Facts About Essex That You Might Not Know

Prachi Gupta

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Interesting Facts About Essex

Interesting facts about Essex: Essex is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches and welcoming people and there is a lot more to this beautiful county of England than you will ever anticipate. To feed your curiosity, we have listed some interesting facts about Essex which will leave you shocked and surprised at the same time. Keep reading further to know more!

350 Miles of Coastline 

You would be amazed to know that the coastline of Essex is over 350 miles long which is equal to driving from London to the Alps. The coastline of Essex is the second longest among other English Counties. Essex’s coastline is one of its valued assets both from national and international perspectives for the conservation of nature. It is also considered important for the local economy which entails tourism and fishing industries. 

Also Read: Dive deep into UK’s culture by reading our blog on UK food festivals

5 American Presidents are from Essex 

There have been many rumours circulating for a while now that five previous US presidents have been the direct descendants of people in Essex. Many theories suggest that the Mayflower (built-in Harwich) popularly made the transatlantic voyage in 1620 to North America in which most of the crew was from Essex. After the voyage, the crew eventually settled in America who were among the first settlers in America. Five descendants of these settlers went on to become the presidents of the US. 

It is Home to the Oldest Wooden Church in the World 

Dating all the way back to 1081, Greensted Church is the oldest wooden church in the world and is situated deep in the Essex countryside. Unfortunately, the only original Saxon structure that is remaining is the split Oak tree trunks that form the nave. A small amount of flint within the chancel dating back to the Norman era signifies that the church was still used after the Norman conquest of 1066.  

Essex is Home to the Flitch Trials 

Great Dunmow Flitch Trials is one of the oldest recorded competitions in Britain which dates all the way back to 1104. It is one of the most quirky events you will ever come across. This competition happens once every 4 years in which married couples have to compete to prove their love to each other in a series of events. The most interesting part of this competition is the prize you get after winning which is a flitch of bacon.

Clinton Cards Started in Essex 

The only store that pops into every son’s mind to buy a last-minute Mother’s Day card is Clinton Cards. Clinton Cards was founded in 1968 by Don Lewin after he borrowed GBP 500 to create this store. The first store of Clinton Cards was opened in Epping, Essex. Don Lewin named his store Clinton Cards after his young son. The business grew substantially by 1988 as the number of Clinton Cards’ stores reached 77, after which it was listed on the London Stock Exchange. 

Also Read: Are you an international student based out of Aberdeen? If yes, then check out our blog – Weekend Getaways from Aberdeen!

Essex is Home to Epping Forest 

Epping Forest is regarded as the oldest forest in the UK and is situated in Essex. This is one of the best places to wander if you are using student housing in United Kingdom. Epping Forest borders both Essex and London as it is situated in the southwestern part of the county and northeastern edge of Greater London. If you are planning for a day out, consider strolling here and enjoying scenic views.    

Manningtree is the Smallest Town in Britain

This one is all about the difference between a town and a village. Technically, Manningtree is regarded as a town. Interestingly, Manningtree has a population of just over 900 people which makes it the smallest town in Britain.  It covers an area of just 19.138 hectares and in the Middle Ages, it is known to emerge as a market town. In 1238, Manningtree received its first Royal Charter with consistency for almost eight centuries. 

Also Read: Impressed by British table etiquette? Then, check out our blog on British table Etiquette

FAQs on Interesting Facts About Essex

What is the richest part of Essex?

Some of the richest parts of Essex are – East Billericay, North and East Brentwood, South Central Chelmsford, North East Central Chelmsford, West Uttlesford, etc. 

What is the poorest place in Essex?

Located in Essex, Jaywick Sands is the poorest village in England. 

Is Essex a small town?

Situated in East Anglia, England, Essex is a large county which is home to three cities, many bustling market towns and a lot of countryside villages.  

We hope you liked this blog where we covered some interesting facts about Essex. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118. 

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About Prachi Gupta

Prachi has 1.5 yrs of experience in Content & Copywriting. Her skills entail SEO, researching, brainstorming marketing campaigns, suggesting content ideas, graphic designing, Keyword research, understanding user intent etc. She thrives on a work culture that helps her unlearn redundant ways of thinking. Besides this, she always has her binoculars on looking for good books and music recommendations, cocktails and world history.

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