SOUTHEND’S Adventure Island is certainly our firm favourite for a top day out... but its seems the nation agrees too!

The hugely popular attraction has been placed in the bronze medal position by TripAdvisor in this year’s Choice Awards.

The park, owned by the Stockvale Group, finished ahead of Alton Towers in the list, as well as Blackpool Pleasure Beach and Brighton’s Palace Pier.

Paulton’s Park, in Romsey, and The Milky Way Adventure Park, in Clovelly took the top two spots.

Families say they are not surprised and agree with the superb rating by the online review service.

Patsy Bennett, of Canvey, said: “We love taking our grandchildren and they can’t get enough, the rides are fantastic and the staff are so helpful and nice.

“It really has something for everyone - I can see why at the top of the list for this summer’s staycations places for the family.”

The 59-year-old added: “There’s plenty of food outlets and so much on offer. Our grandkids love the Rage rollercoaster - and it’s so nice the beach is so close, so we often spend time between both the park and beach.”

Kevin Murphy, 41, of Southend, added: “I say this is a well-deserved placing, and it’s also a highly regarded Southend employer as well. We also find it’s great value for money and all the staff are brilliant and very friendly.

“Due to the pandemic, things were a little different but everything is explained to you, there were lots of hand sanitising stations around the park and rides were closed for around ten minutes every couple of hours for cleaning.”

Bosses at the attraction - previously Peter Pan’s Playground - say they are delighted with the high recognition in the TripAdvisor awards.

Marc Miller, Managing Director of the Stockvale Group said: “We are absolutely over the moon to be ranked third this year and would like to thank all of our loyal customers for supporting and backing us. We pride ourselves on our customer service and this award is really a reflection on our wonderful team and managers who work with such dedication.”