what's on

Join Exotic Explorers on Sunday and Monday 22th & 23rd December at The Mercury Shopping Centre, on level 2 for an unforgettable experience!

Book to jump the queue here is you are planning to hold three animals for £10.00.

Enjoy an early Christmas treat and make some new animal pals. From owls to spiders, to snakes and more. Don't miss out on this opportunity to challenge yourself learn more about these creatures. See you there!

You can turn up on the day and see these lovely creatures or book in advance to avoid the queues. Why not wear some festive outfits too for a photo opportunity!

Bookings are for 15 minute slots, where an individual will be able to handle an animal with the guidance of the Exotic Explorers team for £10.00.... Read more

Storytime Sleigh with Mrs Claus

Sunday 22nd, Monday 23rd & Tuesday 24th December 11am - 3pm

Help Mrs Claus pack the sleigh ready for the big day while hearing lots of Christmas stories about her adventures with Santa Claus!

While you're queuing to meet Santa, take a moment to sit with Mrs Claus outside of the grotto while she reads you festive stories to get you in the Christmassy mood

Free at Santa's Grotto on Level One

Breakfast with Santa is back!
Join us for a Festive filled morning with Santa and his Elves.
On arrival, all children will have an activity pack to get straight into. Festive music will be piped throughout the pub and a live link to the North Pole will be on all TV's! Our Elves will check your food orders to ensure we have it right and any Allergen/Dietary requirements are accurate. Food will be served and plenty of time allowed to enjoy it as a family.
As we've got in early, we've secured the original Santa just for you!! The sound of his bell will signal his arrival, but we also give updates on his journey so the excitement can grow.
To keep the magic alive, our Elves will contact you beforehand to make sure Santa is aware of all the Children's names (He has so... Read more

Join Thomas & Friends for family fun at the East Anglian Railway Museum. Take a train ride with Thomas, meet Sir Topham Hatt and join Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty for a trainload of excitement. There will be lots to enjoy, including: • Unlimited rides with Thomas, Percy and Daisy. • Meet Toby and Henrietta. • Re-enactments of classic Thomas stories by Sir Topham Hatt and Rusty & Dusty featuring Thomas. • Watch the Rusty & Dusty show. • Imagination Station play zone with Thomas & Friends activities. • Join Rusty & Dusty for Sir Topham Hatt's storytelling sessions. • Model railway display. • Unlimited rides on the miniature railway. • Train-themed children's playground. • Other Thomas & Friends themed activities. • Exciting Thomas & Friends giveaways for every child.... Read more

Join Thomas & Friends for family fun at the East Anglian Railway Museum. Take a train ride with Thomas, meet Sir Topham Hatt and join Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty for a trainload of excitement. There will be lots to enjoy, including: • Unlimited rides with Thomas, Percy and Daisy. • Meet Toby and Henrietta. • Re-enactments of classic Thomas stories by Sir Topham Hatt and Rusty & Dusty featuring Thomas. • Watch the Rusty & Dusty show. • Imagination Station play zone with Thomas & Friends activities. • Join Rusty & Dusty for Sir Topham Hatt's storytelling sessions. • Model railway display. • Unlimited rides on the miniature railway. • Train-themed children's playground. • Other Thomas & Friends themed activities. • Exciting Thomas & Friends giveaways for every child.... Read more

Welcome to the Thames Chase Christmas Grotto!

Father Christmas is busy back at the North Pole, making all of the toys in time for Christmas Eve. He has asked Mrs Claus to meet the children in her kitchen, to make some delicious Christmas treats.

Join Mrs Claus and her elves to really get in to the festive mood.

Children will get to decorate a biscuit, whilst Mrs Claus tells them a story about her previous Christmas capers. Children will then get to have photos with Mrs Claus and tell her about their wish lists and receive a gift left for them by Father Christmas.

(Vegan and gluten free options available. Once ticket is purchased please call the Visitor Centre on 01708 642970 to request. Although we endeavour to be a nut free centre,... Read more

Join us for our popular Santa specials and go see Santa by train 🚂
Each child will get off a Belvedere North Station and go one family at a time, to see Santa and each child will get a gift from him.


