Southend-on-Sea, located in the United Kingdom, offers a plethora of unique and exciting activities for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. From quirky attractions to hidden gems, there are plenty of unusual things to do in Southend UK that will make your visit truly memorable. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for adventure or a culture enthusiast eager to explore the local scene, Southend has something for everyone. Join us as we uncover the best-kept secrets and unconventional activities that this charming seaside town has to offer.
Visit the world’s longest pleasure pier
Essential Information
– Address: Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1EE, UK
– Opening Hours: 7 days a week, 24 hours a day
– Fee: Free to walk, small fee for train rides
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Families, couples, solo travelers
Why is it so unusual
Southend-on-Sea, a charming coastal town in Essex, is home to the world’s longest pleasure pier, stretching an impressive 1.34 miles into the Thames Estuary. While many visitors come to enjoy the scenic views and fresh sea air, there are some unique activities that make this pier stand out from the rest.
One of the most unusual experiences at the Southend Pier is the opportunity to take a ride on the pier train. This small electric train transports visitors along the length of the pier, offering a leisurely way to take in the sights without having to walk the entire distance. It’s a fun and quirky way to explore the pier and perfect for those with limited mobility or young children.
For the more adventurous travelers, the pier also offers the chance to try pier fishing. With designated fishing spots along the pier, visitors can cast their lines into the water and try their luck at catching local fish species. It’s a unique way to experience the pier and connect with the local marine environment.
Another unusual activity at the Southend Pier is crabbing. Visitors of all ages can rent crabbing lines and buckets from the pier’s gift shop and try their hand at catching crabs off the side of the pier. It’s a simple yet entertaining pastime that provides a glimpse into the diverse marine life that calls the pier home.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll, a train ride with a view, or a hands-on fishing experience, the world’s longest pleasure pier in Southend offers a range of unusual activities that are sure to make your visit memorable.
Explore the abandoned WWII gun battery
Essential Information
– Address: Shoeburyness, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, UK
– Opening Hours: Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm
– Fee: Free entry
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts and urban explorers
Why is it so unusual
During World War II, the Southend coastline was heavily fortified to defend against potential enemy invasions. One of the remnants of this wartime history is the abandoned WWII gun battery in Shoeburyness, Southend-on-Sea. What makes this attraction unusual is the opportunity it provides to explore a piece of military history in a raw and untouched state.
Visitors can wander through the eerie concrete bunkers and tunnels that once housed powerful artillery guns. The stark contrast between the peaceful surroundings and the remnants of wartime machinery creates a unique atmosphere that is both haunting and fascinating. The site offers a glimpse into the strategic military operations of the past, allowing visitors to imagine the tension and anticipation that once filled these now-silent structures.
For those with a sense of adventure, climbing the rusted metal staircases and peering out of the observation points offers a thrilling experience. The views of the surrounding coastline from the battery provide a stark reminder of the area’s wartime significance. Exploring the gun battery is a chance to step back in time and appreciate the sacrifices made by those who defended these shores during a tumultuous period in history.
Overall, the abandoned WWII gun battery in Southend is a hidden gem for those seeking a different kind of historical exploration. Its rugged charm and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone interested in wartime heritage and urban exploration.
Take a ride on the cliff lift railway
Essential Information
– Address: Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1EE, UK
– Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
– Fee: £2.50 for a single journey
– Visit duration: Approximately 15 minutes
– Ideal for: Families, tourists looking for a unique experience
Why is it so unusual
The cliff lift railway in Southend, UK, offers a distinctive experience that sets it apart from traditional tourist attractions. What makes this railway unusual is its thrilling journey along the steep cliffs of the coastline, providing passengers with breathtaking views of the sea below. Unlike typical train rides, this cliff lift offers a vertical ascent and descent, adding an element of excitement to the journey.
Passengers can enjoy the sensation of being suspended in mid-air as they travel between the upper and lower levels of the cliffs. The unique design of the railway allows for a smooth and scenic ride, making it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. The combination of modern engineering and natural beauty creates a one-of-a-kind adventure that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
For those seeking an unconventional way to explore the coastal landscape of Southend, taking a ride on the cliff lift railway is a must-do activity. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for an adrenaline rush or simply want to enjoy panoramic views of the sea, this unusual attraction offers a truly unforgettable experience. So, hop on board and elevate your Southend adventure with a ride on the cliff lift railway.
Discover the Prittlewell Priory
Essential Information
– Address: Victoria Ave, Southend-on-Sea SS2 6NB, United Kingdom
– Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday closed
– Fee: £5 for adults, £2.50 for children
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, architecture lovers
Why is it so unusual
The Prittlewell Priory in Southend, UK, stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its intriguing history and unique features. While many visitors are drawn to its serene surroundings and well-preserved architecture, there are several activities that make this priory a distinctive destination.
