IMF Youth Dialog

Have you ever frequented the area of Hadleigh, located right in the heart of Essex? It may be small, but it has tons to provide all who visit. Hadleigh is another town in Suffolk and many get the two mixed up, but as for me, a local Hadleigh resident and Hadleigh business employee, I can safely say that Hadleigh is original and filled with unique charm!

One of Hadleigh’s wonderful features is that of Hadleigh Castle – remains of a thirteenth century castle – which creates that of a romantic scene for all to enjoy. Whether you want to capture it via a lens or by brush (as formerly painted by the world-recognised John Constable), or whether you desire to stare at it in sheer amazement, this can be done be it at dawn, midday or dusk.

Hadleigh Essex is located just five miles from Southend-on-Sea, a favorite beachfront town, frequented every summer by many tourists from near and far. On the opposite side of Hadleigh, is East London, situated thirty-five miles away, enabling Hadleigh to be commutable distance for those wanting to reside in Hadleigh, whilst working in London.

The population of Hadleigh is approximately 18,000 and is home to both a wide range of residential and commercial properties – most Hadleigh companies are located within Hadleigh High-street, boasting a variety of companies and services to suit all hobbies and interests as well as requirements.

Another of Hadleigh’s most noted attribute of which residents are particularly fond of is the Norman, Grade 1 listed, St.James The Less Church in the centre of the town. The church is somewhat elegant and picturesque despite being located on an island surrounded by the busy A13. Despite this, the church provides a warm and well-lit environment for Christian worship.

If you fancy stopping off in Hadleigh to experience its cuisine, then you will not be disappointed. There is a vast amount of choice in regards to the food and culture available. For Indian cuisine you can pay the Masa restaurant a visit, otherwise you can choose from the Poona Tandoori Restaurant or the Star of India restaurant. For Italian cuisine, why not visit Hadleigh’s own family run Italian restaurant, Ancora.

For Spanish and Portuguese cuisine, you can give Latino’s Tapas Bar a try. There really are a number of cultures in which you can experience. If you’d prefer to stick with good old British Fish and Chips, there are two chip shops to select from; Pegotty’s and Deep Sea Fish Bar. If it’s pub food that you’re after or a few drinks, the Castle is a superb pub located in Hadleigh’s town centre, suitable for people of all ages and families too.

Of course, like any busy little high street, there is also a wonderful selection of Hadleigh business available including cafes, tea rooms, barbers, printing shops, retail shops, hairdressers, pharmacies, food outlets, a bakers, convenience stores, charity shops as well as card shops and numerous banks.