Gleneagles Hotel, Southend-on-Sea - History

Southend-on-Sea has points of historical interests dating back to the Saxon times and the Gleneagles Hotel is situated in one of Southend’s conservation areas (a special area of historical interest). With the completion of the London to Southend railway line, Southend’s tourism and residential popularity increased and the new ‘Cliff Town Estate’ was built. Notable residents include mountaineer Edward Whymper, the first to conquer the Matterhorn, and Benjamin Waugh, founder of the NSPCC.

Gleneagles Hotel In Southend Conservation Area

Southend’s Cliff Town Estate, designed by Banks and Charles Barry junior and built in the 1850’s was the first major attempt to develop Southend as a seaside resort and residential town. ‘Cliff Town’ was created under strict design controls, noticeably the uniform brickwork, recessed porches and doors, sliding sash timber windows, roofs in slate and cast iron balconies and boundary railings. This contrasts with the west side of Prittlewell Square, which has much more freedom of design.

As the Southend resort began to grow in the late 19th century, gardens and promenades were created for recreational use. Prittlewell Square is Southend’s oldest garden. Other points of interest are the statue of the Queen Victoria (by Goldie and Swinerton) and the cliff’s lift, both are opposite the hotel.

Hotel, Guest House, B&B Accommodation Southend-on-Sea. Cliff Town & Prittlewell Square, Southend Conservation Areas , Queen Victoria Statue, Cliffs Lift, Southend Pier.