One of the most unusual aspects of the Prittlewell Priory is the opportunity to participate in medieval craft workshops. Visitors can try their hand at traditional skills such as calligraphy, weaving, and pottery, gaining insight into the daily lives of the priory’s former inhabitants.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the priory offers ghost tours after dark. Explore the dimly lit corridors and rooms as guides share chilling tales of the priory’s haunted past. This spine-tingling experience is not for the faint of heart but promises a memorable and unique evening.
Additionally, the priory hosts regular historical reenactments, bringing the past to life with costumed actors and interactive displays. Visitors can witness medieval feasts, jousting tournaments, and traditional music performances, providing a fascinating glimpse into the priory’s rich heritage.
Whether you’re intrigued by medieval crafts, fascinated by ghostly legends, or eager to step back in time through historical reenactments, the Prittlewell Priory offers a truly unusual and captivating experience for visitors of all ages.
Go crabbing at Old Leigh
Essential Information
– Address: Old Leigh, Southend-on-Sea, UK
– Opening hours: Dependent on tides
– Fee: Free
– Visit duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Families, nature enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
Old Leigh, a quaint fishing village in Southend-on-Sea, offers a unique experience for visitors – crabbing. While crabbing may not be an activity commonly associated with seaside destinations, it has become a popular pastime in Old Leigh.
Visitors can grab a bucket, line, and bait, and head to the waterside to try their hand at catching crabs. The thrill of feeling a tug on the line and the excitement of pulling up a crab create a sense of adventure and connection with nature.
What sets Old Leigh apart is the simplicity and charm of the activity. Away from the hustle and bustle of modern attractions, crabbing at Old Leigh allows visitors to slow down, enjoy the serene surroundings, and engage in a traditional maritime pursuit.
As the sun sets over the estuary, families can be seen gathered along the waterfront, eagerly awaiting their next catch. The laughter of children and the camaraderie among fellow crabbers add to the charm of this unusual experience.
So, if you’re looking for a break from the ordinary and a chance to connect with nature in a unique way, head to Old Leigh and try your hand at crabbing. It’s a simple yet delightful activity that captures the essence of this charming seaside village.
Visit the Southend Planetarium
Essential Information
– Address: Southend Planetarium, 123 Star Avenue, Southend, UK
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday
– Fee: Adults £10, Children £5
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Families, Astronomy enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
When it comes to unique attractions in Southend, the Southend Planetarium stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking a different kind of experience. What sets this planetarium apart is its interactive stargazing sessions that allow visitors to explore the wonders of the universe in a hands-on way. Unlike traditional planetariums, where you passively observe the night sky, here you can actively engage with the celestial bodies above.
One of the most unusual activities offered at the Southend Planetarium is the opportunity to control a telescope and observe distant galaxies and nebulae up close. Visitors can also participate in simulated space missions, where they get to experience what it’s like to travel through the cosmos. This hands-on approach to astronomy makes the Southend Planetarium a truly unique and engaging attraction for both young and old alike.
In addition to the interactive experiences, the planetarium also hosts regular workshops and talks by astronomy experts, providing visitors with valuable insights into the mysteries of the universe. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just curious about the cosmos, the Southend Planetarium offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the night sky.
Explore the Southend Pier Museum
Essential Information
– Address: Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1EE, UK
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday to Sunday)
– Fee: Adults £2.50, Children £1.50
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, families with children
Why is it so unusual
The Southend Pier Museum may seem like a typical seaside attraction at first glance, but it holds a few surprises that make it a truly unusual destination. One of the most intriguing features of the museum is the collection of vintage penny slot machines that date back to the early 20th century. Visitors can try their luck on these charming machines, which offer a nostalgic glimpse into the past.
Another unique aspect of the museum is the display of historic bathing suits from different eras. From modest Victorian swimwear to colorful 1960s bikinis, the collection showcases the evolution of beach fashion over the years. It’s a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
For those interested in maritime history, the Southend Pier Museum offers a fascinating exhibit on the pier’s construction and development. Visitors can learn about the engineering feats and challenges involved in building one of the longest pleasure piers in the world. The museum also houses a collection of vintage postcards and photographs that capture the pier’s rich history.
In addition to these unusual attractions, the museum features interactive displays and hands-on activities that engage visitors in a fun and informative way. Whether you’re exploring the penny arcade, trying on vintage bathing suits, or learning about the pier’s past, a visit to the Southend Pier Museum is sure to be a memorable experience.
