Southend-on-Sea Hotel Accommodation

Free cancellation options if plans change

Earn rewards on every night you stay

Save more with Member Prices

Check prices for these dates

Tonight
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Tomorrow
4 Sept - 5 Sept
This weekend
4 Sept - 6 Sept
Next weekend
11 Sept - 13 Sept

Top 5 hotels in Southend-on-Sea at a glance

Where to stay in Southend-on-Sea?

Properties are selected based on real traveller reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in Southend-on-Sea on Hotels.com. These Southend-on-Sea hotels consistently deliver on quality, location and traveller experience. Last updated on .

An outdoor dining area with tables and chairs, a view of the sea, and a dining table set with wine glasses and a bowl of food.
A bar area with a marble counter, stools, and a wine rack filled with bottles.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk with a chair, and a view of the sea.
A modern dining area with a long table, multiple chairs, and a patterned carpet.

1. Seven Hotel

Seven Hotel
Southend-on-Sea
RM423
RM507 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Sept - 29 Sept
Seven Hotel
A modern building with a curved facade, large windows, and a parking lot with cars.
A modern interior with a curved staircase, large windows, and a patterned floor.
A breakfast table with pastries, fruits, and a drink, overlooking an airport runway.
A modern reception area with a desk, two yellow chairs, a grey sofa, and a unique geometric shelving unit with books and decorative items.

2. Holiday Inn Southend by IHG

Holiday Inn Southend by IHG
Southend-on-Sea
RM305
RM365 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Holiday Inn Southend by IHG
A row of terraced houses with outdoor seating and flower boxes.
A building with an entrance labeled "Entrance" and "The Tissotacque Bazar."
A room with a red sofa, a television, a vase with flowers, and a patterned carpet.
A hotel room with a large bed, two armchairs, a television, and curtains.

3. The Ilfracombe House Hotel - near Cliffs Pavilion

The Ilfracombe House Hotel - near Cliffs Pavilion
Southend-on-Sea
RM434
RM521 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
The Ilfracombe House Hotel - near Cliffs Pavilion
A balcony with a wicker chair, a metal railing, and a view of the sea.
A formal dining room with white tables and chairs, a chandelier, and a fireplace.
A spacious living room with a brown leather sofa, a wooden coffee table, and a dining area with a white table and chairs. Large windows allow natural light to fill the room.
A row of terraced houses with a garden in the foreground.

4. Hamiltons Boutique Hotel

Hamiltons Boutique Hotel
Southend-on-Sea
RM432
RM518 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Sept - 25 Sept
Hamiltons Boutique Hotel
A window with a view of a beach, a blue sign, and a tree.
The exterior of The Hope Hotel with a 'Welcome' sign and a reception number.
An outdoor patio area with picnic tables and chairs, a wooden deck, and a water tank.
A hotel room with a large window overlooking the sea, a bed with neatly folded towels, and a view of a coastal promenade.

5. The Hope Hotel

The Hope Hotel
Southend-on-Sea
RM450
RM540 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
The Hope Hotel
A bar area with shelves of bottles and glasses, a chalkboard menu, and a wooden counter.
A row of white buildings with balconies, a brick wall, and some greenery in front.
A row of beach huts with a clear sky above.
A bar area with a long counter, shelves with bottles, and a television screen.

6. Camelia Hotel

Camelia Hotel
Southend-on-Sea
RM550
RM661 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Sept - 11 Sept
Camelia Hotel
A restaurant with a round table, leather booth seating, and hanging pendant lights.
Outdoor wooden picnic tables with umbrellas, surrounded by a grassy area and a wooden fence.

7. Premier Inn Southend Airport

Premier Inn Southend Airport
Southend-on-Sea
RM237
RM284 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Sept - 21 Sept
Premier Inn Southend Airport
A building with a sign indicating 'Pier View Self Catering.'
A window with a view of trees and a building across a body of water.
A dining room with a chandelier, a table with chairs, a mirror, and a view through a window.
A hallway with a black and white checkered floor, a staircase with blue carpet, a white door, and a mirror on the left.

