Southend‑on‑Sea is preparing for a busy Easter bank holiday weekend, with families and visitors set to enjoy the city’s beaches, attractions and outdoor spaces.
A full programme of activities runs throughout the long weekend and beyond, and getting around is easy with frequent trains, regular local buses and travel guidance for those arriving by car.
To help visitors plan ahead, travel guidance found on the council's website, sets out straightforward routes to some of Southend's most popular destinations for those choosing to travel by car.
Southend is bursting with Easter fun this year, with the newly opened Southend Museums Collections Centre (SMCC) adding even more to explore. SMCC opened its doors to the public this month, offering visitors the chance to book behind‑the‑scenes tours of its collections store, browse the curatorial library and delve into a rich archive featuring objects from across Southend and the wider South Essex region.
Alongside this, families can roll the dice with the brand‑new MONOPOLY: Southend Edition, enjoy fresh‑air adventures in Belfairs woodland, take part in free HAF activities, tuck into character‑themed breakfasts at Grumpy's and join the roaring dino egg hunt on Southend Pier.
Creative minds can get hands‑on at Focal Point Gallery or join a Sip and Paint session, while film fans and mini‑astronauts can enjoy movies, meteorites, planetarium shows and cosmic chats across the city's museums and galleries.
Whatever your style of fun, there's something for every family this Easter in Southend. Check out our jam-packed list of events.
Updated travel arrangements support ongoing changes linked to the Better Queensway regeneration project, which is creating a safer, greener and more vibrant neighbourhood in the heart of Southend.
The scheme includes upgraded roads, enhanced pedestrian and cycling routes and redesigned public spaces, alongside new housing that will better serve the needs of the local community.
Visitors are encouraged to check the Council's website and social media channels for the latest travel updates and Easter weekend information.