London Southend Airport

London Southend (SEN) is a true "hidden gem" for travellers who prefer comfort and tranquillity over the hustle and bustle of huge transport hubs. This small but modern airport is often called the fastest and friendliest in London, as the journey from the terminal entrance to the boarding gate takes just a few minutes. Located on the coast, it offers a unique combination of a relaxed atmosphere and excellent transport accessibility to the centre of the British capital. Southend is ideal for those wishing to avoid the endless queues of Heathrow or Gatwick and start their journey without stress.

Southend Airport is renowned for its incredible efficiency and convenience for passengers. Its main feature is its own railway station, located just 100 steps from the passenger terminal. Direct trains take travellers to Liverpool Street Station in central London in less than an hour. Thanks to the compact size of the terminal, queues for security checks are a rarity here, and most passengers complete all formalities in less than 10 minutes.

Other advantages include free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the area and a cosy atmosphere, recognised with numerous awards from consumer associations. Despite its distance from the capital's centre on the map, travel time is often comparable to trips from other London airports, but with a much lower level of stress. This is an excellent choice for families with children and those who value their time and personal space.

To ensure your journey goes as smoothly as possible, we have prepared current contact information for London Southend Airport. If you have questions regarding flights, parking, or special services, please use the following communication channels:

• Official Airport Website: www.southendairport.com — here you will find the latest schedule, live flight information, and options to book parking or the lounge.
• Helpdesk Phone: +44 1702 538 500 (main contact number for passenger enquiries).
• Airport Address: Eastwoodbury Crescent, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6YF, United Kingdom (this is where the main passenger terminal is located).
• Email: LSA.Enquiries@southendairport.com (for general questions and feedback).
• Social Media: You can follow news and ask questions via official accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter) using the handle @southendairport.
• Lost Property Information:
  — In the terminal: If items were left inside the airport building, you must fill out a special "Lost Property" form on the official website.
  — On the plane: For luggage that did not arrive on the carousel or was left on board, please contact the airline that operated the flight directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For the prompt resolution of specific issues (for example, questions about parking or special assistance), it is recommended to use the "Contact Us" feedback form on the airport website.

Although Southend is located slightly further from the capital than other air hubs, getting here is often faster and simpler thanks to well-thought-out logistics. The airport prides itself on its transport accessibility, offering passengers a choice between high-speed trains, buses, and private transport.

Train: The Fastest and Most Reliable Option

The railway is the undisputed leader among ways to get to Southend. The airport's own railway station is located just a 2-minute walk from the terminal (via a covered walkway), which eliminates the need for additional shuttles.

• Route: Trains operated by Greater Anglia depart from Liverpool Street station in central London and stop at Stratford station (convenient for transferring from the Underground).
• Travel Time: From 52 minutes (from Liverpool Street) or about 43 minutes (from Stratford). During peak hours, trains run every 20 minutes.
• Cost: A one-way ticket costs approximately £18 to £20. Buying tickets online in advance often allows for savings.

Buses and Transfers

Bus services connect the airport with nearby towns and transport hubs in Essex. This is an excellent option for travel within the region, but less convenient for a direct trip from central London compared to the train.

• Route X30: A popular express bus by First Essex. It connects Southend with the city of Chelmsford and Stansted Airport. This is an ideal option for transit passengers.
• Local Routes: Buses No. 7, 8, and 9 connect the terminal with the centre of Southend-on-Sea and the surrounding areas.

Taxi and Car Rental

Travelling by car provides maximum "door-to-door" comfort, but one should consider the famous London traffic, especially when entering the M25 orbital motorway. The journey from central London usually takes from 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes, depending on traffic.

• Taxi: Official black cabs or services like Uber will cost significantly more than the train — on average from £100 to £130 for a trip from the capital's centre.
• Car Rental: Counters of international rental companies (e.g., Europcar) are located in the arrivals area. It is recommended to book a car in advance.

Airport Parking

For those arriving in their own car, Southend offers several parking zones located within walking distance of the terminal:

• Short Stay: Located directly opposite the entrance, ideal for dropping off passengers or short-term waiting.
• Long Stay: Suitable for those flying away on holiday. If you book a space online in advance, you can receive a discount of up to 60% off the on-site rate.