8. Pier View Self Catering Apartments

Pier View Self Catering Apartments
Southend-on-Sea
RM552
RM663 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Pier View Self Catering Apartments
A building with a sign reading 'OCEAN BEACH' and a covered outdoor area.
A pebbled beach with a clear sky, a few boats, and beach huts.
A rooftop garden with a blue-tiled pool, potted plants, and a white wall with decorative arches.
A spacious living area with a dining table, chairs, a chandelier, and artwork on the walls.

9. Coastal House Opposite Beach Sleeps 6 Pet Friendly

Coastal House Opposite Beach Sleeps 6 Pet Friendly
Southend-on-Sea
RM649
RM975 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Sept - 29 Sept
Coastal House Opposite Beach Sleeps 6 Pet Friendly
A bedroom with a bed, a nightstand, a lamp, a painting, and a window with curtains.
A modern living room with a black leather sofa, a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall, and a kitchen area with white cabinets and a tiled backsplash.
A kitchen with white cabinets, a wooden countertop, a stove, a sink, and a window with frosted glass.
A kitchen with a microwave, toaster, and kettle on a wooden countertop.

10. 493 Little Wakering Road

493 Little Wakering Road
Southend-on-Sea
RM1,590
RM1,909 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Sept - 13 Sept
493 Little Wakering Road
A balcony with a view of the sea, a table with two chairs, and a railing.
A bedroom with a bed, bedside tables, a chair, a window with curtains, and a chandelier.
A sign for 'Beaches Guest House' with a white picket fence in the background.
A wooden desk with a Buddha statue, a small Buddha statue, a bowl, a nameplate, a lamp, a chair, and a vase with flowers.

11. The Beaches Guest House

The Beaches Guest House
Southend-on-Sea
RM614
RM736 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
The Beaches Guest House
A hotel reception desk with a prominent 'Premier Inn' sign, a fan, and informational posters on the wall.
A metal rack with multiple hooks holding black items, likely coats or bags, in a room with a wooden door and a textured wall.

12. Premier Inn Southend-On-Sea - Thorpe Bay

Premier Inn Southend-On-Sea - Thorpe Bay
Southend-on-Sea
RM277
RM333 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Sept - 18 Sept
Premier Inn Southend-On-Sea - Thorpe Bay
A multi-story hotel with a prominent Premier Inn sign, a ground-level restaurant, and a brick wall with a blue sign.
A modern bathroom with a shower, two sinks, and a large mirror.
A metal rack with multiple hooks holding black items, likely coats or bags, in a room with a wooden door and a textured wall.

13. Premier Inn Southend On Sea

Premier Inn Southend On Sea
Southend-on-Sea
RM232
RM278 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Sept - 22 Sept
Premier Inn Southend On Sea
A multi-story building with a balcony featuring a sign that reads "The Ship Hotel."
A modern hotel room with a sofa, a chair, a small table with flowers, a lamp, and a TV on the wall.
A two-story building with a sign reading "The Ship Hotel".
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a small table, and a balcony with a view.

14. The Ship Hotel

The Ship Hotel
Leigh-on-Sea
RM527
RM633 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
The Ship Hotel
A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a large window with curtains, and a view of the sky.
A modern restaurant with a high ceiling, large windows, and a stone accent wall.
A view from a balcony overlooking a parking area with cars, a tree, and a body of water in the distance.
A historic building with a classic facade, large windows, and a prominent entrance.

15. Muthu Westcliff Hotel (Near London Southend Airport)

Muthu Westcliff Hotel (Near London Southend Airport)
Westcliff-on-Sea
RM360
RM432 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Oct - 5 Oct
Muthu Westcliff Hotel (Near London Southend Airport)
A row of dark wooden cottages with white trim, potted plants, and a clear sky.
Outdoor seating with red umbrellas, wooden tables, and chairs, with a brick wall in the background.
A brick wall with a sign that reads 'Cherry Tree Circle 1793'.
A bedroom with a bed, bedside lamps, a heater, and a framed picture on the wall.

