KEEP THE KIDS HAPPY ON WEEKENDS & HOLIDAYS
Time to mix fun, structure, and creativity to keep the kids happy.
WHY YOU SHOULD RETIRE TO CANVEY ISLAND
Is it time to start your next life chapter?
FINDING A HOME THAT KEEPS YOU FIT
Find a home that makes healthy living easy.
Life can get busy - between keeping the kids entertained, staying on top of your health, and thinking ahead for the future, it’s easy for things to feel a little overwhelming. But sometimes, a bit of inspiration is all you need.
This month, we’re here to lend a helping hand with fresh ideas to make the most of your home and lifestyle. From fun ways to keep the kids happy on weekends and holidays, to discovering the perks of retiring by the coast, and even finding a home that supports your health and wellbeing - there’s something for everyone inside this month’s issue.
You’ll also find a carefully chosen selection of stunning properties ready to discover. If something catches your eye, feel free to reach out — we’d be delighted to hear from you.
John Pring FNAEA(Honoured) & MARLA | Director
Time to mix fun, structure, and creativity to keep the kids happy.
Weekends and school holidays are a much-anticipated break for children — and sometimes a challenge for parents. The key to a stress-free, enjoyable time for the whole family lies in striking a balance between fun, structure, and creativity. Whether you’re staying at home or planning outings, here are some practical and imaginative ideas to keep the kids happy, engaged, and even learning a little along the way...
While holidays are meant to be relaxing, kids thrive on routine. A loose schedule — including wake-up time, meals, activities, and downtime — helps prevent boredom and restlessness. Make room for spontaneity, but having a basic plan gives children a sense of security and helps avoid the “What are we doing now?” question every hour.
Fresh air and exercise are essential for both physical and mental health. Take advantage of local parks, nature reserves, or your own backyard. Plan bike rides, nature scavenger hunts, or simple picnics. Even a walk around the block can turn into an adventure with the right attitude.
Weekends and school breaks are the perfect time to explore museums, zoos, or farms — many of which offer special children’s programs or seasonal discounts. Keep an eye out for local events like craft fairs, outdoor performances, or community festivals, which often include kid-friendly activities.
Stock up on arts and crafts supplies — you’d be surprised how long kids can stay entertained with paper, glue, and a bit of imagination. Build a fort out of cushions and blankets, make homemade playdough, or try baking cookies together. Let children take the lead with their ideas; you’ll often be amazed at what they come up with.
Turn play into learning by incorporating simple educational games and projects. Cook together to teach measuring and math skills, start a mini garden to explore science and responsibility, or play board games that encourage critical thinking and teamwork. Reading time is also a great way to relax together while supporting literacy.
Screen time can be valuable in moderation. Choose interactive, educational content, or use screens to support real-world interests — like watching a nature documentary before heading out on a hike. Be sure to balance digital entertainment with physical activity and non-screen-based play.
It’s okay if kids occasionally say, “I’m bored.” This often leads to independent play, daydreaming, or creative thinking. Resist the urge to fill every minute with activity — some of the best ideas come from moments of quiet and unstructured time.
Once in a while, give your kids a “Yes Day” - within reason - where they choose the meals, the activities, and maybe even a wild card like wearing pajamas all day or having ice cream before dinner. It’s a great way to build trust and create joyful memories.
Keeping kids happy during weekends and school holidays doesn’t require a big budget or constant entertainment. With a little planning, creativity, and a willingness to join in the fun, you can turn ordinary days into memorable ones — and maybe even enjoy the break yourself.
We cover the whole of South Essex.
Contact us for a free valuation on 01268 565555
Melissa Yates
Consultant
Penny Ash
Manager
Consultant
The residential estate agency market is increasingly populated by large corporations; nevertheless, our independent family-run estate agency continues to succeed and grow a loyal client base, due to our core values, ethos and flexible approach to clients’ requirements.
Mia Zetter Administrator & Sales Progressor
£475,000
Semi-Detached Chalet Bungalow
Spacious Main Bedroom With Ensuite
Open Plan Lounge/Kitchen
Three Bedrooms
Ground Floor Wc
Beautiful Garden With Outbuilding
CALL 01268 565555
£525,000
Detached House
Four Double Bedrooms
Catchment To Kents Hill Infant & Junior School & The Appleton School
Sought After Location
Utility Room
Integral Garage
CALL 01268 565555
£475,000
Guide Price £475,000 - £500,000
Detached Property
Downstairs Shower Room
Fantastic Condition Throughout
Four Double Rooms
Great Location To Tarpots Shops And Restaurants
CALL 01268 565555
CATHERINE ROAD, BENFLEET
£230,000
Top Floor Apartment
One Bedroom
Long Lease
Allocated Parking Space
Great Condition Throughout
Built In 2017
Viewings Advised
CALL
£475,000
Guide Price
£475,000 - £500,000
Security Gate On Driveway
Huge Detached Garage (Potential For Annexe Stpp)
En-Suite To Master Bedroom
Immaculate Condition
Throughout
Three Double Bedrooms
CALL 01268 565555
£450,000
2/3 Bedrooms (Dining Room
Could Be 3rd Bedroom)
Detached Bungalow
Off Street Parking
Fitted Kitchen
Bathroom
Dining Room
Rear Garden
CALL 01268 565555
Is it time to start your next life chapter?