Connections to Other Airports

If your journey involves changing airports, it is important to calculate time correctly. The nearest major hub is Stansted (about 47 km), which can be reached by the direct X30 bus. Other airports are further away, and the journey to them will require a transfer in London or a taxi booking:

• London City is 45 km away; the route usually involves the rail network.
• London Gatwick (76 km) and London Luton (81 km) will require a significant time allowance for travel (minimum 2–2.5 hours).
• The busiest hub, Heathrow Airport, is located approximately 80 km to the west. The most reliable way to get there is by train via central London (Elizabeth Line or Heathrow Express).

Unlike giant aviation hubs like Heathrow, London Southend Airport (SEN) is arranged as simply and intuitively as possible. All passenger traffic is handled in a single modern terminal. This compact single-storey building is designed so that the passenger's journey from the entrance to the aircraft seat is as short and stress-free as possible. It is impossible to get lost here, and the lack of need to move between different buildings makes this airport ideal for first-time flyers or those travelling with small children.

Terminal Layout and Service Zones

The internal space is organised logically and linearly. Upon entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the check-in area. Due to the small number of simultaneous flights, crowds rarely gather here.

• Check-in Zone: Located immediately at the main entrance. Here you will find airline counters (mainly EasyJet and charter carriers) and kiosks for self-service baggage drop.
• Pre-flight Security: Located a few steps from the check-in counters. Southend prides itself on its speed: the screening procedure usually takes from 5 to 10 minutes. Passengers do not have to remove shoes or take out liquids if using the latest scanners (technologies may update, so please follow staff instructions).
• Departures Hall: After passing control, you enter the waiting area. It is small but comfortable, with panoramic windows overlooking the runway.

Infrastructure and Services in the Airside Zone

Despite the modest size, the terminal has everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight. You won't be bored, but you also won't get lost in a maze of shops.

• Shops: A duty-free shop (World Duty Free) operates here, where you can buy fragrances, confectionery, and other goods, as well as a WHSmith newsstand with books, magazines, and travel essentials.
• Dining: The main attraction is The Navigator restaurant, offering classic English breakfasts and lunches. Coffee shops (usually Costa Coffee) are also available for a quick snack.
• Business Lounge: For those seeking privacy, the Skylark Lounge is open. Snacks, beverages, and a calmer atmosphere are offered here before the flight. Access can be paid for on the spot or booked in advance.

Arrival and Exit to the City

The arrival procedure at Southend is perhaps one of the fastest in London. The path from the aircraft steps (boarding and disembarking are usually done on foot, without buses) to the terminal exit takes minimal time.

The passport control area is compact, and baggage reclaim belts are located immediately behind it. The main feature of arrival navigation is the exit to transport. Having left the secure zone, you enter a covered walkway which will lead you directly to the railway station platform in just 1-2 minutes. You do not need to go outside, look for shuttle stops, or cross roads with suitcases.

Tips on Navigation and Time

Due to the high efficiency of airport services, there is no need to arrive 3-4 hours before departure. Usually, it is sufficient to arrive 1.5–2 hours before the departure time. Check-in typically closes 45 minutes before departure, and the boarding gate closes 30–40 minutes before. The compactness of the terminal allows you to calculate time down to the minute, leaving more time for relaxation before your journey.

The history of London Southend Airport is a fascinating journey from a simple grass field to a modern international hub, recognised with prestigious awards. Over more than a century of history, this air harbour has experienced ups, periods of quiet, and an incredible revival, becoming an important part of the UK transport system.

Origins and the "Golden Age"

The official opening date of the airport as a municipal civil facility is considered to be 1935, although aviation was present at this site (in the Rochford area) since the First World War, when the Royal Flying Corps was based here. However, the true flourishing of Southend occurred in the post-war years, especially in the 1950s and 1960s.