16. The Cherry Tree Rochford

The Cherry Tree Rochford
Rochford
RM273
RM328 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
The Cherry Tree Rochford
A bar area with wooden stools, copper pendant lighting, and a variety of bottles and glasses on shelves.
A restaurant with wooden tables and chairs, wine bottles on shelves, and a clock on the wall.
A modern hotel room with a bed, two armchairs, a desk, a TV, and a wardrobe.
A white building with a sign reading "The Shop Inn."

17. The Ship Inn

The Ship Inn
Burnham-on-Crouch
RM518
RM622 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct
The Ship Inn
A waterfront hotel with a white facade, a black roof, and a white picket fence.
A rustic interior with exposed wooden beams, a chandelier, and a collection of framed artwork on the walls.
A wooden building with a tiled patio and outdoor seating area.
A rustic room with a brick fireplace, leather chairs, and vintage boots.

18. The Ferry Boat Inn

The Ferry Boat Inn
Chelmsford
RM753
RM903 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
The Ferry Boat Inn
A restaurant with a high ceiling, pendant lighting, and a central orchid display.
A two-story house with a bay window and a front porch.
A living room with a beige sofa, a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall, a patterned wallpaper, a wooden side table with a fan, and a trash can.
A room with a wooden desk, a wall-mounted mirror, and a lamp.

19. The Oyster Smack Inn

The Oyster Smack Inn
Burnham-on-Crouch
RM471
RM565 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
The Oyster Smack Inn
A long dining table with chairs, a glass ceiling, and a brick wall with framed pictures.
An outdoor café with tables and chairs, surrounded by brick flooring and greenery.
A classic four-poster bed with ornate detailing, a large mirror, and a view of the city through the window.
A red brick building with a central entrance, multiple windows, and a garage.

20. The Bell Inn

The Bell Inn
Stanford-le-Hope
RM349
RM419 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
The Bell Inn
View all properties
Our prices for hotels in Southend-on-Sea are cheapest in January
Price trends for hotels in Southend-on-Sea
Pricing is based on two traveller single night rates
View properties in September
Typical weather for Southend-on-Sea
September
High 19°C / low 13°C. Sunny most days.
View properties in September
19°
13°
15°
11°
11°
7°
8°
5°
7°
3°
8°
4°
10°
5°
12°
6°
15°
9°
18°
12°
21°
14°
21°
15°
Monthly weather averages (˚C)

Top neighbourhoods in Southend-on-Sea

A row of beach huts with blue and white exteriors, numbered sequentially, along a gravel beach.
Photo by Ruttapong Sarapoj
A snow-covered pier with a wooden structure and a metal railing.
Photo by william
A calm sea with several boats anchored, under a cloudy sky.
Photo by John Winfield
A beach with a wooden pier extending into calm waters, surrounded by a cloudy sky.
Photo by Chris Eastty
A boat named 'The Pearl' anchored on a pebbly beach with a sunset in the background.
Photo by Chris Eastty

Thorpe Bay

Southend-on-Sea's Thorpe Bay neighbourhood is home to attractions, such as Thorpe Bay Beach and Southend Beach.

Top landmarks in Southend-on-Sea

A blue train labeled "Sir John Betjeman" on a docked train track.

Southend Pier

8.6/10 (220 reviews)
Southend Pier is in the heart of Southend-on-Sea, so why not stop by during your stay? Hotels.com travellers also say the area is full of friendly people and that it has lots of nice beaches.
See properties
A colorful amusement park with a Ferris wheel, a boat ride, and various rides and attractions.

