Southend-on-Sea commonly referred to as Southend is a coastal city and unitary authority area with borough status in southeastern Essex, England.
Southend-on-Sea is a resort town on the Thames Estuary in Essex, southeast England. The long Southend Pier is serviced by a small train and has a museum at its shore end. Nearby, Adventure Island is an amusement park with fairground rides and water slides. The Cliff Lift, a century-old funicular, clings to the hillside and offers coastal views. Sea Life Adventure aquarium is home to otters, clownfish and turtles.
Take a trip to the wildside at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos to spot monkeys, bird fish and, if you’re lucky, a crocodile or snake!
The centre boasts the longest canopy walkway in Africa and the natural setting is a peaceful contrast to the rest of one of the World's busiest cities.
Who doesn't love an open-air market on your travels? Lagos is filled with markets selling everything from textiles to household goods and computers (there’s even a famous “Computer Village” stacked with microchips). Probably the most popular market for tourists, and definitely the most accessible, is the Lekki Crafts Market. It's well worth a visit. For a more local experience, check out the huge Balogun Market on Lagos Island.
Lagos has everything a big city offers but also the beach.The newly opened Moist Beach Club is the hottest place to be in town. Offering azure blue swimming pool just steps from the ocean, with plenty of seating in the open-air deck, and summer vibes all year round. It's the place the young and beautiful of Lagos get together, kick back, relax, and leave the hubbub of the city behind.
For the those seeking art and culture in Lagos, look no further than Terra Culture, an arts, cultural, and educational center that hosts plays, art exhibitions, and book readings. If there are no performances on the day of your visit, you can still while away the hours browsing the art gallery and bookstore. With an attached restaurant, it's also a great place to try some traditional and very delicious Nigerian food.
Climb aboard one of the 32 glass capsules of the London Eye for unforgettable views of some of London's most famous landmarks. Take in amazing 360-degree views as the capsule slowly rotates over the river Thames. From £29.50.
Glide high above the Thames with the Emirates Air Line cable car, which provides stunning views of the city, departing every 30 seconds from the Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks. See the sights by day or admire the city as it twinkles at night on a flight which lasts five to 10 minutes, depending on the time of day. Prices from £5.00.
Take a tour with one of the Yeoman Warders around the Tower of London, one of the world's most famous buildings. Discover its 900-year history as a royal palace, prison and place of execution, arsenal, jewel house and zoo! Gaze up at the White Tower, tiptoe through a medieval king's bedchamber and marvel at the Crown Jewels. From £28.90.
The London Transport Museum hosts exhibitions connecting transport with the social and cultural history of London. Inside you'll find more than 80 vehicles spanning 200 years of London's history, including a red Routemaster bus and the world 's first Underground steam train. There are some great posters and artwork too! From £18.50.
Founded in 597 AD, Canterbury Cathedral is one of the oldest and most famous Cathedrals in the UK. From its impressive 72 meters high structure to its beautiful stained glass windows, the Cathedral has a history of welcoming visitors dating back to the days of medieval pilgrimage.
As well as providing a current place of worship, the Cathedral hosts public events throughout the year and provides learning recourses to visitors and schools to ensure the Cathedrals’ rich history is known, explored, enjoyed and shared.
Located in the heart of Canterbury, the Cathedral is easy to visit alongside enjoying Canterbury’s other scenic and retail offerings.
How better to explore Kent’s rich and visual history than via a scenic cycling trail? The Viking Coastal Trail is suitable for all abilities and runs in a circular loop on the Isle of Thanet, exploring Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate. With dramatic landscapes, rugged coastlines and beautiful beaches, you’ll see the scenery that inspired the artists and writers of the Roman, Saint and Saxon eras.
No bike? No problem. There are plenty of places along to route to hire bikes and start your journey.
For history fans, or anyone seeking a scenic cycle adventure, this is a must-do trail. And by breaking it up into smaller chunks, you can make for several beautiful days out.
We all know the famous 1942 song sung by Vera Lynn, when the chalky white cliffs provided a beacon of hope to those away fighting and everyone at home awaiting their return. Decades on, the White Cliffs of Dover remain iconic to the UK and a landmark well worth visiting during your stay in Kent.
