London Southend Airport
The 2006 docudrama starring Essex actor Dame Helen Mirren as Queen Elizabeth II was an instant hit. Following the tumultuous years for the monarch as she navigates leading the country through a period of unprecedented public mourning, the movie also starred Michael Sheen as Tony Blair. As Diana’s flag-draped coffin is brought back to the UK, the scene, which was set in RAF Northolt in West London, was actually shot at London Southend Airport.
One of the many gateways in and out of Essex, London Southend Airport has flights to over 200 worldwide destinations. Airlines including EasyJet, Ryanair, Emirates and British Airways operate from here. The airport is easily accessible, with its train station just metres from the entrance, or take the M25 if travelling by car. London Southend Airport is also home to the Vulcan bomber – keep an eye out for event days in which you can visit the historic aircraft! If you’re looking for a bite to eat, the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar at the Holiday Inn Southend is a fantastic dining experience with views of the planes taking off and landing at the airport.
