Essex, like the rest of the UK, was hit hard by COVID-19 in 2020 and 2021.

Since Ridleys died an unlamented death in 2005 Essex has lacked a big-name brewery.  It’s surprising, as Essex lads and lasses certainly like a pint or two.

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If your idea of a good festival is big stars on a big stage, watched from the middle of a big crowd, then the Best Essex Music Festival is RiZE, in Hylands Park near Chelmsford.

We’ve added some new pictures to our article on the Best Essex Sports Personality.

Leez Priory is the best wedding venue in Essex.

In fact, in the opinion of Wedding Ideas magazine it’s the best wedding venue in the whole country: it won their 2008 award.

Leez Priory is a magnificent Tudor mansion set in 40 acres of beautiful parkland complete with lakes, lawns and a sweeping driveway. Each party has exclusive use of the house and gardens for their special day.

Up to 120 guests can be seated for the wedding reception meal, and there’s space for up to 200 guests at an evening reception. Leez Priory provides a DJ and disco.

For those who are planning on making the most of the disco, 15 bedrooms are available for guests to stay the night.

The Priory is roughly halfway between Braintree and Chelmsford, near Hartford End.

The Rainbow and Dove in Hastingwood near Harlow is, in our humble opinion, the best pub in Essex (though our research is thorough and continuing).

Good real ale, good food at sensible prices, a friendly atmosphere, a traditional building and cheerful staff are the plus points.

The lack of noisy background music and noisy youngsters helps, too. There are no jukeboxes or slot machines either, as the landlord understands that our conversation is sufficient entertainment. Dogs are welcome, provided they are well behaved.

To find it, as you drive along the A414 toward Harlow, turn right onto Hastingwood Road just before the M11 junction, or just drop CM17 9JX into your sat-nav. If you still get lost, call them on 01279 415419.