Once upon a time Southend on Sea was for many Londoners one of the great British holiday destinations of the South. Situated at the very end of the Thames estuary as it opens up to the sea it was an ideal spot to take in the sea air, the Victorians loved the place and would head off out of the grime of London in their best outfits, corsets, pantaloons, huge skirts and hats and take in the seaside. They might venture in for a paddle too, and for many years families would head off for this annual getaway with great anticipation and thoroughly enjoy themselves. The trend continued long into the 50's and 60's and am sure my father spent a few much enjoyed holidays in Southend when he was a lad.
When I was young places like this got passed over for the sunnier climes, cheap holidays to Spain and Greece, anywhere that sunshine could be guaranteed.
This place like many seaside resorts in this country became lost and neglected.
I found myself here 3 years ago as my daughter began her uni years and my first impression was that it seemed a little bit worn but with a thriving University was brimming with people. There are signs that It seems to be on the up again and now that my daughter is in her final months at Uni I decided to come and stay for the weekend.
I found this beautiful Boutique Hotel called the Hamilton at No 6 The Royal Terrace and is next door to what was once the Royal residence. It seems that other buildings along this terrace are being refurbished which is refreshing to see as the grand buildings are beautiful.
The Hamilton is the middle building here. My room was 2nd floor ( with the blinds) and I had a view of the fair and the pier which in its self is a landmark at over a mile long and the longest pleasure pier in the world.
Below is the view sitting in my bed, all in all great views of an iconic seascape.
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