Where is Southend-on-Sea?

Southend-on-Sea is in coastal southern Essex, along the Thames estuary.

How far is Southend-on-Sea from London?

Southend-on-Sea is an hour’s direct train journey from central London, making it one of the most easily accessible beaches from the city. Buying your train tickets with c2c is the best option when travelling from the city to Southend.

What is the population of Southend-on-Sea?

Southend-on-Sea has a population of around 175,000 people, although it’s estimated that over 6 million tourists visit the area every year!

Why should I go to Southend-on-Sea?

With award-winning beaches, the longest pleasure pier in the world, and colourful beach huts, Southend-on-Sea is well worth a day trip. You’re not far away from one of the best seaside spots in the country.

What are the best things to do in Southend-on-Sea?

There’s more to Southend than seaside nostalgia, although there’s plenty of fun to be had doing that! Stroll the long, wooden 1.34 mile long pier (or take the shuttle train) and be rewarded with stunning views at the end; ride the roller-coasters at Adventure Island; rent bikes and cycle along the seafront, go bowling at the art-deco Kursaal, eat top notch fish and chips on the beach; or check out the latest cutting edge art at Focal Point gallery. There are also many beautiful bars overlooking the water to go for a refreshing drink, and top notch grub to rival London. Nearby in Thorpe Bay you can find colourful beach huts, or visit Leigh-on-Sea for quaint pubs with sea views and cobbled streets with cute boutiques.

When should I go to Southend-on-Sea?

When the sunshine hits, Southend is it. This is a destination designed for the warmer weather, especially if lounging in a deck chair eating an ice cream is on the agenda. However, the Thames Estuary does have a windswept romance year round with plenty of nature spots and historic sites for scenic walks. You can always warm up with fish and chips or a pint in a Southend pub afterwards. The Thames Estuary is tidal so depending whether you want sparkling sea views, or miles of mud, you might want to check the tide times.

What’s the history of Southend-on-Sea?

As traditionally one of the warmest and driest spots in the UK, the south end of the Essex Estuary has been a popular holiday destination since wealthy Tudors would take their boats up the river to get fresh air and sunshine. But it wasn’t until the railways arrived in the 19th Century, coupled with the introduction of bank holidays, that it took off as a seaside resort for normal folk to escape to and enjoy the beach for a couple of days. Seaside traditions like ice cream fish and chips and donkey rides all started – some of which are still going strong today!

What galleries and museums are there in Southend-on-Sea?

Southend might be best known as a coastal city, but it has a thriving art scene. The centre of this is the Focal Point gallery which runs innovative exhibitions and events year round that often reflect Southend’s relationship with the Thames Estuary. Down by the waterfront is Twenty One, a multi-purpose gallery, cafe, and events space. If you’re after a bit of arty nostalgia check out the Central Museum. Kids will love the Planetarium, which is also a god-send on a rainy day.

What festivals and events are there in Southend-on-Sea?

Nearby to Southend, lovers of Folk Music should check out the Leigh Folk Festival in June and the Leigh Regatta in September.

How can I get to Southend-on-Sea with c2c?

Take the train from London Fenchurch Street to Southend (you can also hop on at Limehouse, West Ham or Barking) then alight at Southend Central where you’re a 10 minute walk away from the main seafront attractions. Or go a couple of stops up the line to Thorpe Bay (for the beach huts) and Shoeburyness if you’re looking for some quieter spots. Journey time from London is between 45 mins – 1hr.

How much is a train ticket from London to Southend-on-Sea?

Weekend train tickets bought online three days in advance from London Fenchurch Street to Southend Central are £14.35 return. Kids also travel for £2 over weekends and during school holidays.

What special offers can I get in Southend-on-Sea?

Get more from your day out with our exclusive vouchers on top attractions, restaurants, galleries and cafes in Southend, only when you take the train. Get 25% off at Adventure Island, money off entry to Sealife Adventure, and other great offers.

Southend's Theatres | c2c's Guide to the Seaside City

c2c | Offers and days out | Destination guides | Southend’s theatres

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Southend has a vibrant performing arts scene, with national touring shows, local performances and even free street theatre during city festivals.

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What theatres are in Southend-on-Sea?

The two biggest theatres in Southend are Cliffs Pavilion and The Palace, both located centrally near Westcliff station.
How do I get to Cliffs Pavilion?

With c2c you can take the train to Westcliff station and then take the short, ten-minute walk to the venue. Just turn left when heading out of the main station entrance and continue down Station Road and you’ll soon be seeing the distinctive clifftop shape of the venue.
How do I get to Palace Theatre?

Getting to Palace Theatre is easy with c2c – just take the train to Westcliff station. Head out of the rear station entrance onto Hamlet Court Road and turn left. Keep walking until you reach the A13 and turn left again – the Palace Theatre is just after the junction with West Road.
What's on at Southend's theatres?

Southend’s theatres show off a variety of local and national productions, from multiple-week residences of national shows to local productions or the famous annual panto.

Upcoming shows can be viewed at our events page here.
What's the best way to get to Westcliff?

If you’re taking the train to Westcliff, you can either use pay as you go with contactless to travel hassle-free ticket from anywhere on the c2c route (or wider London area), or buy your ticket in advance at c2c-online.co.uk and on the c2c Train Travel app.
Are there any discounts available for travel to Westcliff?

c2c offer a range of Off-Peak discounts which are perfect for evening and weekend theatre shows, from our Kids for £2 offer to GroupSave and our 1/3rd-off Weekend Saver.
Do c2c do any partnerships with theatres in Southend?

Yes – we often partner with Southend theatres to provide special offers, competitions and more – keep an eye on our competitions page and make sure you’re subscribed to our mailing list to be the first to hear!

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Where can I eat in Southend-on-Sea?

Fill up before your show - from classic fish and chip shops to high end restaurants, Southend has become surprisingly foodie in recent years. Recently, Billy Hundreds Fish n Tapas made The Guardian’s top ten list of seaside cafés and restaurants in the UK. Down under the arches by the seafront you'll find lots of places to grab some grub, or in town you'll get slap up nosh at places like quirky San Fairie Ann, unbelievable pasta at Pasta Pia, excellent atmosphere at The Pipe of Port or gourmet sandwiches at Legend-Deli. All tried and trusted local favourites.

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Southend’s theatres

Overview

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The best restaurants in Southend

The 10 Best Fish and Chip Shops in Southend

The best pubs in South Essex

Find things to do along the c2c train line

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