Essex…..

[StephenC]

Whilst I grew up there, and have been to most of it, I'm struggling to think of Essex countryside I'd describe as 'beautiful' - yes there are pleasant bits and very attractive villages in the north of the county, but its only... OK. There again, since I live within 15 mins of the N York Moors and half an hour from the Yorkshire Dales and the North Pennines, I guess I've got used to very high standards of scenery!!

Yeah, I'd agree with you about the Yorkshire Dales etc. But I don't think you know Essex well enough Grumpy. I've lived & travelled all over the Uk including living in the beautiful Cotswolds. Stunning! But Essex has it's own attractions of just about every kind.

Quite. When the next classic bike meet happens (usually May) I'll flag it up in advance so people can come down and have a look-see around my patch

[OneFootInTheGravy]

Too many folks think of the various TV stereo types of the county,

and

[StephenC]

I thought the first pic was more Croydon, but I'll let you have the second!

[Stibbs]

I didn’t intend my OP to be a criticism or a slight on the County or it’s locals. It was rather a play on stereotypes
Essex is a metaphor for the UK. In parts heavily built up, poor urban areas, unsightly roads and scenery etc. However there are some beautiful parts, interesting and stunning scenery, lovely people and a great vibe. I’ll be back

[StephenC]

I didn’t intend my OP to be a criticism or a slight on the County or it’s locals. It was rather a play on stereotypes
Essex is a metaphor for the UK. In parts heavily built up, poor urban areas, unsightly roads and scenery etc. However there are some beautiful parts, interesting and stunning scenery, lovely people and a great vibe. I’ll be back

Congratulations, you have passed the visa-exempt test and may enter and leave Essex freely without let or hindrance.

[MrGrumpy]

If there's an Essex Visa process, can I get myself permanently banned? Or is the fact of being born there going to be a burden that I'll have to carry for the rest of my life?

[StephenC]

You can check out but you can never leave....

[mottza]

Myself, Maxi Burger and Diesel Dave were adventurous yesterday going to the wilds of Norfolk.

[Data]

Steady Chris, that's foreign land! You dunno what might happen....

[mottza]

That's why we went three up...