Brentwood’s looking lovely at the moment, and we’re curious: where’s your go-to spot for a proper weekend wander — Thorndon Country Park, Weald Country Park, or somewhere more under the radar? If you’re after an easy local win, try pairing a short walk with a visit to an independent café in town and make a morning of it. Have you discovered any new favourites recently, or is there a hidden gem you think the rest of Brentwood should know about?

Saffron Walden always feels at its best when you take it slowly: a wander through the market square, a peek into the ruins of the castle, and a quiet loop around Bridge End Gardens if you’ve got ten minutes to spare. If you’re introducing someone to the town for the first time, where do you take them for a proper coffee and a little browse afterwards? We’re also keen to pull together a community-made list of “small joys” in Saffron Walden, so tell us your favourite overlooked corner or simple ritual here.

Has anyone else noticed more litter building up along the paths through Town Park near the Pets’ Corner side lately? I was walking back towards Market Square past the Harvey Centre and it feels like the bins are always overflowing by the bus station. If you’ve found any local groups doing regular clean-ups (or even just good spots to report it properly), can you point me in the right direction?