So the little Essex seaside resort that I call home has recently been named as the happiest place in Britain to live.

Leigh-on Sea (it’s just up the road to Southend for those of you that aren’t Essex-based folk) gained the accolade from Rightmove, after scoring highly on a range of stand-out features, including community spirit and a strong sense of belonging.

The hubby and I moved to Leigh-on-Sea two years ago. I’d grown up not far from the fishing village (on Canvey Island) and missed the seaside after eight years of living inland (in the TOWIE mecca that is Brentwood) so dragged my London-bred mister closer to the estuary side.

We’re super fond of Leigh-on-Sea so were not surprised that it was ranked so highly by the property website. But we fell in love all over again when we decided not to head abroad this summer and instead holiday at home with our baby boy.

Admittedly, the weather *does* help. The week the husband took off work happened to be a super sunny one. And, as anyone holidaying in the UK will tell you, even the best seaside towns become that extra bit special in the sunshine.

But anyway, here are some of our Leigh-on-Sea staycation highlights. If you live here, let this be a kick up the butt to enjoy some of the things our lovely little town has to offer. If you’ve never been here before, well you’re missing out on a whole load of happiness…come visit soon!

Did we miss somewhere? Let me know where you love in Leigh-on-Sea in the comments below. PS Some other people have their say on why they love it here too in the video below…