Happidrome Arcade: Classic Family Fun by the Sea
Classic seaside arcade fun with a retro twist, perfect for family-friendly gaming and nostalgic entertainment on Southend’s Marine Parade.
Happidrome Arcade, located on Southend-on-Sea’s Marine Parade, offers a vibrant mix of traditional and modern arcade games for all ages. With its inviting atmosphere, it features fruit machines, 2p pushers, novelty games, and a retro gaming area, making it a popular spot for families and gaming enthusiasts alike. Open daily with extended hours on weekends, this arcade combines nostalgic charm with lively entertainment in a seaside setting.
A brief summary to Happidrome Arcade
- 52 Marine Parade, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 2EN, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-7 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-7 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-10 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekends or Friday evenings for extended hours and a livelier atmosphere.
- Try the retro gaming section for a nostalgic experience with classic arcade machines.
- Bring small change for 2p pushers and fruit machines, which are popular and fun to play.
- Ask staff for assistance if your prize gets stuck—they often help or offer extra rewards.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services 7, 8, or 9 to Southend Central, then walk approximately 10 minutes along Marine Parade to reach Happidrome Arcade. Buses run frequently with fares around £2-£3.
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Train
From London Liverpool Street, take a direct train to Southend Central (travel time 50-60 minutes). From the station, it is a 15-minute walk to the arcade along the seafront promenade.
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Car
Drive to Marine Parade, Southend-on-Sea. Nearby public parking is available but can be limited during peak times. Parking fees typically range from £1.50 to £3 per hour.
Happidrome Arcade location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Happidrome Arcade
A Seaside Arcade with a Storied Atmosphere
Nestled along the bustling Marine Parade in Southend-on-Sea, Happidrome Arcade stands as a beacon of classic amusement and family-friendly entertainment. This arcade blends the nostalgic appeal of traditional British seaside arcades with a contemporary gaming experience. Visitors are greeted by rows of fruit machines, 2p pushers, and novelty games that evoke a sense of playful competition and fun.Diverse Gaming Options for Every Visitor
Happidrome offers a wide variety of games catering to different tastes and ages. Beyond the standard arcade fare, it features a dedicated retro area filled with classic machines, appealing to enthusiasts of vintage gaming. The presence of a gambling section for adults adds another layer of excitement, carefully separated to maintain a family-friendly environment.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The arcade is known for its quieter ambiance compared to other nearby venues, allowing guests to enjoy their games without overwhelming noise or crowds. Friendly staff are on hand to assist, ensuring smooth play and occasional extra prizes if machines get stuck. The arcade’s layout encourages relaxed socializing, making it a comfortable spot for families, groups, and solo visitors.Location and Surroundings
Situated just a few yards from Southend’s main arcades, Happidrome benefits from its prime location on the seafront, offering visitors a chance to combine gaming with a stroll along the promenade. The surrounding area is lively yet less hectic than the central arcades, providing a pleasant balance of activity and calm.Hours and Accessibility
Open daily from mid-morning to early evening on weekdays and extending late into the night on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, Happidrome accommodates a range of schedules. Its accessible location on Marine Parade makes it easy to reach by public transport or car, with nearby amenities enhancing the visit.Community and Legacy
With over 120 ratings reflecting a solid reputation, Happidrome Arcade remains a cherished part of Southend’s entertainment scene. It continues to attract locals and tourists alike, preserving the charm of seaside arcades while adapting to modern tastes and expectations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Ingatestone Hall
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St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham
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Hylands House
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Falklands Island Monument
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Chelmsford Cathedral
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Mountnessing Windmill
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Mersea Island Museum
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The Tiptree Jam Museum
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Upside Down House – Lakeside
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National Trust - Copt Hall Marshes
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Explore the natural beauty and rich wildlife of Copt Hall Marshes, a serene nature reserve in Little Wigborough, perfect for a peaceful day out.
Unmissable attractions to see
City Beach Fountains
0.0 km
A lively and family-friendly splash fountain attraction set on Southend’s vibrant City Beach, perfect for playful days by the sea.
Jubilee Beach
0.1 km
A lively shingle beach in Southend-on-Sea with family-friendly splash fountains, a vibrant promenade, and iconic nearby attractions.
Southend-on-Sea Seafront
0.2 km
Experience seven miles of vibrant British seaside charm with historic piers, thrilling amusement parks, and scenic coastal views at Southend-on-Sea Seafront.
Sealife Adventure
0.3 km
Explore the UK’s first Zooquarium where sea life and land animals meet for an unforgettable family adventure in Southend-on-Sea.
Spinning Turtle Ride
0.3 km
Enjoy gentle spinning swings on the turtle-themed Archelon ride at Adventure Island, a lively seaside amusement park in Southend-on-Sea.
Pangaea Adventure (Dinosaurs and Butterflies)
0.4 km
Step into a prehistoric jungle filled with roaring dinosaurs and vibrant butterflies at Southend’s immersive Pangaea Adventure.
Adventure Island
0.4 km
Southend’s vibrant beachfront amusement park offering free entry, thrilling rides, indoor fun, and family-friendly entertainment all year round.
Adventure Inside
0.5 km
A vibrant indoor playground and ride zone for children under 10, offering year-round fun and soft play at Southend’s Adventure Island.
Southend Pier and Railway
0.5 km
Experience the world's longest pleasure pier, blending rich history, scenic railway rides, and vibrant seaside leisure in Southend-on-Sea.
Southend Observation Tower
0.5 km
Historic Pier Hill lift offering stunning panoramic views over the Thames Estuary in Southend-on-Sea.
The Royals Shopping Centre
0.6 km
A vibrant shopping hub at Southend-on-Sea’s High Street southern end, blending retail variety with coastal charm and visitor-friendly amenities.
