Although this topic has been quiet for a while, I would like to make my first post to champion my local airport, which should be obvious from my login.
Where else in the UK, or the world, can you see one of the oldest Boeing 707s still in existence, an Avro Vulcan, a Shorts Belfast, Chinese registered Bae 146s, numerous ATPs and always a variety of Boeing 737s and Airbus 320s in exotic colour schemes (or just plain white) with registrations from all over the world.
I doubt if you can get closer to aircraft at any other airport than on Southend's Eastern Perimeter Road. I know it's not always the busiest of places but when things are quiet there's always the continual flow of Heathrow or London City inbounds overhead.
Must be worth a visit for any serious spotter.
Southender