Managed by the National Trust, you can walk the cliff tops and bask in the expansive views of the English Channel, and on a sunny day, you may even catch a glimpse of France. Accompany your walk with a visit to Fan By Deep Shelter and step into a time capsule from the Second World War, or take a tour of the Victorian lighthouse that provided 142 years of safe passage for vessels from 1846 to 1988.
Address: New Barge Road, Shoebury, Southend-on-Sea, SS3 9FW (5 minutes drive away from Victoria House)
This nature reserve is accessible to everybody and a great place to escape the hustle and bustle and go for a coastal walk while discovering different animals around every bend.
Because of its proximity to the Thames Estuary, this nature preserve is an excellent place for migrating birds on the way to and from the UK, including ring ouzel, spotted flycatchers, wheatears, whinchats, and even yellow-browed warblers. Gog's Berth will be lined with waders, and a grey seal may occasionally appear on the seawall.
Due to its SSSI and Coastguard Station Grounds Local Wildlife Site, this location includes the Shoebury Old Ranges site. A range of habitats is available to walk through, ranging from coastal grassland to remnant sand dunes and historical military structures. Sandwich click beetles, bulbous meadow grasses, and cuckoo wasps, among other species, have thrived here thanks to the mosaic of habitats. The historic buildings are also used by wildlife – in the summer months look out for barn swallows zipping in and out of the gaps to feed their young nesting inside.
Address: Southend-on-Sea SS3 9HG, (5 minutes drive away from Victoria House)
Shoebury Common Beach, is in Essex, England, on the eastern side of the Thames Estuary.
The Common is a 2021 blue flag beach that has been recognised for its water quality, beach cleanliness, and safe pedestrian areas. There is also ramped disabled access to a wooden platform.
Shoebury Common is a great place for spending time with the family or friends. The common is also a great place for walks beside the Thames Estuary, taking in the sights of the ships and boats coming in and out of the Port of London. You can also explore the Common by car, taking in the beautiful scenery and finding a parking spot.
© Copyright Trevor Harris and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
Address: 212 Eastern Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3AD (10 mins. away from Victoria House)
The Blue Flag award for cleanliness and safe pedestrian access at Thorpe Bay beach was attained in 2021. The magnificent views of the Thames estuary can be seen from this shore. It's a superb place to unwind or take a refreshing walk.
Take a seat at one of the nearby cafes or restaurants while taking in the picturesque beach huts, or grab a bite to eat as you stroll. Wheelchair and pushchair access is available straight onto the beach, making it a terrific day out at the shore.
© Copyright Andrew Areoff and licensed for reuse under creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0
Address: Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1EE (15 mins away from Victoria House)
Bringing awesome sights, thrills and frights to revellers of all ages - it is Southend's number one free entry theme park, Adventure Island!
Here you can enjoy a host of fantastic activities, from thrilling water slides to family friendly attractions, all with no entry fee! Adventure Island is Southend’s favourite fun destination for families. It’s a wonderful place to spend a day with your kids!
Thursday 19 December 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM at the Canterbury Cathedral
Celebrate the Season with Canterbury Choral Society & Youth Choir
For a cherished holiday tradition with the Canterbury Choral Society Family Carols, accompanied by the Festival Brass Ensemble and conducted by Richard Cooke. This festive event has become a highlight of the Christmas season in Canterbury, offering a nostalgic blend of beloved carols and captivating Christmas selections from the UK and beyond.
Enjoy timeless classics such as Away in a Manger, Once in Royal David's City, O Come All Ye Faithful, and O Little Town of Bethlehem, alongside beautifully performed pieces by the Canterbury Choral Society and its Youth Choir.
Perfect for all ages, this event promises to fill your holiday season with warmth, joy, and the magic of music. Don’t miss this opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Look forward to celebrating the spirit of Christmas with you! 🎄
Friday 20 December 2024 to Sunday 5 January 2025.
Time 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM at Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Biddenden Road, Cranbrook, Kent
Don't miss a new installation by Aesme Studio that will see the garden entrance archway and the bottom of the Elizabethan Tower transformed with seasonal blooms, textures, urns, and more.
