Culture-on-Sea

There's so much more to Southend-on-Sea than first meets the eye. Alongside the traditional seaside entertainment, there's a flourishing arts scene to discover and a feast of festivals throughout the year.

The classical strains of the Royal Philharmonic at Concert in the Park are always popular but did you know that there's a whole series of classical concerts at Cliffs Pavilion and at other venues too? Search out ‘trad' jazz at small clubs across town. Be the first to spot new talent at the showcase for up and coming rock music in Battle of the Bands.

See exciting contemporary art on Leigh on Sea's Art Trail, listen to book readings in Southend's libraries, or laugh, dance and listen to performance arts at Village Green in Chalkwell Park.

 
 
 
 

Bright Ideas

Cultural Highlight

Summer Days
Sat 24th & Sun 25th July
Priory Park

A weekend of sport, art, music, dance for all the family to celebrate the two year countdown to the London 2012 Olympic Games.
 
 

Sports

Southend's Legacy
A variety of sporting events take place throughout the year, supported by Southend-on-Sea's legacy of 2012 where Hadleigh Country Park will play host to the Olympic Mountain Biking event.
 
 

Upcoming Shows

At the Theatre...
With a packed entertainment schedule throughout the year the Cliffs Pavilion and the Palace Theatre cater for all tastes, from intimate plays and stand-up comedy through to large-scale touring productions.
 
 

Urban Games

Sat 14th Aug
This annual event will see world class performers drumming up the crowd and then you will have the opportunity to try the activities with local sports clubs.
 
 

Festivals

A Feast of Festivals
A feast of fun is being served up this Summer with a packed programme of family-orientated events taking place across tow - there really is something for everyone's tastes.
 
 

Open Spaces

Southend's Historic Cliff Lift has recently reopened and retains many of it's original features from 1912. The iconic railway is an enjoyable way to travel between the Seafront and Clifftown area with stunning views.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Music Series

Southend-on-Sea is no stranger to the world of classical concerts.

Established and up and coming musicians take to the stage throughout the year, many of them dazzling audiences at the Plaza centre with their incredible talent. Throughout the year you can also hear live music performances at Southend's very own bandstand in Priory Park.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Culture-on-Sea
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    Museums & Galleries
    Want to find out more about our local social and human history? or view a fine collection of works of art or maybe find out more about the stars at a planetarium.

     
     
  • Southend Marine Activities Centre
     

    Marine Activities Centre
    Visit Southend Marine Activities Centre and enjoy a great selection of watersports and other outdoor activities.

     
     
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    Parks & Gardens
    Southend is renowned for its wonderful parks and gardens and particularly for its superb floral displays.