A seaside town that recently won city status was once ranked among the worst in the UK.

       But now it is being compared to Miami, thanks to its festivals, nightlife, and golden beaches.

       Despite receiving mixed reviews over the last few years, the city has been gaining popularity.

       The place in question is Southend-on-Sea, an Essex resort that was ranked 41st out of 50 in a Which? magazine survey of the UK's best seaside destinations last year.

       The poll, based on beaches, attractions, scenery, and value for money, saw Southend fall towards the bottom of the list.

       Many visitors have also been left disappointed in the past. One person wrote on TripAdvisor: "This is by far the worst seaside town I've ever been in. Smells and not much to do there. Very overrated."

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       There was also a YouTube video listing the so-called "worst places in Essex" that described Southend as "grimy and full of strange people."

       But while some have dismissed it, others insist it is worth visiting. One TripAdvisor user said: "Lovely day out on the beach and plenty of amusements. We try to come back every year."

       And the seaside town seems to be on the rise with festivals like City Jam, Lazydays Festival, South East Dance Festival, and the Halloween Parade drawing in crowds.

       What’s more, back in 2023, Councillor Daniel Nelson told the Southend Echo that the town was evolving, saying: "[Southend is] somewhere people flock for glamour, glitz, fun, and entertainment.

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       “The ambition is there, and the boost that such a reputation would give our local economy would make it all worthwhile.

       "Whilst we have a tourist industry like Miami does, which we should support and cherish.”

       Even travel experts have made the Miami comparison in the past.

       Last year, The Times' Cathy Adams called The Roslin Beach Hotel on Thorpe Bay "a slice of Miami on the seafront."

       The bright interiors, palm-tree prints, and ocean views are said to resemble the famous city in Florida.

       There are also many places for thrill-seekers including Adventure Island, which offers over 40 rides and is one of the few UK theme parks with free entry, charging only for ride passes.

       Originally opening in 1918, it has grown from a children’s play area into a full amusement park.

       Another standout attraction is the Southend Pier, which at 1.3 miles long is the world’s longest pleasure pier.

       For those looking to unwind, Chalkwell Beach provides a long sandy coastline close to the town’s attractions.

       Southend is also easily accessible from London in just 70 minutes by train or a 35-minute drive from Chelmsford.