Top Places to Visit in This Seaside Town of Southend-on-Sea, UK

Southend-on-Sea, located on the Thames Estuary in Essex, is one of the UK’s most beloved seaside towns. Known for its long pier, lively beaches, and family-friendly attractions, Southend-on-Sea has been a favorite destination for day-trippers and holidaymakers for over a century. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of amusement parks, the tranquility of nature reserves, or a taste of classic British seaside culture, Southend-on-Sea has something to offer. Here’s a guide to the best places to visit in Southend-on-Sea, UK.

1. Southend Pier

Southend Pier is the town’s most iconic landmark and holds the title of the longest pleasure pier in the world, stretching over 1.3 miles (2.16 km) into the Thames Estuary. A visit to Southend isn’t complete without a stroll along this historic structure, which dates back to 1830. For those who prefer not to walk, the pier offers a charming train service that shuttles visitors from one end to the other. At the pier head, you’ll find a café, a small museum, and spectacular views of the estuary. The pier also hosts various events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, live music, and seasonal celebrations.

2. Adventure Island

Located right next to Southend Pier, Adventure Island is a must-visit for thrill-seekers and families alike. This amusement park offers a wide range of rides and attractions, from heart-pounding roller coasters and water rides to gentler rides for younger children. Adventure Island is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with lively music, arcade games, and plenty of food stalls offering classic seaside treats like candy floss and ice cream. With free admission and a pay-per-ride system, it’s a flexible and affordable option for a fun day out.

3. Southend Beaches

Southend-on-Sea is home to several beautiful beaches, each offering its own unique charm. The central beaches, including Jubilee Beach and City Beach, are perfect for a classic seaside experience, with soft sand, calm waters, and plenty of facilities nearby. If you’re looking for a quieter spot, head to Chalkwell Beach or Thorpe Bay Beach, where you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and scenic views of the estuary. Whether you’re building sandcastles, swimming in the sea, or simply soaking up the sun, Southend’s beaches are the perfect place to unwind.

4. Rossi’s Ice Cream Parlour

No trip to Southend-on-Sea is complete without a visit to Rossi’s Ice Cream Parlour, a local institution that has been serving delicious ice cream since 1932. Located on the seafront, Rossi’s offers a wide range of traditional and contemporary flavors, all made using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you opt for a classic vanilla cone or something more adventurous, like bubblegum or salted caramel, a scoop of Rossi’s ice cream is the perfect treat on a sunny day by the sea.

5. Prittlewell Priory

For a taste of Southend’s history, visit Prittlewell Priory, a former medieval monastery turned museum. Located in the tranquil surroundings of Priory Park, the priory dates back to the 12th century and offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the monks who once lived there. The museum’s exhibits cover the history of the priory, the local area, and the people who have called Southend home over the centuries. The surrounding Priory Park is also worth exploring, with its ornamental gardens, duck pond, and children’s playground making it a great spot for a family outing.

6. Southchurch Hall

Southchurch Hall is a beautifully preserved medieval manor house that offers a glimpse into Southend’s past. The timber-framed building dates back to the 14th century and has been carefully restored to reflect different periods of its history. Visitors can explore the hall’s period rooms, complete with authentic furnishings and artifacts, and learn about the lives of the people who lived there. The hall is set within Southchurch Hall Gardens, a peaceful park with a moat, formal gardens, and a small lake, providing a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll.

7. Leigh-on-Sea

Just a short drive from central Southend, Leigh-on-Sea is a charming fishing village that offers a more traditional seaside experience. With its cobbled streets, historic cottages, and working waterfront, Leigh-on-Sea is a picturesque place to explore. The village is known for its excellent seafood, particularly the locally caught cockles, which you can sample at one of the many seafood stalls or restaurants along the waterfront. Leigh-on-Sea also has a thriving arts scene, with galleries, boutiques, and regular festivals celebrating local creativity and culture.

8. Sealife Adventure

Sealife Adventure is Southend’s premier aquarium, offering a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The aquarium is home to a wide range of marine life, from tropical fish and seahorses to sharks and rays. Interactive exhibits and feeding demonstrations provide an engaging way to learn about the ocean and its inhabitants. The aquarium also features an outdoor adventure park, complete with rides, a pirate ship, and a play area, making it a great destination for a family day out.

9. Hadleigh Castle

For stunning views and a dose of history, take a trip to Hadleigh Castle, located just a few miles from Southend. The castle ruins, perched on a hill overlooking the Thames Estuary, date back to the 13th century and offer a fascinating glimpse into medieval England. The site is perfect for a scenic walk, with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the estuary. Hadleigh Castle is also part of the Hadleigh Country Park, which offers extensive trails for walking, cycling, and horse riding.

10. Old Leigh

Old Leigh, the historic part of Leigh-on-Sea, is a charming area that has retained much of its old-world charm. With its narrow streets, historic pubs, and working waterfront, Old Leigh is a delightful place to explore. The area is famous for its seafood, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to sample fresh fish, oysters, and other local delicacies. The Leigh Heritage Centre offers insight into the village’s history, while the Leigh Regatta, held annually, is a lively event that showcases the area’s maritime traditions.