Cycling in Southend-on-Sea
Not only does being on two wheels give you a sense of freedom and a brilliant form of exercise, but you can also take in sights at your leisure.
With some attractive and well designed off-road cycle routes connecting some of the town's key attractions there really is something for everyone - whether a gentle family traffic-free cycle or busier on-road routes for the more experienced riders.
One of the most popular routes is the Estuary Trail which encompasses many of Southend's key attractions and landmarks such as the longest pleasure pier in the world and its beautiful Victorian architecture. The (mostly flat) seafront trail has some of the most breathtaking views of the Thames Estuary and is also part of the National Cycle Network route 16 which runs all the way into London. Park and Ride facilities are available at Leigh Station - excellent railway connections to Southend-on-Sea mean that you can leave your car at home, bring your bike on the train and enjoy a fun and environmentally friendly break!
The Estuary Cycle Trail (Distance: 6 miles / 9.8km)
Other cycle routes:
Town
Victoria Avenue takes you to central shopping areas via Toucan crossings on a well specified off-road cycle route. Leading to the sea front cyclists are signed down quiet roads. On Milton Place, Runwell Terrace and Pier Hill contra-flow cycles lanes exist allowing cyclists to travel in both directions, while cars are only permitted to travel one way.
Southend-on-Sea has cycle lanes on the A127 taking riders from Kent Elms junction to the Southend Borough boundary (and beyond towards Basildon).
Priory Park
Priory Park dates back to the 12th century and is located in the north end of town possessing beautiful well maintained gardens and its own museum. It has a cycle route running through its centre which connects directly to the off-road route on Victoria Avenue.
Traffic-free
There are many routes that are completely traffic free on cycle paths or green ways which are to be shared with pedestrians, including the listed route of Belfairs Park which links residential areas in the north west of the town.
For more information about Cycling in Southend call 01702 215985.
