Chalkwell Beach

Overview

Visit Chalkwell Beach for Old-Fashioned Seaside Fun.

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Map & nearby attractions

More information

• Where is Chalkwell beach?

  Chalkwell beach is a quiet stretch of sand between the more commercial pursuits of Southend and the quaint fishing village of Old Leigh. It’s a perfect spot for a good old fashioned, cheap as chips, bucket and spade holiday. Chalkwell beach is classic British seaside territory – and the station opens out right onto it. Little ones will relish a day or two by the seaside, and the location couldn’t be more convenient for the adults – day-trippers big and small won’t find it a struggle to get home.

• Things to do at Chalkwell beach

  One of Southend’s beaches, Chalkwell offers a combination of sand, shallow waters, a seawater paddling pool and lifeguard services during peak times make the perfect environment for children to explore safely, casting crabbing nets and finding unusual shells to take home. Be warned though – if you forget to check the tide times (on our beaches page) before setting off on a day trip, the children will be just as happy to play in the mud – the best games are always the messiest. Plus you’ll be able to search for the hundreds of little sea crab critters revealed once the tide goes out.

  When it’s time to eat, there are plenty of cafes, fish and chip shops, and ice cream huts – but the groynes are backed by a grassy area that’s ideal for a picnic overlooking the water, without getting sand in your sandwiches.

  On its foreshore opposite the end of Chalkwell Avenue there lies The Crow Stone, which marks the limit of the Port of London Authority’s jurisdiction. It was erected in 1837 and has sister stones in Southend and London which outline the boarders of the London Authority, which still stand today.

  Chalkwell Park is also a short distance from the beach and railway station, which used to be home to the Essex County Cricket Club.

• Where can I find tide times for Chalkwell beach?

  Make sure to check the tide times for Chalkwell beach in advance of your visit, as at high tide the sea can reach the wall in places. You may also find yourself having to walk to long way for a swim at low tide! You can check tide times here.

• Is there parking near Chalkwell beach?

  There’s paid, on-street parking available on Chalkwell Esplanade, which runs alongside the beach. However, we recommend taking the train so you don’t have to worry about parking. It’s quick and easy from central London!

• What hotels are there in Chalkwell?

  There aren’t currently any hotels in Chalkwell, although there are a couple just down the road in Westcliff. Southend has plenty of options so you may be best to stay there and venture out to Chalkwell beach either on foot (about 40 minutes) or by train (about 7 minutes).

• How to get to Chalkwell beach?

  Take the train from London Fenchurch Street which will go direct through to Chalkwell Station, and continues bound for Shoeburyness. The journey time from London is approximately 46 minutes. There are approximately 5 trains per hour on a weekday, depending on peak or off-peak travel time and adult return train tickets bought online more than three days in advance are £10.50 from London. Kids go for £2 on weekends and over school holidays.

  Whether you’re travelling in a group or have the kids with you, explore our great value ticket offers to make sure to get the best deal for you.