Fantasy Island Amusement Park, Canvey Island
A vibrant seaside amusement park on Canvey Island offering thrilling rides, family fun, and scenic waterfront views.
Fantasy Island is a vibrant amusement park located on Canvey Island in Essex, England. It offers a wide range of rides and attractions suitable for families and thrill-seekers alike, including rollercoasters, arcade games, and children’s play areas. Open mostly from late morning to early evening, it provides a fun-filled day out with entertainment options for all ages along the scenic Eastern Esplanade.
A brief summary to Fantasy Island
- 1-3 Eastern Esplanade, Canvey Island, SS8 7DN, GB
- +441268683026
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
- Thursday 11 am-6 pm
- Friday 11 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-9 pm
- Sunday 10 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Check the height restrictions for rides in advance to plan the best experience for your group.
- Visit on weekends or Sundays to enjoy extended opening hours and special late-night wristband offers.
- Take breaks at the nearby seating areas along the Esplanade to enjoy the sea views and refresh.
- Look out for seasonal events and festivals hosted at the park for added entertainment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Canvey Island with nearby towns such as Southend-on-Sea and Basildon, with routes stopping near Eastern Esplanade. Travel times range from 20 to 40 minutes depending on origin. Buses run regularly but check schedules for weekend and evening service. A single fare typically costs between £3 and £5.
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Car
Driving to Fantasy Island is straightforward via the A130 and local roads to Canvey Island. Parking is available nearby but can be limited during peak times and special events. Travel times from Southend-on-Sea or Basildon are approximately 15 to 30 minutes. Parking fees range from free to a few pounds depending on the lot.
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-share services operate on Canvey Island and from nearby towns. A taxi ride from Southend-on-Sea typically takes 20 minutes and costs around £15 to £20. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially for families or groups.
Fantasy Island location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Fantasy Island
A Hub of Family Fun on Canvey Island
Fantasy Island is a lively amusement park situated on the Eastern Esplanade of Canvey Island, Essex. It serves as a popular destination for families and visitors seeking a day of entertainment by the seaside. The park blends classic amusement rides with modern attractions, creating an engaging environment for children, teens, and adults. Its location along the waterfront adds to its charm, offering visitors refreshing sea breezes and scenic views.Variety of Attractions for All Ages
The park boasts a diverse selection of rides, from gentle children’s rides suitable for toddlers to adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters for thrill-seekers. Alongside the rides, Fantasy Island features arcade games and interactive play areas, ensuring that visitors of all ages find something enjoyable. Height restrictions apply to some rides, ensuring safety while catering to different age groups.Seasonal and Daily Operations
Fantasy Island operates with varying hours throughout the week, generally opening from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays and extending later on weekends, with Sunday hours starting earlier at 10:00 AM and closing at 8:00 PM. The park occasionally offers late-night wristband specials allowing access to indoor rides during select evenings, enhancing the visitor experience with extended entertainment options.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The park’s atmosphere is lively and family-friendly, filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the hum of rides. Its location on the Eastern Esplanade provides a casual seaside vibe, complemented by nearby eateries and seating areas. Visitors can enjoy a mix of thrilling rides and relaxing moments by the waterfront, making it a versatile destination for a day trip or weekend outing.Community and Events
Fantasy Island is integrated into the local community’s event calendar, often participating in seasonal festivities such as Christmas celebrations and summer events. These occasions bring additional entertainment and themed activities, enhancing the park’s appeal as a year-round destination. Its role as a community hub adds a layer of cultural heritage and local charm.Accessibility and Amenities
The park is accessible via multiple transport options and provides amenities such as restrooms, food and drink outlets, and seating areas. While it welcomes families and groups, visitors should note the height restrictions on certain rides. The park maintains a balance between thrilling attractions and accessible fun, ensuring an inclusive experience for a broad audience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
9.1 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Laindon War Memorial
13.7 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Falklands Island Monument
19.2 km
A solemn tribute in Grays honoring merchant seafarers who sacrificed their lives in the 1982 Falklands War.
St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham
19.3 km
Explore the historic St Mary Magdalene Church in Cobham, a serene landmark with stunning architecture and a rich cultural heritage.
Upside Down House – Lakeside
21.7 km
Discover the Upside Down House in Lakeside, a whimsical amusement park attraction that turns reality on its head for a fun-filled day of exploration and laughter.
Ingatestone Hall
21.8 km
Experience the grandeur of Ingatestone Hall, a historic Tudor mansion offering a glimpse into England's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Danbury Country Park
22.7 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Danbury Country Park in Essex, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families seeking adventure.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
22.7 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
Mountnessing Windmill
23.0 km
Explore the unique charm of Mountnessing Windmill, a historic attraction offering captivating views and a glimpse into England's milling heritage.
Dartford Crossing (Southbound)
23.9 km
Experience the engineering marvel of the Dartford Crossing, the busiest estuarial road crossing in the UK, linking Kent and Essex over the River Thames.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
24.2 km
Explore Hopefield Animal Sanctuary in Brentwood, a nurturing haven for rescued animals and a must-visit for nature-loving tourists seeking compassion and education.