During this period, Southend was the third busiest airport in the UK after Heathrow and Manchester. It became famous as a key hub for a unique service — "air ferries". Special aircraft transported not only passengers but also their cars across the English Channel to France and Belgium. It was here that the legendary Aviation Traders Carvair aircraft, capable of holding up to five cars in the nose section, were actively operated.

Period of Quiet and Large-Scale Modernisation

In the 1970s, with the development of large jet liners and the growth of Stansted Airport, Southend's popularity began to decline. For a long time, it functioned mainly as a base for aircraft maintenance and private aviation. The situation changed radically in 2008, when the airport was purchased by the Stobart Group. The new owners launched an ambitious investment programme worth over £100 million.

A key moment in recent history was the preparation period for the Olympic Games in London. In 2011–2012, grandiose changes took place here:

• A completely new, modern passenger terminal was opened.
• A new control tower was built, becoming a symbol of the renewed airport.
• The runway was extended, allowing popular liners like the Airbus A319 and Boeing 737 to be accepted.
• A dedicated railway station was launched, connecting the terminal with central London.

Records and Achievements

The result of the massive reconstruction was passenger recognition. London Southend has repeatedly been recognised as the "Best Airport in the UK" (in the category under 3 million passengers) by the prestigious consumer magazine Which? (in 2013, 2014, 2015, and subsequent years). Passengers highly appreciated the speed of service, the politeness of the staff, and the absence of queues, which allowed the airport to set an unofficial record for the speed of passing all formalities — from entrance to gate in less than 15 minutes.

Interesting Facts

• Cinematic Trace: In 1964, it was at Southend (and partially at Lydd Airport) that scenes of loading a Rolls-Royce car into a plane were filmed for the James Bond movie "Goldfinger", immortalising the era of car air transport.
• Royal Visits: In the 1950s, the airport was often used by members of the Royal Family for flights to Europe, as it provided greater privacy compared to large capital airports.
• Rare Guests: For a long time, the legendary Avro Vulcan XL426 bomber was based and displayed on the airport grounds, attracting aviation enthusiasts from all over the country.

The infrastructure of London Southend Airport (SEN) fully corresponds to its concept of a "fast and convenient hub". You will not find endless shopping galleries here as in giant airports, but all necessary services for a comfortable wait for your flight are located compactly and close at hand. The cosy atmosphere of the terminal allows passengers to relax before their flight without spending time on long walks.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops

The selection of establishments at Southend is small but high-quality, covering the basic needs of travellers. All food and retail outlets are concentrated in the departure zone (after passing security):

• The Navigator: A traditional establishment where you can have a full lunch before your journey or enjoy a beverage. The menu includes classic breakfasts, burgers, and snacks. The atmosphere is conducive to quiet relaxation.
• Costa Coffee: A popular chain coffee shop offering a wide selection of hot drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and desserts — an ideal option for a quick snack.
• Shopping: The World Duty Free store offers a standard range of perfumes, cosmetics, confectionery, and other goods at duty-free prices. The WHSmith kiosk is open for buying newspapers, books, travel electronics, and light snacks.

VIP Lounges and Comfort

For those who value privacy and increased comfort, the Skylark Lounge operates at the airport. This is a stylish space open to passengers of any airline (entry is paid, online booking is recommended for savings). Guests are offered:

• Complimentary beverages and soft drinks.
• Fresh pastries and light snacks in a buffet format.
• Comfortable soft armchairs and a calm atmosphere away from the general waiting hall.
• Free newspapers and charging stations.

Communication and Finance

Staying connected at Southend is easy: free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. To register on the network, simply go through a simple authorisation procedure.

Regarding financial services, ATMs dispensing Pounds Sterling and Euros are installed in the airport. Currency exchange points (e.g., Travelex) are also available but operate during specific hours. It is recommended to have a card or pre-prepared cash currency if you arrive late at night.

Services for Passengers with Children

Southend is an excellent choice for family travel. Thanks to the terminal's compactness, parents do not need to cover long distances with strollers. Special baby changing rooms are equipped in the departure zone. Restaurants usually have a children's menu and high chairs available.

