Southend-on-sea is a seaside town located in the county of Essex, in the southeast of England. It is located on the northern shore of the Thames Estuary, about 42 miles (68 km) east of London. The town is best known for its pier, which is the longest pleasure pier in the world, and its wide promenade lined with pubs, bars, and restaurants. Straddling the estuary, the town is home to an array of attractions, including the award-winning Adventure Island theme park and the Southend Cliff Railway.
1. Southend-on-sea parks and places for a walk on a first date
For a quiet and peaceful stroll, Southchurch Park is a great choice. This 43-acre park is surrounded by meadows and trees and features a lake, a sensory garden, a children’s playground, and a cafe. For those looking for a romantic walk, take a stroll along the 1.3 mile (2.1 km) pier and get stunning views of the estuary. Another great spot for a walk is the Two Tree Island, an area of woodland in the estuary that can be reached by crossing the Leigh Footbridge.
2. Places for a coffee date in Southend-on-sea
For a coffee date, head to Coffee & Waffles. Located in the centre of Southend, this café serves delicious waffles and other sweet snacks, as well as a range of hot drinks. Also try, Tea&Tea, a Taiwanese-style tea house that serves bubble teas and other unique drinks, as well as traditional cakes and desserts. For something a bit different, head to Eastgate Coffee, a local roastery serving up freshly brewed coffee and other hot drinks.
3. Southend-on-sea galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
The Beecroft Art Gallery on Victoria Avenue showcases a range of exhibitions, covering both historic and contemporary art. The Southend-on-Sea Museum and Planetarium on Victoria Avenue is another great option, with displays on the local history, geology, and natural history of the region. For those looking to explore further afield, the nearby Chalkwell Hall also houses a museum and art gallery.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Southend-on-sea
Southend-on-sea offers plenty of live music and entertainment for a date night. The Cliffs Pavilion theatre and conference centre hosts a range of performances, such as concerts, plays, stand-up comedy, and musicals. For a more intimate night, visit the Chinnery, a traditional pub and venue that hosts regular music nights and live performances.
5. Southend-on-sea pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
There’s no shortage of places to have a drink or meal in Southend-on-sea. For traditional pub grub, head to The Thames, a local favourite and pub located in the heart of the town. Alternatively, check out the stylish Rileys Southend, a rooftop bar offering some of the best views of the town. For something a bit more exotic, try the Roki, a Japanese-inspired bar and restaurant that serves unique cocktails, beers, and delicious food.
6. Other date ideas to try in Southend-on-sea
If you’re looking for something a bit different, Southend-on-sea has plenty to offer. Try a game of mini golf at Adventure Island, or escape the hustle and bustle of the town in one of the two nearby beaches, Westcliff Beach and Shoebury Common Beach. For a bit of culture, visit the historic St. Clements Church and take a tour of the medieval crypts beneath. Alternatively, take a ride on the world’s oldest electric railway, the Southend Cliff Railway, for magnificent views of the estuary.
