Wayfinding Stone, Southend-on-Sea
A modern stone circle landmark at Southend’s High Street, blending local heritage with urban wayfinding and cultural connection.
The Wayfinding Stone is a distinctive stone circle landmark located at the top of Southend-on-Sea’s High Street. This public art installation serves as a navigational and cultural feature, highlighting local history and nearby attractions. It offers visitors a unique point of reference within the bustling town centre, blending heritage with modern urban design.
A brief summary to Wayfinding Stone
- High St, Southend-on-Sea, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stone’s details and the surrounding High Street atmosphere.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along Southend Pier or explore nearby shops and cafes.
- Look for informational plaques or signage near the stone to learn about its significance and local history.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the High Street area is best explored on foot.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Train
From London, take a train to Southend Central or Southend Victoria stations, with journey times typically between 45 and 60 minutes. Both stations are within walking distance of the High Street and the Wayfinding Stone. Trains run frequently throughout the day, with standard fares ranging from £10 to £20 one way.
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Bus
Numerous local bus routes serve Southend town centre, including services from surrounding suburbs and nearby towns. Bus travel times vary from 15 to 45 minutes depending on origin. Tickets usually cost between £2 and £5. Alight near the High Street to reach the Wayfinding Stone within a short walk.
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Car
Driving to Southend-on-Sea via the A127 or A13 is straightforward, with journey times from nearby towns ranging from 20 to 60 minutes depending on traffic. Limited parking is available near the High Street, often metered or time-restricted. Expect parking fees around £1.50 to £3 per hour.
Wayfinding Stone location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Wayfinding Stone
A Symbolic Landmark at Southend's Heart
The Wayfinding Stone stands prominently at the northern end of Southend-on-Sea’s High Street, acting as a modern focal point for visitors and locals alike. Designed as a stone circle, it is more than just an artistic installation—it serves a practical purpose by guiding people to key local destinations. The stone’s placement at this busy urban junction invites exploration and offers a moment of pause amid the vibrant town centre.Connecting Past and Present
This landmark reflects Southend’s rich local heritage, subtly incorporating elements that celebrate the town’s history and cultural identity. The stone circle references traditional wayfinding methods, evoking a sense of timeless navigation. Nearby, Southend’s famous pier and historic shopping streets complement the stone’s role as a gateway to the town’s many attractions, linking the past with contemporary urban life.Urban Design and Public Space Enhancement
The installation contributes to the ongoing regeneration and enhancement of Southend’s public spaces. Crafted with durable materials suited to the coastal environment, the Wayfinding Stone is part of a broader effort to improve pedestrian experiences and wayfinding in the town centre. Its presence encourages foot traffic and supports local businesses by drawing attention to the High Street’s vibrant retail and leisure offerings.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors encountering the Wayfinding Stone can appreciate its calm yet distinctive presence amidst the lively urban setting. The stone circle invites reflection and curiosity, offering a tactile and visual point of interest. It is surrounded by the dynamic atmosphere of Southend’s High Street, where shopping, dining, and cultural activities converge, making it a convenient and memorable meeting spot.Integration Within Southend’s Coastal Identity
Southend-on-Sea is renowned for its seaside charm and long pier, and the Wayfinding Stone complements this coastal identity by serving as an inland anchor point. It subtly echoes the town’s maritime heritage through its circular form, reminiscent of navigational compasses and traditional markers used by sailors. This connection enriches the visitor’s understanding of Southend’s unique character.Accessibility and Urban Context
Situated on the High Street, the Wayfinding Stone is easily accessible to pedestrians and well connected to public transport routes serving Southend. The surrounding area features quality paving and street furniture that enhance the urban environment. The stone’s location ensures it is a natural stop for those exploring the town centre or heading towards nearby landmarks such as Southend Pier and the seafront.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Falklands Island Monument
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Mersea Island Museum
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The Tiptree Jam Museum
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Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
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Upside Down House – Lakeside
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Return
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Experience the vibrant coastal charm and stunning views of Southend-on-Sea at The Return, a perfect blend of seaside beauty and urban energy.
Focal Point Gallery
0.2 km
Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant contemporary art gallery offering free exhibitions, workshops, and outdoor digital art in a welcoming city-centre setting.
Southend Museums Wellbeing Garden
0.2 km
A peaceful garden retreat beside Southend’s Central Museum, nurturing wellbeing through nature and community gardening.
Southend Central Museum & Planetarium
0.2 km
Explore Southend’s rich history and the wonders of the night sky at this unique museum and planetarium on Victoria Avenue.
Porters Civic House & Mayor's Parlour
0.4 km
Discover the historic charm and civic heritage of Porters Civic House & Mayor's Parlour, a 15th-century landmark in Southend-on-Sea.
Hobbycraft Southend
0.5 km
A vibrant craft store in Southend-on-Sea offering extensive supplies, expert workshops, and a welcoming creative community.
Pulp Kitchen
0.6 km
Cozy Southend bistro serving fresh, healthy dishes with vegan and gluten-free options in a friendly, jazzy atmosphere.
Rocket01 street art mural
0.6 km
A vibrant, large-scale street art mural by Rocket01 that energizes Southend-on-Sea with bold colors and urban creativity.
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.