Hylands House
24.6 km
Explore the historic Hylands House, a stunning landmark in Chelmsford, surrounded by lush gardens and rich cultural heritage, perfect for all visitors.
Combined Military Services Museum
25.5 km
Discover the rich tapestry of military history at the Combined Military Services Museum, an engaging attraction for history lovers in Maldon.
Chelmsford Cathedral
26.2 km
A serene 11th-century cathedral in the city centre offering free entry, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural events.
Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park
27.8 km
Experience family fun and educational adventures at Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park in Brentwood, where animals and amusement come together.
Unmissable attractions to see
Model Aircraft Flying Field
3.2 km
A scenic model aircraft airfield nestled within the tranquil salt marshes of Two Tree Island nature reserve.
Two Tree Island
3.5 km
A tranquil Essex nature reserve on the Thames Estuary, rich in wildlife, scenic trails, and coastal heritage.
Hadleigh Castle
3.7 km
Explore the romantic ruins of Hadleigh Castle with stunning views over the Thames Estuary and Essex marshes in a peaceful historic setting.
Leigh National Nature Reserve
3.7 km
A peaceful nature reserve in Southend-on-Sea offering scenic walks, rich wildlife, and year-round natural beauty.
Hadleigh Park
4.4 km
Explore Essex’s largest country park with panoramic estuary views, historic ruins, Olympic mountain bike trails, and family-friendly outdoor activities.
Canvey Wick
4.4 km
Discover Canvey Wick, a unique brownfield nature reserve in Essex, famed for its rare insects and vibrant habitats born from industrial past.
Belton Hills Nature Reserve
4.5 km
Discover peaceful coastal beauty and panoramic Thames views at Belton Hills Nature Reserve in Leigh-on-Sea.
Leigh Heritage Centre & Museum
4.9 km
Discover the maritime heritage of Leigh-on-Sea in a charming fisherman's cottage filled with local stories and artifacts.
Victoria Wharf
4.9 km
A peaceful waterfront park in Leigh-on-Sea blending coastal charm with historic maritime heritage.
Essex Wildlife Trust Belfairs Nature Discovery Centre
5.8 km
Explore ancient woodlands, wildlife, and community at Essex Wildlife Trust’s Belfairs Nature Discovery Centre in Leigh-on-Sea.
Chalkwell Tidal Paddling Pool
6.0 km
A safe, family-friendly seawater paddling pool on Chalkwell Beach offering classic British seaside fun and tidal exploration.
Chalkwell Park
6.6 km
A vibrant 27-hectare park in Southend-on-Sea featuring gardens, sports, playgrounds, arts, and community events for all ages.
Westcliff-on-Sea Beach
7.1 km
Classic British seaside charm with sandy shores, scenic estuary views, and a lively promenade in Southend-on-Sea’s Westcliff-on-Sea.
Sally's Out Of Curiosity
7.2 km
Discover unique antiques and recycled treasures at Sally's Out Of Curiosity, a charming shop for inquisitive collectors in Westcliff-on-Sea.
Eastwood Park
7.3 km
Explore Eastwood Park: A serene haven in Leigh-on-Sea, featuring stunning gardens, children's play areas, and picturesque walking paths for a perfect day out.
Essential places to dine
The Dining Room
4.9 km
Cozy British and European dining with fresh, local ingredients and friendly service in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
La Quinta Restaurant & Venue Hire - Benfleet Essex
4.9 km
Experience superb dining, lively entertainment, and warm hospitality at La Quinta, Benfleet’s premier restaurant and event venue.
Leigh Bistro Restaurant
5.5 km
Charming family-run bistro serving fresh contemporary European cuisine in the vibrant heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
Toulouse Restaurant
6.8 km
Modern European dining with fresh local flavors and stunning estuary views on Westcliff-on-Sea’s Western Esplanade.
Aspera
6.8 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a stylish and welcoming setting in Benfleet.
Oyster Creek Kitchen
7.0 km
Fresh seafood and coastal charm on the Westcliff waterfront, where attentive service meets seaside sophistication.
Padrino Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
7.2 km
Classic Italian dining with warm hospitality and flavorful pizzas in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea.
Prowse Restaurant
7.3 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality meet seaside charm at Prowse Restaurant in Westcliff-on-Sea.
Piccolo
7.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively dining by Southend’s beautiful seafront at Piccolo, a beloved Westcliff-on-Sea restaurant.
Great Tides Restaurant & Bar
7.7 km
Modern European dining with stunning sea views and a vibrant bar atmosphere on Westcliff Parade, Westcliff-on-Sea.
Il Mondo Southend
7.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea at Il Mondo Southend.
La Petite Petanque
8.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in a charming garden pavilion overlooking Southend’s bowling green, blending relaxed vibes with classic flavors.
The Sunflower Bistro
8.3 km
A welcoming, affordable bistro in Southend-on-Sea offering fresh British fare and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere perfect for any casual meal.
Aurum Restaurant
8.4 km
Refined modern British dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s boutique Seven Hotel.
