James Merriott talks us through his watercolour tour of Essex with a visit to Dedham and the chance to follow in the footsteps of John Constable

Emily McParland of the Essex Wildlife Trust explains how you can play a part the trust’s vision for a wilder Essex

Southend on Sea is one of our county’s most famous destinations, known far and wide for its golden sandy beaches and glitzy amusements, but there is more to Southend’s story than the seaside | Words: Nicky Adams

Chelmsford may not be known as one of the county’s most historic or architecturally interesting cities, but behind the modern façade there’s much to learn about this city’s past | Words By: Nicky Adams

James Merriott continues his watercolour tour of the county with a selection of his favourite Essex scenes drawn from his extensive archives

On a virtual journey through the county, Nicky Adams highlights the treasures of history that make Essex so unique, starting with the county town of Colchester

75 years since the rebuilding began after World War II, there is a new rebuilding project on the horizon. Stephen Roberts explains the important role Essex played then, and will surely play again

Prior to lockdown did we take Essex’s prettiest spots for granted? David Whiteley is the presenter and a director of BBC1 current affairs programme, Inside Out. David was born in South Essex and cut his teeth in radio in Southend and Chelmsford

Nothing is more satisfying than eating a delicious piece of fruit that you’ve picked yourself. Here are 9 farms in Essex where you can PYO

The county of Essex has always been a location of strategic importance in English history, and this significance is highlighted today by the number of castles that still adorn the landscape. Stephen Roberts tells their stories

It is 50 years since the Dedham Vale was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. While celebrations may have been curtailed, could lockdown mean a brighter future for this landscape? | Words: Deborah Sage

James Merriott stays local in lockdown for this stage of his watercolour tour of the county

Each month Jenny Green creates a dog-friendly day out in the county following her adventures with Ernie, her delightful Westie. This time she takes a step back in time in this historic port town

The history and heritage of our county’s historic homes is not only contained within their walls but it also stretches out into the land surrounding it. We’ve found 11 great walks that allow you to experience that history first hand

In their heyday, our coastal resorts attracted thousands of holidaymakers every summer and now a celebration of this rich heritage, through the Resorting to the Coast project, aims to boost tourism today. Juliana Vandegrift explains more

Of all Britain’s coastal counties, Essex can surely claim to be one of the best. With more than 350 miles of shoreline to choose from, the Essex coast is very much what you make of it, so even on those days when you’re planning a little run out to the seaside and want more than just the beach, Essex has the answer

The Romans knew a good thing when they saw it, and they say Mersea Island as a very good thing. Perhaps that’s why there is so much to celebrate even today on this special island | Words: Petra Hornsby - Photos: Chrissie Westgate and VisitEssex

The beautiful Wivenhoe House has been closed for almost two months, with not a guest in sight

James Merriott continues his watercolour tour of the county with a trip close to home that inspires thoughts of places further afield

Us Brits jump at the chance to grab a blanket and a basket of food and head for somewhere peaceful for an afternoon spent eating, drinking, strolling and exploring. We’ve picked 9 of the best spots in Essex for a walk and a picnic