Things to do in Basildon

Overview

It’s easy to catch the train from central London to Basildon Station. Hop on a Shoeburyness-bound train at Fenchurch Street Station or another one of our London stops and travel for around 35 minutes. Voila – you’re in Basildon!

Map & nearby attractions

More information

• How to get from London to Basildon?

  It’s easy to catch the train from central London to Basildon Station. Hop on a Shoeburyness-bound train at Fenchurch Street Station or another one of our London stops and travel for around 35 minutes. Voila – you’re in Basildon! You can get your return train ticket for £9.20 on ANY off-peak train when you buy online 3 or more days in advance. Plus we don’t charge booking fees when you book direct. Find out more about our off-peak fare offers here.

• Where is Basildon? Is it in London?

  First things first: Basildon is a town in South Essex, so it’s not in London. It’s due east of London, situated along c2c’s London to Shoeburyness train line.

• Why visit Basildon?

  Purpose-built with big ambition in a few short post-Second World War years, Basildon is home to great clubs, local markets, restaurants and bars and yet boasts more green spaces than any other part of South East Essex, and of course the famous ‘Bas Vegas’ Festival Leisure Park.

• What are the best things to do in Basildon?

  Basildon is conveniently set up for indoor fun no matter what the weather. A short walk from the train station you’ll find soft play centres Monkey Madness and 360 Play, both great to keep the kids entertained for a good few hours. 360 Play is housed in Festival Leisure Park, where there’s a whole host of other indoor venues including a bowling alley and go karting. If you’re feeling extra adventurous there’s an aqua and wakeboarding park in the complex, where kids (and big kids) can explore an inflatable obstacle course on the water or learn to wakeboard or water ski. Belly laughs guaranteed!

  Culture vultures should head to the Towngate Theatre 10 minutes from the station. This theatre hosts many family-friendly productions, as well as showcasing talent from local dance companies and live bands. Find out what’s on here.

  There are plenty more options if the weather’s kind. Plan a trip to Wat Tyler Country Park for excellent nature walks and opportunities to learn about local wildlife, plus a sculptural trail and impressive outdoor play areas. It’s about an hour’s stroll from Basildon Station – grab a taxi if you’re not up for the walk. Basildon is also home to a highly-rated golf course just a 20 minute walk from the station, perfect to unwind on child-free days.

• What restaurants are there in Basildon?

  You’ll find most of the big chain restaurants in Basildon, from TGI Fridays to Wagamama to Pizza Hut. These are all located in Festival Leisure Park alongside over 10 other options. There’s a wide selection of eateries – many of which are independent – closer to Basildon town centre in the Eastgate shopping centre, including family-run breakfast spot Miracles Bistro and the classy Orleto Lounge serving salads, sandwiches, burgers, brunch and other delights.

• What hotels are there in Basildon?

  There’s not a huge number of hotel options in Basildon, but you’ll be able to find somewhere to rest your head for the night. The area around Festival Leisure Park houses a handful of hotels, including a Premier Inn, Travelodge and Holiday Inn. If you’re looking for something more homely, try searching for a guesthouse or apartment on Booking.com or Airbnb.