Britain’s seaside piers, once varied and vibrant, continue to offer a variety of experiences from culinary delights to thrilling entertainment. Originally conceived in the Victorian era, these structures not only served as docking stations but also as places of amusement and social gathering. However, from over a century ago, only about half of the 100 original structures remain today. Here’s a look at some of the UK’s most remarkable piers that present unique attractions.
Stay the Night at Bangor’s Garth Pier
Breathtaking views surround Garth Pier in Bangor, Gwynedd, which stretches 458 metres across the Menai Strait. Celebrating its 130th year, the Pier Master’s House has been transformed into a holiday rental with a starting price of £140 per night, accommodating up to six guests. Other attractions include a cafe at the end of the pier and various independent shops in Victorian kiosks. Special events throughout the summer range from busking and children’s events to a dog parade.
Adrenaline-Filled Fun at Bournemouth Pier
Bournemouth Pier, originating from 1856 and reconstructed in 1880, stands out with PierZip, the world’s first pier-to-shore zip line. Alongside this thrilling ride, visitors can enjoy RockReef, an indoor adventure centre with climbing walls and other challenges. The pier also offers prime views of Friday fireworks until 28 August, plus live music at Key West restaurant. Nearby Boscombe Pier offers bouldering facilities, slacklines, and beach volleyball courts.
Classic Attractions at Britannia Pier, Great Yarmouth
Britannia Pier, a 250-metre long structure originally built in 1858 and rebuilt in 1901, claimed the Pier of the Year award for 2026. The current owners, having acquired it in 2022, invested £2.2 million into its restoration. Attractions include a theatre, fun fair, arcade, dining spots, a pub, and a nightclub. Additional entertainment awaits at Great Yarmouth’s Wellington Pier, featuring bowling, an arcade, and an ice-cream parlour.
Cultural Treasures at Penarth Pier, Glamorgan
Dating back to 1894, Penarth Pier now features an art-deco pavilion dating from 1929, which functions as a cinema and arts centre. Upcoming attractions include a jazz brunch and a variety of workshops alongside film screenings. The pavilion hosts a cafe, while additional dining options such as a coffee shop and an ice-cream parlour can be found on the pier.
Explore History at Roker Pier, Sunderland
Home to a striking red-and-white lighthouse completed in 1903, Roker Pier now offers guided tours through its restored facilities. The tours take visitors via an underground tunnel used historically during rough weather. Post-tour, a gin bar located in a converted toilet block offers refreshments. The Tin of Sardines serves delightful brunch and tapas during summer months.
Admire the Beauty of Clevedon Pier, Somerset
An engineering marvel, Clevedon Pier opened in 1869 and is the only Grade I-listed pier in England. Constructed from recycled railway tracks, the pier remains a symbol of preserved beauty. Once saved from demolition, its facilities now include a cafe, a museum, and the modern Glass Box restaurant, with picturesque sea views captured live from its porthole room.
Nightlife at Royal Pier, Aberystwyth
Wales’ oldest pier, built in 1865 by Eugenius Birch, promises a lively nightlife experience with three bars and a nightclub. Activities in the Billiard Bar include pool, shuffleboard, and augmented-reality games, while other bars offer pool tables. Summertime events feature DJ sets and late-night parties at Pressure Nightclub.
Variety Unleashed at Blackpool’s Trio of Piers
Blackpool, famed for its trio of piers dating from 1863 to 1893, offers diverse experiences from art-deco theatres on North Pier to adrenaline rides on South Pier. Central Pier boasts the Big Wheel and funfair, with a promise of a £10 million refurbishment after recent sales. Numerous eateries, pubs, and entertainment facilities accompany these attractions.
A Trip Through History at Gravesend Pier, Kent
Opened in 1834, Gravesend Pier is the world’s oldest surviving cast-iron pier. Previously a bustling hub for steam packets, it continues to offer occasional London sailings. The adjacent Three Daws pub, with origins back to 1565, now hosts beer and music festivals during the summer months.
Family Fun at Sandown Pier, Isle of Wight
One of four surviving piers on the Isle of Wight, Sandown Pier offers activities suitable for rainy days. Its attractions include an Aztec-themed indoor golf course, a sprawling play area, bowling, and various rides. Culinary options are abundant, with cafes, ice-cream kiosks, and bars ready to serve visitors.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.