‘Oh, I do like to be beside the seaside…’ It’s always nice when the sun finally comes out in the UK but on a hot summer’s day in Southend, it can be exhausting being in direct sunlight all day. On the other hand, with a lot of rain forecast this summer, if your beach trip has been ruined by rain, why not try these suggestions?

Here’s a little helping hand to kick start the summer holidays. We’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite spots in Southend, so enjoy and get some respite from the sun or rain this summer.

1. Seafront Arcades

The sun has got his hat on, so grab the bucket and spade and head down to the seafront to soak it all up before it disappears! But before you know it, the kids are complaining they are too hot. With the infamous arcades just a stones throw away from the beach, it’s the ideal place to head for some cheap and cheerful fun, whilst cooling off. Don’t forget some loose change and you can spend an hour or two on the slots.

2. The Forum

Feed the young ones’ imaginations with the endless choice of books at The Forum, Southend newest Library, or check out the free exhibitions at Focal Point Gallery in the same building. Located just off the high street, it’s a perfect spot to wind down after a morning in the cooler sun. With all that is on offer in this multi-million pound structure, there really is something for the whole family to get their cool heads stuck into. Plus, there is a new playground outside to burn off some of that energy.

3. The Mews

Tucked away in a quieter spot away from the hustling beach and high street, The Mews is an ideal spot to wind-down and relax and enjoy some thirst-quenching drinks. From soft drinks, to handcrafted cocktails, bar snacks or a full lunch/dinner menu, there’s enough for the whole family to help recharge their batteries. The decor is beautiful and it offers a little class and luxury.

4. Central Museum

Keep those brains perky in the summer holidays and have a wander around Southend’s Central Museum. Open from 11am, Wednesday – Sunday, it’s a great spot to cool down whilst creating a memorable and immersive learning experience for the entire family!

5. And last but not least…. INDIROCK (of course!)

As well as being the local climbing wall, we are a great social venue for families and friends to chill out, catch up and enjoy the atmosphere. Located in the Victoria Shopping Centre, you’re very welcome to drop in to escape the sun, take advantage of our air-conditioning, enjoy a refreshing fresh fruit smoothie or frappe, coffees and delicious menu, and obviously have a climb if you’re in the mood. No need to book, just register and rock up!

If you’d like to explore further, Southend-on-Sea City Council have recently launched the Southend Cool Spaces Interactive Map that highlights public cooling spots for the hot weather across the city.

People can find all the water refill points, publicly available indoor cool spaces, such as libraries and museums, and cooler areas including parks and tree cover on this map. 

Southend is a hub of activity and has so much on offer for the whole family – let’s have a summer of fun!