Free Museums in Southend-on-Sea

"Located in Southchurch Hall Park, this fine 14th-c half-timbered moated house is set in beautiful gardens. Open to the public, it hosts a series of period room displays from the middle ages to Victorian times. Opening times: - Saturday & Sunday: 11am to 3pm.Location: Southchurch Hall Gardens, Park Ln, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2TETel: 01702 467671Website:southendmuseums.co.uk"

"In open countryside to the west of Southend, Hadleigh Castle is a former royal residence atop a London clay hill surveying the flat landscape to the south and east. The castle was first constructed at the start of the 13th century in the reign of Henry III. In that time its role was mainly defensive, guarding the estuary. Later, in the Hundred Years’ War Hadleigh Castle was remodelled as both a stronghold against the French and a home for King Edward III who spent a lot of time here during the last years of his reign in the 14th century."

"Tucked away behind the seafront pubs of fishing village Old Leigh lies this whimsical tea garden, all plant fronds, terracotta pots and the odd friendly dog padding about. Sara’s Tea Garden is much more than a quick lunch spot. The lengthy menu makes use of shellfish sourced just 68 steps away."