Services for Passengers with Reduced Mobility

The airport prides itself on its accessibility. The terminal is single-level, which eliminates the need to use lifts or escalators when moving from the entrance to the gate. A Special Assistance service helps passengers from the moment of arrival at the parking or railway station until boarding the plane. It is important to request this service through your airline at least 48 hours before departure.

Hotels and Business Services

Although there are no conference halls inside the terminal itself, the Holiday Inn Southend hotel is located in the immediate vicinity. It is within walking distance (literally a couple of minutes' walk from the airport entrance) and offers:

• Modern soundproofed rooms.
• Conference halls and meeting rooms for business meetings.
• The famous 1935 Rooftop Restaurant and bar on the hotel roof, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the airport runway and the surroundings.

Medical Assistance

There is no full-fledged clinic in the terminal, but first aid supplies are always available. In case of feeling unwell, please contact any airport staff member, who is trained in first aid and will call emergency services if necessary.

Since London Southend Airport (SEN) is a compact single-terminal hub, the choice of establishments here is not as large as in giant hubs, but quite sufficient for a comfortable wait. All main dining points are concentrated in the "Airside" zone, meaning they are accessible only after passing pre-flight security. This is done so that passengers can calmly have a snack after completing all formalities.

Departure Zone (Airside): Where to Eat Before Your Flight

The heart of the terminal's gastronomic life is The Navigator restaurant. This is a classic establishment with a relaxed atmosphere, wooden finishes, and a view of the airfield.

• Menu: Dishes that have become the hallmark of British cuisine are served here. It is definitely worth trying the traditional Full English Breakfast (with eggs, beef bacon or sausages, and beans) if your flight is in the morning. At lunchtime, burgers, fish and chips, and hearty sandwiches are popular.
• Beverages: The bar offers a good selection of refreshing beverages and soft drinks.
• Average Bill: A full lunch will cost approximately £12–£18 per person.

For those in a hurry or preferring a light snack, Costa Coffee is open. This is an ideal place for a quick start:

• Assortment: Signature coffee, hot chocolate, fresh pastries (croissants, muffins), paninis, and toast.
• Speed: Service here is as prompt as possible, and many items can be taken "to go" (on board).
• Price: Coffee and a sandwich will cost on average £6–£9.

Dining Before Security (Landside) and Near the Terminal

In the public zone before passing security, dining options are extremely limited and often reduced to vending machines with water and snacks. However, if you have time before check-in, the best solution would be to visit the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar.

It is located on the roof of the Holiday Inn, which is just a 2–3 minute walk from the terminal entrance. This is a higher-class establishment:

• Features: Panoramic glazing with a magnificent view of the airfield. This is an excellent place for a dinner or a business lunch before departure.
• Cuisine: Modern European menu with an emphasis on seasonal products.
• Prices: Above average, main courses cost from £15 to £25.

Dietary Requirements and Special Requests

Despite the small number of establishments, Southend considers the needs of different categories of passengers:

• Vegetarians and Vegans: At The Navigator, there are always vegetarian versions of burgers or salads. At Costa Coffee, vegan rolls (for example, with falafel), fruit slices, and plant-based sandwiches are widely represented. Alternative milk (oat, soya, almond) is also available for coffee.
• Gluten-Free: In coffee shops, you can find packaged gluten-free brownies or bars. In the restaurant, it is recommended to check the composition of dishes with the waiter — staff are usually well-informed about allergens.
• Halal: A specialized halal menu is generally not available at the airport, but fish and vegetarian dishes suitable for these requirements are always available.

Opening Hours

The schedule of establishments in the departure zone is strictly tied to the flight schedule. The Navigator and Costa Coffee open 2–2.5 hours before the first flight of the day (usually around 04:30–05:00 AM) and close after the departure of the last flight. You will not remain hungry, even if you are flying on the earliest or latest plane.

Recommendations for Passengers

If you plan a full lunch in a quiet setting, it is better to arrive a little earlier and visit the restaurant on the roof of the Holiday Inn. For a quick snack immediately before boarding, the Airside zone is ideal: thanks to the terminal's compactness, you can drink coffee in the cafe while watching your gate, which is literally 20 metres away.

