RSPB Wild Coast
Located just a short walk from our holiday park, the Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project is a stunning example of landscape restoration and wildlife conservation. This unique attraction features a blend of saltmarsh, mudflats, lagoons, and grassland, all created using soil from London’s Crossrail project. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, perfect for spotting birds like short-eared owls and marsh harriers, or even catching a glimpse of common seals. The project also offers comfortable shelters for resting and taking in the natural beauty. A visit is a must for nature enthusiasts and those looking to explore the rich biodiversity of the area.
Essex Marina
The Essex Yacht and Boat Marina is just a short walk or even shorter drive from our holiday park. Situated on the River Crouch, the marina boasts 500 deep water moorings, including 50 swinging moorings, all with access to the sea at all states of the tide. Located just seven miles from Southend on Sea, the marina serves a large urban population within a thirty minute drive. Whether you're a boating enthusiast or simply looking for a picturesque spot to relax, the Essex Boat Marina is a perfect destination to unwind, especially on a warm summer evening. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, scenic views, and access to the water.
The Wardroom
Just a mile walk down the sea wall, The Wardroom at Essex Marina offers a delightful setting alongside the River Crouch. The bar features uninterrupted views from its balcony, making it an ideal spot for a summer evening. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of drinks, including lagers, wines, spirits, ales, soft drinks, tea, and coffee. The food menu caters to all tastes, offering everything from all-day breakfasts and snacks to full meals, with the popular Sunday roast being a highlight. The cosy interior, complete with wooden flooring and soft seating, provides a welcoming atmosphere perfect for relaxing. Check online for opening hours.
Ballards Gore
Ballards Gore Golf Club hosts some of the countys top competitions. Established in 1980, this parkland course offers a challenging experience for golfers of all standards with its mix of tree-lined, water, and open holes featuring true greens. The club boasts excellent facilities, including a championship course, a superb practice area, and a modern clubhouse with a bar and restaurant. Ballards Gore is ideal for casual golfers, golf societies, and corporate events, providing a warm welcome and a memorable golfing experience. The clubhouse offers a variety of dining options, making it a perfect spot to relax after a round of golf.
Burnham Ferry
The Burnham Ferry provides the only authorized service between the Essex Marina, Wallasea Island, and Burnham Yacht Harbour. Running six days a week from April or Easter (whichever is earlier) to the end of September, the ferry crosses the River Crouch in about ten minutes, a significant time saver compared to the hour-long car journey. Foot passengers and cyclists can easily access Burnham’s restaurants, bars, gift shops, and scenic walks. With its efficient and pleasant service, the Burnham Ferry offers a delightful way to explore the local area. For more details, visit the Burnham Ferry website.
Seal Watching
Discover the beauty of the Essex coast with Discovery Seal Trips, departing from Essex Marina. These guided boat tours offer a fantastic opportunity to see common seals basking on the sandbanks and swimming in the waters of the Crouch and Roach estuaries. The trips also provide a chance to observe a variety of bird species and other wildlife, making it a perfect outing for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Operating six days a week from April to September, each trip lasts around two hours and is suitable for all ages. Enjoy informative commentary from knowledgeable guides as you explore the estuaries.
Hadleigh Bike Park
Hadleigh Bike Park, located within Hadleigh Country Park, is a world-class cycling venue and a legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games. This park features one of the best mountain bike courses in the country, offering a thrilling experience for cyclists of all levels. The park includes a mix of trails, from family-friendly routes to challenging technical sections. In addition to the bike trails, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Thames Estuary, a cafe, a bike shop, and a play area for children. The park also offers bike hire and coaching sessions for those looking to improve their skills or try out mountain biking for the first time.
Southend Pier
Southend Pier is the longest pleasure pier in the world, stretching 1.33 miles into the Thames Estuary. Since 1830, this historic icon has survived fires, boat crashes, and two world wars. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, boat trips, and visiting Jamie Oliver’s Tea Rooms, which was used for his television show. Open daily with seasonal hours and last entry one hour before closing, the pier is fully accessible and suitable for all ages. With its rich history and variety of attractions, Southend Pier offers a unique experience for everyone. For the latest information on opening times and activities, visit the official website.
Rayleigh Town
Rayleigh is an historic market town and is the main centre of population in the Rochford District. The town has retained much of its traditional character and is a busy shopping centre, well served by bus and train. A market is held on Wednesday mornings and dates back to 1181, when it was registered in the Exchequer Records of Henry II. Rayleigh is mentioned in the Domesday Book. The manor of Rayleigh belonged to Sweyne of Essex, the son of Robert FitzWimarc who built a Norman Motte and Bailey castle in Rayleigh. The location is at Rayleigh Mount, which is today owned and maintained by the National Trust.
Adventure Island
Adventure Island on Southend seafront is the perfect day out for all the family. As a free admission attraction, you only pay if you want to play. With over 60 rides, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The park offers a thrilling selection of rides, from the exhilarating rollercoaster Rage to the classic helter skelter. Rides are categorized by thrill level and height, allowing you to choose what suits your comfort level. The wristbands offer great flexibility, letting you enjoy rides of lower thrill levels too. Don't forget to pack your sun cream, as Southend-on-Sea is officially the warmest and driest part of the country.
Southend Seafront
Southend Seafront beckons with a quintessential seaside experience, perfect for families and visitors of all ages. Stretching along the vibrant coast of Southend on Sea, this bustling promenade offers an array of attractions and activities to delight every guest. Whether you're strolling along the iconic Southend Pier, the longest pleasure pier in the world, or enjoying the golden sands of the beach, there's something here for everyone. Treat yourself to traditional fish and chips at one of the charming seafront eateries, or indulge in thrilling rides and amusements. Southend Seafront promises endless fun and memories for all.
Transport to London
Our location offers convenient access to London with multiple public transport options. The nearest bus stop is just a short walk from the park, connecting you to local transport hubs. From Rochford station, regular trains to London Liverpool Street take about an hour. Alternatively, Southend Airport, six miles away, provides train connections to London. The drive to central London takes approximately ninety minutes, depending on traffic. Tickets can be purchased in advance for better rates, and local taxi services are available to the train station. For more information please ask at reception and we will be happy to help.
Southend Planetarium
Explore the wonders of the universe at Southend Planetarium, located in Southend on Sea. This fascinating attraction offers astronomy shows and interactive exhibits for all ages. Delve into the mysteries of outer space with captivating presentations and hands-on experiences that inspire curiosity. Visit the observatory to view celestial objects through telescopes, providing a unique perspective on the cosmos. Whether you're a family looking for educational fun or a space enthusiast seeking discovery, Southend Planetarium promises an enlightening and memorable experience.
Belfairs Park
Discover the natural beauty of Belfairs Park, a serene location just a short drive from us. This expansive park offers peaceful woodland walks, meandering trails, and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal escape into nature for visitors of all ages. Explore the diverse habitats and enjoy spotting birds and other wildlife along the way. Belfairs Park also features a visitor center where you can learn about the local flora and fauna, and a variety of family friendly activities such as picnicking and outdoor play areas. Whether you're seeking a relaxing stroll or a day of outdoor adventure, this park offers a tranquil retreat and something a bit different.
Southend Airport
London Southend Airport is a well-established facility serving business and leisure passengers flying within the UK, Europe, and beyond. Situated outside congested London airspace, it is free from overcrowding both on the ground and in the air, ensuring a smooth travel experience. The airport features modern amenities, quick check-ins, and efficient security processes, making it a hassle-free option for travelers. Located just 6 miles from our holiday park, it offers a convenient and stress-free start to your onward journey, with ample parking, various dining options, and excellent public transport links.
