At The Naze Nature Discovery Centre, spot the Naze Tower, which once had a huge radar aerial on top to detect enemy advances. As you wander through the area, you can imagine the army huts, protective scaffolding and trenches. You can still see the pillboxes, though now on the beach, where gunmen would keep their eyes on the horizon for oncoming attacks.

For those who seek a deeper connection to history, Gunners Park and Shoebury Ranges nature reserve is a must-visit. This site holds echoes of artillery training, and Winston Churchill himself observed Z Rocket AA Battery firings here. As you explore the park and garrison ruins you can almost feel the energy and excitement that once filled the air during these military exercises.

Another intriguing spot is Roding Valley Meadows nature reserve, an old RAF site, where you can spot iron rings that held barrage balloons to protect North London. They’re a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people who lived through those challenging times.

Don't forget to visit Bedfords Park Nature Discovery Centre, a site which was used by the National Auxiliary Fire Service and where members of the military lived in the park’s mansion house. Here, you can imagine the brave firefighters who worked tirelessly to protect the community from the ravages of war. Today, you can enjoy a cup of coffee at the café that stands in the very spot where the house once stood.

Nowadays, our reserves are a refuge for wildlife, but Langdon Nature Discovery Park once acted as a refuge for people. It used to be filled with holiday (or plotland) homes from the 1930s, and during the war, many people returned here on a permanent basis to escape the blitz. You can see Britain’s last remaining plotlands home at the site.

Lastly, Abberton Reservoir Nature Discovery Park offers a chance to delve into the legacy of RAF's 617 squadron, famously known as 'The Dam Busters'. This squadron honed their bouncing bomb flights in thrilling dress rehearsals here, leaving an indelible mark on history. It's a story of courage and determination that deserves to be remembered.

So, feed your curiosity and embark on a journey through Essex's rich military history to connect with the past. Each site holds a unique story waiting to be uncovered. Enjoy your exploration!