Explore Southend-on-Sea

Discover great attractions, places to eat, and accommodation in Southend-on-Sea - Essex's seaside resort.

Attractions and Activities in Southend-on-Sea

There is an abundance of things to do in Southend, from exciting days out at Sealife Adventure where you can see over 40 species of animals to enjoying a wonderful live production at the renowned Cliffs Pavilion or Palace Theatre. If you’re an art lover, you won’t want to miss a visit to Focal Point Gallery or Beecroft Art Gallery. Looking for an exciting night out with friends? Why not try Escape Live or try your hand at some axe throwing at Boom Battle Bar! You can’t visit Southend-on-Sea without going to the longest pleasure pier in the world! Southend Pier stretches for 1.33 miles – opt to walk the entire length or hop on the train to the end, where you’ll find great food and views.

Outdoor Activities

If you love a beach day, then Southend is the place for you! Known for its award-winning Blue Flag beaches, with a total of nine to visit and explore, this is the perfect destination for a UK seaside staycation. Beaches in Southend are beautiful and make an ideal spot for paddling in the sea, enjoying fish and chips or ice cream, or simply just relaxing with friends and family. For picturesque beach huts, head to Thorpe Bay Beach, or if you want to be close by to the world famous Rossi Ice Cream Parlour, visit Westcliff Beach!

Family Friendly Activities

There’s a reason that this is one of the top destinations for weekend breaks or days out with the family! There’s a myriad of things to do in Southend-on-Sea for families, with something to enjoy for everyone no matter their age. Southend is home to Adventure Island, the UK's number 1 free admission theme park. Enjoy thrilling rides such as the Rage rollercoaster or ride upon a pink elephant at the Flying Jumbos! For rainy days, enjoy all the fun that Adventure Inside has to offer, from soft play to arcade games and rides – refuel at the Feelgood Diner located inside.

Places to Stay in Southend

If you’re looking for an extended stay in Southend, you won’t be disappointed in the wonderful accommodation options to choose from. The Park Inn by Radisson Palace is ideal for both business, with great conference rooms and a hotel gym, and leisure purposes. For elegant décor and an onsite spa, book a stay at the Roslin Beach Hotel. If you love fantastic coastal views, the Camelia Hotel is located directly opposite Thorpe Bay and offers the perfect home away from home.

Restaurants, Bars, and Cafes

One of the best parts about going to the seaside is getting to indulge in all sorts of delicious food and sweet treats! Enjoy a classic meal of fish and chips by the sea at the Pavillion Fish & Chips Emporium or Sands by the Sea. If you’re craving something sweet after, head to the Rossi Ice Cream Parlour or The Three Shells Beach Café. For a wonderful sit down meal, book a table at the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, where you can witness planes landing and taking off from London Southend Airport as you enjoy your meal – a truly unique dining experience.

Plan Your Visit to Southend

Are you ready to start planning your next day out or weekend break in Southend-on-Sea? Continue browsing our website for inspiration on places to stay, eat, and things to do. For help planning your trip, use our itinerary planner.