The Works – Southend-on-Sea
Affordable gifts, books, art supplies and toys in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s High Street.
Nestled in Southend-on-Sea’s bustling High Street, The Works is a vibrant discount shop offering a wide range of affordable gifts, books, art and craft supplies, stationery, toys, and school essentials. Brightly lit and neatly organized, it’s a go-to spot for families, students, and creatives looking for quality items without the price tag. Whether you need a birthday present, a new sketchpad, or classroom basics, this store delivers variety and value in a convenient town-centre location.
A brief summary to The Works
- 169-171 High St, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1LL, GB
- +441702339055
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter, more relaxed shopping experience with easier access to staff and stock.
- Check the seasonal and promotional sections for extra value – these often feature themed gifts, decorations, and discounted stationery or toys.
- Bring a reusable bag if you plan to buy several items; the store doesn’t always provide bags, and it’s more eco-friendly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Works location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about The Works
A One-Stop Shop for Creativity and Essentials
Tucked into the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s High Street, The Works is a bright, welcoming discount store that brings together books, art supplies, stationery, toys, and school essentials under one roof. Its shelves are packed with everything from colouring pencils and sketchbooks to greeting cards, puzzles, and seasonal decorations, making it a favourite for both locals and visitors. The layout is straightforward and easy to navigate, with clearly marked sections that help you quickly find what you need, whether it’s a last-minute gift, a new novel, or classroom supplies for the term.What You’ll Find Inside
Browse through a thoughtfully curated mix of products that cater to all ages and interests. The book section features bestsellers, children’s titles, and activity books, while the art and craft area offers paints, brushes, modelling clay, and craft kits for budding artists. Stationery lovers will appreciate the wide selection of pens, notebooks, and planners, and parents can stock up on school supplies, lunch boxes, and lunch bags. Toy shelves are filled with popular brands, games, and educational kits, and there’s always a good range of seasonal items, from Christmas decorations to Easter eggs and summer outdoor toys.A Shop for All Ages and Occasions
The Works is especially popular with families and students, thanks to its practical, budget-friendly approach. Children enjoy exploring the toy and activity sections, while teens and adults appreciate the creative supplies and stationery. It’s a handy place to pick up a birthday card with a matching gift, a thoughtful present for a teacher, or a small treat for yourself. The staff are generally helpful and knowledgeable, happy to point you toward the right section or suggest age-appropriate toys and craft kits. With regular promotions and value deals, it’s easy to walk away with several items without stretching your budget.Practical and Convenient Location
Situated in a busy shopping area, The Works benefits from excellent foot traffic and easy access to other shops, cafés, and public transport. The store is on the ground floor with step-free access, making it suitable for pushchairs and mobility aids. Inside, there are clear signage, wide aisles, and a relaxed pace that makes browsing comfortable even on busier days. While it’s not a large department store, the efficient layout ensures that you can cover the whole shop in a short visit, making it ideal for a quick stop during a day out in Southend-on-Sea.When to Visit
The shop is open seven days a week, with slightly shorter hours on Sundays. Weekdays tend to be quieter, especially in the mornings, while weekends and school holidays bring more families and shoppers. It’s worth checking for seasonal sales and special offers, which often coincide with back-to-school periods, Christmas, and Easter. If you’re looking for a calm shopping experience, aim for a weekday morning or early afternoon; if you’re after the full range of seasonal stock, a visit in the run-up to a holiday is usually best.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham
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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
Wayfinding Stone
0.1 km
A modern stone circle landmark at Southend’s High Street, blending local heritage with urban wayfinding and cultural connection.
The Return
0.2 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.
Southend Museums Wellbeing Garden
0.3 km
A peaceful garden retreat beside Southend’s Central Museum, nurturing wellbeing through nature and community gardening.
Southend Central Museum & Planetarium
0.4 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.
Pulp Kitchen
0.4 km
Cozy Southend bistro serving fresh, healthy dishes with vegan and gluten-free options in a friendly, jazzy atmosphere.
Rocket01 street art mural
0.5 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
0.5 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
0.6 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
0.6 km
Historic marble statue of Queen Victoria overlooking Southend’s seafront, symbolizing Victorian heritage and seaside charm.
Hobbycraft Southend
0.6 km
A vibrant craft store in Southend-on-Sea offering extensive supplies, expert workshops, and a welcoming creative community.
The Shrubbery
0.6 km
A historic cliffside garden in Southend-on-Sea blending Georgian charm with tranquil seaside greenery and scenic estuary views.
Cliff Lift
0.6 km
Ride Britain’s shortest historic funicular railway, a charming vintage lift linking Southend’s clifftop to its scenic seafront.
Never Never Land
0.6 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
0.7 km
Historic Pier Hill lift offering stunning panoramic views over the Thames Estuary in Southend-on-Sea.
Essential places to dine
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.
Il Pescatore
0.1 km
Experience authentic Sicilian seafood and Italian hospitality in the heart of Southend-on-Sea at Il Pescatore.
ASK Italian
0.2 km
Modern Italian dining near Southend seafront, blending classic flavors with community spirit and seasonal delights.
