About

The Cliff Lift is one of only a few surviving funicular railways and is now Britains shortest railway. and the only single track funicular railway in Britain!

Southend's Cliff Lift was constructed in 1912. The lift operated for the first time on Bank Holiday Monday, in August of that year. The lift is currentlyopen 10 - 3pm each day if a volunteer operator is available. 

The line is owned and operated by Southend Borough Council, and has the following technical parameters:

Length: 130 feet (40 m)

Height difference: 57 feet (17 m)

Gradient: 43,4%

Cars: 1

Capacity: 12 passengers per car

Configuration: Single track, with separate counterweight track

Main track gauge: 4 ft 6 in (1,372 mm)

Counterweight track gauge: 21 in (533 mm)

Traction: Electricity​

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The line has an unusual configuration, as it runs on a single-track elevated structure. The counterweight track runs within this structure, immediately below the main track that carries the passenger car

Prices

Adult/Child/Concession Single | £1.00