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Seafront
Attractions
The town is well known for its seafront attractions. Since 1986, a diesel-hydraulic railway has been running the length of the famous pier, replacing the original electric service which opened in 1890.
The Kursaal was one of the earliest theme parks, built at the start of the 20th century. It closed in the 1970s and much of the land was developed as housing. The entrance hall, a listed building, is now a bowling alley arcade and casino.
Another newer theme park, Adventure Island, straddles the pier entrance. It is a popular attraction for both adults and children, and despite a restriction on available land has continued to grow into a large amusement park with over 50 rides.
The cliff gardens and Victorian bandstand were a popular attraction until slippage in 2003 made parts of the cliffs unstable, and the bandstand has been removed for safe keeping. The council has expressed its desire to re-erect the bandstand but a suitable location has yet to be found.
A modern cliff lift links the base of the High Street with the new pier entrance. The older cliff lift, a short funicular railway, is located a few hundred metres away, now closed due to the cliff slippage.
Theatres
There are three theatres in the town.
The oldest is the Edwardian era Palace Theatre. Due to financial troubles the theatre has had to close a number of times in recent years. It currently shows plays from professional troups and repertory groups, as well as some comedy acts. The theatre has two circles and is noted for having a very steep rake. Part of the theatre is a smaller venue called "The Dixon Studio". This is used for more intimate performances.
The Cliffs Pavilion is a larger building and is able to host different forms of show including musical concerts, and performances on ice.
The final and most recent theatre is the New Empire Theatre. Located in the former ABC Cinema, it is, unlike the other two theatres, privately owned. It is used far more by amateur dramatic groups.
Sport
Southend boasts one football team
of league stature, Southend United, which currently competes
in the Coca Cola Football League One (the third highest
division of the English football league system) and is
managed by former player Steve Tilson. There are 2 rugby
clubs in town with a nationwide profile, Southend R.F.C.
and Westcliff R.F.C., with Southend having the superior
men's first team (playing in National Division 3 South)
but Westcliff having the more developed youth set up.
Cricket is played at Southend by Essex County Cricket
Club twice a year usually, but otherwise the only cricket
in Southend is local league Cricket.
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