Southend,
Southend is a popular seaside town located on the east coast of England in Essex. It is known for its long pier, which is the longest pleasure pier in the world. The town offers a variety of attractions including amusement parks, arcades, and a wide sandy beach.
Southend is easily accessible from London, making it a popular day trip destination for many visitors.
Places to visit
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the coast
morning:Start your day with a stroll along Southend Pier, the world's longest pleasure pier. Enjoy the stunning sea views and visit the Pier Museum to learn about its rich history. Consider grabbing a delicious breakfast at The Pier Cafe.
afternoon:Explore the picturesque Southend Cliff Gardens, a tranquil oasis with beautiful floral displays and scenic views of the Thames Estuary. Continue to Adventure Island amusement park for a thrilling afternoon of rides and entertainment. For lunch, try the mouthwatering seafood at The Fisherman's Wharf.
evening:In the evening, head to the Cliffs Pavilion for a captivating live performance or show. Afterward, unwind with a delightful dinner at the Ocean Beach Restaurant, known for its delectable seafood dishes.
Cultural Delights
morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Southend Central Museum and Planetarium, where you can immerse yourself in the town's heritage and explore fascinating exhibits. Treat yourself to a scrumptious brunch at Toulouse Cafe before starting your museum trip.
afternoon:Indulge in a leisurely afternoon at the Beecroft Art Gallery, home to an impressive collection of visual arts and temporary exhibitions. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll along Southend High Street and explore its charming boutiques and cafes. For a delightful afternoon tea, visit Roslin Beach Hotel.
evening:Embrace the evening with a superb performance at the Palace Theatre or the Chalkwell Park Rooms. After the show, head to The Borough Hotel for a vibrant nightlife experience, featuring live music and refreshing drinks.
Nature & Wildlife Adventure
morning:Embark on an exciting morning at Southend-on-Sea Beach, where you can enjoy picturesque views and refresh with a morning swim or beach walk. Then, explore the Southend Cliff Railway and take a scenic ride up to the Clifftop Gardens. Enjoy a delightful brunch at The Arlington Rooms.
afternoon:Continue your nature adventure with a visit to Two Tree Island, a tranquil nature reserve perfect for birdwatching and peaceful walks. You can also discover the breathtaking Wat Tyler Country Park, where you can explore lush woodland and spot local wildlife. For an energizing lunch, visit the Wildflower Cafe.
evening:Unwind in the evening with a serene walk along the Old Leigh waterfront. Then, savor a delectable dinner at The Estuary Restaurant, offering panoramic views of the Thames Estuary and a lovely sunset backdrop.
Seaside Relaxation
morning:Begin your day with a rejuvenating morning stroll along Southend Beach, where you can take in the refreshing sea breeze and relax by the water's edge. Stop by the Hive Beach Cafe for a delightful breakfast and a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
afternoon:Experience the excitement of sealife at the Sea Life Adventure, home to an array of marine creatures and interactive exhibits. Afterward, unwind at the Three Shells Beach, a peaceful stretch of golden sand ideal for sunbathing and beach activities. Indulge in a satisfying lunch at Pebbles One, offering delicious seaside specialties.
evening:As the sun sets, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Southend Pier, where you can stroll along the illuminated pier and admire the stunning evening views. For a memorable evening, head to The Peterboat, a charming waterfront pub with a lively ambiance and a great selection of drinks.
Southend Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Southend Pier Platter
A seafood delight featuring locally caught fish, prawns, and cockles, often served with a side of chips and tartar sauce. Don't miss trying this dish at the Ocean Beach Fish and Chip restaurant on Western Esplanade.
Must-Try!
Jellied Eels
A historical East End delicacy, jellied eels can be savored at Old Leigh's renowned seafood stands along The Broadway.
Essex Cream Tea
Indulge in a traditional cream tea featuring freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and locally made jam at The T Room at Harp House or The Three Shells Beach Cafe.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Leigh-on-Sea Farmers' Market
A vibrant market offering a plethora of fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal goods. Look out for gourmet street food stalls serving everything from wood-fired pizzas to falafel wraps.
Westcliff-on-Sea Street Food Festival
An annual event celebrating diverse street food vendors showcasing flavors from around the world, taking place at Chalkwell Park.
Pet sitters in Southend
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!