Essex

Essex is a ceremonial and historic county in the East of England. It borders Greater London to the southwest, Hertfordshire to the west, Cambridgeshire to the northwest, Suffolk to the north and northeast, and the North Sea to the east. The county town is Chelmsford, and major settlements include Southend-on-Sea, Basildon, Colchester, and Harlow. The name derives from East Saxons, one of the early Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.

Geography and landscape: The county comprises low-lying marshlands near the Thames estuary and higher inland areas. The Dengie Peninsula projects into the North Sea, and the coast is known for seaside towns. Key rivers include the Chelmer and Blackwater; the Stour forms part of the boundary with Suffolk in the north.

History: Essex was one of the seven kingdoms of the Anglo-Saxon Heptarchy. Colchester was an important Roman-British center and is home to Colchester Castle. The county developed as an agricultural and industrial region with ports on estuaries.

Economy and transport: Modern Essex has diverse sectors, including services, manufacturing, and logistics. Stansted Airport serves the region, and the Port of Tilbury supports trade. Rail and road networks connect Essex to London, notably via the A12 and M11.

Governance: The county is administered by Essex County Council with several districts, while two areas—Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock—operate as unitary authorities. The county lies in the East of England region.

Education and culture: The University of Essex has a campus in Colchester; Anglia Ruskin University operates a campus in Chelmsford. Cultural and historical sites include Colchester Castle, Layer Marney Tower, and Southend’s pier, the longest pleasure pier in the world.