Must See Sights and Landmarks in Southend-on-Sea Area

"Located at the pier's entrance, this living museum portrays the history of the pier and life in the resort. Just outside the museum you can take the famous electric train to the end of the Pier, where you will find a Lifeboat Centre, cafe and shop. Opening times: daily from 10:15am - Admission Charges for Museum & TrainLocation: Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1HTel: 01702 611214Website:southend.gov.uk/pier"

"The pier is certainly one of Southend’s most iconic landmarks and is known as the longest pleasure pier in the world. At 1.34 miles, most visitors opt to take the pier train to the pier head, where you can find a small museum, a café and the new Royal Pavilion where you can catch the occasional concert or exhibition. Amazing views looking out into miles of water."

"Southend Pier is the longest pleasure pier in the world, at a length of 1.34 miles. It was first built in the early 1800s and was only 600ft. The pier was extended several times, with the full extension being completed in 1929."

"In open countryside to the west of Southend, Hadleigh Castle is a former royal residence atop a London clay hill surveying the flat landscape to the south and east. The castle was first constructed at the start of the 13th century in the reign of Henry III. In that time its role was mainly defensive, guarding the estuary. Later, in the Hundred Years’ War Hadleigh Castle was remodelled as both a stronghold against the French and a home for King Edward III who spent a lot of time here during the last years of his reign in the 14th century."

"Located in Southchurch Hall Park, this fine 14th-c half-timbered moated house is set in beautiful gardens. Open to the public, it hosts a series of period room displays from the middle ages to Victorian times. Opening times: - Saturday & Sunday: 11am to 3pm.Location: Southchurch Hall Gardens, Park Ln, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2TETel: 01702 467671Website:southendmuseums.co.uk"

"For stylish and accomplished fine dining at the Seven hotel. The in-house restaurant at this snazzy boutique hotel is a clue to Southend’s rising stock. Fresh from The Langham in London, chef Simon Webb has penned a fish-heavy menu that’s brimming with intriguing, inventive details."