Prittlewell Gardens
0.7 km
Discover Southend’s oldest park, a serene garden oasis with vibrant blooms, a tranquil pond, and scenic estuary views in the town centre.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.7 km
Historic marble statue of Queen Victoria overlooking Southend’s seafront, symbolizing Victorian heritage and seaside charm.
The Shrubbery
0.7 km
A historic cliffside garden in Southend-on-Sea blending Georgian charm with tranquil seaside greenery and scenic estuary views.
Cliff Lift
0.7 km
Ride Britain’s shortest historic funicular railway, a charming vintage lift linking Southend’s clifftop to its scenic seafront.
Never Never Land
0.8 km
Step into the enchanting fairy-tale world of Never Never Land, Southend’s magical seaside park filled with whimsical castles and timeless charm.
Southend Observation Tower
0.8 km
Historic Pier Hill lift offering stunning panoramic views over the Thames Estuary in Southend-on-Sea.
Essential places to dine
Il Pescatore
0.1 km
Experience authentic Sicilian seafood and Italian hospitality in the heart of Southend-on-Sea at Il Pescatore.
Molo Lounge
0.1 km
A vibrant, artsy lounge on Southend’s High Street offering extensive vegan and gluten-free menus in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
ASK Italian
0.1 km
Modern Italian dining near Southend seafront, blending classic flavors with community spirit and seasonal delights.
Brickhouse
0.1 km
A lively Southend-on-Sea hotspot serving up juicy burgers and smoky barbecue in a casual, welcoming setting with great value.
The Sunflower Bistro
0.3 km
A welcoming, affordable bistro in Southend-on-Sea offering fresh British fare and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere perfect for any casual meal.
Waves Restaurant
0.4 km
Modern European fine dining with a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s Luker Road.
The Pipe of Port
0.4 km
A cozy Dickensian wine bar and restaurant in Southend, famed for hearty British pies and an exceptional wine cellar since 1976.
The Mews
0.5 km
Intimate French-influenced dining in a characterful Victorian mews with warm hospitality and carefully crafted cuisine.
Clarence Restaurant & Cafe
0.5 km
A cozy Southend-on-Sea cafe serving hearty breakfasts and classic British fare with friendly service and great value.
La Petite Petanque
0.5 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in a charming garden pavilion overlooking Southend’s bowling green, blending relaxed vibes with classic flavors.
San Fairie Ann
0.6 km
Eclectic Modern European dining with vibrant live music and unique events in the heart of Southend-on-Sea.
Tomassi's
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A welcoming Southend-on-Sea eatery serving hearty meals, pizzas, and ice cream in a friendly, casual setting on the town’s High Street.
Aurum Restaurant
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Refined modern British dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s boutique Seven Hotel.
The Royal Hotel
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Historic charm meets modern dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s iconic Royal Hotel.
Rose Restaurant
0.9 km
Fresh English and European cuisine served with friendly warmth on Southend’s scenic Marine Parade, perfect for family dining by the sea.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Victoria Shopping Centre
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Modern shopping hub with 30+ stores, dining, and entertainment adjacent to Victoria Railway Station.
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.
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.
The Works
0.1 km
Affordable gifts, books, art supplies and toys in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s High Street.
Clinton Cards
0.1 km
A classic British card and gift shop on Southend’s High Street, offering thoughtful cards and gifts in a welcoming setting.
Africa Crafts Centre
0.2 km
Discover authentic African crafts and vibrant textiles in Southend-on-Sea’s beloved cultural gift shop.
ideal gift shop
0.3 km
Discover unique and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea’s welcoming Ideal Gift Shop on London Road.
Santas Surprise Letter
0.4 km
Discover festive magic and unique personalized Santa letters at Santas Surprise Letter, Southend-on-Sea’s charming holiday gift shop.
Linked UK Clothing Limited
0.5 km
Discover authentic luxury fashion with curated unworn and pre-owned designer pieces at Linked UK Clothing Limited in Southend-on-Sea.
Two Vintage
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Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Two Vintage, Southend-on-Sea’s curated clothing boutique.
No Potential
0.5 km
Independent art studio and vintage fashion shop blending creative practice with curated nostalgia.
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
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Steptoe and Mum / Antique and Retro Boutique / With House Clearance Service
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Southend Rock & Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Boom Battle Bar Southend-on-Sea
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Slug & Lettuce - Southend
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SWITCH
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Bart's Bar
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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.
Cow and Telescope
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The Olde Trout Tavern
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The Dickens
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Lively pub and nightclub in Southend-on-Sea offering karaoke, great drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all-night fun.
SAKS BAR SOUTHEND
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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.
Aloha Lounge
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Experience a vibrant tropical oasis in Southend-on-Sea with exceptional cocktails, island-inspired cuisine, and warm, welcoming vibes at Aloha Lounge.
The Hush Bar
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A lively and affordable bar in Southend-on-Sea with a welcoming vibe and vibrant music scene for all-night socializing.
Park Tavern Southend-on-Sea
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A lively, welcoming pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great drinks, hearty food, and a warm community atmosphere on London Road.
The Cliff
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A lively, inclusive LGBT+ pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great cocktails, karaoke nights, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Infinity Showbar
0.5 km
A vibrant hub for karaoke, drag shows, and late-night parties in Southend-on-Sea’s lively Alexandra Street nightlife district.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Casual
- Scenic
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
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
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
