Essex seaside towns within easy reach of Romford to visit

If you want to be beside the seaside this summer, the Recorder has put together five destinations within easy reach of Romford and packed full of attractions.

From vibrant cities perfect for the family to historic waterside towns, this list includes something for everyone.

Leigh-on-Sea

Ye Olde Smack is a top-rated pub in Leigh-on-Sea (Image: Visit Essex/Matt Keal Photography)

Leigh-on-Sea is a picturesque town, around an hour from Romford, praised for its unique charm and artsy feel.

Described as "Southend’s trendier sister", it boasts chic cafés, independent shops, and historic cobbled streets lined with famous cockle sheds serving fresh seafood.

Visitors can also enjoy characterful pubs, museums and nearby nature spots, making it a well-rounded and relaxing day trip by the coast.

Brightlingsea

View of beach huts in Brightlingsea (Image: Visit Essex)

Brightlingsea is a historic town near Colchester, around 90 minutes from Romford, known for its coastal setting, colourful beach huts and Blue Flag beach.

Packed with things to see and do, it features landmarks like Bateman’s Tower, boat trips around the estuary and wildlife, plus a traditional high street full of independent shops.

It also hosts the Brightlingsea Free Music Festival every August, offering a community-run event that is, as the name suggests, free for everyone to enjoy.

Southend-on-Sea

Adventure Island is a destination in its own right (Image: Andrew Stokes)

Southend-on-Sea is a classic Essex seaside city just 40 minutes from Romford, best known for its iconic 1.3-mile pier – the longest pleasure pier in the world.

Alongside the pier, visitors can enjoy attractions like Adventure Island, arcades, and the Sea Life aquarium, making it great for families.

With plenty of food options, events and seaside staples like fish and chips, it’s an easy, fun-filled day out near Romford.

Mersea Island

The Strood towards Mersea Island in the water (Image: Mersea Imagery)

Mersea Island is an idyllic spot about an hour from Romford, with its peaceful atmosphere, beaches and traditional fishing village charm.

The seven-square-mile island is reached by a single tidal causeway that can disappear beneath the sea at high tide.

Visit Mersea Island's website describes the island as "the perfect coastal location" and the "ideal place to spend time in Essex".

Maldon

Maldon sits on the Blackwater Estuary (Image: CARL ALLEN)

While not technically a seaside town, Maldon is just less than an hour from Romford along the Blackwater Estuary, and is known for its "buzzing" waterside atmosphere.

Rich in heritage, it features medieval buildings, maritime landmarks and a past that includes the Battle of Maldon against Viking forces.

Visit Essex recommends trying Topsail Charters - a vintage sailing barge that takes visitors along the East Coast - or Chelmer Cruises for some "stunning" views of the Essex countryside.