Adventure Island

8.4/10 (126 reviews)
If thrills are what you're after, head to Adventure Island, located 0.3 mi (0.5 km) from central Southend-on-Sea. Hotels.com travellers also say the area is full of friendly people and that it has lots of nice beaches. If you have fun at Adventure Island, you'll love Sealife Adventure and Lost City Adventure Golf, both a short walk away.
See properties
A row of beach huts with blue and white exteriors, numbered sequentially, along a gravel beach.
Photo by Ruttapong Sarapoj

Thorpe Bay Beach

8.0/10 (27 reviews)
Whether you want to collect beach glass or watch the sunset, Thorpe Bay Beach is a spot you might want to check out, located 2 mi (3.3 km) from central Southend-on-Sea. If you want to continue walking by the waves, head to Southend Beach located nearby.
See properties
A row of beach huts with blue and white exteriors, numbered sequentially, along a gravel beach.
Photo by Ruttapong Sarapoj

Southend Beach

8.2/10 (47 reviews)
Whether you want to collect beach glass or watch the sunset, Southend Beach is a spot you might want to check out, located 1.1 mi (1.8 km) from central Southend-on-Sea. If you want to continue walking by the waves, head to Thorpe Bay Beach located nearby.
See properties

Shoebury East Beach

8.2/10 (46 reviews)
When the beach is calling your name, you might want to head down to Shoebury East Beach, located 0.4 mi (0.7 km) from central Shoeburyness. Enjoy the sunset by the shore at Thorpe Bay Beach, Southend Beach and Three Shells Beach.
See properties

Prittlewell Priory

7.4/10 (3 reviews)
You might want to get your camera out and head to Prittlewell Priory – just one of the landmarks located 0.6 mi (1 km) from central Southend-on-Sea. Hotels.com travellers also say the area is full of friendly people and that it has lots of nice beaches.
See properties

Three Shells Beach

8.0/10 (15 reviews)
If being by the water is a major draw, Three Shells Beach is a spot you might want to check out when visiting central Southend-on-Sea. Enjoy the sunset by the shore at Southend Beach, Chalkwell Beach and Thorpe Bay Beach.
See properties

Southend-on-Sea City Hall

7.4/10 (18 reviews)
Southend-on-Sea City Hall is worth a visit, located 0.6 mi (0.9 km) from central Southend-on-Sea. Hotels.com travellers also say the area is full of friendly people and that it has lots of nice beaches.
See properties

Learn more about Southend-on-Sea

Notable for its seaside, Southend-on-Sea features attractions such as Adventure Island and Prittlewell Priory. Visitors to this welcoming city speak highly of the bars whereas sights include Southend Beach and Thorpe Bay Beach.

See all hotels in Southend-on-Sea
A sunset over a beach with a pier extending into the water.

Check out reviews of Southend-on-Sea hotels guests love

Seven Hotel

Seven Hotel

8/10 Good
"hotel room a little faded around the edges a lot of cigarettes buts on balcony for a no smoking hotel Very comfy bed very hot water good shower"
Steve 2-night trip
Posted 13 hours ago
Seven Hotel
St Nicholas Hotel

St Nicholas Hotel

8/10 Good
"Staff were very helpful although not on site. Rooms were clean and comfortable although a bit overpriced just for the room. Parking charges a bit disappointing with no parking facilities on site"
Mark 2-night trip
Posted 19 hours ago
St Nicholas Hotel
Holiday Inn Basildon by IHG

Holiday Inn Basildon by IHG

10/10 Excellent
"Clean and well appointed, quiet despite the location. It would have been helpful to know parking isn’t free. Check in took a little while as well but I arrived at a busy point. Staff were nice."
Charlotte 1-night trip
Posted 22 hours ago
Holiday Inn Basildon by IHG
King Charles Hotel

King Charles Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Good rooms and very friendly, helpful staff. Lovely breakfast and great location"
Paul 2-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
King Charles Hotel
The Hope Hotel

The Hope Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"We had a lovely stay! The reception staff were absolutely the best—very friendly, welcoming and helpful. The location is perfect, just a 2-minute walk to the beach and Adventure Island, and close to everything you need. We could easily walk to the nearby attractions, restaurants and shops. Our room was peaceful and comfortable, which made our stay even more enjoyable. Great location, lovely staff and a peaceful room. We would definitely stay here again! ❤️"
Mae 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
The Hope Hotel
The Inn on the Lake Hotel