Turn your winter blues into Hey Nonny Nonny and discover how Christmas was celebrated at Sissinghurst over 400 years ago with our family trail.
Enjoy a Christmas lunch with family friends (booking essential), or browse from our selection of festive goodies in the Shop for those perfect stocking fillers.
An Elizabethan Christmas runs from Friday 20 December 2024 to Sunday 5 January 2025.
15 November 2024 - Tuesday 24 December 2024, The Glades Shopping Centre, Bromley High Street, Kent
Celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Kent at the Mela Festival! This year’s event will feature an exciting lineup of local, Kent-based acts showcasing their unique art forms. Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere filled with music, dance, and artistic performances that highlight the diverse cultural heritage of the borough.
Alongside the entertainment, there will be a wide selection of food stalls offering flavors from around the world, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. Don't miss out on the prosecco bar for a refreshing treat while you soak in the festivities.
This is the perfect opportunity to come together as a community, meet with local partners, and celebrate Kent's cultural diversity with friends and family. Join us for a day of joy, delicious food, and festive fun!
Friday, 15th November - Christmas Eve, Canterbury Cathedral Precincts, Canterbury, Kent
The Canterbury Christmas Market is back, bigger and better than ever! This year, the market extends into the breathtaking Canterbury Cathedral precincts, featuring 150 unique stalls over a festive period of 40 days.
Opening on Friday, 15th November, the market is set to delight shoppers with its impressive Artisan Marketplace, showcasing a wide array of local makers, artists, and designers. With 84% retail stalls in the heart of the city, it’s the perfect spot for serious Christmas shopping or a fun family day out.
Expect a magical atmosphere with live music, choir performances, interactive theatre, and festive treats for kids like Santa’s magical VR sleigh rides, marshmallow toasting, and a visit to the grotto with a talking letterbox. Kids can also enjoy breakfast with Santa, the singing reindeers, a carousel ride, or the 18-hole Christmas-themed mini-golf.
Food lovers won’t be disappointed — enjoy delicious bratwursts, mulled wine, pigs in blankets, crepes, schnapps cocktails, and more mouth-watering treats.
For more activities and bookings, visit canterburychristmasmarket.co.uk.
EFL League Two - Friday 20 December 2024 at Priestfield Stadium, Gillingham
Gillingham will host Cheltenham Town in an exciting EFL League Two fixture at Priestfield Stadium in Gillingham.
About Priestfield Stadium:
Priestfield Stadium, with a capacity of 11,582, is the home ground of Gillingham FC and a hub of electrifying football action.
Getting There:
Address: Priestfield Stadium, Redfern Avenue, Gillingham, ME7 4DD
Public Transport: Accessible via Gillingham Railway Station, just a 10-minute walk away.
Parking: Limited parking near the stadium; consider public transport or arrive early.
Tickets:
Tickets are available on the official Gillingham FC website or at the stadium’s box office.
Prefer to relax while enjoying the game? You can catch all the action from the comfort of the nearest Kasar Stays apartment, equipped with high-speed internet and smart TVs for a seamless streaming experience.
Whether you’re cheering at the stadium or enjoying the game in luxury at Kasar Stays, it’s the perfect way to soak up the excitement of EFL League Two!
16th November 2024, from 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM at the Whitstable Umbrella Community Support Centre.
Kick off the winter party season with the Whitsparkle Ball, Get ready to dance the night away to the vibrant beats of FNKHAUS. This community fundraising event will support Whitstable’s Christmas Lantern Parade. Remember, it's bring your own drinks and snacks, so gather your friends, grab your sparkles, and hit the dance floor!
With over 900 years of history to uncover at Leeds Castle, discover the lives of our seven historic queens, get to know Lady Olive Baillie and her 1930 country house retreat, and pay a visit to our unique Dog Collar Museum.
There’s something for every history enthusiast! With so much to learn and discover, will you squeeze it all onto a day or will you opt to stay the weekend? Once you decide, the rest is easy.
