If you walk along Southend-on-Sea’s High Street, towards the sea, your eye will be drawn in a straight line towards the longest pleasure Pier in the world. Standing for over a century it extends 2.158 metres (1.341 miles) into the Thames Estuary, and is a well loved and recognised symbol of Southend and the pleasures of the English seaside. Sir John Betjeman once said, “The Pier is Southend, Southend is the Pier” and it’s as true today as it was when it first welcomed visitors all those years ago.

To locate the Pier Museum entrance visitors should go into the station and walk to the right of the railway tracks.  The Museum will bring back fond memories for some and will be a brand new experience for younger generations.  Climb aboard an original 1949 train and remember days gone by.  We have pictorial displays, working penny slot machines, an original Toastrack tram and much more. It’s fun, it’s a great way to learn and it’s out of the rain when we get a traditional English summer!

We’re open to the public from early April to late September on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Bank Holidays from 11 am to 5 pm (5.30 pm during school summer holidays).

Southend Pier is a major landmark in Southend-on-Sea. Extending 2,158 m (1.341 miles) into the Thames Estuary, it is the longest pleasure pier in the world. Sir John Betjeman once said that "the Pier is Southend, Southend is the Pier".

Southend Pier Museum is registered with the Charities Commission, Reg. no. 802105 and has full accreditation (number 490) with the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (www.mla.gov.uk).   The MLA is sponsored by the government to encourage “basic standards” in all museums.