Welcome to Essex: a land of dragons, witches, warriors, geezers, myths and legends.
 
Everyone in Britain thinks they know about Essex, but this book reveals the truth at the heart of England's most fascinating yet misunderstood county. Follow in the footsteps of an epic 400km storytelling adventure through Essex’s wildest places with this unique blend of story collection, travelogue and walking companion. You’ll never see Essex the same way again!
 
Discover stories such as:
 
Dick Turpin, the Dandy Roadman
Captain Ann Carter, the Essex Girl Robin Hood
The mysterious Captain Swing, who swept across the county leaving fire and destruction in his wake
The Brownfield Rainforest growing out of an abandoned oil refinery gone wild
The giant king who could walk from Colchester to Ipswich in seven steps
The Mad Blacksmith who risked everything to save his town’s footpaths
The Ghost Town that saved countless lives in WW2
The Viking brothers who hack each other to pieces each full moon
The surprising history of witchcraft and wizardry across the county
Demon dogs, monstrous cats and bloodthirsty dragons
The surprising persistence of the Old Devil
Pirates, smugglers and cannibals
Magic wells, enchanted stones, haunted marshes and wild woods

With 42 walking routes, 22 beautifully hand-illustrated maps and hundreds of incredible stories, you can explore the county’s treasures for yourself, and see Essex as you’ve never seen it before. Perfect for anyone that wants to see more of the beauty and heritage on their doorstep, or learn the truth at the heart of this ancient and intriguing county.
 
 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 
James Lawrence, AKA Man About Country, is a storyteller, adventurer, naturalist, and Cultural Ambassador for Essex. For over five years he’s led walks around some of Britain’s most fascinating places, guiding people to discover the country like never before.
 
James is fresh off the Essex Ways: a 400km walking adventure around his home county to discover its stories, people and places. He set out to bust the negative media stereotypes and prove that Essex is one of the most fascinating counties in England. After a sell-out storytelling tour around Essex, a feature length film, and a hugely popular social media series, James' new book aims to show how the old stories of Essex are at the heart of the special place it is today, and provide vital guidance on the issues facing the county’s future.
 
 
BOOK LAUNCH
 
To celebrate the launch of The Essex Ways on Friday 25th September, James will be telling some of his favourite stories from the book in The Barn at historic Layer Marney Tower, followed by a Q&A and book signing. Book your place here: https://dandelion.events/e/n0pxg
 
 
PRAISE FOR MAN ABOUT COUNTRY
 
James is a captivating storyteller with a clear passion for Essex and the diversity that it has to offer. His talent for storytelling is matched by his depth of knowledge on the history that he shares. A marvellous experience to be in the wilds of nature whilst the past could be imagined through James’ vivid descriptions and expressions. An enthralling adventure! - Rebecca Westwood
 
Having grown up in North East Essex, I thought I knew this area, but wow did I learn stuff! James is a passionate purveyor of all things Essex. It certainly given me nudge to explore my corner of the earth more. - Del Walker
 
His enthusiasm for Essex and the countryside shines through. His storytelling and knowledge were entertaining, and as someone who walks weekly around Essex, I am truly inspired to get out and explore more in the future. - Sally Agombar
 
 
DETAILS
 
Page count: 375
ISBN: 9781066790401
Publication Date: 25/09/2026
Format: Paperback
 
 
Please note that preordered copies of The Essex Ways will be delivered on Friday 25th September.