The Inn on the Lake Hotel

8/10 Good
"Obviously could do with an upgrade as rooms are quite dated. However nice spot with patio doors onto the lake and everything that was needed in the room inc ceiling fan which was helpful. Breakfast ok however burger at dinner was awful."
Leigh-ann 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
The Inn on the Lake Hotel
Village Hotel Maidstone

Village Hotel Maidstone

10/10 Excellent
"Brilliant place for excellence"
KINGSLEY 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Village Hotel Maidstone
ORIDA Maidstone Hotel

ORIDA Maidstone Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Good clean room ,helpful staff"
Mark 2-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
ORIDA Maidstone Hotel
The Beaches Guest House

The Beaches Guest House

10/10 Excellent
"a bit more care and attention was needed on the balcony ,it was lovely to sit out there and look out to sea but it was a bit dirty between the bedroom and balcony door opening, also a few cobwebs about the staff were lovely , made us feel really welcome even sending out a message on the day we arrived , nothing seemed to much trouble. some nice little touches like being able to help yourself to drinks in the fridge trusting us to pay when we leave , a water station with bottles to use fill it up tea/coffee milk in room which was re filled on our second day free paring outside or very near which was lovely we enjoyed our stay and would recommend a would stay again"
Leon 2-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
The Beaches Guest House

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Southend-on-Sea?
You can find top hotels in Southend-on-Sea from RM240 with options to suit your budget and needs. If you're after an affordable hotel in Southend-on-Sea that meets all of your requirements, set your filters and then sort the results by "Price: low to high".
How can I find deals and earn rewards at Southend-on-Sea hotels?
Discover great deals on Southend-on-Sea hotel stays with Hotels.com. You can also look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season to find off-peak deals. If you're up for a spontaneous trip, don't forget to check out our last-minute deals on Southend-on-Sea hotels.
Can I book Southend-on-Sea hotels with free cancellation?
To book a refundable Southend-on-Sea hotel on Hotels.com, just filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". Most hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.
What are some of the best Southend-on-Sea beach hotels?
For a beachy holiday in Southend-on-Sea, Thorpe Bay Beach, Shoebury East Beach, and Southend Beach are some of the best places to visit. Stay at a top-rated Southend-on-Sea beach hotel and make the most of your holiday. Check out Camelia Hotel if you're after a hotel that's near the water. With a beach and guestrooms offering designer toiletries, our travellers rate it highly at 9.2 out of 10. The Hope Hotel is another great choice for a relaxing beach holiday and our travellers rate it 7.4. Located near the beach, this hotel has a bar/lounge and a terrace along with a variety of other amenities to enjoy. The Palace Hotel is another ideal choice. Travellers love the beach nearby plus the restaurant and bar/lounge, and it has a guest rating of 7.2.
What are some top pet-friendly hotels in Southend-on-Sea?
Our travellers' top pet-friendly hotels in Southend-on-Sea include:You can check "Pet friendly" on the Hotels.com "Amenities" filter in your search to find even more pet-friendly hotels in Southend-on-Sea.
What are some of the best kid-friendly hotels in Southend-on-Sea?
One of the best Southend-on-Sea hotels for kids is Holiday Inn Southend by IHG. Holiday Inn Southend by IHG is a kid-friendly hotel with a guest score of 8.8 out of 10 plus family-friendly amenities like children's meals. Discover more kid-friendly hotels in Southend-on-Sea by using the Hotels.com "Family friendly" filter in your search.
What are some of the best Southend-on-Sea hotels with free parking?
If you're exploring by car, finding a great Southend-on-Sea hotel with free parking is a win. Our travellers' favourites include:
What are some popular hotels in central Southend-on-Sea?
For hotels in central Southend-on-Sea, check out The Ship Hotel and Premier Inn Southend Airport. Travellers love The Ship Hotel for its location, as well as the ocean-view restaurant, bar/lounge and spa services this hotel offers. Premier Inn Southend Airport is another popular central hotel with a restaurant and free parking.
Can I book a refundable accommodation option in Southend-on-Sea?
If you want the flexibility to change your plans to Southend-on-Sea, most hotels offer refundable* rates that you can book. You can see this accommodation by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow down the results.
Where can I stay in Southend-on-Sea if I want a holiday rental instead of a hotel?
If you want a good alternative to a hotel, look over our selection of 21 holiday homes. In addition, you can choose from 64 apartments.
What will the weather in Southend-on-Sea be like during my visit?
August and July are typically the warmest months in Southend-on-Sea, when the average temperature is 17°C. January and February are the coldest months, when the average temperature is 6°C. October and December are the months with the most rain.
Why should I book my Southend-on-Sea hotel with Hotels.com?
There are lots of reasons to book your Southend-on-Sea trip with us: our free cancellations on selected hotels* gives you flexibility, our Price Guarantee ensures that you always get the lowest price, and you can earn rewards on every booking.

