Southend-on-Sea factfile

How to get to Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea is a seaside resort on England's east coast, in the county of Essex. Roughly 65 km (40 mi) from central London, it can be easily reached by road via the A127 and the A13, both of which lead to the town centre.

Trains from London run directly to two centrally located stations, Southend Victoria and Southend Central.

Southend-on-Sea in history
Southend-on-Sea became a popular seaside resort during the Georgian and Victorian eras of the 19th century. The introduction of public Bank Holidays in 1870 enabled workers from London to spend long weekends away for the first time, and they flocked to Southend-on-Sea in their thousands as a result.

Thanks to its proximity to London, good transport links and a range of tourist attractions, the economy in Southend-on-Sea has been based largely on tourism ever since.

Things to see and do in Southend-on-Sea
Southend Pier is the world's longest pleasure pier at over 2.1 km (1.3 mi) in length, complete with a diesel-hydraulic railway to get you to the end and back. A museum at the base of the pier documents the pier's history, and houses a 19th-century pier tram and working signal box. A handy cliff lift links the pier entrance with the base of the High Street.

The popular Adventure Island theme park at the pier entrance has over 50 rides suitable for both adults and children. The Sea-Life Centre aquarium on the sea-front is a popular family attraction.

Arts and culture in Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea offers an array of cultural attractions, with four museums, three theatres and two art galleries. The Cliffs Pavilion is the largest of the three theatres, and regularly hosts musicals and performances on ice.

If plays from professional troupes and repertory groups are more your scene, the Edwardian-era Palace Theatre is the place. This Grade II listed building is renowned for having the steepest rake in Britain.

Shopping in Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea boasts an extensive choice of retail outlets ranging from nationwide department stores and high-street brands to specialist boutiques.

The main High Street stands between two major shopping centres, one at each end; the Victoria Plaza at the top, and The Royals Shopping Centre at the base. The High Street itself is also home to a number of coffee shops and restaurants to provide refreshment while you shop.

Sports and leisure in Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea is home to a number of local sports teams. Southend United Football Club plays at Roots Hall stadium, and two local Rugby clubs—Southend RFC and Westcliff RFC—both have a nationwide profile. Essex County Cricket Club play at Southend.