Pete Wicks, known for his distinctive long hair and charming persona, rose to fame through his appearance on the ITV reality show “The Only Way Is Essex” (TOWIE) before making his way to the dance floor on Strictly Come Dancing. Since joining TOWIE in 2015, Pete’s engaging personality, unique hairstyle, and heavily tattooed look have endeared him to viewers, especially during his high-profile relationships with co-stars Megan McKenna and Shelby Tribble.
Hailing from Harlow, Essex, Pete, now 36, showcases his dancing skills on Strictly alongside his professional partner Jowitz Pretzel. In his personal life, Pete shares a deep affection for his tranquil home environment, where he resides with his two French Bulldogs, Peggy and Eric.
Harlow, a town nestled in Essex, often flies under the radar compared to other more aesthetically pleasing locations in the county. However, the town holds a myriad of surprises that have captivated Pete and many others who call it home.
Split into two distinct sections, Harlow features the historic charm of Harlow Old Town with its traditional Georgian and Victorian architecture, while Harlow New Town, conceived post-World War II by visionary architect Sir Frederick Gibberd, boasts a modern urban design emphasizing green spaces and community living. Pete and his beloved dogs are rumored to have lived in the sought-after Newhall Estate on the town’s outskirts.
The Newhall Estate is recognized for its innovative housing approach, featuring contemporary design and upscale residences, with larger homes fetching prices as high as £850,000, well above the area’s average property rates according to ONS data from August 2024.
Away from the town center’s concrete structures, Harlow Town Park stands out as one of the largest urban parks in the country, offering meticulously maintained gardens, a vast lake, and outdoor recreational spaces. The town also houses the Harlow Sculpture Town, boasting over 100 public artworks, including pieces by renowned artists like Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth.
Harlow embraces creativity, with venues like The Harlow Playhouse hosting a variety of cultural events, from theater productions to live music and comedy shows. Galleries in the area showcase works from emerging artists and local music acts, reflecting the town’s artistic spirit.
Notably, Harlow has a rich history dating back to Roman times, with historical landmarks like The Hibberd Garden and the Harlow Museum preserving the town’s heritage. For outdoor enthusiasts, Harlow offers a range of activities, supported by initiatives like Essex Pedal Power, which provides free bikes to eligible residents through a recent funding boost from Sport England.
Pete’s preferred dining spot in Ongar, just a short drive from Harlow, offers a diverse culinary experience, while the vast woodlands of Epping Forest provide a picturesque setting for outdoor adventures. Fans can catch Pete’s dance performances on Strictly Come Dancing airing on BBC 1 on weekends or through BBC iPlayer for catch-up viewing.