This popular seaside resort was labelled one of the worst in Britain, however the tide seems to be turning as it offers visitors exciting activities and interesting cultural amenities
Not everyone deserves their reputation. This Essex city was once labelled one of the worst places in the UK, but it appears to be proving the damning review wrong.
Southend-on-Sea was named one of the UK’s worst seaside resorts after it was ranked 41st place out of 50 in Which? magazine’s 2024 survey of the nation’s best seaside destinations. The town received a measly one star for its scenery and just two stars for its beach.
Originally, the seaside town started off as a smattering of fishermen’s huts and a farm. However, it gradually grew, gaining popularity as a resort after a visit from the Princess of Wales in the 19th century.
Now, the haven receives over 7 million visitors every year, making it one of the UK’s most bustling spots. In 2022, Southend Pier alone received almost 400 thousand visitors.
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However, it has suffered a series of blows to its reputation since. In September 2024, the area was described as a ‘no go’ zone by a senior police chief after a surge in antisocial behaviour.
This came after a video of men fighting with machetes on Southend Beach made shocking headlines last July. People were critically injured as a result of the incident, only compounding the town’s declining image.
Disgustingly, reports surfaced that people were also defecating on the beach, due to a lack of toilets. Residents also claimed that people were using their alleyways to relieve themselves.
These experiences have been echoed by other visitors. They shared their dismay at the condition of the beach.
One negative TripAdvisor review reads: “Went with my family on a trip to southend. A few years back this beach was in an absolutely horrible state, so we came back to this beach to see if there were any improvements. However, results were very unexpected and shocking.”
Although, it appears that this negative impression may be shifting. One reviewer gave the beach five stars and said: “The beach is generally kept clean and tidy.”
They also gave some invaluable advice for visitors: “if you’re local it’s nice to visit early in the day or later in the evening when the tourists aren’t swarming the place but on a sunny bank holiday it is absolutely packed with people from out of the area.”
Plus, according to EssexLive , the city actually has plenty of great activities and attractions to offer. Southend-on-Sea’s main spots of interest include the world’s longest pleasure pier, Adventure Island.
There are also a myriad of exciting cultural experiences like the Palace Theatre and Sealife Adventure for families to enjoy. Equally, the city also has an array of art galleries and museums.
