Colchester ranked in top ten best places to live in Essex

The luxury lifestyle publication Muddy Stilettos has announced the results of its latest reader-led poll about the best places to live in Essex after voting took place between July 30 to August 15.

The top spot was taken by Saffron Walden, followed by Chelmsford, and then Leigh.

Colchester managed to rank a respectable fifth place, Frinton was sixth and Wivenhoe came in at eighth place.

The magazine said: "This historic city has many charms, especially for families who want it all (and why wouldn’t you?). There’s outstanding education and great amenities, plus cobbled streets adorned with period houses and a bustling high street."

Landmark - Colchester Castle in Castle Park (Image: Colchester Borough Council)

Now, Colchester residents and businesses have reacted to the ranking, leading them to feel proud of the city they call home.

Owen Louis is a musician and DJ who writes songs under the name of Project Lando, he is originally from the Caribbean and has lived in Colchester for 20 years.

“Over the years I have watched Colchester get more and more diverse, not just in race but also in art and culture," he said. 

“With this rich culture you can be checking out the latest in street art in an art gallery one day and be walking past a truly ancient Castle the next, which is smack bang on the High Street.

Community spirit - Owen Louis DJing at Art of The Roadz Part Two in The Minories (Image: Robert Cole)

“I just love the brand new and expanding city vibes, but Colchester still shows its proud history

“Colchester is climbing the ranks, it won’t long before we have that number one spot.”

Emma Howe is the director of The Minories art gallery in High Street and has been living and working in the city since 2016.

She said: “I love it here.

“I have seen the cultural scene go from strength to strength - people in Colchester aren't afraid to try new things and that energy is infectious.

Resident - Emma Howe (Image: Mads Pierce)

“I am excited to be here and not surprised at all that it has been rated so highly."

Steve Hurdle, the co-founder of the retro garment shop Best Days Vintage, in Eld Lane, says that Colchester essentially has everything he needs.

He said: “Most of what I want in my personal life is on my doorstep… countryside, the beach, and London is only one hour away.

“For work Colchester is growing all the time and has great potential for growth in my business with potential customers, the music scene is great too."

Business owners - Steve Hurdle and Jez Dixon of Best Days Vintage (Image: Public)

Music scene stalwart, Ben Howard, is the founder of Keep Colchester Cool and “isn’t surprised” to see the city rank in the top ten and believes it could “have easily ranked even higher”.

Ben said: “While some residents may not always see the positives, it’s important to take a step back and view our city with fresh eyes - gaining city status is arguably one of the most significant milestones for Colchester’s future.

“Although we may not fully feel like a city just yet, the ongoing investments, developments, and arrival of more brands to our city centre all point towards promising future.

“What truly sets Colchester apart, however, is its rich culture, diversity, and thriving arts scene.

Resident - Ben Howard (Image: Public)

"From our strong reputation for music, theatre, and the arts to the many independent shops, restaurants, pubs, and venues—Colchester fully deserves this recognition.

“We’re on the right path, and the future looks promising.”

Rodney Appleyard, a Gazette columnist, isn’t surprised either about Colchester being “rated so highly in the list”.

He said: “The city really is a hidden gem. It has so much going for it, but suffers from not being praised highly enough or recognised for how special it is.

"What makes Colchester unique and stand out from the city crowd is its combination of many strong attributes - its ancient history, strong sense of community spirit; green spaces, thriving arts and music scene.

Enjoying the area surrounding Colchester - Rodney Appleyard in Mersea (Image: Rodney Appleyard)

“It also has wide range of cafes and restaurants; well-respected educational institutions and diverse range of entertainment.

“Most of all, I love its people – because I have lived in special places before, such as Nottingham, London and Sydney, but I have never met friendlier and more helpful people than the residents of Colchester."