Southend United

Directions

From M25 take Junction 29 and follow the A127 to Southend. Continue towards the town centre, through the lights near to the Bell Pub. At the next roundabout turn right (3rd turning), continuing on the A127. The ground is on the right just past the next traffic lights. If you turn right as you reach the ground, this will put you behind the away end where there is plenty of street parking to be found. Otherwise there is a car park at the ground, behind the Main Stand which costs £5, or there is the Southend High School For Boys which also offers car parking for £5 per car (the school entrance is on Prittlewell Road).

Pubs

With the demise of the Golden Lion, the choice for away fans has become somewhat limited. The closest pub to the ground the Spread Eagle is for home fans only, along with the Blue Boar that is a little further on up the road. This really only leaves the 'The Bell' which you pass on your way into Southend on the A127 and 'The Nelson' in North Road. The Bell is a large 'Toby Carvery', whilst The Nelson is a basic pub with a beer garden and is probably only worth a visit if you arrive early and want to kill time. It is about a five minute walk from the Spread Eagle. Just go past the the Spread Eagle on your right, turn right at the lights and then turn left into North Road, opposite the petrol station. The pub is up on the right.

The 'Shrimpers Bar' at the ground itself, is now for members only. Please note that alcohol is not served to away fans within the stadium. There is also a good fish and chip shop located across the road from the Blue Boar by the traffic lights, called the 'Fish House', which I found to be excellent. Judging by the amount of fans standing outside eating fish and chips (there is some seating inside as well), then I'm not the only one that thinks it is good.

By Train

The closest station to the ground is Prittlewell, about a five minute walk away. It is served by trains from London Liverpool Street. As you exit the station turn right, you will then come to a crossroads with traffic lights. On your right is the 'Fish House', fish and chip shop. Pass this and turn right. Walk about 100 yards and the ground is tucked away on your left.

If you happen to end up at Southend Central station (served by trains from London Fenchurch Street), you're about a 25 minute walk from the ground. The main bus station is close to Southend Central, and therefore it may be an idea to get a bus up to the ground, rather than walking.