4 Days of Seaside Fun in Southend, UK
Experience the seaside charm of Southend, where fun meets the sun.
22 April 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
Southend on Sea, located on the coast of Essex, UK, is a charming seaside town that offers visitors a wide range of attractions. Visitors can explore the town's famous pier, which is the longest pleasure pier in the world, catch a show at the Cliffs Pavilion theatre, or take a stroll along the scenic seafront. Southend is also known for its traditional seaside amusements, including fairground rides, arcades, and fish and chip shops.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Stay at the luxurious Park Inn by Radisson Palace, overlooking the beautiful seafront.
- Enjoy a thrilling day at Adventure Island, a vibrant amusement park with over 40 rides and attractions.
- Take a stroll down the iconic Southend Pier, the longest pleasure pier in the world.
- Visit the historic RNLI Southend Lifeboat Station and learn about their heroic rescue missions.
- End the day with a romantic dinner at the fabulous Beaches Restaurant, specializing in fresh seafood dishes.
- Begin the day with a visit to the Beecroft Art Gallery, featuring an impressive collection of modern and classical art.
- Explore Southend's vibrant shopping scene, with a visit to the High Street and Victoria Shopping Centre.
- Take a break from shopping to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at The Royal Hotel.
- Discover the enchanting Prittlewell Priory, a 12th-century monastery with beautiful gardens and exhibits.
- Dine at the quirky Railway Pub, a historic train station converted into a charming restaurant with delicious traditional pub fare.
- Take a peaceful stroll through the Southend Cliff Gardens, with stunning views of the Thames Estuary.
- Experience nature up close at the Southend Sealife Adventure, home to fascinating sea creatures from around the world.
- Relax and rejuvenate at the elegant Roslin Beach Hotel and Spa, with a range of luxurious spa treatments.
- Try your hand at fishing with a day trip to the charming fishing village of Leigh-on-Sea.
- Dine at the picturesque Leigh Bistro, serving delicious French-inspired cuisine.
- Visit the fascinating Southend Pier Museum, showcasing the history and heritage of the iconic pier.
- Take a thrilling speedboat ride with Thunderbolt, exploring the beautiful coastline and spotting wildlife.
- Experience the adrenaline rush of indoor skydiving at iFLY Indoor Skydiving.
- Take a nostalgic ride on the Southend Cliff Lift, a historic Victorian funicular offering stunning views.
- savor a delicious meal at the Molo Lounge, a quirky bar and restaurant housed in a beautiful listed building on the seafront.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Southend on Sea by plane is to fly to London Southend Airport which is approximately 3 miles from the town centre. From the airport, you can catch a bus or train to Southend High Street.
Car
The most convenient route to Southend on Sea by car is to take the A127 from London or the M25 motorway. Parking is available in various locations around the town.
Train
Southend on Sea can be easily accessed by train via Southend Central or Southend East stations. Both these stations are connected to London Liverpool Street Station via c2c trains.
Boat
There are no direct boat services to Southend on Sea. However, you can take a ferry from nearby Gravesend to Tilbury and then travel by train to Southend Central or Southend East station.
Bus
National Express coaches run frequent services to Southend on Sea from London Victoria Coach Station, Stansted Airport and Heathrow Airport. The coach station is located in the town centre near the train stations and the seafront.