Canterbury, in Kent, has been the seat of the spiritual head of the Church of England for nearly five centuries. Canterbury's other important monuments are the modest Church of St Martin, the oldest church in England; the ruins of the Abbey of St Augustine, a reminder of the saint's evangelizing role in the Heptarchy from 597; and Christ Church Cathedral, a breathtaking mixture of Romanesque and Perpendicular Gothic, where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in 1170.
The iconic award-winning Mote Park is a huge 450acre Parkland/Woodland garden in Maidstone, Kent.From dino golf, a climbing wall, water sports, the walled garden and even a waterfall! The great thing about Mote Park is that all the activities are open to both adults and children. Outside of the year-round activities, there are also a number of organised events that take place throughout the year.
Maidstone Museum is a free museum in Kent offering exhibitions, collections, workshops, and more.
Maidstone Museum is a local authority-run museum located in Maidstone, Kent, England, featuring internationally important collections including fine art, natural history, and human history. The museum is one of three operated by Maidstone Borough Council
The Hazlitt Theatre is a traditional proscenium arch and intimate auditorium. Named after William Hazlitt, the famous essayist, who was born in Maidstone in 1778. It opened in 1955.
The Hazlitt Theatre presents a wide-ranging blend of entertainment. With two performance spaces, The Hazlitt Theatre and Exchange Studio aim to offer something for everyone.
The Hazlitt Theatre in Maidstone offers one of the liveliest and most diverse programmes of arts and performance in the south east.
The 28-acre site that constitutes Kent Life has evolved through the years from the historic Sandling Farm, an area that formed part of the wider Allington Castle estate in the mid 16th century – stretching some 461 acres – and was owned by Thomas Wyatt
Kent Life, as it is now known, is one of the few remaining places in Britain where hops are grown, harvested, dried and packed in its magnificent Oast house, by hand, using only time honored, traditional techniques. Kent Life is an English open-air museum located at Sandling, next to Allington Locks, on the east bank of the River Medway.
Cobtree Manor Park has over 50 acres of parkland displaying a diverse and maturing collection of trees and shrubs. Standing on the site of the old Maidstone Zoo, the park features a themed play area, along with a sculpture trail, plenty of space for picnics, and a café serving hot and cold food and drinks.
Cobtree Manor Park is a landscape of diverse character: part open country park, part woodland and part parkland garden, all set on a gently sloping hillside with views of the North Downs.
Rochester Cathedral is the second oldest in England an has been a place of worship and prayer for centuries. Just across the road from the cathedral is one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in the country.
Rochester Castle has a chequered history, having been subject to siege three times and partly demolished by King John in 1215.
The Historic Dockyard Chatham is a maritime museum of the site of the former royal/naval dockyard in South East England. For many years, this dockyard is one Britain's most important centre of warship building and repair, allowing the Royal Navy to dominate the seas of Europe and beyond.
Today it is the world’s most complete dockyard of the Age of Sail.
Discover the history of Medway from its pre-historic times up to present day by visiting Guildhall Musuem in Rochester. Learn about the life and times of Charles Dickens and witness the life conditions of Napoleonic prisoners and a whole wide range of domestic artefacts from Darenth Roman villa.
You will definitely appreciate the rich history of Medway here!
Set in tranquil grounds adjoining a riverside village, this rare example of an Elizabethan artillery fort was begun in 1559 and redeveloped in 1599-1601, to protect warships moored at Chatham dockyards. Despite a brave attempt, it entirely failed to do so in 1667, when the Dutch sailed past it to burn or capture the English fleet at anchor.
Capstone Farm Country Park is one of Medway's finest green spaces, offering wonderful opportunities for walking, running, cycling and much more.
Capstone covers 114 hectares of former farmland on the North Downs and boasts a variety of habitats including ancient woodlands, old orchards, a freshwater lake, meadow and hedgerows.
In the gardens of Eastgate House you can see the Swiss Chalet, where the great author Charles Dickens worked on some of his best known novels.
It was given to Dickens as a present from an actor friend called Charles Fechter. It arrived at Higham Railway Station on Christmas Eve 1864, packed in 58 boxes!
