Around an hour from Romford by car or train, Southend-on-Sea is a famous spot for a day out at the seaside.
However, if you plan on swimming, it is always best to check the water quality ahead of time.
The Environment Agency assesses designated bathing sites across the country, taking regular water samples over the summer and issuing daily pollution risk forecasts.
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Out of the eight bathing spots dotted along the Southend coast, four are rated “excellent” for their water quality – while the other half are classified as “good”.
These ratings are based on the 2024 classification for the sites.
The “excellent” beaches are Southend Three Shells, Southend Thorpe Bay, Shoeburyness and Shoebury East.
Meanwhile, the beaches classified as “good” are Leigh Bell Wharf, Southend Chalkwell, Southend Westcliff Bay and Southend Jubilee.
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The rating for Southend Westcliff Bay’s water quality has dropped from “excellent” in 2023 to “good”, while Southend Thorpe Bay has improved over the past year.
It is important to note that even if a swimming spot is rated “good” or “excellent”, visitors can still be advised against bathing due to pollution risk warnings, updated daily.
Keep an eye on the latest advice on the Environment Agency’s Swimfo webpage.
