Southend-on-Sea is gearing up to welcome residents and visitors for another vibrant summer season.
With miles of coastline, award-winning beaches and a packed programme of attractions, events and family activities, there's plenty to enjoy across the city throughout the school holidays. From the attractions of Southend’s seafront, including Adventure Island and Southend Pier, to the picturesque waterfront of Leigh-on-Sea and the pretty beaches of Thorpe Bay, Chalkwell and Shoebury, Southend remains one of England’s top destinations for family days out, seaside strolls and summer fun.
Alongside a jam-packed itinerary of events, this summer will also see the launch of the Southend Summer Bucket List, featuring 20 free family-friendly activities across the city. From parks, museums and libraries to outdoor cinema, live music, heritage attractions, public art and hidden gems, the bucket list encourages everyone to discover more of Southend, beyond the central seafront. Discover more at Summer Bucket List on the Visit Southend website.
Families can also enjoy a range of free cultural events over the holidays. Beecroft Art Gallery is launching Southend CineScene: Big Screen Adventures, a new series of family film screenings celebrating world cinema, arthouse favourites and timeless classics, with free tickets available to reserve through Southend Museums. The first film in the series is My Neighbour Totoro, screening on 6 August. Go ahead and reserve your spot on the Southend Museums Eventbrite page.
Meanwhile, history enthusiasts can step back in time at the marvellous Anglo-Saxon Weekend, returning this summer with a packed programme of family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore a living Anglo-Saxon re-enactment camp, enjoy combat displays, traditional storytelling, axe throwing, crafts, archaeology activities, games, face painting, stalls and a treasure trail. The event takes place on 1 and 2 August, with tickets available online and free entry for children under three.
Southend’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme returns this summer from 20 July to 28 August 2026, offering eligible children and young people up to 16 days of free activities during the school holidays. Places are available for pupils receiving benefit-related free school meals. Find out more and book at Southend HAF Programme.
Why not also explore Southend's vibrant shopping and leisure offer. From the High Street, The Victoria Centre and The Royals to the independent shops, cafés and restaurants of Leigh Broadway, Southchurch Road and Westcliff, there are plenty of opportunities to shop, dine and discover local gems across the city. Whether you're looking for seaside souvenirs, unique gifts, the latest fashion or somewhere to relax and enjoy a meal, there's something for everyone.
Cllr Matt Dent, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture, Music and Tourism, said: "Whether you're heading to the beach, exploring our independent shops, enjoying a family activity or discovering Southend's heritage, there's plenty to see and do this summer. We look forward to welcoming everyone to the city."
Getting around is easy too, with frequent c2c and Greater Anglia rail services and local bus routes providing frequent and convenient access to the city's beaches, shopping areas, parks and attractions throughout the summer.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and consider the many routes available for their journeys. Start planning at Travel Advice | Visit Southend and check the Council's website and social media channels for the latest travel updates and summer information.
Travel arrangements support the Better Queensway regeneration project, which is transforming the heart of Southend with improved roads, enhanced walking and cycling routes, new public spaces and housing.