Find out more about Southend-on-Sea

Discover the Enchantment of Southend-on-Sea: Where Shores Meet Serenity

Discover Southend-on-Sea, a charming coastal city brimming with seaside allure, verdant gardens and enchanting forests. Stroll along the iconic Southend Pier, take in the expansive views of the shimmering sea and relax on sun-kissed beaches. Explore hidden islands and immerse yourself in the local culture. With a range of delightful hotels for your next stay, Southend-on-Sea promises an unforgettable retreat where nature meets urban vibrancy. Whether seeking a leisurely escape or an adventure-filled experience, this quintessential British destination is sure to captivate.

Discover great hotels near Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea offers a mix of charming B&Bs and modern hotels. You'll find friendly, sea budget hotels alongside elegant options, all within easy reach of the vibrant seaside. The accommodations here balance comfort with local character, providing a welcoming stay in this classic British coastal town. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels near Southend-on-Sea:

  1. Muthu Westcliff Hotel Opens in a new window: This 3.0-star hotel offers a delightful blend of comfort and engaging experiences for leisure travellers. Guests enjoy direct beach access and a variety of adventure sports including sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing, all set against a backdrop of a charming seaside locale. The property features inviting spaces and a welcoming ambience, complemented by expressive architectural details and curated experiences. The highlight is the exceptional service that ensures a smooth, high-quality journey, with express check-in and thoughtfully designed interiors that enhance every moment of your stay.
  2. Malvern Lodge Guest HouseOpens in a new window: This 3.0-star guesthouse delivers a modern and relaxed environment for leisure travellers. With a focus on comfort and convenience, guests can enjoy state-of-the-art Flatscreen Television and Satellite Television amenities in a setting that exudes a boutique charm. The establishment provides express check-in and a refined experience that embodies quality and ease, ensuring every moment is both memorable and stylish.
  3. Devine Beach HotelOpens in a new window: This 3.0-star guesthouse caters to leisure travellers seeking a distinctive coastal retreat. With multiple television options including Digital Television, the hotel offers a contemporary and engaging setting enhanced by scenic ocean views and vibrant entertainment districts nearby. The property features modern design elements and a relaxed atmosphere, ensuring a smooth, high-quality experience with express check-in and carefully curated experiences for those who appreciate comfort and refined travel.

Where to stay near Southend-on-Sea

Some great areas to stay in when visiting Southend-on-Sea are Sheerness, Basildon, and Leigh-on-Sea. Sheerness offers a relaxing seaside experience with natural parks and birdwatching. Basildon is known for its friendly atmosphere, festivals, and lakeside activities. Leigh-on-Sea boasts a charming beach and golfing opportunities. For first-time visitors, Basildon is best suited due to its diverse attractions.

