Summer doesn’t have to be hard on your pocket in south Essex. Here are some of the highlights of the next few months, all of which are free.
Leigh Folk Festival
One of the largest free folk festivals in the UK, the Leigh Folk Festival held at venues including Leigh Library Gardens. It runs from June 22 -25, encompassing music, dance, comedy, spoken word, workshops and entertainment for all ages. Visit www.leighfolkfestival.com.
Classic Cars on the Beach
Enjoy a beach full of vintage vehicles with the Classic Cars on the Beach. The event runs on Sunday June 18, perfect for Father’s Day, from 9am to 4pm where Southend and District Classic Car Club will host a stunning display of classic cars. See www.thesdccc.co.uk.
Priory Park
A picnic at Southend Priory Park is a welcome retreat on a sunny day.
There are scenic walkways, a pond, a green gym, formal gardens and more at this little slice of green heaven.
IronWorks
The vibrant venue offers a Karaoke Klub from 7-11pm on the last Friday of each month.
Resident DJ Daniel Barnes hosts a monthly ‘Coco Jambos’ set from 12pm to 5pm on the first Sunday of the month.
Search "The InronWorks" on Facebook for updates.
Rayleigh Windmill
The amazing 200-year-old Grade II listed windmill makes for a great day out. Located in Bellingham Lane, the museum gives visitors information about the windmill and a glimpse into the past. Entry is free, although there is a suggested £1 donation.
Hadleigh Castle
Take in the sights of the ruins of this 13th century castle with views to enjoy over Hadleigh Ray and Leigh. Hadleigh Country Park is a lovely place to while away the day with countryside walks and cycling.
Canvey Wick
Take in the natural beauty and rare wildlife at Canvey with the regular Walk the Wick, hosted by Buglife - The Invertebrate Conservation Trust.
It takes place on the second and last Wednesday of each month, from 10am to noon. There are also regular family friendly events during school holidays -find out more by emailing Jo.Loman@buglife.org.uk.
Rayleigh Museum
Find out about a wealth of information at the historical Rayleigh Museum.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff are on hand to talk about the history of Rayleigh and visitors can enjoy the interesting displays.
www.rayleightownmuseum.co.uk.
Pride events
Southend Pride will take place on Saturday July 15 from 11am to 6pm with an array of events supporting and celebrating Pride.
Basildon Pride will take place later in the summer on Saturday, September 2 from 11am to 7.30pm.
The event returns this year on September Saturday 2 at Gloucester Park and there will be a parade starting from Basildon Town Centre and finishing at the pride site in the park, where there will be a main stage featuring tribute acts and drag artists.
Leigh Heritage Centre
There is an abundance of information on the rich maritime history in the seaside town here.
Based in the Old Town's smithy it was set up by The Leigh Society to educate future generations on how the area became what it is today. See www.leighsociety.com
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