Southend’s iconic Shakedown biker rally made a triumphant return on Easter Monday 2025 – Southend City Council are now turning their attention to making the 2026 event even bigger and better.
After a three-year absence, the famous motorcycle event stormed back onto Southend seafront with an estimated 10,000 bikes revving up the atmosphere along the promenade. From vintage cruisers to sleek modern superbikes, riders from across the UK descended on the coast to celebrate the long-awaited comeback of a beloved tradition.
The Shakedown, which first roared into life on Easter Monday in 1998, hadn’t officially taken place since 2022. But thanks to a £100,000 funding boost from Southend-on-Sea City Council – and a lot of behind-the-scenes work – this year’s edition proved a roaring success for both attendees, visitors and seafront businesses.
The event kicked off with a mass ride-out from Ace Cafe in London, bringing thousands of bikers in convoy down the A127 and into the heart of Southend, where the promenade was buzzing with families, photographers, traders and motorbike enthusiasts.
Daniel Cowan, leader of Southend City Council, praised the event and indicated it will return in 2026.
“Shakedown has been amazing,” he said. “We said during the last set of elections that we were keen to make Southend a destination again – to have more events. We know our residents and visitors have been crying out for the Shakedown to come back and be a properly organised event.
“It feels like the biggest Shakedown we’ve seen in 20 years. It’s shown what can happen when the council truly embraces it. All the traders I’ve spoken to have had a bumper day.”
The rally was organised in partnership with Ace Cafe London, with support from Essex Police and dedicated council officers – all of whom were thanked for their contributions to a safe and smooth-running day.
Road closures and marshalling were fully arranged, ensuring safety and ease of movement throughout the city centre and along the seafront.
Councillor Matt Dent echoed the excitement and gratitude:
“The return of the Shakedown has been a massive success! It was fantastic to see so many bikes on the seafront, and so many people enjoying what was on offer.
“This year was essentially a proof of concept – put together on a short timeline – and now we’re already turning our thoughts towards Shakedown 2026.”
When will the Southend Shakedown 2026 take place?
In usual tradition, the 2026 Southend Shakedown is expected to take place on Easter Monday.
Therefore next year, the Shakedown ride-out will take place on Bank Holiday Monday 6th April 2026.
Reaction from visitors and local residents
Local voices were quick to celebrate the day’s positive impact on the city. Darren Carson who visited, thanked the council for helping to bring back the event:
“Thank you Southend City Council for allowing this to take place and for all the organisation. Honestly it was outstanding – no trouble, everyone friendly. A huge thanks to all that turned up. You did yourselves proud.”
Another visitor, Miriam Yates, added:
“It was an excellent event. There was great marshalling, it was great for the traders, and what a brilliant day it was for Southend. This needs to happen next year, no question.”
Steve Crane shared:
“I just got back – it was great to see the seafront alive and buzzing again. A brilliant atmosphere and so many bikes to admire. Even driving along the A127, you could see the excitement building.”
Many local residents also used the moment to call for the revival of other classic Southend traditions, such as the much-missed Southend Airshow, last held in 2012.
Jon Butler wrote:
“In my opinion, this was one of – if not the – best Shakedowns so far. The weather was spot on, and the new parking access was a big improvement. Now, maybe the council can bring back the airshow too!”
The buzz along the seafront throughout the Bank Holiday proved not only the enduring appeal of the Shakedown but also the appetite for big, bold events that shine a spotlight on Southend’s potential.
With positive feedback pouring in, a boost to local business, and glowing reviews from bikers and residents alike, the message is loud and clear: Southend Shakedown is back – and people already can’t wait for the 2026 event!
Photos contributed by Aaron Chesham and Wayne Alderton.