The Dip: A Coastal Gem in Southend-on-Sea
Discover the beauty of The Dip in Southend-on-Sea, where stunning coastal views and vibrant beach culture await every visitor.
The Dip is a charming coastal attraction in Southend-on-Sea, perfect for families and beach lovers. With its stunning views, sandy beaches, and vibrant atmosphere, it's an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation.
A brief summary to The Dip
- 282 Thorpe Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea, SS3 9HG, GB
Local tips
- Visit during the weekdays to avoid large crowds, especially in peak summer season.
- Bring along a picnic blanket to enjoy a meal with a view.
- Check the local events calendar for seasonal activities and festivals happening in the area.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the beach and exploring the nearby attractions.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head towards Southend-on-Sea and make your way to the seafront. From the A127, take the exit for Southend and follow signs for the seafront. Once you reach Thorpe Esplanade, look for parking options nearby. There are several pay-and-display car parks along the seafront. Once parked, walk towards 282 Thorpe Esplanade, which is where The Dip is located.
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Train
For those traveling by train, take a train to Southend Central or Southend Victoria Station from London or nearby areas. Upon arrival, exit the station and look for bus services or taxis. A taxi ride from either station to The Dip will take approximately 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can catch bus service number 9 or 11 from the Southend Central Station, which will take you closer to The Dip. Get off at the stop nearest to Thorpe Esplanade and walk the remaining distance to 282 Thorpe Esplanade.
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Bus
If you are using the bus, there are several local bus services that connect various parts of Southend-on-Sea. Routes 9, 11, and 25 will take you close to The Dip. Board any of these buses and get off at the Thorpe Esplanade stop. From there, it’s just a short walk to 282 Thorpe Esplanade.
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Walking
If you're already near the seafront, walking to The Dip is a lovely option. Simply head towards the beach along Thorpe Esplanade. The Dip is located at 282 Thorpe Esplanade, and you will find it easily as you stroll along the promenade, enjoying the seaside views.
Discover more about The Dip
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
4.8 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Laindon War Memorial
24.1 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
27.2 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.
Tilbury Fort
28.2 km
Discover the historical significance of Tilbury Fort, a well-preserved fortress along the River Thames, showcasing Britain's military heritage.
Barnards Miniature Railway
28.4 km
Discover the magic of model trains at Barnards Miniature Railway, a charming attraction in Brentwood offering fun for all ages amidst beautiful landscapes.
Mersea Island Museum
29.4 km
Explore the rich maritime heritage of Mersea Island at the captivating Mersea Island Museum, a hidden gem for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham
29.5 km
Explore the historic St Mary Magdalene Church in Cobham, a serene landmark with stunning architecture and a rich cultural heritage.
Ingatestone Hall
29.8 km
Experience the grandeur of Ingatestone Hall, a historic Tudor mansion offering a glimpse into England's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Hylands House
30.4 km
Explore the historic Hylands House, a stunning landmark in Chelmsford, surrounded by lush gardens and rich cultural heritage, perfect for all visitors.
Chelmsford Cathedral
30.6 km
A serene 11th-century cathedral in the city centre offering free entry, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural events.
National Trust - Copt Hall Marshes
30.8 km
Explore the natural beauty and rich wildlife of Copt Hall Marshes, a serene nature reserve in Little Wigborough, perfect for a peaceful day out.
Falklands Island Monument
30.9 km
A solemn tribute in Grays honoring merchant seafarers who sacrificed their lives in the 1982 Falklands War.
The Tiptree Jam Museum
31.1 km
Explore the delightful world of jam-making in Tiptree at the fascinating Tiptree Jam Museum, a sweet adventure for all visitors.
Mountnessing Windmill
31.6 km
Explore the unique charm of Mountnessing Windmill, a historic attraction offering captivating views and a glimpse into England's milling heritage.
Layer Marney Tower Weddings
32.9 km
Discover the enchanting Layer Marney Tower, a stunning Tudor manor offering picturesque gardens and a romantic setting for unforgettable weddings.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shoeburyness Park
1.7 km
A spacious 20-acre green haven in Shoeburyness offering sports, playgrounds, wild gardens, and a tranquil fishing lake for all ages.
Gunners Park
1.8 km
A tranquil coastal nature reserve in Essex blending diverse habitats, rare wildlife, and rich military history.
Southchurch Park
1.9 km
Sprawling 31-acre park near Southend seafront with sports, gardens, a boating lake, café, and family-friendly spaces for year-round enjoyment.
