Keeping the region entertained since 1964, Southend’s Cliffs Pavilion is one of the UK’s busiest and most successful theatres. In its prime location overlooking Western Esplanade, the multi-purpose venue hosts a diverse programme with hundreds of musicals, music concerts, comedians and events including Essex’s biggest Christmas pantomime, often starring some big names in television. Seeing a play? Why not make the evening extra special and try the pre-show dining?

It’s not just theatre the Cliffs Pavilion does well – The Cliff’s excellent hospitality team cater for most events from small intimate parties to celebrations of life as well as offering a range of conference facilities and space for business meetings and away days. The Cliffs Pavilion is licenced to perform civil ceremonies so with its stunning cliff-top setting, it is perfect for weddings and the hospitality team will ensure your day is everything you want it to be.

The Edwardian Palace Theatre has been welcoming audiences since 1912. Home to the best professional plays, comedy and music, it also hosts South Essex’s thriving amateur theatre and dance companies. The intimate Dixon Studio within the Palace, offers a varied and alternative programme including small scale drama and up and coming comedians and musicians. The Palace Theatre also hosts regular baby and toddler drama and music sessions for budding performers and storytelling sessions for the grown ups.