Southend-on-Sea is a coastal town located on the Thames Estuary in Essex county, England, and is the closest seaside resort to London. It is easily accessible by road and rail, with regular train services to London and other major cities in the region. There is an airport with flights to destinations throughout Europe and the United Kingdom. Visiting Southend-on-Sea is the ultimate coastal getaway – to explore all the area has to offer, including the long sandy beaches, traditional amusement park (Adventure Island), and the iconic Southend Pier, the longest pleasure pier in the world at 1.34 miles (2.15 km) long.
Exploring Southend-on-Sea, A Seaside Adventure
The town has a vibrant seafront with numerous bars, restaurants, and shops, as well as a bustling high street with a mix of well-known retailers and independent boutiques. Southend has a thriving arts and culture scene, with venues such as the Cliffs Pavilion theatre and Palace Theatre hosting a range of performances throughout the year.
In addition to its seaside attractions, Southend is home to several historic landmarks, including the Victorian-era Pier Museum and the Grade I-listed church of St. Mary the Virgin. The town has a number of parks and green spaces, such as Priory Park and Southchurch Park, which are popular destinations for outdoor activities and picnics. Southend-on-Sea is a popular destination for day trips, weekend getaways, and holiday adventures, offering a mix of traditional seaside charm and modern amenities.
Best Things To Do in Southend-on-Sea
- Visit Adventure Island – Southend-on-Sea’s largest amusement park featuring a variety of rides and attractions for all ages.
- Walk along Southend Pier – the longest pleasure pier in the world, offering stunning views of the sea and coastline.
- Relax on Southend’s popular beaches – enjoy a day lounging on the sandy shores of Southend-on-Sea, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
- Explore the Sea-Life Adventure Aquarium – discover a variety of marine life from around the world, including sharks, turtles, penguins, and exotic tropical marine life.
- Visit the Southend Cliff Gardens – a beautiful green space with stunning views over the Thames Estuary, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Enjoy a show at the Cliffs Pavilion – catch a concert, musical, play, or comedy show at this popular entertainment venue overlooking the sea.
- Southend Cliff Railway – a lift that will transport you from Western Esplanade and Cliffton Terrace, with impressive views of the pier and estuary. A single track funicular railway, and the shortest railway in Britain!
- Discover the history of Southend at the Southend Museum – learn about the town’s heritage, including its maritime history and famous residents.
- Take a stroll along the Southend Marine Parade – a bustling promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, perfect for shopping and people-watching.
- Explore the Old Leigh fishing village – just a short drive from Southend, this picturesque village offers charming cobbled streets, historic buildings, and fresh seafood restaurants.
- Take a boat trip on the Thames Estuary – explore the coastline and spot wildlife on a boat tour of the estuary, a unique way to experience Southend-on-Sea’s natural beauty.
- Hadleigh Castle – dates back to the 13th century, now in ruins, overlooking the Thames Estuary, with splendid views of the area.
- Priory Park – ideal recreational park for picnics, featuring a formal garden, fishing lake, kids’ playground, bowling greens, tennis courts, basketball courts.
- Prittlewell Priory – historic monastery and now a museum.
Southend-on-Sea Ultimate Coastal Getaway provide self catering holiday accommodation options in houses, apartments and flats.