Shoebury Garrison Memorial
2.2 km
Honoring a storied military past, Shoebury Garrison Memorial offers historic architecture and coastal views steeped in artillery innovation and sacrifice.
Southchurch Hall Gardens
2.5 km
Discover Southchurch Hall Gardens, where medieval history meets tranquil green spaces in the heart of Southend-on-Sea.
Pangaea Adventure (Dinosaurs and Butterflies)
2.5 km
Step into a prehistoric jungle filled with roaring dinosaurs and vibrant butterflies at Southend’s immersive Pangaea Adventure.
Southchurch Hall
2.6 km
Discover Southend’s medieval moated manor, Southchurch Hall, where history, architecture, and tranquil gardens converge in a timeless heritage experience.
Sealife Adventure
2.6 km
Explore the UK’s first Zooquarium where sea life and land animals meet for an unforgettable family adventure in Southend-on-Sea.
East Beach Events
2.6 km
Experience Shoebury East Beach’s serene sandy shores, vibrant watersports, and family-friendly picnic spots in Southend-on-Sea’s scenic coastal haven.
Friars Park
2.7 km
A peaceful 18.9-acre park in Shoeburyness offering lush greenery, wildlife, and a welcoming space for families and nature lovers.
Shoebury East Beach
2.8 km
A peaceful sandy beach with rich WWII history, vibrant watersports, and family-friendly facilities in Southend-on-Sea.
Jubilee Beach
2.9 km
A lively shingle beach in Southend-on-Sea with family-friendly splash fountains, a vibrant promenade, and iconic nearby attractions.
Happidrome Arcade
2.9 km
Classic seaside arcade fun with a retro twist, perfect for family-friendly gaming and nostalgic entertainment on Southend’s Marine Parade.
City Beach Fountains
2.9 km
A lively and family-friendly splash fountain attraction set on Southend’s vibrant City Beach, perfect for playful days by the sea.
Southend-on-Sea Seafront
3.1 km
Experience seven miles of vibrant British seaside charm with historic piers, thrilling amusement parks, and scenic coastal views at Southend-on-Sea Seafront.
Essential places to dine
Since Kitchen & Bar
1.0 km
Chic grill dining with fresh global flavors, exceptional wines, and crafted cocktails in the heart of Thorpe Bay.
Sunset Bar and Restaurant
1.4 km
Cozy Italian dining by the Southend-on-Sea waterfront, blending fresh seafood and warm hospitality in an intimate seaside setting.
Ocean Beach
1.7 km
Modern European beach club and restaurant with stunning sea views, family-friendly vibes, and a vibrant coastal atmosphere in Southend-on-Sea.
Billy Hundreds Fish n Tapas
1.8 km
Fresh seafood tapas with a family touch, served in a vibrant beachfront setting on Southend-on-Sea’s Eastern Esplanade.
The Seafood Shack
2.6 km
Fresh, flavorful seafood and a welcoming atmosphere await at Southend’s vibrant seafront gem, The Seafood Shack.
Monti Ristorante Italiano
2.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Monti Ristorante Italiano in Southend-on-Sea.
Rose Restaurant
3.2 km
Fresh English and European cuisine served with friendly warmth on Southend’s scenic Marine Parade, perfect for family dining by the sea.
The Royal Hotel
3.5 km
Historic charm meets modern dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s iconic Royal Hotel.
Tomassi's
3.5 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
3.6 km
A cozy Southend-on-Sea cafe serving hearty breakfasts and classic British fare with friendly service and great value.
The Pipe of Port
3.6 km
A cozy Dickensian wine bar and restaurant in Southend, famed for hearty British pies and an exceptional wine cellar since 1976.
Aurum Restaurant
3.6 km
Refined modern British dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s boutique Seven Hotel.
San Fairie Ann
3.7 km
Eclectic Modern European dining with vibrant live music and unique events in the heart of Southend-on-Sea.
Waves Restaurant
3.7 km
Modern European fine dining with a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s Luker Road.
The Mews
3.7 km
Intimate French-influenced dining in a characterful Victorian mews with warm hospitality and carefully crafted cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Under the Sun
2.6 km
Discover unique gifts, charming décor, and warm service at Under the Sun, Southend-on-Sea’s beloved local treasure.
Evie Bleu
2.6 km
Discover sophisticated, comfortable women’s fashion at Evie Bleu Boutique, Southend-on-Sea’s independent style destination since 2000.
Southend on sea
2.8 km
Discover Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant seaside charm, iconic pier, and diverse shopping centres just 40 miles from London.