Tucked away on the Thames Estuary in south Essex, Canvey Island is a hidden gem that’s fast becoming a favourite destination for retirees looking for a tranquil, affordable, and community-focused place to settle. With its unique blend of seaside charm, rich local heritage, and practical amenities, Canvey Island offers everything you need for a fulfilling retirement - without the sky-high property prices of more well-known coastal towns...
One of the greatest attractions of Canvey Island is its peaceful coastal setting. Unlike busier seaside resorts, Canvey offers long, open stretches of sea wall, sandy beaches, and beautiful views across the estuary. A daily walk along the promenade - watching ships drift past or simply soaking in the salty air - is a joy many locals cherish.
Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby wildlife reserves such as Canvey Wick and West Canvey Marsh. These peaceful areas are havens for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife, making them perfect for gentle strolls, photography, or simply reconnecting with nature.
Housing in Canvey Island is significantly more affordable than in many parts of the South East. From traditional bungalows and spacious detached houses to purposebuilt retirement park homes, there’s something to suit every budget and lifestyle.
Kings Park Village, one of the UK’s largest retirement park communities, offers a particularly attractive option for those over 50. With its own leisure centre, fishing lakes, clubhouse, and secure gated access, it provides both peace of mind and an active lifestyle for retirees seeking low-maintenance living with a strong community feel. If you’d like to learn more about Kings Park Village, head over to our YouTube channel and check out our park video.
Canvey Island may be small, but it has a big heart. The community spirit here is well known, with friendly neighbours, active local groups, and regular events such as the Canvey Carnival and seasonal markets.
The island also has a rich and quirky history. From its Dutch-inspired sea defences to the iconic Labworth Café—a 1930s modernist structure perched on the seafront— Canvey wears its heritage proudly. Local museums, like the Dutch Cottage Museum and the Canvey Transport Museum, offer fascinating glimpses into its past.
Despite its island status, Canvey is well-connected and well-equipped. The town centre has all the essentials: supermarkets, pharmacies, a health centre, cafes, and restaurants. There are several churches and community halls offering everything from social clubs to yoga classes.
For those looking to stay active, Waterside Farm Leisure Centre features swimming pools, tennis courts, and a full programme of fitness classes. Golfers can enjoy the nearby Castle Point Golf Course, while sailing, fishing, and birdwatching are all popular pastimes on and around the island.
Canvey Island feels like a world away, yet it’s surprisingly accessible. London is less than an hour away via nearby Benfleet station, which connects to London Fenchurch Street. Southend Airport is just a short drive away, offering domestic and European flights - perfect for visiting family or taking a spontaneous holiday.
There’s also a good local bus service connecting the island to nearby towns such as Southend, Basildon, and Leigh-on-Sea.
Retirement is about more than just slowing down - it’s about living life on your terms. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors, join a friendly local community, or simply find an affordable, relaxing place to call home, Canvey Island ticks all the boxes.
With its fresh sea air, welcoming vibe, and wide range of housing options, Canvey offers the best of seaside living - without the premium price tag. For many, it’s not just a place to retire, but a place to truly thrive.
Thinking about retiring to the coast? Canvey Island might be the perfect place to start your next chapter. Contact Fisks today to start your next life chapter.
The industry has changed hugely with the development of digital technology - this has created two different styles of agency, the traditional high street agency, and the modern online agency. At Fisks, we believe that the best solution is to be both.
Fisks still do the traditional marketing methods that you are comfortable with, such as high street shop locations with window displays, applicant mailing lists, text and email facilities, linked offices, portals such as Rightmove, leaflet drops, floor plans, boards and branded cars.
These marketing tools have been tried and tested for many years, but with the ongoing digital revolution we have also embraced change. These new marketing methods come in the form of a digital property lifestyle magazine that’s produced in house and emailed to over eight thousand people a month, targeted social media campaigns across all the major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, 4k video tours of your property for our successful YouTube channel, enhanced portal marketing, and from a customer service point of view, we have vendor log-ins so you can see viewers feedback and offers on your home at any time.
Our Ethos & Values
We focus on our clients’ requirements and instructions rather than just doing what’s quickest and easiest for us.
Our comprehensive training program ensures that our staff channels their entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm for the benefit of our clients, whilst maintaining the professionalism and customer service associated with our brand.
Fisks,
FISKS.CO.UK
Protecting your investment should not be taken lightly, with our full management service you can be sure to get the support you deserve...
ARLA - the gold standard professional industry body.
Audited and insured client accounts to protect your money.
Rent guarantee and legal cover - protect yourself with insurance and the increased costs of evicting (subject to status).
