This weekend was looking to be wonderfully warm and sunny (summer’s finally on it’s way!) and we were wondering where we could take all three of the kids to enjoy Saturday all together. A friend of Dimas mentioned that a pirate ship had moored at the end of Southend on Sea Pier so that seemed like a perfect idea and Evie was really keen to have a look!
We’ve walked the pier a few times in the past, both in winter and summer and it’s always a great way to spend some time in the fresh air and getting a little exercise – even better when you’re planning to treat yourself to a yummy ice cream after! As Southend Pier is the longest pier in the world, you can really get some steps in.
We decided that we would take the option to walk to the end of the pier and then take the train back to save Evie’s legs and to have a break from pushing the double pram for a bit. It’s a good thing we did, as Evie was very tired by the time we decided to leave.
The Pirate Ship is a Spanish 17th century galleon replica and it was an amazing sight. We unfortunately did not book ahead to actually go on the ship, but so many people did and the queue was huge! There were some people dressed as pirates on the pier that were happy to take photos with visitors. Evie almost did, but then decided she wasn’t so keen! She was quite happy running around, eating chips and taking pictures with her own digital camera.
Evie and Leo enjoyed the train ride back (Dante was having a well earned nap after being awake the whole walk down the pier) and you can’t beat the view. Evie spotted the Sea Life Centre that we often visit, so we had to promise that we would be back soon to “see the fishies.”
The ship is still there for a few more days, so if you happen to be around Southend during the half term week, try and have a look and let me know what you think if you do!
Nicola Cañaveras 