Southend-on-Sea: A Splendid Seaside Town
Quintessentially British and ultimately enchanting, the seaside splendour of Southend-on-Sea is an attribute that allures thousands of tourists every year. Home to the world’s largest pleasure pier, Southend-on-Sea is a place in which excitement, charm and relaxation come together to create a delightful daytrip destination. Feel a dramatic surge of adrenaline on the vertiginous rides of the theme park; discover an intriguing maritime heritage at the local museum; or simply sink your toes into the soft sand of beach while enjoying a traditional taste of English fish and chips.
A Record Breaking Pier
As the world’s longest pleasure pier, Southend Pier is an iconic attraction that offers an appealing array of activities. Wander the 1.34 mile long pier to enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze, fishing opportunities or the excellent visitor information centre. At the end of the pier reigns the Royal Pavillion, a dynamically designed building considered a significant cultural centre; enjoy either a classical music concert or a cream tea for an unforgettable experience upon the sea.
A Maritime Museum
A famous figure once remarked about Southend, ‘the pier is Southend, Southend is the pier.’ It seems only natural therefore, that such a significant part of the town’s history and infrastructure should be honoured and explored in a museum. The Southend-on-Sea Pier Museum transports visitors back to a time in which locomotives chugged through the train station and victoria striped bathing suits were the height of fashion.
Seafront Specialities
Boasting a prime location upon Southend’s spectacular seafood is an elegant eatery in which seafood takes a starring role; Sands Bistro Restaurant specialises in freshly caught fish and seasonal, locally sourced produce. The gorgeous ocean views are enhanced by the rich and robust flavours of dishes inspired by the rich regional cultural and geological inheritance. (Icon Building, Western Esplanade, Southend on Sea, Essex SS1 1EE , UK)