Understand

Southend, a town on the coast of South East Essex, was once a bustling resort in the mid-20th century. Back in the late 1800s, it consisted of two main villages: Prittlewell and Leigh-on-Sea. Prittlewell was known for its historic Priory, still standing today in Priory Park, while Leigh-on-Sea was famous for its delicious cockles and seafood, which you can still enjoy today. The town's coat of arms represents the monks of Prittlewell Priory and the fishermen of Leigh-on-Sea. During its heyday in the 1950s and 60s, Southend attracted daytrippers from London, who would travel down by train to visit the renowned Kursaal Amusement park and try their luck at the fruit machines in the seafront arcades. Others would relax on the pebble beach, although now you can find imported sand along the Westcliff stretch and at the charming Leigh-on-Sea Old Town. Today, Southend is undergoing a transformation, making efforts to modernize itself and keep up with the times. Adjacent to Southend Central Railway Station, you'll find the impressive new campus building of South East Essex College, which is affiliated with the University of Essex.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

The first most popular food in the United Kingdom is Fish and Chips. This classic dish consists of battered and fried fish, typically cod or haddock, served with hot, crispy French fries. The fish is coated in a light, crunchy batter that contrasts with the tender, flaky fish inside. It's often accompanied by a side of mushy peas or tartar sauce for added flavor.

The second most popular food in the United Kingdom is Full English Breakfast. This hearty meal is typically enjoyed on weekends and includes bacon, sausages, eggs (often scrambled or fried), black pudding, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, baked beans, and toast or fried bread. Sometimes, it can also include kippers (smoked herring) or haggis (a Scottish specialty made of sheep's heart, liver, and lungs).

The third most popular food in the United Kingdom is Shepherd's Pie. This traditional comfort food is made with minced lamb (or beef) mixed with onions, carrots, and sometimes celery, forming a savory meat mixture. This mixture is then topped with a layer of mashed potatoes and baked until the potato is golden brown. Some recipes may also include a layer of cheese or breadcrumbs on top for added flavor and texture.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing