Southend-on-Sea, Coastal borough in Essex, England
Southend-on-Sea is a coastal town in Essex situated along the north shore of the Thames Estuary, comprising multiple residential areas. The town extends across districts like Leigh-on-Sea, Westcliff, and Thorpe Bay, each with distinct layouts and development patterns.
The place started as a collection of fishing huts around the 1300s and transformed into a major seaside resort after railway construction in the 1850s. The rail connections from London drove rapid growth and reshaped the settlement entirely.
The name derives from its position at the south end of the Thames Estuary, and this maritime heritage shapes how residents and visitors experience the waterfront today. The seafront and beaches define the character of the place, blending traditional seaside activities with contemporary urban rhythms.
Two railway stations provide direct connections to London, making day trips and longer stays easily accessible. The nearby airport offers additional transport options for traveling further across Europe.
The pier stretches about 2 kilometers into the Thames Estuary and stands among the longest pleasure piers in the world. This structure has been a distinctive landmark for over a century and defines the visual identity of the place.
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