Measured Designs have been in Leigh-on-Sea since 2008, but where is Leigh-on-Sea and what’s so great about it? Leigh-on-Sea is a seaside town located in the Southend-on-Sea district of Essex, England. The town has a rich history dating back to the 13th century and has been a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. In this article, we will explore the history of Leigh-on-Sea, including its awards, famous people, and attractions.
History of Leigh-on-Sea
Leigh-on-Sea was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as Legra, which means “place by the river”. The town grew in importance during the 13th and 14th centuries as a port for trade with the Low Countries. In the 19th century, Leigh-on-Sea became a popular destination for artists, writers, and musicians, including J.M.W. Turner and William Morris.
Leigh-on-Sea awards
Leigh-on-Sea has been the recipient of several awards, including being named the “Happiest place to live in the UK” in a 2018 survey by Rightmove. The town was also awarded “Best High Street in the UK” in the Great British High Street Awards in 2018.
Famous people of Leigh-on-Sea
Leigh-on-Sea has been home to several notable people throughout history, including:
- J.M.W. Turner – English Romantic painter, who spent a lot of time painting in Leigh-on-Sea.
- William Morris – English textile designer, poet, novelist, and socialist activist, who lived in the town for a short time.
- Jamie Oliver – Celebrity chef, who grew up in the town and attended The King John School.
- David Gandy – Model and actor, who was born in Billericay but grew up in Leigh-on-Sea.
Leigh-on-Sea Attractions
Leigh-on-Sea has several attractions that draw visitors from far and wide, including:
- Old Leigh – A picturesque fishing village with cobbled streets and traditional fisherman’s cottages.
- Two Tree Island – A nature reserve with salt marshes, mudflats, and a bird hide.
- Leigh Heritage Centre – A museum that tells the story of Leigh-on-Sea’s history.
- The Broadway – A popular shopping and dining destination with a variety of independent shops and restaurants.
Interesting facts and information
Here are some additional interesting facts and information about Leigh-on-Sea:
- Location: Leigh-on-Sea is located on the north side of the Thames Estuary in Essex, England, approximately 35 miles east of London.
- Fishing Industry: Fishing has been an important industry in Leigh-on-Sea for centuries. Today, the town is still home to a small fleet of fishing boats, and fresh seafood can be found at the local fish market and restaurants.
- Cockle Sheds: One of the town’s most iconic landmarks are the cockle sheds, small wooden huts located by the beach that has been used for cockle and whelk processing for over a century.
- The Leigh Regatta: The Leigh Regatta is an annual event held in the town that includes boat races, live music, and fireworks.
- Leigh Art Trail: The Leigh Art Trail is an annual event that showcases the work of local artists in various venues throughout the town.
- Leigh Folk Festival: The Leigh Folk Festival is a popular annual event that celebrates folk music and dance from around the world.
- Leigh-on-Sea Station: The town has its own railway station, which provides regular services to London and other destinations in Essex. Operated by C2C.
- Leigh-on-Sea Beach: The town’s beach is a popular destination for swimming, and watersports, including windsurfing and kiteboarding.
- Leigh-on-Sea Library: The town’s library is located in a historic building that was once a bank, and it has a large collection of books, including many on local history.
- Leigh-on-Sea Town Council: The town is governed by the Leigh-on-Sea Town Council, which is responsible for local services and amenities, such as parks, street cleaning, and community events.
Leigh-on-Sea has a rich history and is home to several notable people and attractions. From its days as a bustling port to its modern-day status as a popular tourist destination, the town has a lot to offer visitors and residents alike. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or shopping and dining, Leigh-on-Sea has something for everyone.
