I really like Southend although it is best not to make it the be all and end all of your trip. Alex, me and a few of our friends normally make a trip down there every December and tend to spend some time on the rides, a few hours in the town and a walk along the Pier.I do like Adventure Island though, Dragons Claw is very very good, as the Scorpion and the big Turtle ride. Yet to ride Rage though.