Dates :

14,15,21,22,24th December
Book online via our website - £8 per person (children & Adults)
6 months and under to free but won't get a present anyone else needs a ticket.

After seeing Santa you re board the train again and complete your magical Christmas journey along the decorated route of the railway.

Welcome to the Thames Chase Christmas Grotto!

Father Christmas is busy back at the North Pole, making all of the toys in time for Christmas Eve. He has asked Mrs Claus to meet the children in her kitchen, to make some delicious Christmas treats.

Join Mrs Claus and her elves to really get in to the festive mood.

Children will get to decorate a biscuit, whilst Mrs Claus tells them a story about her previous Christmas capers. Children will then get to have photos with Mrs Claus and tell her about their wish lists and receive a gift left for them by Father Christmas.

(Vegan and gluten free options available. Once ticket is purchased please call the Visitor Centre on 01708 642970 to request. Although we endeavour to be a nut free centre,... Read more

Can you find the cheerful Christmas characters hidden along the Pier Stem and around the Pier Head? Each hiding a letter that forms a secret Christmas word. Once you've uncovered the secret word, head to the Gift Shop where you can choose a prize from a selection of Southend Pier Souvenirs!

📆 Dates: 1 - 24 December (check website for daily openings)
❄️ Trail: £3 per child (in additional to usual pier admission)
🕙 Times: 10:15am - 4:30pm (please see our website for daily opening times)
A fantastic way to get outdoors and active during the festive season 👇👇

You shall go to the ball, as the classic panto family favourite Cinderella makes a grand entrance!
Bursting with glitz and glamour, it'll be the most magical event of the year!


Cinderella dreams of a glamorous life far removed from the everyday grind of primping and preening her vain stepsisters, and an invitation to the Prince's royal ball is just the ticket! But the Wicked Stepmother has other plans for Cinders, confiscating her ticket to the party of the decade... Fear not, for her Fairy Godmother arrives in the nick of time, ready to weave her magic and transform Cinderella's fortunes! But can she sashay away from the sensational soirée before the clock strikes midnight and her riches turn back to rags once more...?


This much-loved traditional... Read more

Join Exotic Explorers on Sunday and Monday 22th & 23rd December at The Mercury Shopping Centre, on level 2 for an unforgettable experience!

Book to jump the queue here is you are planning to hold three animals for £10.00.

Enjoy an early Christmas treat and make some new animal pals. From owls to spiders, to snakes and more. Don't miss out on this opportunity to challenge yourself learn more about these creatures. See you there!

You can turn up on the day and see these lovely creatures or book in advance to avoid the queues. Why not wear some festive outfits too for a photo opportunity!

Bookings are for 15 minute slots, where an individual will be able to handle an animal with the guidance of the Exotic Explorers team for £10.00.... Read more

Storytime Sleigh with Mrs Claus

Sunday 22nd, Monday 23rd & Tuesday 24th December 11am - 3pm

Help Mrs Claus pack the sleigh ready for the big day while hearing lots of Christmas stories about her adventures with Santa Claus!

While you're queuing to meet Santa, take a moment to sit with Mrs Claus outside of the grotto while she reads you festive stories to get you in the Christmassy mood

Free at Santa's Grotto on Level One

Suitable for ages 3+

Will get booked up so contact the library to make a booking or book online

01708 434933

Welcome to the Thames Chase Christmas Grotto!

Father Christmas is busy back at the North Pole, making all of the toys in time for Christmas Eve. He has asked Mrs Claus to meet the children in her kitchen, to make some delicious Christmas treats.

Join Mrs Claus and her elves to really get in to the festive mood.

Children will get to decorate a biscuit, whilst Mrs Claus tells them a story about her previous Christmas capers. Children will then get to have photos with Mrs Claus and tell her about their wish lists and receive a gift left for them by Father Christmas.

(Vegan and gluten free options available. Once ticket is purchased please call the Visitor Centre on 01708 642970 to request. Although we endeavour to be a nut free centre,... Read more

Join us for our popular Santa specials and go see Santa by train 🚂
Each child will get off a Belvedere North Station and go one family at a time, to see Santa and each child will get a gift from him.


