Canvey Island is a reclaimed island on the north side of the Thames estuary in Essex – it's only just above sea level and is separated from mainland Essex by a number of creeks. Its history is fairly long, however, as it's been inhabited since the Roman invasion of Britain in AD79.

Up until the last century, it was nearly all given over to agriculture but it became a notable seaside resort between 1911 and 1951. These days, it's protected by modern sea defences so is considerably less flood-prone than it once was.

It formed part of Britain's Second World War defences, with a line of concrete pillboxes built there to deter any German invasion. These days, the eastern half of the island has been fairly developed into residential areas and public amenities. There is a small holiday camp and touristy seafront. The west is mainly farmland, marsh and industrial areas.

In terms of landmarks and attractions, the West Canvey Marshes were acquired by the RSPB and Canvey Wick has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest as it a site which has claims to having one of the highest levels of biodiversity in Western Europe. It has several shopping areas with the town centre based around Furtherwick Road and the High Street. It's Movi-Starr is a modern multi-screen cinema and it has several arcades, an amusement park and nightclubs. It also hosts the well-renowned Lobster Smack public house, which is a Grade II listed building constructed originally in the 17th century. It is where the world-famous pub-rock band Dr. Feelgood hail from.