I do like to be beside the seaside...
4
4
Date of visit: April 2017
Overall Rating
Good
Southend Pier bills itself as the longest pleasure pier in the world. We visited on a sunny but windy April day and had a great meander along the pier. We opted to walk but the staff told us that the train is wheelchair accessible if we had wanted to go on it. We didn't get to the end as we had to get back for the dog (important note - dogs aren't allowed on the pier) but will go again. Also there is level access throughout but rememember this is a pier and the footway is made of planks. There are some gaps between the planks so if you have narrow wheels on your wheelchair just watch where you're going!
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
You can either access the pier via the 'top' part or via a lift from the seafront (this'll make sense when you're there!). The pier has level access right along it - but there was a sign up to make wheelchair users aware that because of the 'planked' surface there are sometimes gaps and if you have narrow wheels then you have to pay a bit more attention! There are quaint 'shelters' at points along the pier as well if you want to take a seat.
Parking & Transport
Good
We parked further along the promenade. There are loads of spaces nearby including Blue Badge spaces. It gets fairly busy so you might have to drive round for a while!
Accessible Toilets
Excellent
We used the loos further down the promenade - faby stripey ones that say they've just opened.
Staff
Good
Didn't need any particular help but staff seemed helpful.
Additional Information
Although the pier is one of the main attractions you could just go along the Southend promenade and have a great trip! We walked along the promenade with the dog and this was flat all the way. Dogs are allowed on the beach during the winter months although most of the access points to the beach had steps (on the way back the tide was in so no option to get on to the beach anyway!). Loads of funky food places to get a traditional fish & chips or a tasty donut! We didn't get a chance to actually visit any of the arcades but they looked like they had accessible entrances. Ditto the Adventure park - the entrance looked accessible but I'm not sure about the rides?
