Yes it has noisy seaside casinos, shambolic-looking chippies and all the rest, but Southend also has an exciting art scene. For proof, look no further than Focal Point Gallery, a contemporary art space asking big questions about locality and community. Stop by for a zine-making workshop by Grrrl Zine Fair, sit in on a reading group and spot its commissions, such as Bridget Smith’s Electric Orange/ Automatic Blue around town.

This gleaming cultural centre is a real boon for Colchester, a city best known for its impressive medieval ruins. It opened in 2011 and has since been serving up a packed schedule of films, exhibitions, events and more. Firstsite’s mission is to “empower people to be creative together and lead happier and healthier lives”. In practice, that means craft workshops, arthouse film viewings, thought-provoking exhibitions and a downright delicious on-site café.

In its own words, Metal is an organisation that “works to provide the catalyst that can transform the potential of people and places through great art and inspiring ideas”. This doesn’t just mean hosting exhibitions but organising artist residencies, events and initiatives such as Southend’s Shorelines: Literature Festival of the Sea. The organisation has various offices across the UK. Its Southend office is set in a converted Grade II-listed Georgian mansion. Keep an eye on its website to see what’s on the agenda.

Textile artists and fashion historians will be familiar with Warner & Sons. It rose to prominence In the 19th century as one of Britain’s foremost silk weavers and, in the subsequent centuries, forged collaborations with some of Europe’s most exciting contemporary artists. Usually, visitors can book ahead and tour the archive, however it’s currently closed to comply with social-distancing restrictions. Some of the firm’s work is on display at the Braintree Museum in the meantime.