Southend one of the UK's most 'underrated cities' to visit in 2025 - here's why
A city in Essex has been named one of the most underrated in the UK.
The Telegraph has pulled together ten of the 76 across the country to get people to visit and 'discover the appeal of the nation's lesser-known urban wonders'.
The list said: 'While they might not attract the crowds in the same way as the big names, our pick of the UK's most underrated cities are perfect for a getaway, perhaps even more so because of how unsung appeal.
'Many of the places selected below have festivals or events happening in 2025, too, so this might just be the year to explore the UK's underrated cities.'
🇬🇧Swerve the crowds and discover the appeal of the nation's lesser-known urban wonders Read more ⬇️https://t.co/f9QXUWHjh6 pic.twitter.com/SgobOhjGGq
— Telegraph Travel (@TelegraphTravel) March 13, 2025
To see the full list head to the Telegraph website.
On the list of the most underrated cities in the UK that should be visited, was Southend.
The Telegraph said Southend 'has long had a reputation for being unlovable but beneath the surface, it is secretly transforming into a modern coastal destination'.
It added that the beachfront has 'all the charms of your traditional, Victorian resort', with arcades, fish and chips and the world's longest pleasure pier.
It continued: 'Head into the city, though, and you'll find a more modern offering, like Sababa, a stylish coffee shop serving unbeatable falafel.'
The Telegraph also highlighted The Seven Hotel as a top place to stay, with great views across the water to the North Kent coastline.
Other cities to make the list included Norwich, Lincoln, Swansea, Perth and more.
Southend was granted city status in January 2022.
It was in memory of Southend West and Conservative MP Sir David Amess, who was murdered in October 2021.
Recommended reading:
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Why these three south Essex areas are among the best places to live in UK
King Charles III, who was then the prince, presented the letters patent to Southend Council in March 2022.
Southend is one of just three places in Essex to have city status.
They are joined by Chelmsford, which became a city in 2012 as part of Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, and Colchester, which received the honour as part of the late Queen's Platinum Jubilee Civic Honours.
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