Families enjoyed a day at the ‘seaside’ — and they didn’t have to take a step outside London’s urban East End.

East London Advertiser: Year-old Nico Abeid has a splashing time at the Mile End 'seaside' beechYear-old Nico Abeid has a splashing time at the Mile End 'seaside' beech (Image: Archant)

The sand was brought in by the lorry-load and laid out at Mile End playpark for youngsters to get busy yesterday with sandcastles and all the things you enjoy down by the sea.

East London Advertiser: Zofia Boyd and John Francis get the thrills of spinning cupsZofia Boyd and John Francis get the thrills of spinning cups (Image: Archant)

They even had a merry-go-round carousel, spinning cups to ride in and a helter-skelter attraction set up in the children’s playpark in Locksley Street, off St Paul’s Way.

East London Advertiser: Two-year-old Raynna Appels couldn't exactly go for a boat-ride, but did find another use for the little vessel on the sandy beech in the parkTwo-year-old Raynna Appels couldn't exactly go for a boat-ride, but did find another use for the little vessel on the sandy beech in the park (Image: Archant)

It was also a chance to try out outdoor activities including a bouncy castle, coconut shy and traditional sports like tennis and football.

The ‘day at the seaside’ was laid on by Tower Hamlets council to help promote healthy lifestyles.

It was family entertainment for those who don’t get a chance to make it away from the inner urban neighbourhoods of the East End during the school holidays.

Youngsters also had arts and craft sessions laid on for them—that’s something you don’t get down on the real seaside beach.