The Pipe of Port: Southend’s Dickensian Wine Bar and Pie Haven
A cozy Dickensian wine bar and restaurant in Southend, famed for hearty British pies and an exceptional wine cellar since 1976.
Nestled beneath a discreet entrance on Southend’s High Street, The Pipe of Port is a charming wine bar and restaurant renowned for its cozy Dickensian ambiance, extensive wine cellar, and hearty traditional British pies. Since 1976, it has offered a unique dining experience with a rustic atmosphere, attentive service, and a carefully curated wine list that perfectly complements its menu of classic British dishes.
A brief summary to The Pipe of Port
- 84 High St, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1JN, GB
- +441702614606
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Try the signature chicken and chestnut pie or the steak, kidney, and mushroom pie, both known for their generous portions and rich flavors.
- Ask the knowledgeable staff for wine pairings to perfectly complement your meal from their extensive cellar.
- Visit during themed wine tasting evenings to experience rare vintage ports and special selections.
- The venue is dimly lit with candlelight; bringing a phone light can help when reading the menu.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Pipe of Port location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Pipe of Port
A Hidden Gem with Historical Charm
Tucked away behind an almost anonymous door that leads down a flight of stairs, The Pipe of Port invites visitors into a warm, intimate basement setting that exudes a Dickensian character. The sawdust-strewn floor and candlelit tables create an old-world ambiance reminiscent of a traditional English wine vault. This distinctive atmosphere has made it a beloved fixture in Southend-on-Sea since its establishment in 1976, offering a timeless retreat from the bustling High Street above.Traditional British Fare with a Focus on Pies
The culinary heart of The Pipe of Port lies in its celebrated pies, which are generously sized and crafted with rich, flavorful fillings. Signature offerings include the chicken and chestnut pie with its towering flaky crust and the classic steak, kidney, and mushroom pie encased in shortcrust pastry. Accompaniments such as smooth buttery mash or boiled potatoes enhance the hearty, comforting nature of the dishes. The menu also features other traditional British staples, all prepared with care to maintain authenticity and depth of flavor.A Curated Wine Experience
The Pipe of Port doubles as a wine merchant, boasting an impressive cellar stocked with a wide range of wines, including vintage ports. The knowledgeable staff excel in pairing wines with each dish, taking the guesswork out of selecting the perfect bottle to complement your meal. The wine list is thoughtfully curated to enhance the dining experience, featuring both local and international selections that cater to diverse palates.Inviting Atmosphere and Attentive Service
Despite its cozy size and somewhat dim lighting, the venue maintains a welcoming and convivial atmosphere. The staff are praised for their friendliness, expertise, and attentiveness, often engaging guests with insightful recommendations about wines and menu items. The intimate setting, combined with the rustic decor and candlelight, makes it an ideal spot for relaxed dining or special occasions.Community and Longevity
Having stood the test of time for nearly five decades, The Pipe of Port has cultivated a loyal local following and continues to attract visitors seeking an authentic taste of Southend’s culinary heritage. Its commitment to traditional recipes and quality ingredients, along with its unique ambiance, ensures it remains a cherished destination for both locals and tourists.Seasonal and Themed Offerings
The Pipe of Port occasionally hosts themed wine tasting evenings and special events where rare vintage bottles are opened for guests to sample. These events add an extra layer of interest and exclusivity, inviting patrons to deepen their appreciation of fine wines in an engaging social setting. Overall, The Pipe of Port offers a distinctive blend of historic charm, culinary tradition, and wine expertise, making it a standout venue in Southend-on-Sea’s dining scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Chelmsford Cathedral
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Falklands Island Monument
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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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Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
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Explore Hopefield Animal Sanctuary in Brentwood, a nurturing haven for rescued animals and a must-visit for nature-loving tourists seeking compassion and education.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Royals Shopping Centre
0.3 km
A vibrant shopping hub at Southend-on-Sea’s High Street southern end, blending retail variety with coastal charm and visitor-friendly amenities.
Rocket01 street art mural
0.3 km
A vibrant, large-scale street art mural by Rocket01 that energizes Southend-on-Sea with bold colors and urban creativity.
Focal Point Gallery
0.3 km
Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant contemporary art gallery offering free exhibitions, workshops, and outdoor digital art in a welcoming city-centre setting.
The Shrubbery
0.4 km
A historic cliffside garden in Southend-on-Sea blending Georgian charm with tranquil seaside greenery and scenic estuary views.
Wayfinding Stone
0.4 km
A modern stone circle landmark at Southend’s High Street, blending local heritage with urban wayfinding and cultural connection.
Never Never Land
0.4 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
0.4 km
Historic Pier Hill lift offering stunning panoramic views over the Thames Estuary in Southend-on-Sea.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.4 km
Historic marble statue of Queen Victoria overlooking Southend’s seafront, symbolizing Victorian heritage and seaside charm.
Cliff Lift
0.4 km
Ride Britain’s shortest historic funicular railway, a charming vintage lift linking Southend’s clifftop to its scenic seafront.
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.
Prittlewell Gardens
0.5 km
Discover Southend’s oldest park, a serene garden oasis with vibrant blooms, a tranquil pond, and scenic estuary views in the town centre.
