From cosy pubs and cafes to golden sandy beaches and a rich history, this tranquil coastal village is located in one of the UK’s most popular seaside cities – but feels worlds apart
Transport yourself back in time by visiting this perfectly preserved UK village with cobbled streets, cosy pubs, and buckets of quintessential charm.
Welcoming more than seven million tourists every single year, it’s safe to say Southend-on-Sea is by no means a ‘hidden gem’. Located on the Thames Estuary in Essex, the huge resort is famed for hosting the UK’s biggest free street art festival, and the world’s longest pleasure pier. Here, you’ll also find a slew of award-winning beaches, flashing arcades, and the acclaimed Sealife Adventure.
However, if bustling streets and a buzzing nightlife aren’t quite what you’re looking for, heading over to Leigh-on-Sea, which is just a 13-minute walk away, is the perfect way to escape the crowds. This smaller resort has a vibrant shopping scene, is full of galleries and craft shops, and makes you feel like you’ve gone back to the 50s. But even more magical than Leigh-on-Sea is Old Leigh – a small village often referred to as the ‘Old Town’.
“Old Leigh is a fantastic place not only for history but for the local economy with its 1,000-year-old fishing industry,” hails Visit Southend, the area’s official tourist board. “Treat yourself to the famous Leigh cockles whilst watching the boats go by the peaceful waterside. The Sailing Club, Sea Scouts, Motor Boat Club and Yacht Club all provide an educational welcome to Old Leigh.”
History buffs will love venturing into the heart of the Old Town to visit the Leigh Heritage Centre. Here, you’ll also find a number of quaint pubs and restaurants which are ‘very popular among locals and tourists alike’.
And of course, a trip to Old Leigh isn’t complete without getting your feet sandy at the pristine Bell Wharf Beach, often touted as the UK’s ‘best kept secret’. This family-friendly stretch of coastline is perfect for kicking back with a good book, or embracing the UK’s refreshing waters. There is however a dog ban on beaches in the area, which is implemented from May 1 to September 30.
Located just 43 miles from Central London, driving to Old Leigh only takes one and a half hours – depending on traffic. However, you can actually cut 28 minutes off the journey by taking a 49-minute train journey from Fenchurch Street over to Chalkwell Station in Southend-on-Sea.
From here, you’ll only be a 20-minute (1.4-mile) walk to Old Leigh. If you’re flexible with dates, a single adult fare can be bought for as little as £9.40 – or even cheaper if you have a Railcard.
Staying in Old Leigh itself, or even Leigh-on-Sea, can be difficult due to their small size – but there are plenty of accommodation types in the surrounding area. For example, a weekend’s stay (Friday, July 11-13) at the Park Inn by Radisson Palace in Southend-On-Sea, which is 2.4 miles from Leigh-on-Sea will set you back £235. This is based on two adults sharing a Standard Room. The Holiday Inn Southend by IHG is half-a-mile closer to Leigh-on-Sea, and costs £264 on the exact same nights.
*Prices based on Trainline and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.
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