Guru Gifts & Gadgets
2.8 km
Discover quirky toys, gadgets, and heartfelt cards at Southend-on-Sea’s beloved gift shop, perfect for every occasion and celebration.
The Rockery
2.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at The Rockery, a charming seaside shop on Southend’s vibrant Marine Parade.
Southend Rock & Gifts
2.9 km
Discover charming seaside souvenirs and unique gifts at Southend Rock & Gifts, nestled on the vibrant Marine Parade.
Books-on-Sea
3.6 km
Rare and secondhand literary treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea's town centre.
By the Sea Vintage
3.7 km
Discover curated retro fashion and unique vintage treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant Alexandra Street.
Santas Surprise Letter
3.7 km
Discover festive magic and unique personalized Santa letters at Santas Surprise Letter, Southend-on-Sea’s charming holiday gift shop.
Clinton Cards
3.7 km
A classic British card and gift shop on Southend’s High Street, offering thoughtful cards and gifts in a welcoming setting.
Teddy Station
3.8 km
Discover rare collectible teddy bears and join a warm community of enthusiasts at Southend’s Teddy Station, a haven for teddy bear lovers.
The Works
3.8 km
Affordable gifts, books, art supplies and toys in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s High Street.
Victoria Shopping Centre
3.8 km
Modern shopping hub with 30+ stores, dining, and entertainment adjacent to Victoria Railway Station.
Linked UK Clothing Limited
3.8 km
Discover authentic luxury fashion with curated unworn and pre-owned designer pieces at Linked UK Clothing Limited in Southend-on-Sea.
That's Bizarre
3.9 km
Discover unique gifts, personalised keepsakes, and high-vibration crystals at That's Bizarre, Southend-on-Sea’s family-run alternative gift shop since 1971.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Exchange Bar & Kitchen
2.6 km
A vibrant grill and live music pub in Southend-on-Sea offering classic British fare with a modern twist and a lively atmosphere.
The Cornucopia
3.0 km
A cozy, traditional seafront pub in Southend-on-Sea, cherished for its intimate atmosphere and friendly local charm.
Papillon
3.2 km
Lively seafront pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great drinks, free live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
Legbas - Private Hire Speakeasy Bar
3.5 km
An exclusive, vintage-inspired speakeasy bar in Southend-on-Sea’s Royal Hotel basement, perfect for private celebrations and crafted cocktails.
The Terrace Bar & Restaurant
3.5 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar with lively entertainment and a spacious terrace near Southend’s iconic seafront.
Twelve Brunch & Cocktails
3.6 km
A lively hotspot in Southend-on-Sea where brunch delights meet expertly crafted cocktails in a trendy, vibrant setting.
The N & M Club
3.6 km
Historic social club on Southend’s cliff top offering live entertainment, real ales, great food, and stunning sea views in a welcoming atmosphere.
Infinity Showbar
3.6 km
A vibrant hub for karaoke, drag shows, and late-night parties in Southend-on-Sea’s lively Alexandra Street nightlife district.
The Last Post - JD Wetherspoon
3.6 km
Historic post office turned lively JD Wetherspoon pub and hotel in Southend-on-Sea, offering affordable dining, live sports, and comfortable stays.
Cow and Telescope
3.6 km
A lively Southend-on-Sea pub renowned for live music, great beers, and a welcoming atmosphere with a charming beer garden.
Popworld Southend
3.7 km
Popworld Southend: Where nostalgic pop hits meet vibrant nightlife for unforgettable party experiences in Essex.
The Dickens
3.7 km
Lively pub and nightclub in Southend-on-Sea offering karaoke, great drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all-night fun.
Bart's Bar
3.7 km
Discover Bart's Bar in Southend-on-Sea, where refreshing drinks and a vibrant atmosphere meet for an unforgettable night out.
The Hush Bar
3.7 km
A lively and affordable bar in Southend-on-Sea with a welcoming vibe and vibrant music scene for all-night socializing.
The Alex
3.7 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great vegan options, casual British fare, and a vibrant social scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
MYST Club
3.2 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Just Vibez
3.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
Sunrooms2
3.6 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
3.6 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
3.7 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife at MooMoo Clubrooms, where themed rooms and lively beats create unforgettable party nights.
The Moonraker Club
5.3 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.
The Lounge Jazz Club
7.3 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
21.7 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
30.2 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
30.3 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Popworld - Chelmsford
30.3 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
34.0 km
Funky Friday Over 30's Night in Greenhithe offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music, perfect for dancing and socializing with friends.
Air & Breathe Nightclub
39.0 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
41.1 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
41.4 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.