Step back in time with a visit to this beautifully preserved UK village, complete with cobbled streets, inviting pubs and an abundance of quintessential charm. Southend-on-Sea, attracting more than seven million visitors annually, is far from being an undiscovered treasure.
Situated on the Thames Estuary in Essex, this expansive resort is renowned for hosting the UK’s largest free street art festival and the world’s longest pleasure pier. Here, you’ll also discover a range of award-winning beaches, vibrant arcades, and the highly praised Sealife Adventure. However, if the hustle and bustle of busy streets and lively nightlife isn’t your cup of tea, a mere 13-minute stroll will take you to Leigh-on-Sea.
This smaller resort boasts a thriving shopping scene, brimming with galleries and craft shops, and exudes a nostalgic 1950s vibe, reports Mirror.
Yet even more enchanting than Leigh-on-Sea is Old Leigh – a quaint village often dubbed 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,” extols Visit Southend, the region’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 enthusiasts will relish a trip to the heart of the Old Town, where they can explore the Leigh Heritage Centre. This area also boasts a selection of charming pubs and restaurants that are ‘very popular among locals and tourists alike’.
No visit to Old Leigh would be complete without a stroll along the immaculate Bell Wharf Beach, often referred to as the UK’s ‘best kept secret’. This family-friendly coastline is ideal for unwinding with a captivating read or taking a dip in the invigorating British waters.
However, do note that a dog ban is enforced on local beaches from May 1 to September 30.
Situated just 43 miles from Central London, a drive to Old Leigh typically takes around one and a half hours, traffic permitting.
Alternatively, you could shave off 28 minutes by opting for a 49-minute train ride from Fenchurch Street to Chalkwell Station in Southend-on-Sea.
From this point, it’s merely a 20-minute (1.4-mile) walk to Old Leigh. If your travel dates are flexible, single adult fares can be purchased for as little as £9.40 – potentially even less if you possess a Railcard.
Finding accommodation in Old Leigh or Leigh-on-Sea can be a bit of a challenge due to their compact size, but there’s an array of lodging options in the nearby vicinity. For instance, a weekend stay (Friday, July 11-13) at the Park Inn by Radisson Palace in Southend-On-Sea, just 2.4 miles from Leigh-on-Sea, will cost you £235.
This rate is for two adults sharing a Standard Room. The Holiday Inn Southend by IHG, which is half-a-mile nearer to Leigh-on-Sea, comes with a price tag of £264 for the same dates.
*Prices are based on Trainline and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.