Get ready for an adrenaline-packed night of live wrestling at Knole Academy this Saturday, 16th November 2024, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Expect high-flying moves, intense rivalries, and electrifying energy as WrestleForce brings its top talent to Sevenoaks. This family-friendly event promises jaw-dropping action and non-stop entertainment, making it a perfect night out for fans of all ages.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the thrills and spills of live wrestling—grab your tickets now before they sell out!
Prepare for a night of unforgettable action and cheer on your favorite wrestlers!
21st November 2024 at Kingsmead Pool
Ever dreamt of exploring the underwater world? Now's your chance! Join Canterbury Divers for a Scuba Diving Taster Session on Thursday, 21st November 2024 at Kingsmead Pool. Whether you’re curious about scuba or thinking of pursuing it further, this £25 session is the perfect introduction.
Dive into the thrill of breathing underwater in a safe, controlled environment. A qualified BSAC instructor will guide you through your first dive experience, making it both fun and educational.
Details:
📍 Location: Kingsmead Pool, Kingsmead Road, Canterbury, Kent
🕒 Time: Every Thursday at 8:30 PM
💰 Price: £25 per session
Whether you're looking for a new adventure or simply want to try something exciting, this is an experience you won't want to miss! 🌊🤿
Friday, 22nd November 2024 at Ashford International Hotel, Simone Weil Avenue, Ashford, Kent
Get ready for a night packed with laughter as Ashford Comedy Club celebrates 28 years of bringing top-notch comedy to Kent! On Friday, November 22nd. Time: 9:00 PM - 11:55 PM, join us for a stellar performance featuring three of the UK’s finest TV comedians, each bringing their own unique brand of humor.
This event promises an unforgettable evening of non-stop fun, hand-picked from the best of the best in the comedy industry. Expect hilarious routines and a night full of surprises, as Ashford International Hotel hosts this epic show!
Ticket Info & Lineup: Ashford Comedy Club Website
For more information or inquiries, you can reach out via email: ian@thecomedyclub.co.uk.
23rd November 2024 at The Gulbenkian Theatre,
Enjoy the live tribute to one of music’s greatest icons—George Harrison. This tribute show will celebrate Harrison's timeless hits, including his early Beatles songs, his successful solo career, and his work with The Traveling Wilburys.
Harrison, the quiet Beatle, was a pivotal part of The Beatles, helping them become the world’s best-selling music act, and later went on to achieve remarkable solo success. His legacy continues through his classic albums like All Things Must Pass, Cloud Nine, and his collaborations with the legendary supergroup The Traveling Wilburys.
This special tribute will pay homage to his unforgettable music and influence, making it a must-see for fans of The Beatles and classic rock.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, 23rd November 2024
Time: 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Location: The Gulbenkian, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent
Ticket Price: £23.50 (General Admission)
Tickets & More Info: Buy Tickets Here
Contact: info@thegeorgeharrisonproject.com
Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of George Harrison’s music live on stage in this heartfelt tribute show.
1st-14th May 2023
Maidstone Cocktail Week is an annual event in Maidstone, Kent that celebrates the art of cocktail making. During the week-long event, participating bars and restaurants in the town offer a range of special cocktails, created specifically for the occasion. Visitors can purchase a wristband, which entitles them to discounts on cocktails at the participating venues, as well as entry to a range of events and masterclasses. Maidstone Cocktail Week also includes a number of competitions, with bartenders showcasing their skills and competing to be crowned the town's best mixologist. The event is popular with both locals and visitors, and provides a fun and festive atmosphere in the town for cocktail lovers to enjoy.
27 May 2023
Soul music fans, get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Soul Town Festival at Mote Park in Maidstone this May 2023! This highly-anticipated event will bring together some of the biggest names in soul music for an electrifying day of live performances, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere. From classic hits to modern favorites, the festival's lineup promises to be an eclectic mix of legendary artists and up-and-coming stars, guaranteed to get you on your feet and dancing all day long. With acres of beautiful parkland to explore and a fantastic selection of food and drink vendors, Soul Town Festival at Mote Park is the perfect way to spend a summer day with friends and family, celebrating the timeless sounds of soul music in a stunning setting. Don't miss out on the party of the year - get your tickets now and join the fun at Soul Town Festival!