Travelling through London Southend differs from the experience of flying through giant capital hubs. Calmness and efficiency reign here, but knowing some nuances will help make your trip even more pleasant and budget-friendly. We have collected practical tips that will be useful for both beginners and experienced tourists.

Optimal Arrival Time

Unlike Heathrow or Gatwick, where it is recommended to arrive 3 hours in advance, different rules apply at Southend. Thanks to the terminal's compactness and high throughput, arriving 1.5–2 hours before departure is considered ideal. If you are flying only with hand luggage and have already completed online check-in, even 1 hour 15 minutes will be a quite comfortable margin. However, arriving "at the last minute" (less than an hour) is not advisable, as gates close strictly according to the schedule.

Check-in and Security: Be Prepared

Most flights from Southend are operated by low-cost carriers (e.g., EasyJet), so it is strongly recommended to complete online check-in in advance and save the boarding pass on your phone. This will save you from standing in line at the counters if you do not have checked baggage.

Standard UK security rules apply at screening, which are strictly enforced:

• Liquids: All containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a single transparent resealable plastic bag measuring 20x20 cm. The bag needs to be taken out of your bag and placed in a tray separately.
• Electronics: Laptops, tablets, and large cameras must also be removed from cases and placed in a separate tray.
• Outerwear: Jackets, coats, and belts with metal buckles will need to be removed.

Hand Luggage: What is Allowed and Prohibited

Since the main carriers here are budget airlines, they are extremely particular about hand luggage dimensions. Be sure to check the size of your bag before leaving home to avoid paying a fine at the boarding gate (where checking frames are often placed).

Important to Remember about Prohibitions:

• Sharp objects (scissors with a blade longer than 6 cm, corkscrews) are prohibited.
• Power banks and spare lithium batteries can be carried only in hand luggage. Checking them into luggage is strictly prohibited for fire safety reasons.
• Lighters are allowed to be carried only on your person (in a pocket), but not inside a bag.

Tips on Choosing a Seat on the Plane

The runway at Southend is located in such a way that beautiful views often open up during takeoff or landing. If you want to admire the scenery, choose a Window Seat. When approaching from the east, you can often see the picturesque Thames Estuary and the Essex coast. On the right side of the aircraft, views of the distant outlines of the City of London sometimes open up if the weather is clear.

Recommendations for Transit Passengers

Southend is a "point-to-point" airport, not a transit hub. There is no sterile transit zone here. This means that if you have a connecting flight (even with the same airline), you will have to:

1. Pass passport control and cross the UK border.
2. Collect baggage (if you have any).
3. Go through check-in and security screening again.

Ensure you have the appropriate visa to enter the UK, even if you are flying onwards in a couple of hours. Allow at least 2.5–3 hours for the transfer to eliminate risks.

Customs Control

Following Brexit, rules for bringing goods into the UK from EU countries have changed and become stricter. There are limits on bringing restricted goods (such as specific allowances for beverages and tobacco products). If you have nothing to declare, proceed through the "Green Channel". Random checks occur, so keep receipts for expensive purchases.

How to Save Time and Money

• Water: Do not buy bottled water before passing security — it will be confiscated. Take an empty bottle with you: immediately after the security zone, there are drinking fountains where you can fill it for free.
• Train Tickets: Buy Greater Anglia train tickets online in advance. "Advance" fares can be significantly cheaper than buying from a machine on the day of travel.
• Wi-Fi: Use the airport's free Wi-Fi to avoid spending mobile data roaming allowance. The network usually works stably and quickly.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Although Southend is famous for punctuality, weather or technical reasons may cause adjustments. If your flight is delayed:

• Watch the information boards and listen to announcements — information is updated promptly in the small terminal.
• Use your airline's app to track status.
• If the delay is long (more than 2 hours), contact airline staff for food vouchers (according to UK/European passenger rights rules).
• In case of flight cancellation or an overnight delay, the Holiday Inn hotel is within walking distance, but rooms fill up quickly, so book a room as soon as it becomes clear that departure is delayed for a long time.