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.
Porters Civic House & Mayor's Parlour
0.5 km
Discover the historic charm and civic heritage of Porters Civic House & Mayor's Parlour, a 15th-century landmark in Southend-on-Sea.
Adventure Island
0.5 km
Southend’s vibrant beachfront amusement park offering free entry, thrilling rides, indoor fun, and family-friendly entertainment all year round.
The Return
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant coastal charm and stunning views of Southend-on-Sea at The Return, a perfect blend of seaside beauty and urban energy.
Essential places to dine
The Pipe of Port
0.0 km
A cozy Dickensian wine bar and restaurant in Southend, famed for hearty British pies and an exceptional wine cellar since 1976.
Waves Restaurant
0.1 km
Modern European fine dining with a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s Luker Road.
Clarence Restaurant & Cafe
0.1 km
A cozy Southend-on-Sea cafe serving hearty breakfasts and classic British fare with friendly service and great value.
The Mews
0.2 km
Intimate French-influenced dining in a characterful Victorian mews with warm hospitality and carefully crafted cuisine.
Tomassi's
0.3 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.
San Fairie Ann
0.3 km
Eclectic Modern European dining with vibrant live music and unique events in the heart of Southend-on-Sea.
The Royal Hotel
0.3 km
Historic charm meets modern dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s iconic Royal Hotel.
Molo Lounge
0.3 km
A vibrant, artsy lounge on Southend’s High Street offering extensive vegan and gluten-free menus in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
La Petite Petanque
0.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in a charming garden pavilion overlooking Southend’s bowling green, blending relaxed vibes with classic flavors.
Aurum Restaurant
0.3 km
Refined modern British dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s boutique Seven Hotel.
Il Pescatore
0.4 km
Experience authentic Sicilian seafood and Italian hospitality in the heart of Southend-on-Sea at Il Pescatore.
ASK Italian
0.4 km
Modern Italian dining near Southend seafront, blending classic flavors with community spirit and seasonal delights.
Brickhouse
0.4 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
0.5 km
A welcoming, affordable bistro in Southend-on-Sea offering fresh British fare and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere perfect for any casual meal.
Rose Restaurant
0.5 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
Santas Surprise Letter
0.2 km
Discover festive magic and unique personalized Santa letters at Santas Surprise Letter, Southend-on-Sea’s charming holiday gift shop.
Books-on-Sea
0.2 km
Rare and secondhand literary treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea's town centre.
Linked UK Clothing Limited
0.3 km
Discover authentic luxury fashion with curated unworn and pre-owned designer pieces at Linked UK Clothing Limited in Southend-on-Sea.
Clinton Cards
0.3 km
A classic British card and gift shop on Southend’s High Street, offering thoughtful cards and gifts in a welcoming setting.
By the Sea Vintage
0.3 km
Discover curated retro fashion and unique vintage treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant Alexandra Street.
The Works
0.3 km
Affordable gifts, books, art supplies and toys in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s High Street.
That's Bizarre
0.3 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.
Africa Crafts Centre
0.4 km
Discover authentic African crafts and vibrant textiles in Southend-on-Sea’s beloved cultural gift shop.
Teddy Station
0.4 km
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
0.4 km
Modern shopping hub with 30+ stores, dining, and entertainment adjacent to Victoria Railway Station.
ideal gift shop
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Discover unique and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea’s welcoming Ideal Gift Shop on London Road.
Southend Rock & Gifts
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Discover charming seaside souvenirs and unique gifts at Southend Rock & Gifts, nestled on the vibrant Marine Parade.
The Rockery
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Two Vintage
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No Potential
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Independent art studio and vintage fashion shop blending creative practice with curated nostalgia.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Last Post - JD Wetherspoon
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The Dickens
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SAKS BAR SOUTHEND
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The Hush 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.
Infinity Showbar
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Twelve Brunch & Cocktails
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Aloha Lounge
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The Terrace Bar & Restaurant
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Modern grill and cocktail bar with lively entertainment and a spacious terrace near Southend’s iconic seafront.
The Alex
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A lively and welcoming pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great vegan options, casual British fare, and a vibrant social scene.
Legbas - Private Hire Speakeasy Bar
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An exclusive, vintage-inspired speakeasy bar in Southend-on-Sea’s Royal Hotel basement, perfect for private celebrations and crafted cocktails.
Bart's Bar
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Discover Bart's Bar in Southend-on-Sea, where refreshing drinks and a vibrant atmosphere meet for an unforgettable night out.
Slug & Lettuce - Southend
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Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Southend-on-Sea offering stylish vibes, bottomless brunch, and vibrant social events by the seaside.
The N & M Club
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SWITCH
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Foundation
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Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
0.2 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife at MooMoo Clubrooms, where themed rooms and lively beats create unforgettable party nights.
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.
Just Vibez
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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.
The Moonraker Club
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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
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Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Loft Basildon
18.1 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
27.2 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
27.2 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Popworld - Chelmsford
27.3 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
31.0 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
36.0 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
40.9 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
41.3 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
