Getting Around

Once you’re here, getting around Southend couldn’t be easier. With a compact city centre, seven miles of coastline, regular bus services, seafront cycling routes and plenty of places to explore on foot, you can enjoy the best of the city without needing to rely on a car.

Whether you’re heading from Leigh-on-Sea to the pier, exploring the seafront, visiting the beaches, or making your way between attractions, Southend is a brilliant place to slow down, take in the views and travel at your own pace.

Getting Around by Bus

Southend has an extensive local bus network connecting the city centre, seafront, neighbourhoods, beaches, parks, visitor attractions and surrounding areas.

Regular services are operated by Arriva and First Bus, making it simple to travel between key locations including Southend city centre, Leigh-on-Sea, Westcliff, Southchurch, Thorpe Bay and Shoeburyness.

Travelling by bus is a great way to take the stress out of your visit. No parking, no searching for spaces and no need to move the car between stops – just hop on, sit back and enjoy the journey.

For bus information and timetables visit:

Arriva www.arrivabus.co.uk

First Bus www.firstbus.co.uk

Open Top Seafront Bus

For the ultimate seaside journey, hop aboard Southend’s seasonal open top bus and enjoy the city from a different view.

The open top bus runs along the seafront, taking in some of Southend’s best-loved coastal spots, from Leigh-on-Sea and Chalkwell through to Southend Pier, Thorpe Bay and Shoeburyness.

It’s a fun and easy way to explore the seafront, especially if you want to visit more than one beach, stop for food and drink along the way, or simply enjoy the sea breeze without a long walk back.

Services are seasonal, so please check the latest route, dates and times before you travel. Find out more about the Seafront Open Top Bus here.

Getting Around by Bike

Southend is a great city to explore by bike, with flat seafront routes, wide coastal views and plenty of places to stop along the way.

The dedicated seafront cycle route runs for around six miles from Chalkwell Beach to Shoebury East Beach, making it one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to travel along the coast. Much of the route is away from road traffic, so it’s ideal for a relaxed ride, a family cycle or a scenic journey between beaches.

Cycling gives you the freedom to make the most of Southend at your own pace. Stop for an ice cream, pause at the pier, explore the quieter eastern beaches or head west towards Chalkwell and Leigh-on-Sea.

Please be considerate of pedestrians, follow local signage and dismount where required, particularly in busy seafront areas.

Getting Around on Foot

Southend is made for walking. With a lively city centre, famous seafront, historic neighbourhoods, parks, gardens and coastal views, some of the best experiences are found by simply setting off and exploring.

The seafront is one of the easiest places to start. Walk between beaches, arcades, cafés, attractions and open spaces, or take on a longer coastal route from Shoeburyness to Leigh-on-Sea.

Walking is also a great way to discover more of Southend’s character. Explore Old Leigh’s cobbled streets, take in the views from the cliffs, follow heritage trails through the city, or enjoy a slower stroll through one of Southend’s parks and green spaces.

For inspiration, take a look at our Walks & Trails guide.

A Car-Free Day Out

Southend is one of the easiest seaside destinations to enjoy without a car.

Arrive by train, explore the seafront by open top bus, cycle between beaches, walk between attractions and use local bus services to reach different parts of the city. With so much close together, you can spend less time worrying about travel and more time enjoying the coast.

From beach days and family adventures to food, culture, shopping and events, getting around Southend is simple, flexible and part of the experience.