Overlooking the Thames Estuary, Hadleigh is best known for its romantic castle ruins, as depicted by 19th-century artist John Constable.
Get active in Essex
Hadleigh Park offers windswept countryside walks among the undulating hills, as well as pony trekking and one of the UK's top mountain biking courses - as used in the 2012 London Olympics no less.
Enjoy classic seaside fun in Southend
Pack your bucket and spade for a trip to Southend. Hitch a ride on the restored Cliff Lift, and take the train down to the end of the world's longest pier - or walk it if you need to increase your daily step count. A day in the resort isn't complete without a whirl on the fantastic rides at Adventure Island. Scream as you loop and twist on Rage, with its 75 ft drop, and try your luck on the arcade games.