Southchurch Hall Gardens
0.6 km
Discover Southchurch Hall Gardens, where medieval history meets tranquil green spaces in the heart of Southend-on-Sea.
The Shrubbery
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A historic cliffside garden in Southend-on-Sea blending Georgian charm with tranquil seaside greenery and scenic estuary views.
Never Never Land
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Step into the enchanting fairy-tale world of Never Never Land, Southend’s magical seaside park filled with whimsical castles and timeless charm.
Southchurch Hall
0.6 km
Discover Southend’s medieval moated manor, Southchurch Hall, where history, architecture, and tranquil gardens converge in a timeless heritage experience.
Essential places to dine
Rose Restaurant
0.3 km
Fresh English and European cuisine served with friendly warmth on Southend’s scenic Marine Parade, perfect for family dining by the sea.
The Seafood Shack
0.3 km
Fresh, flavorful seafood and a welcoming atmosphere await at Southend’s vibrant seafront gem, The Seafood Shack.
The Royal Hotel
0.6 km
Historic charm meets modern dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s iconic Royal Hotel.
Tomassi's
0.6 km
A welcoming Southend-on-Sea eatery serving hearty meals, pizzas, and ice cream in a friendly, casual setting on the town’s High Street.
Clarence Restaurant & Cafe
0.7 km
A cozy Southend-on-Sea cafe serving hearty breakfasts and classic British fare with friendly service and great value.
Aurum Restaurant
0.7 km
Refined modern British dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s boutique Seven Hotel.
The Pipe of Port
0.7 km
A cozy Dickensian wine bar and restaurant in Southend, famed for hearty British pies and an exceptional wine cellar since 1976.
San Fairie Ann
0.8 km
Eclectic Modern European dining with vibrant live music and unique events in the heart of Southend-on-Sea.
Waves Restaurant
0.8 km
Modern European fine dining with a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s Luker Road.
The Mews
0.9 km
Intimate French-influenced dining in a characterful Victorian mews with warm hospitality and carefully crafted cuisine.
La Petite Petanque
0.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in a charming garden pavilion overlooking Southend’s bowling green, blending relaxed vibes with classic flavors.
Monti Ristorante Italiano
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Monti Ristorante Italiano in Southend-on-Sea.
Molo Lounge
1.0 km
A vibrant, artsy lounge on Southend’s High Street offering extensive vegan and gluten-free menus in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Il Pescatore
1.1 km
Experience authentic Sicilian seafood and Italian hospitality in the heart of Southend-on-Sea at Il Pescatore.
Billy Hundreds Fish n Tapas
1.1 km
Fresh seafood tapas with a family touch, served in a vibrant beachfront setting on Southend-on-Sea’s Eastern Esplanade.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Rockery
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Discover unique gifts and local treasures at The Rockery, a charming seaside shop on Southend’s vibrant Marine Parade.
Southend Rock & Gifts
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Discover charming seaside souvenirs and unique gifts at Southend Rock & Gifts, nestled on the vibrant Marine Parade.
Books-on-Sea
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Rare and secondhand literary treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea's town centre.
By the Sea Vintage
0.8 km
Discover curated retro fashion and unique vintage treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant Alexandra Street.
Santas Surprise Letter
0.8 km
Discover festive magic and unique personalized Santa letters at Santas Surprise Letter, Southend-on-Sea’s charming holiday gift shop.
Southend on sea
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Discover Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant seaside charm, iconic pier, and diverse shopping centres just 40 miles from London.
Linked UK Clothing Limited
0.9 km
Discover authentic luxury fashion with curated unworn and pre-owned designer pieces at Linked UK Clothing Limited in Southend-on-Sea.
Guru Gifts & Gadgets
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Discover quirky toys, gadgets, and heartfelt cards at Southend-on-Sea’s beloved gift shop, perfect for every occasion and celebration.
Clinton Cards
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A classic British card and gift shop on Southend’s High Street, offering thoughtful cards and gifts in a welcoming setting.
The Works
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Affordable gifts, books, art supplies and toys in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s High Street.
Teddy Station
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Discover rare collectible teddy bears and join a warm community of enthusiasts at Southend’s Teddy Station, a haven for teddy bear lovers.
Victoria Shopping Centre
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Modern shopping hub with 30+ stores, dining, and entertainment adjacent to Victoria Railway Station.
That's Bizarre
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Discover unique gifts, personalised keepsakes, and high-vibration crystals at That's Bizarre, Southend-on-Sea’s family-run alternative gift shop since 1971.
Evie Bleu
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Africa Crafts Centre
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Discover authentic African crafts and vibrant textiles in Southend-on-Sea’s beloved cultural gift shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cornucopia
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Papillon
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Legbas - Private Hire Speakeasy Bar
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The Terrace Bar & Restaurant
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The N & M Club
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Historic social club on Southend’s cliff top offering live entertainment, real ales, great food, and stunning sea views in a welcoming atmosphere.
Twelve Brunch & Cocktails
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Infinity Showbar
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The Last Post - JD Wetherspoon
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Historic post office turned lively JD Wetherspoon pub and hotel in Southend-on-Sea, offering affordable dining, live sports, and comfortable stays.
The Alex
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The Hush Bar
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SAKS BAR SOUTHEND
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The Dickens
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Popworld Southend
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Popworld Southend: Where nostalgic pop hits meet vibrant nightlife for unforgettable party experiences in Essex.
Aloha Lounge
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Cow and Telescope
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
MYST Club
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Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Sunrooms2
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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
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Just Vibez
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MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
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The Moonraker Club
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The Lounge Jazz Club
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The Loft Basildon
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Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
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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
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Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Popworld - Chelmsford
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Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
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Air & Breathe Nightclub
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Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
41.2 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
Trilogy Nightclub
41.5 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
- Casual
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly