Even though it was designated as a new town after World War II, Basildon boasts its first historical reference in records from the year 1086.Interestingly, in the Domesday Book it was mentioned as Belesduna.

Located in Essex, England, the new town was created from a number of pre-existing towns, so as to accommodate the London population overspill. Today’s Basildon is home to marvelous means of recreation for the young and old alike. Its Eastgate Shopping centre is well worth many trips, and the Motorboat Museum is definitely an enchanting yet educational experience. The museum is devoted to the history and evolution of the motorboat in both the sports and leisure fields. There are more than thirty one exhibits of motorboats on display, dating back to as long ago as 1823. The museum further features a collection of inboard and outboard motors, and remote control boats for kids!

The Glide3 Hovercraft Experience in Basildon is also an absolutely unique one. You can fly your own luxury hovercraft, whizzing and sliding at high speed across land and water on a cushion of air, making 180 and 360 degree spins!Only forty minutes from central London, the Glide3 Hovercraft Experience also gives you the chance to attend training sessions for groups of four to six people. Additionally, it offers all safety, protective equipment and insurances; a personalized certificate souvenir; free delivery of your experience voucher; and free refreshments and snacks. Getting an adrenaline rush is also free here!

The Gloucester Park in Basildon is named after the Duke of Gloucester who opened the park in 1957. A six acre artificial lake was created in the park in the 1970s and the annual Basildon Festival is being held at this park since 2001. The Festival Leisure Park, with a rather long list of world-renowned restaurants and leisure facilities, is a trading leisure park, affectionately called Bas Vegas. The cultural side of Basildon can be vividly seen in this park, and were quite sure you don’t want to miss that!