Dates :

14,15,21,22,24th December
Book online via our website - £8 per person (children & Adults)
6 months and under to free but won't get a present anyone else needs a ticket.

After seeing Santa you re board the train again and complete your magical Christmas journey along the decorated route of the railway.

Welcome to the Thames Chase Christmas Grotto!

Father Christmas is busy back at the North Pole, making all of the toys in time for Christmas Eve. He has asked Mrs Claus to meet the children in her kitchen, to make some delicious Christmas treats.

Join Mrs Claus and her elves to really get in to the festive mood.

Children will get to decorate a biscuit, whilst Mrs Claus tells them a story about her previous Christmas capers. Children will then get to have photos with Mrs Claus and tell her about their wish lists and receive a gift left for them by Father Christmas.

(Vegan and gluten free options available. Once ticket is purchased please call the Visitor Centre on 01708 642970 to request. Although we endeavour to be a nut free centre,... Read more

Can you find the cheerful Christmas characters hidden along the Pier Stem and around the Pier Head? Each hiding a letter that forms a secret Christmas word. Once you've uncovered the secret word, head to the Gift Shop where you can choose a prize from a selection of Southend Pier Souvenirs!

📆 Dates: 1 - 24 December (check website for daily openings)
❄️ Trail: £3 per child (in additional to usual pier admission)
🕙 Times: 10:15am - 4:30pm (please see our website for daily opening times)
A fantastic way to get outdoors and active during the festive season 👇👇

You shall go to the ball, as the classic panto family favourite Cinderella makes a grand entrance!
Bursting with glitz and glamour, it'll be the most magical event of the year!


Cinderella dreams of a glamorous life far removed from the everyday grind of primping and preening her vain stepsisters, and an invitation to the Prince's royal ball is just the ticket! But the Wicked Stepmother has other plans for Cinders, confiscating her ticket to the party of the decade... Fear not, for her Fairy Godmother arrives in the nick of time, ready to weave her magic and transform Cinderella's fortunes! But can she sashay away from the sensational soirée before the clock strikes midnight and her riches turn back to rags once more...?


This much-loved traditional... Read more

Storytime Sleigh with Mrs Claus

Sunday 22nd, Monday 23rd & Tuesday 24th December 11am - 3pm

Help Mrs Claus pack the sleigh ready for the big day while hearing lots of Christmas stories about her adventures with Santa Claus!

While you're queuing to meet Santa, take a moment to sit with Mrs Claus outside of the grotto while she reads you festive stories to get you in the Christmassy mood

Free at Santa's Grotto on Level One

Join us for our popular Santa specials and go see Santa by train 🚂
Each child will get off a Belvedere North Station and go one family at a time, to see Santa and each child will get a gift from him.


Dates :

14,15,21,22,24th December
Book online via our website - £8 per person (children & Adults)
6 months and under to free but won't get a present anyone else needs a ticket.

After seeing Santa you re board the train again and complete your magical Christmas journey along the decorated route of the railway.

Can you find the cheerful Christmas characters hidden along the Pier Stem and around the Pier Head? Each hiding a letter that forms a secret Christmas word. Once you've uncovered the secret word, head to the Gift Shop where you can choose a prize from a selection of Southend Pier Souvenirs!

📆 Dates: 1 - 24 December (check website for daily openings)
❄️ Trail: £3 per child (in additional to usual pier admission)
🕙 Times: 10:15am - 4:30pm (please see our website for daily opening times)
A fantastic way to get outdoors and active during the festive season 👇👇

You shall go to the ball, as the classic panto family favourite Cinderella makes a grand entrance!
Bursting with glitz and glamour, it'll be the most magical event of the year!


Cinderella dreams of a glamorous life far removed from the everyday grind of primping and preening her vain stepsisters, and an invitation to the Prince's royal ball is just the ticket! But the Wicked Stepmother has other plans for Cinders, confiscating her ticket to the party of the decade... Fear not, for her Fairy Godmother arrives in the nick of time, ready to weave her magic and transform Cinderella's fortunes! But can she sashay away from the sensational soirée before the clock strikes midnight and her riches turn back to rags once more...?