Legal hotline - specialised property lawyers helping to answer your questions.
Inventories - protect your deposit with a professional inventory, including time stamped photographs.
Inspection - allay your fears that your asset is being looked after.
Section notices - fully trained and experienced staff can advise and serve the appropriate notice.
Accurate accounting - from monthly statements to overseas landlords, to expenditure and income, we hold all the information the accountant will need.
Gas certificates and EPCs - keep your property complying with the law.
Don’t just take our word for it, we have many happy customers...
“Happy customer. Very professional service. We had no problems with the sale of our house or the purchase of our new home through Fisks. Staff very pleasant, would definitely recommend.”
- Mr and Mrs Hall
“Fantastic team that pulled out all the stops and helped every step of the way. Friendly pleasant staff.”
- Mrs S Sheavyn
... come and put us to the test!
Find a home that makes healthy living easy.
Moving to a new home offers more than just a change of scenery – it’s a chance to redesign your lifestyle. If you’re looking to improve your health and fitness, choosing the right home and location can make a massive difference. From proximity to parks and gyms to the layout of your own living space, here’s how to find a new home that actively supports your fitness goals...
The first step in finding a fitness-friendly home is choosing a location that encourages movement. Look for areas with good walkability – that means safe pavements, scenic walking routes, and destinations like cafés, shops, or public transport that you can reach on foot.
Being close to green spaces is also ideal. Whether it’s a sprawling park, woodland trail, or canal towpath, having easy access to the outdoors makes it far more likely you’ll walk, run, or cycle regularly.
Top Tip: Check local council websites or use apps like Walk Score or MapMyRun to explore what amenities are nearby and how walkable or cycle-friendly the area is.
Consider how close the property is to gyms, swimming pools, sports centres, or fitness classes. Having a gym within a 10–15 minute walk or drive makes a world of difference when it comes to motivation and consistency.
If you enjoy group fitness, see if there are yoga studios, Pilates classes, martial arts clubs, or CrossFit boxes nearby. If you prefer the outdoors, check for local running clubs, bootcamps in the park, or public tennis courts.
It’s not just about where your home is – it’s also about what your home offers.
• Stairs over lifts: A home with stairs encourages incidental exercise, especially in multi-level properties.
• Home gym space: A spare room, garage, or even a garden outbuilding can be converted into a workout zone.
• Garden space: If you’re into outdoor training or gardening (also a great physical activity), look for properties with a usable garden.
• Storage for equipment: Whether it’s bikes, weights, yoga mats, or resistance bands, ensure you have the space to store your gear properly.
A long commute can eat into your available time and energy for exercise. Look for a home that shortens your journey to work or allows for active commuting - like cycling or walking part of the way.
Proximity to public transport also helps. Walking to and from the station each day can contribute to your daily step count, especially when combined with regular physical activity.
A community that values health and fitness can be incredibly motivating. Some areas naturally attract more active residents and offer events like park runs, local races, or community hikes. Others may host farmers’ markets or wellness festivals, encouraging a healthier lifestyle all round.
Speak to locals, check out community notice boards, or join local Facebook groups to get a feel for the area’s culture before you commit.
If you’re aiming to improve your fitness long-term, think about what you might want in the future:
• Would you like to start cycling to work?
• Could you train for a marathon or triathlon?
• Are you interested in hiking or climbing?
Choose a location and home that makes those goals feel realistic - not distant dreams.
Fitness isn’t just something you do at the gym - it’s a way of life. By choosing a new home that naturally fits your goals, you’re setting yourself up for success without relying on willpower alone. The right environment can turn healthy choices into easy habits.
So, as you scroll through listings or visit properties, think beyond bedrooms and broadband. Ask yourself: Will this home help me move more, feel better, and live healthier? If the answer is yes, you’re not just finding a new home - you’re finding a fitter, happier version of yourself.
£350,000
Sought-After Thorney Bay Road
Location
Bright And Spacious Lounge
Modern Downstairs Bathroom
Kitchen/Diner Leading To Conservatory
Two Double Bedrooms
Large Rear Garden
CALL 01268 510510
£350,000
Semi Detached
Three Bedrooms
Chalet Bungalow
Kitchen Garage
Off Street Parking No Onward Chain
CALL 01268 510510
£300,000
Detached Bungalow
Two Bedrooms
Lounge
Kitchen
Garage For Motor Cycle
Off Street Parking
CALL 01268 510510
Detached House
Four Bedrooms
Utility Room
Garage
Off Street Parking
Family Sized Garden
Two Reception Rooms
£500,000 CALL
£200,000
Land with full planning permission for a 3-bed detached house with garage. Approx. 54ft x 42ft. Great location on Taranto Road, with good access and nearby utilities. Ideal for developers or self-build.
£325,000
No Onward Chain
Sought-After Oak Road Location
Walking Distance To Town Centre & Seafront
Two Spacious Double Bedrooms
Modern Shower Room
Large Lounge/Diner With Original Parquet Flooring
CALL 01268 510510
