Highlight • Beach
Road cycling
4.6
(66)
Running
5.0
(1)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Mountain biking
5.0
(1)
Southend Pier, a remarkable landmark in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, United Kingdom, holds the distinction of being the longest pleasure pier in the world. Stretching an impressive 2.14 kilometers (1.33 miles) into the Thames Estuary, this iconic structure offers expansive views of the coastline and, on clear days, even the Kent shoreline. Standing at an elevation of approximately 3 metres above sea level, it’s a prominent feature of the coastal landscape.
Visitors consistently praise the unique experience of traversing the pier, whether…
Tips
May 8, 2020
Road cycling
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Southend Pier
4.4
(22)
464
riders
78.3km
03:21
230m
230m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3.4
(5)
246
riders
30.7km
01:22
80m
80m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.4
(15)
217
riders
21.1km
00:53
40m
40m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 0 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 27 March
13°C
6°C
96 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Southend Pier offers a variety of activities perfect for families. The most popular is the iconic Southend Pier Railway, providing a fun ride along the pier's length. At the pier head, you can visit the RNLI lifeboat station and visitor center for educational insights, or explore the Royal Pavilion which hosts various events. At the shore end, the Southend Pier Museum showcases the pier's rich history. Fishing is also a popular pastime, and there are cafes for refreshments.
Yes, Southend Pier is largely accessible for both prams and wheelchairs. The pier itself is flat, and the Southend Pier Railway is designed to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. While some sections of the train may have limited space for larger buggies, the overall experience is inclusive. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are also available.
Walking the full 1.33 miles (2.14 km) length of Southend Pier and back can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours at a leisurely pace, especially with children. This estimate allows for stops to enjoy the views, take photos, and perhaps visit attractions at the pier head. Many families opt to walk one way and take the pier railway the other.
While there isn't dedicated 'family parking', Southend-on-Sea offers various public car parks close to the pier entrance. Options include the Seaway Car Park, City Beach Car Park, and the Royals Shopping Centre Car Park. It's advisable to check local council websites or apps for real-time availability and pricing, especially during peak seasons. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended to secure a spot.
The entire length of Southend Pier offers expansive views of the Thames Estuary. Key viewpoints include the pier head, where you can see the RNLI lifeboat station and, on clear days, the Kent coastline. The Royal Pavilion also provides excellent panoramic vistas. Even from the middle sections of the pier, you get a unique perspective of the receding coastline and the vastness of the sea.
Yes, well-behaved dogs on leads are generally welcome on Southend Pier. However, there might be restrictions in certain indoor areas or during specific events. It's always a good idea to check the official Southend Pier website for the most current pet policies before your visit.
Southend Pier's opening times can vary seasonally and are subject to weather conditions. It typically opens daily, but hours may be extended in summer and reduced in winter. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including any temporary closures or special event hours, it is best to consult the official Southend Pier website or Visit Southend.
There are several refreshment options available on Southend Pier. At the pier head, you'll find cafes offering hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals, often with seating that provides sea views. There are also kiosks along the pier selling ice cream and other treats, perfect for a family day out.
Beyond the pier itself, the Southend-on-Sea seafront offers a flat and paved promenade that is ideal for easy walks with families and young children. You can stroll along the beach, visit the Adventure Island theme park, or explore the various gardens and play areas along the coastline. These routes are generally pram-friendly and provide plenty of opportunities for breaks.
For a comfortable family trip to Southend Pier, consider bringing layers of clothing as it can be breezy on the pier, even on sunny days. Sunscreen and hats are advisable. Snacks and drinks are good to have, though options are available on the pier. Don't forget your camera for the scenic views, and perhaps some change for the pier railway or museum entrance fees.
Southend Pier and Adventure Island offer different but complementary family experiences. Southend Pier provides a more relaxed, historical, and scenic outing with opportunities for walking, train rides, and educational visits to the RNLI station and museum. Adventure Island, located adjacent to the pier, is a vibrant theme park with rides and attractions for all ages, focusing on thrill and entertainment. Many families choose to visit both, enjoying the pier for its unique charm and Adventure Island for its excitement.