This much-loved traditional... Read more

You shall go to the ball, as the classic panto family favourite Cinderella makes a grand entrance!
Bursting with glitz and glamour, it'll be the most magical event of the year!


Cinderella dreams of a glamorous life far removed from the everyday grind of primping and preening her vain stepsisters, and an invitation to the Prince's royal ball is just the ticket! But the Wicked Stepmother has other plans for Cinders, confiscating her ticket to the party of the decade... Fear not, for her Fairy Godmother arrives in the nick of time, ready to weave her magic and transform Cinderella's fortunes! But can she sashay away from the sensational soirée before the clock strikes midnight and her riches turn back to rags once more...?


This much-loved traditional... Read more

You shall go to the ball, as the classic panto family favourite Cinderella makes a grand entrance!
Bursting with glitz and glamour, it'll be the most magical event of the year!


Cinderella dreams of a glamorous life far removed from the everyday grind of primping and preening her vain stepsisters, and an invitation to the Prince's royal ball is just the ticket! But the Wicked Stepmother has other plans for Cinders, confiscating her ticket to the party of the decade... Fear not, for her Fairy Godmother arrives in the nick of time, ready to weave her magic and transform Cinderella's fortunes! But can she sashay away from the sensational soirée before the clock strikes midnight and her riches turn back to rags once more...?


This much-loved traditional... Read more

You shall go to the ball, as the classic panto family favourite Cinderella makes a grand entrance!
Bursting with glitz and glamour, it'll be the most magical event of the year!


Cinderella dreams of a glamorous life far removed from the everyday grind of primping and preening her vain stepsisters, and an invitation to the Prince's royal ball is just the ticket! But the Wicked Stepmother has other plans for Cinders, confiscating her ticket to the party of the decade... Fear not, for her Fairy Godmother arrives in the nick of time, ready to weave her magic and transform Cinderella's fortunes! But can she sashay away from the sensational soirée before the clock strikes midnight and her riches turn back to rags once more...?


This much-loved traditional... Read more

bobble hat run
28th & 29th DECEMBER START TIME 10.30AM


BEAT THE POST CHRISTMAS CABIN FEVER & JOIN US FOR A 2K woodland obstacle run, it's a relaxed, fun vibe. Your designated instructor is on hand with top tips to conquer the obstacles and we guarantee muddy feet. Don't forget to bring some marshmallows to toast on the roaring fire pit.


Book as a family, with your buddies or run solo.
All abilities welcome.


FAMILIES/GROUPS OF 4 OR MORE PEOPLE THE 4TH PERSON GOES FOR FREE.


EXCLUSIVE HIRE AVAILABLE FOR GROUPS OF 10 OR MORE.

BEAT THE POST CHRISTMAS CABIN FEVER & JOIN US FOR A 2K woodland obstacle run, it's a relaxed, fun vibe. Your designated instructor is on hand with top tips to conquer the obstacles and we guarantee muddy feet. Don't forget to bring some marshmallows to toast on the roaring fire pit.

Book as a family, with your buddies or run solo.
All abilities welcome.

FAMILIES/GROUPS OF 4 OR MORE PEOPLE THE 4TH PERSON GOES FOR FREE.

EXCLUSIVE HIRE AVAILABLE FOR GROUPS OF 10 OR MORE.

You shall go to the ball, as the classic panto family favourite Cinderella makes a grand entrance!
Bursting with glitz and glamour, it'll be the most magical event of the year!


Cinderella dreams of a glamorous life far removed from the everyday grind of primping and preening her vain stepsisters, and an invitation to the Prince's royal ball is just the ticket! But the Wicked Stepmother has other plans for Cinders, confiscating her ticket to the party of the decade... Fear not, for her Fairy Godmother arrives in the nick of time, ready to weave her magic and transform Cinderella's fortunes! But can she sashay away from the sensational soirée before the clock strikes midnight and her riches turn back to rags once more...?


This much-loved traditional... Read more