Situated just 40 miles from Central London is a seaside resort which has been popular with day trippers from the capital since Georgian times. This is the Essex town of Southend on Sea which occupies a prime spot on the northern coast of the Thames Estuary.
The many attractions of the seafront are just a part of the leisure experiences on offer in this large and vibrant town, a place with a rich musical heritage and a diverse urban landscape of sights, businesses and attractions. Southend on Sea hotels serve a variety of purposes to meet the demands of visitors to this classic town and resort.
If the status of a seaside resort were measured on the size of its pier alone then the town wins hands down, with the longest pier in the world, stretching 1.34 miles into the Thames Estuary. The old pier has survived numerous fires and accidental collisions and still stands today as a fine testament to the history and popularity of this classic seaside resort. A hydraulic railway runs the length of the pier for those who would prefer not to walk such a distance. The seafront was also home to the one of the world's first theme parks, a part of which now houses a bowling alley and casino.
At the entrance to the pier sits the current theme park, Adventure Island, which has over 50 rides and is adjacent to Sea-Life Adventure, a large aquarium. There are a great many Southend on Sea hotels which are convenient for the pleasure beach and pier.
Some of them date back to the origins of the resort itself and offer accommodation in a grand and historic style. Elegant public spaces and guest rooms are complemented by some excellent dining and often lounge spaces which come to life at night and evoke all the charm, culture and social aspects of a trip to the seaside.
There are many smaller family-run Southend on Sea hotels too which make a terrific backdrop to any visit for couples, groups and families. Accommodation is generally offered on a bed and breakfast basis often with provision for evening meals too, and guest lounges in which to meet up for a drink before enjoying the sights of the town. Excellent for a weekend break, there are often special deals available at certain points of the year and discounts for longer stays. The town is easy to get to and the warm hospitality and hotel facilities make it easy to stay.
The attractions of many seaside resorts begin and end at the coast but not so Southend. Yes, there is all the classic seaside entertainment provided by the theme parks and historic theatres, but the town is also home to some spectacular annual events, such as Festival of the Air, which is one of the largest free airshows in Europe. Parachute displays by the RAF Falcons and the flying skills of the famous Red Arrows are central features. The town is also famed for its musical contributions throughout the years and there are many great venues for live music, often incorporated into Southend on Sea hotels.
In the heart of town there are many business and leisure features of the kind associated with any large town and Southend on Sea hotels which have a wealth of features and facilities for doing business. Some have extensive meeting spaces, capable of hosting a wide range of business meetings and conferences and many will have access to computers and business equipment.
Rooms and suites will be equipped with work spaces, internet connectivity and dual line telephones to meet the needs of the corporate traveller. However you spend your time in Southend, there is the ideal hotel to suit your purposes.
