Visit Southend with its seven miles of coastline. There is so much to see and do.

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

Silver badge for Best Seaside Towns For Families

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

Southend Pier

Train running along a pier. Photo looking back to land.

The longest pleasure pier in the world and with truly stunning 360 degree views all year round, it's the perfect place to go for a taste of the invigorating fresh air and experience the freedom of the sea.

Adventure Island

Family sitting on a Ferris Wheel as it goes round

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!

Cliffs Pavilion

Images of the front of the buiding at night.

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

Prittlewell Priory Museum

Picture of the outside front of the building with a family walking towards it.

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

Image of the front entrance of the museum with trees and bushes.

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

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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Sea Life Adventure

Two children looking inside an aquarium tank

Sea Life Adventure is the south east’s premier aquatic attraction with over 40 unique displays featuring sea life from all over the world. It is also home to a family of meerkats, tortoises and monkeys!