearby, offering easy access to a variety of international and some domestic destinations.
While there are many reasons to consider moving to Leigh-on-Sea, the cost of housing could be a deterrent for some.
According to Rightmove, the average house price in Leigh-on-Sea over the past year was around £450,000.
Semi-detached properties were the most commonly sold, fetching an average price of £479,599, while flats went for an average of £258,086.
For those who can afford it, Leigh-on-Sea offers a great lifestyle whether you’re a commuter, single, or a family looking for a fresh start. And if you’re just planning a day trip, there’s plenty to see and do.