Things to do in West Thurrock

Activities, attractions and tours

New Resturant Lakeside Waterfront Grays Essex
New Resturant Lakeside Waterfront Grays Essex
The Ring of Red charity motorcycle ride round the M25.
View from The Boardwalk. This is the view from 1497842 across the remnants of the lake at "Lakeside" before the construction of the Retail Park in the early 1980's and the Shopping centre in the following decade the lake in a flooded gravel pit covered about four times its current area.
Lakeside Boardwalk The Boardwalk restaurant complex looks over the remnants of the late at “Lakeside” before the construction of the retail park in the early 1980’s and the Sshopping centre in the following decade the lake in a flooded gravel pit covered about four times its current area.
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Top places to visit

1. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most well-known parks. The park connects with Kensington Gardens and the two combined cover 630 acres (253 hectares). Together they form the centrepiece of a network of parks known as “London’s Green Lung.” Once the private hunting grounds of King Henry VIII, today the park is filled with heritage sites, monuments and events to attend all year-round.
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Hyde Park featuring a garden, a river or creek and watersports

2. Big Ben

As you approach Westminster, towering Big Ben comes into view, standing majestically on the banks of the River Thames atop the glorious Houses of Parliament. Romanticised throughout the years in various films such as “Bridget Jones’s Diary”, “Notting Hill” and “Love Actually”, Big Ben is the standing soul of this great city.
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Big Ben showing a river or creek, a monument and a city

3. O2 Arena

O2 Arena was originally called the Millennium Dome. It was created to celebrate the beginning of the new millennium. Completed in 1999, The Dome initially housed the Millennium Experience, an exhibition consisting of exhibits, shows and entertainment honoring humankind’s achievements. The Dome’s vast interior has since been remodeled and today is one of London’s premier entertainment destinations.
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O2 Arena which includes a river or creek and modern architecture

4. Tower Bridge

Situated just outside tower hill, the colossal gothic towers straddling the River Thames are a welcoming sight for locals and visitors alike. Soaring majestically up into the London city skyline, Tower Bridge enables around 40,000 vehicles to cross the River Thames every day.
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Tower Bridge featuring a bay or harbor, a bridge and heritage architecture

5. Buckingham Palace

Home to the British Royal family since 1837, Buckingham Palace has for centuries been at the forefront of true British tradition. Having hosted countless lavish banquets, foreign dignitary receptions and state degrees, this elegant palace has withstood decades of change and stands today as the symbol of Britain’s constitutional monarchy.
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Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London

6. London Bridge

London Bridge is easily one of the most famously named bridges in the world, and the site of the oldest recorded crossing of the River Thames. Walk across the landmark structure, enjoy gorgeous river views and pick up insights into the bridge’s history in its underground vaults.
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The view across London Bridge showing the walkie talkie (voted the ugliest building in the UK) the gherkin and the razor.

7. Piccadilly Circus

This rather unusual name derives from a tailor named Roger Baker, famous for making the frilled collars worn by men the 17th Century. Contrary to popular belief, the “circus” refers to the circular motion of traffic that trundles around the central statue of the Greek god Anteros. Today, Piccadilly Circus is an amalgamation of bright lights, lavish entertainment and bustling commuters, a scene which attracts thousands of visitors each year, day and night.
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London which includes heritage elements, a city and street scenes

8. The British Museum

For art buffs and history enthusiasts, the British Museum offers a staggering display of diverse material from all corners of the world. With a collection of over 8 million artefacts, visitors often find it difficult to view everything on offer in one day. So, whether you have a few hours or a few days to spare, this huge hub of information and history is definitely worth a visit.
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The British Museum which includes interior views as well as a large group of people

What to do in West Thurrock

Popular places to visit

New Resturant Lakeside Waterfront Grays Essex

Lakeside Shopping Centre

4/5(27 reviews)

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Lakeside Shopping Centre during your visit to West Thurrock. Stroll along the area's marina or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.

Lakeside Shopping Centre

Arena Essex Raceway

Catch an event at Arena Essex Raceway and enjoy other activities in West Thurrock such as sailing.Make time to visit the area's spas or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Arena Essex Raceway

Lakeside Karting

Enjoy a trip to Lakeside Karting and popular activities such as sailing in Grays. Stroll along the area's marina or simply savour its lively bars.

Lakeside Karting
The River Thames leading towards The Queen Elizabeth II bridge, early morning, near Dartford, Suf

Purfleet

A marina of old boats and shacks just outside Greenhythe in Kent, a great place to wander. and take in the atmosphere.

Swanscombe

Frequently asked questions

Is West Thurrock worth visiting?
Whether you're here to discover the local charm and cultural attractions or sample unique foods and explore the outdoors, there's no shortage of things to do in West Thurrock.
How do I spend a day in West Thurrock?
Once you've checked off top attractions like Lakeside Karting, spend some time exploring the food and retail options in West Thurrock.
What is the top tourist attraction in West Thurrock?
The Backstage Centre is rated the top tourist attraction near West Thurrock, so don't go home without exploring it.
Is three days enough to stay in West Thurrock?
You'll have more than enough time to visit The Backstage Centre, Rainham Marshes and other key attractions in the area when you plan a three-day holiday in West Thurrock.
Is West Thurrock a walkable neighbourhood?
If you love walking, West Thurrock is perfect. You can get to key sights like The Backstage Centre and Rainham Marshes on foot. At 3 kilometres from the centre, the popular neighbourhood of Purfleet is also close enough for a pleasant stroll. So too is North Stifford, roughly 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in West Thurrock with kids?
Planning what to do in West Thurrock with kids has never been easier. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or little ones, there's no shortage of family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in West Thurrock for adults?
From local cuisine and cultural gems to thrilling excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences, there's no shortage of fascinating things to do in West Thurrock for adults.
Are there free things to do in West Thurrock?
You won't have to hunt high and low for free things to do in West Thurrock. Just ask a local tour guide and they'll have suggestions for attractions and places you can enjoy with no costs involved. An excellent free option to check out is Crossways Business Park.