A seaside city within an hour of Romford has been named as one of the best places for a budget-friendly beach trip near London.
Southend-on-Sea was revealed as the second best-value beach destination near the capital, following recent analysis by student accommodation provider Chapter.
The study considered a range of factors across several picturesque spots within three hours of the capital.
Factors included travel time, beach ratings, water quality, average temperatures, and transport costs.
Southend's beach - which is only a 40-minute drive or 50-minute train journey from Romford - secured second place overall.
Whitstable Tankerton Beach, located in Kent, was named as the most budget-friendly spot, while Whitstable and Camber Sands also made the list.
The area has previously been recognised by Visit Essex as home to the most iconic attraction in the county: the world’s longest pleasure pier, extending 1.3 miles, with its own railway line.
According to lifestyle blog, Muddy Stilettos, enjoying a cup of tea with the view of the sea at the Tea with the Tide cafe, or trying your luck with the arcade games is a must at the pier.
Aside from the famous pier, Southend is home to Adventure Island, the top-rated attraction in the city on TripAdvisor.
Winning the Travellers' Choice Award in 2024, the amusement park offers more than 40 rides and attractions suited for all ages.
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