Essex is located within a stones throw of London and so is ideal for a weekend getaway - for many visitors, it is the surviving heritage which proves the biggest attraction of the county. Traces of medieval times can be found in delightful small towns whilst medieval industries such as weaving and saffron growing created great wealth and this led to the construction of beautiful houses and gorgeous churches. With its long coastline, visitors can also enjoy all the traditional fun of the seaside or travel inland, where ancient woodlands add interest to a landscape characterised by thatched cottages, timber framed farmhouses and the unmistakable outline of windmills.