Pete Wicks, known for his distinctive long hair, initially gained fame on the popular ITV reality show “The Only Way Is Essex” (TOWIE) before his current stint on Strictly Come Dancing. Joining TOWIE in 2015, he quickly won over viewers with his charm, unique hairstyle, and heavily tattooed look. His on-screen relationships, notably with fellow cast members Megan McKenna and Shelby Tribble, often grabbed headlines and added drama to the show.
A native of Essex, Pete is now showcasing his dancing skills on Strictly alongside his professional dance partner, Jowitz Pretzel. Hailing from Harlow in Essex, the 36-year-old TV personality has previously spoken fondly of his quiet home life with his two rescue French Bulldogs, Peggy and Eric.
Nestled within Essex, Harlow may not be the most glamorous town in the county, but it offers plenty of hidden gems that residents like Pete appreciate. Divided into two distinct areas, Harlow Old Town retains a traditional feel with its historic Georgian and Victorian architecture, while Harlow New Town was conceived post-World War II as a modern residential area to address London’s housing shortage. Designed by the visionary architect Sir Frederick Gibberd, the town emphasizes green spaces, contemporary infrastructure, and community living.
Reports suggest that Pete and his beloved dogs have resided in the sought-after Newhall Estate on the outskirts of Harlow. This modern development stands out for its design-focused approach to housing, featuring stylish homes and contemporary architecture. Some larger properties in the estate can command prices as high as £850,000, significantly exceeding the area’s average property values.
According to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in August 2024, average property prices in Harlow were around £603,000 for detached homes, £416,000 for semi-detached properties, £311,000 for terraced houses, and £184,000 for flats and maisonettes.
Away from the town center’s concrete structures, Harlow Town Park stands out as one of the country’s largest urban parks, boasting well-maintained gardens, a sizable lake, and various outdoor recreational spaces. For those seeking artistic inspiration, the Harlow Sculpture Town showcases over 100 public artworks, including pieces by renowned artists like Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth.
Harlow has a rich cultural scene, with The Harlow Playhouse hosting regular theater productions, live music events, and comedy shows. Local galleries provide a platform for emerging artists and bands to showcase their work. Interestingly, actor Rupert Grint, famous for portraying Ron Weasley in the Harry Potter films, also hails from Harlow.
For history enthusiasts, Harlow’s roots can be traced back to Roman times, with historical sites like The Hibberd Garden and the Harlow Museum offering insights into the town’s past. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities in Harlow, with recent investments in local sports programs enhancing opportunities for physical activity.
Pete’s preferred restaurant in Ongar, just a short drive from Harlow, is a favorite spot for him to unwind. Additionally, the expansive Epping Forest, spanning 2,400 hectares, provides a nearby escape for nature lovers. Fans can catch Pete showcasing his dance moves on Strictly Come Dancing, airing on BBC 1 on Saturday and Sunday evenings, or stream the show on BBC iPlayer.