Brickhouse
0.2 km
A lively Southend-on-Sea hotspot serving up juicy burgers and smoky barbecue in a casual, welcoming setting with great value.
Waves Restaurant
0.3 km
Modern European fine dining with a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s Luker Road.
The Pipe of Port
0.3 km
A cozy Dickensian wine bar and restaurant in Southend, famed for hearty British pies and an exceptional wine cellar since 1976.
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.
The Mews
0.4 km
Intimate French-influenced dining in a characterful Victorian mews with warm hospitality and carefully crafted cuisine.
Clarence Restaurant & Cafe
0.4 km
A cozy Southend-on-Sea cafe serving hearty breakfasts and classic British fare with friendly service and great value.
La Petite Petanque
0.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in a charming garden pavilion overlooking Southend’s bowling green, blending relaxed vibes with classic flavors.
San Fairie Ann
0.5 km
Eclectic Modern European dining with vibrant live music and unique events in the heart of Southend-on-Sea.
Tomassi's
0.5 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.
Aurum Restaurant
0.6 km
Refined modern British dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s boutique Seven Hotel.
The Royal Hotel
0.6 km
Historic charm meets modern dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s iconic Royal Hotel.
Rose Restaurant
0.8 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
The Works
0.0 km
Affordable gifts, books, art supplies and toys in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s High Street.
Clinton Cards
0.0 km
A classic British card and gift shop on Southend’s High Street, offering thoughtful cards and gifts in a welcoming setting.
That's Bizarre
0.1 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.
Victoria Shopping Centre
0.2 km
Modern shopping hub with 30+ stores, dining, and entertainment adjacent to Victoria Railway Station.
Teddy Station
0.2 km
Discover rare collectible teddy bears and join a warm community of enthusiasts at Southend’s Teddy Station, a haven for teddy bear lovers.
Africa Crafts Centre
0.2 km
Discover authentic African crafts and vibrant textiles in Southend-on-Sea’s beloved cultural gift shop.
Santas Surprise Letter
0.3 km
Discover festive magic and unique personalized Santa letters at Santas Surprise Letter, Southend-on-Sea’s charming holiday 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.
Linked UK Clothing Limited
0.4 km
Discover authentic luxury fashion with curated unworn and pre-owned designer pieces at Linked UK Clothing Limited in Southend-on-Sea.
Books-on-Sea
0.4 km
Rare and secondhand literary treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea's town centre.
By the Sea Vintage
0.5 km
Discover curated retro fashion and unique vintage treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant Alexandra Street.
Two Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage finds at Two Vintage, Southend-on-Sea’s curated clothing boutique.
No Potential
0.7 km
Independent art studio and vintage fashion shop blending creative practice with curated nostalgia.
Steptoe and Mum / Antique and Retro Boutique / With House Clearance Service
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A cluttered, character-filled secondhand boutique in Southend-on-Sea, packed with vintage furniture, retro homewares, and quirky collectables.
Southend Rock & Gifts
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Discover charming seaside souvenirs and unique gifts at Southend Rock & Gifts, nestled on the vibrant Marine Parade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Popworld Southend
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Popworld Southend: Where nostalgic pop hits meet vibrant nightlife for unforgettable party experiences in Essex.
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.
SWITCH
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A vibrant cocktail bar and games lounge in Southend-on-Sea blending creative drinks with interactive fun and social gaming.
Bart's Bar
0.1 km
Discover Bart's Bar in Southend-on-Sea, where refreshing drinks and a vibrant atmosphere meet for an unforgettable night out.
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.
Boom Battle Bar Southend-on-Sea
0.1 km
An energetic bar in Southend’s Victoria Shopping Centre offering augmented reality games, cocktails, and a lively social scene for unforgettable group fun.
Cow and Telescope
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A lively Southend-on-Sea pub renowned for live music, great beers, and a welcoming atmosphere with a charming beer garden.
SAKS BAR SOUTHEND
0.3 km
A lively Southend pub blending live jazz, weekend music, and sports screenings in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
The Last Post - JD Wetherspoon
0.3 km
Historic post office turned lively JD Wetherspoon pub and hotel in Southend-on-Sea, offering affordable dining, live sports, and comfortable stays.
The Olde Trout Tavern
0.3 km
A charming traditional English pub in Southend-on-Sea, renowned for real ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Aloha Lounge
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
A lively and affordable bar in Southend-on-Sea with a welcoming vibe and vibrant music scene for all-night socializing.
Infinity Showbar
0.4 km
A vibrant hub for karaoke, drag shows, and late-night parties in Southend-on-Sea’s lively Alexandra Street nightlife district.
Twelve Brunch & Cocktails
0.4 km
A lively hotspot in Southend-on-Sea where brunch delights meet expertly crafted cocktails in a trendy, vibrant setting.
The Alex
0.5 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
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
0.1 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife at MooMoo Clubrooms, where themed rooms and lively beats create unforgettable party nights.
Just Vibez
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Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
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.
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.
MYST Club
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
The Moonraker Club
1.6 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
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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
18.0 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
26.9 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
27.0 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Popworld - Chelmsford
27.0 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
40.8 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
41.1 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly