Rendezvous Southend Casino is a popular gaming and entertainment venue located in the Kursaal building on the Eastern Esplanade in Southend-on-Sea, Essex. The casino offers a wide range of gaming options, as well as live entertainment, dining, and special events. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various aspects of Rendezvous Southend Casino, its history, and its current status.
History and Location
The Kursaal building, home to Rendezvous Southend Casino, is an iconic seafront pleasure palace with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Located on the Eastern Esplanade in Southend-on-Sea, the Kursaal was once a bustling entertainment hub, featuring a bowling alley, Tesco Express, and various other tenants. However, in recent years, the building has faced several challenges, including the closure of the bowling alley and other businesses.
As of now, Rendezvous Southend Casino is permanently closed due to "difficult trading conditions" and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on future business levels. The building currently houses only one tenant - Tesco Express.
Gaming Options
Before its closure, Rendezvous Southend Casino offered a wide range of gaming options for players of all skill levels. Open 24 hours a day, the casino featured various games such as roulette, blackjack, Texas hold'em, three-card poker, and let it ride. The casino was known for its friendly and vibrant atmosphere, catering to both casual and serious gamblers alike.
Dining and Entertainment
Rendezvous Southend Casino was more than just a gaming venue; it also offered an elegant dining experience and top-notch live entertainment. The casino housed an upscale restaurant and a trendy bistro, providing a perfect setting for a memorable night out.
The Fahrenheit Ice Bar was another popular attraction at the casino, offering a unique and cool ambiance for patrons to enjoy a wide selection of drinks. Live entertainment was available every Friday and Saturday night, with free admission to tribute acts and a resident DJ to entertain guests.
Event Hosting and Facilities
The casino also served as an ideal venue for hosting various events, including parties, conferences, seminars, and business dinners. With a private space of 1 sq. ft. and a seating capacity of 22, the Rendezvous Casino was equipped with modern facilities such as furniture, lighting, and a dance floor. It also provided onsite catering, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for event attendees.
Accessibility was a priority at Rendezvous Southend Casino, as the venue was wheelchair accessible and offered paid parking for its guests.
Operating Hours
Before its closure, Rendezvous Southend Casino operated on a 24/7 schedule, providing non-stop entertainment to its patrons.
Nearby Vacation Rentals
For those who planned a visit to Rendezvous Southend Casino, there were numerous vacation rental options available nearby. With over 500 vacation rentals to choose from, visitors could find accommodations suitable for friends, family, or even pets. Amenities in these rentals often included swimming pools, outdoor grills, and BBQs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all.
Affiliations and Partnerships
Rendezvous Southend Casino was part of a larger network of gambling facilities and casinos operated by Caesars Entertainment. This affiliation connected the casino to several other gaming venues, including Metropolitan Gaming, Empire Casino, Alea Glasgow Casino, and Manchester 235 Casino, among others.
Future of the Kursaal Building
The closure of Rendezvous Southend Casino has left the future of the Kursaal building uncertain. Local authorities and residents have expressed concerns about the iconic building's fate and are calling for urgent action to be taken.
Southend Council has been urged to develop a plan to revitalize the Kursaal building and find new tenants to occupy the space. With only Tesco Express remaining as the sole leaseholder, there is immense potential for the building to be reimagined and once again become a thriving entertainment hub.
Staying Updated and Involved
Despite the closure of Rendezvous Southend Casino, it's essential to stay informed about the future developments in Southend-on-Sea. By signing up for newsletters and following local news, you can receive exclusive offers, learn about new events, and access the best vouchers in town.
In conclusion, Rendezvous Southend Casino was a popular gaming and entertainment venue that provided a wide range of gaming options, dining experiences, and live entertainment. Although the casino is now permanently closed, the iconic Kursaal building remains a significant part of Southend-on-Sea's history and future. By staying informed and getting involved in local efforts, there is hope that the Kursaal can once again become a thriving hub for entertainment and community engagement.