7 reasons why i love Leigh on Sea
Did you know that the earliest known record of Leigh features in the Domesday Book of 1086? Back then it was called ‘Legra’, so when I decided to start my own digital marketing agency, it seemed like a no-brainer to name it Legra Marketing.
I've lived in Leigh all my life and I absolutely love it. A lot has changed just in my lifetime - who remembers Woolworths, Candles Out and Vie Bar? Of course, no self-respecting Leigh on Sea post would be complete without a little nod to The Grand (hopefully being restored to former glory very soon). Whilst the town itself may have changed, I am happy to say that its charm and attraction have not.
After working in London for the last 20 years and, like many people, had an awakening of what actually matters in life during the lock-down, I decided to use the experience I'd learnt working in marketing all those years to provide a service to the local and small businesses of Leigh and the surrounding areas. Now I have the best of both worlds, a job that I love and now I don't have the commute, more work-life balance. This morning I went for a run before work, the conditions were perfect, and Leigh dazzled in the morning sunshine. I couldn't resist taking a few photos along the way, so here are my reasons for loving this amazing little town we call 'home'.
1. The Old Town
Steeped in history with its cobbled streets and narrow alleyways you'd think you were in a Dickensian novel. Home to the famous Leigh on Sea Cockle Sheds there's no better place to sit, relax and watch the fishing trawlers go by.
2. A pint on the sea wall
Of course, a visit to the Old Town just isn't complete without an ice-cold pint on the sea wall and some tasty seafood from Osborne's. Perfection on a warm sunny day.
3. The Gypsy Bridge
AKA The Curly Wurly Bridge. A local famous landmark which recently enjoyed national fame in a recent McDonald's TV commercial. I don't know what it is, but I love the design of this bridge, it's almost its own piece of artwork. It's individual and not your bog-standard bridge over the train tracks.
4. Creativity
Full of local art installations, creativity is fully embraced in Leigh and with the annual Leigh Art Trail, local artists get to showcase their works to the public. Sadly, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Leigh Art Trail will not go ahead in September, but the good news is that it will return in June 2021 instead.
5. Leigh Broadway
Brimming with independent cafes, bars, restaurants, hairdressers, and many more it's no wonder people come from far and wide to enjoy Leigh's shopping and culture. Perfect for a Sunday mooch.
6. The beaches
There's something magical about living by the sea and nothing beats chilling on the beach on a hot summer's day. Ranked as one of the best beaches in Essex on Trip Advisor it’s little wonder that people flock here when the sun has got its hat on.
7. Work life balance
Water sports and fitness are hugely popular down here. Just this morning I saw people going out on their paddle boards, open water swimming in the sea and jogging along the promenade before work. When you've got somewhere as amazing as this on your doorstep, why wouldn't you take the opportunity to enjoy it as much as possible? With a slower pace of life, you can see why more Londoners are starting to leave their city lives behind and settle in Leigh and neighbouring towns.
