With its seven miles of coastline, you'll be surprised just how much there is to see and do in Southend-on-Sea.
Enjoy traditional seaside fun in the shape of award-winning beaches and family attractions from the World famous Pier and its mile long railway, Adventure Island fun park with its range of rides and rollercoasters, Sealife Adventure plus of course all the amusement arcades and the popular fountains on City Beach.
With its seven miles of coastline, you'll be surprised just how much there is to see and do in Southend-on-Sea.
Explore our seaside
You'll also discover a thriving cultural scene with museums, historic houses and a range of art spaces. Size up the old masters and exhibitions at the Beecroft Art Gallery or contemporary art at Focal Point Gallery. Step into the half-timbered Tudor Southchurch Hall and 12th century Prittlewell Priory for an insight into the past. The central library and Belfairs woodland centre with acres of nature to discover are all on the doorstep.
Events and festivals run throughout the year with music, dance, ships and puppets all featuring across the many venues. There’s also an increasing range of fine dining and restaurants as well as two theatres, casinos and a vibrant nightlife on offer.
There’s more to do than you can possibly fit into a day, so check out the range of accommodation to make a short break and enjoy miles of smiles-on-sea.
Highlights of the area
A family-friendly, free admission theme park surrounding the entrance of the world's longest pleasure pier. With over 50 rides and attractions, Adventure Island has plenty of fun-filled things to do for the whole family!
Southend's premier entertainment complex, the Cliffs Pavilion is a great place to experience live performances including touring West End musicals, ballet, concerts and comedy.
More highlights
A stunning Grade I listed priory telling the story of this historic house’s former residents. Follow in the footsteps of the 13th century Cluniac monks through to Victorian times.
Southchurch Hall Museum
A beautiful timber-framed Grade I-listed medieval moated manor house with room settings including a medieval hall, Tudor parlour and Victorian bedroom.
Escape Live is a fantastic way of creating some lasting memories and getting the adrenaline pumping. You will have just 60 minutes to work together to crack a baffling selection of codes, puzzles and brainteasers.
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Night out on the town
The Victoria Shopping Centre is home to more than 40 stores and cafés. With some of the best stores in Southend the centre offers a stunning contemporary shopping experience.
Stay a while longer
Southend-on-Sea
£70-£175 
£110-£150 Explore our county
Explore our 350 miles of coastline, the longest shoreline of any county in England, a place of surprising wild beauty, rich in wildlife and sprinkled with history and hidden cultural gems.