  1. Southend-on-Sea: Southend-on-Sea is a vibrant coastal town known for its lively atmosphere and stunning seafront. With attractions like Adventure Island, a fun-packed amusement park, and the iconic Southend Pier, which is the longest pleasure pier in the world, there's plenty to keep you entertained. The town also boasts lovely beaches, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. With a variety of shopping options along the high street and a buzzing cultural scene, including galleries and theatres, Southend-on-Sea is an excellent base for exploring the Essex coast. Consider staying at the Park Inn by Radisson or the Crowne Plaza for convenient access to attractions.
  2. BasildonOpens in a new window: Basildon offers a friendly atmosphere with a mix of modern amenities and natural beauty. You can enjoy a day out at Festival Leisure Park, which is packed with activities, or explore the beautiful Hylands House and Park. For those looking for a bit of adventure, the Stubbers Activity and Adventure Centre nearby has thrilling outdoor pursuits. The marina is a lovely spot to unwind, while local wildlife parks provide great opportunities for birdwatching. Accommodation options include budget-friendly hotels that are perfect for families and travellers alike.
  3. SheernessOpens in a new window: Sheerness is a charming seaside town that provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Ideal for nature lovers, you can explore the Elmley National Nature Reserve, which offers stunning views and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The local beaches are perfect for a relaxing day out, and the quaint town has a few bars for a laid-back evening. With its beautiful parks and serene environment, Sheerness is perfect for those seeking a tranquil getaway. Look for cosy guesthouses or budget-friendly hotels for a comfortable stay.
  4. Leigh-on-SeaOpens in a new window: Leigh-on-Sea is a picturesque coastal town famous for its charming old town and vibrant arts scene. With beautiful beaches and scenic parks, it’s perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the local courses, while foodies can indulge in the town’s famous seafood offerings. The seafront is lined with quaint cafes, making it a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the views. Accommodation options include welcoming B&Bs or seaside hotels that make for a pleasant stay while exploring the area.

Things to do in Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea is a delightful coastal destination boasting stunning beaches and lush gardens. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the shore, indulge in boating adventures, or explore scenic parks perfect for picnics. With its inviting waters and charming landscape, it's an ideal spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.

  • Thorney Bay BeachOpens in a new window – Relax on the soft sands of Thorney Bay Beach, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a refreshing dip in the sea. Explore the surrounding gardens and enjoy the natural beauty of this coastal gem.
  • Historic Dockyard ChathamOpens in a new window – Step back in time at the Historic Dockyard Chatham, where maritime history comes alive. Discover the fascinating exhibits and well-preserved ships while learning about Britain’s naval past in an engaging setting.
  • Elmley National Nature ReserveOpens in a new window – Experience the tranquillity of Elmley National Nature Reserve, a stunning area where you can observe diverse wildlife and enjoy peaceful walks through pristine landscapes. It’s a perfect spot for bird watching and connecting with nature.
  • Festival Leisure ParkOpens in a new window – Head to Festival Leisure Park for a variety of entertainment options, including dining, cinemas, and leisure activities. This vibrant precinct offers something for everyone, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy a fun-filled day.
  • DiggerlandOpens in a new window – Get ready for a day of excitement at Diggerland, where you can operate real construction machinery and enjoy thrilling rides. This amusement park is perfect for families looking for hands-on fun and unique experiences.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Southend-on-Sea

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Southend-on-Sea is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are lower. For a fulfilling experience that allows you to discover the area's key landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During your visit, you can enjoy the stunning beach, explore beautiful gardens, and engage in various activities such as boating and golfing, all while soaking up the friendly atmosphere created by the local community. This destination offers great value for money, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore history and culture without breaking the bank.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Hotels.com offers travellers heading to Southend-on-Sea the chance to save, as you may discover fantastic hotel deals by checking the DealsOpens in a new window section. If you're seeking minute hotel deals in Southend, you're more likely to see last-minute discounts by visiting the Last-Minute Deals section. Additionally, the Smart Shopping comparison tool available via the app could help you compare hotel prices and amenities, keeping you updated on availability or potential price drops. Turn on email alerts or push notifications to ensure you don't miss any opportunities for a last-minute getaway.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you find a better deal on accommodation in Southend-on-Sea. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised touch and occasionally offer greater value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher side, we will suggest alternative dates that could be more economical, helping you potentially uncover a better rate.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Southend-on-Sea's superb public transport links, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel further afield that remains well connected. For those wishing to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value to be had. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 41.4°F (5.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.2°F (17.9°C). October is usually the wettest month. April, July, and August are the peak travel months in Southend-on-Sea, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.

Keep exploring