The Mews
8.4 km
Intimate French-influenced dining in a characterful Victorian mews with warm hospitality and carefully crafted cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifts for All Home Decor
4.7 km
Discover unique, stylish home decor and gifts at Gifts for All Home Decor, Hadleigh’s charming boutique with quality and affordability.
Latham Street
5.2 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion reimagined with style and care at Latham Street in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
Store Thirty3
5.3 km
A charming gift shop on Elm Road offering unique local treasures in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea’s vibrant coastal town.
A Touch Too Wild
5.5 km
Elegant bespoke ladies' couture and formal wear boutique in the charming seaside town of Leigh-on-Sea.
La Luna Boutique
5.6 km
Discover unique bohemian fashion with a vintage rock ’n’ roll edge at La Luna Boutique in Leigh-on-Sea.
Argosy Toys & Gifts
7.4 km
Discover a treasure trove of toys and gifts at Argosy Toys, a cherished independent shop in Westcliff-on-Sea since 1947.
Eliza Boutique
7.4 km
Discover timeless style and personalized service at Eliza Boutique, Westcliff-on-Sea’s independent ladies’ fashion destination.
The Happy Sole
7.8 km
Discover the charm of Westcliff-on-Sea at The Happy Sole, your go-to shop for unique gifts and local treasures.
The Factory Shops
8.3 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
ideal gift shop
8.4 km
Discover unique and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea’s welcoming Ideal Gift Shop on London Road.
Linked UK Clothing Limited
8.4 km
Discover authentic luxury fashion with curated unworn and pre-owned designer pieces at Linked UK Clothing Limited in Southend-on-Sea.
By the Sea Vintage
8.4 km
Discover curated retro fashion and unique vintage treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant Alexandra Street.
Africa Crafts Centre
8.5 km
Discover authentic African crafts and vibrant textiles in Southend-on-Sea’s beloved cultural gift shop.
Santas Surprise Letter
8.5 km
Discover festive magic and unique personalized Santa letters at Santas Surprise Letter, Southend-on-Sea’s charming holiday gift shop.
Books-on-Sea
8.5 km
Rare and secondhand literary treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea's town centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Kitchen
4.7 km
A lively cocktail bar and tapas spot in Leigh-on-Sea, famed for creative drinks, generous small plates, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Ten Green Bottles
5.2 km
A cozy, quirky bar tucked away in Leigh-on-Sea’s Rectory Grove, offering great drinks, live music, and a friendly vibe.
Peggy’s Music Bar Ltd
6.1 km
Experience vibrant music nights and a welcoming vibe at Peggy’s Music Bar, Leigh-on-Sea’s hotspot for DJs and social fun.
The Trading Room Bar & Kitchen
7.4 km
A vibrant pub and kitchen in Westcliff-on-Sea offering hearty roasts, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Cliff
8.1 km
A lively, inclusive LGBT+ pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great cocktails, karaoke nights, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Park Tavern Southend-on-Sea
8.2 km
A lively, welcoming pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great drinks, hearty food, and a warm community atmosphere on London Road.
View Bar
8.2 km
Friendly seaside bar with great views, well-priced drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere on Southend’s Clifftown Parade.
The Alex
8.4 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great vegan options, casual British fare, and a vibrant social scene.
Aloha Lounge
8.4 km
Experience a vibrant tropical oasis in Southend-on-Sea with exceptional cocktails, island-inspired cuisine, and warm, welcoming vibes at Aloha Lounge.
The Olde Trout Tavern
8.4 km
A charming traditional English pub in Southend-on-Sea, renowned for real ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The N & M Club
8.5 km
Historic social club on Southend’s cliff top offering live entertainment, real ales, great food, and stunning sea views in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Hush Bar
8.5 km
A lively and affordable bar in Southend-on-Sea with a welcoming vibe and vibrant music scene for all-night socializing.
SAKS BAR SOUTHEND
8.5 km
A lively Southend pub blending live jazz, weekend music, and sports screenings in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Infinity Showbar
8.5 km
A vibrant hub for karaoke, drag shows, and late-night parties in Southend-on-Sea’s lively Alexandra Street nightlife district.
SWITCH
8.5 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and games lounge in Southend-on-Sea blending creative drinks with interactive fun and social gaming.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Moonraker Club
7.0 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Westcliff-on-Sea with top DJs, a powerful sound system, and a lively social scene for unforgettable nights out.
Sunrooms2
8.5 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
Foundation
8.5 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
8.7 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife at MooMoo Clubrooms, where themed rooms and lively beats create unforgettable party nights.
MYST Club
8.8 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Just Vibez
8.9 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
The Lounge Jazz Club
9.3 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Loft Basildon
11.5 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
22.4 km
Funky Friday Over 30's Night in Greenhithe offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music, perfect for dancing and socializing with friends.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
25.7 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Club Tantalize
25.7 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Popworld - Chelmsford
25.8 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Air & Breathe Nightclub
27.4 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
Faces NightClub
37.1 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
CQ LOUNGE
38.1 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Casual
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
