The 10 seaside towns with the most beautiful piers in the UK

In the UK, piers were initially designed in the most popular seaside resorts for boats and steamers to be able to dock with most of them being built during the Victorian era. They later became an extension of the seafront and people would head there for food, drinks and entertainment.

According to travel experts at Britain-visitor, some of the most “iconic piers” in England are located in Blackpool and Bournemouth.

Blackpool Pier

The coastal town of Blackpool has three piers: the Central Pier, the North Pier and the South Pier. The experts explained that the “oldest and longest” is the North Pier which was built in 1863 and is located very close to the railway station.

The Central Pier was built a few years later and was designed mainly for entertainment, with a Big Wheel and arcades.

The South Pier also has amusements, food and drinks and features the best views of the town.

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Talking about Blackpool’s Central Pier on Tripadvisor, a visitor from Wales explained: “Recently we had an amazing holiday in Blackpool and whilst there we visited all three piers including the Central Pier. The Central Pier was the busiest and it was free to visit. There was a great mix of arcades, stalls and traditional fairground rides.

“The rides were very reasonably priced and there were special offers on books of tickets. We had our picture taken at the Victorian photographers and took a ride on the big wheel.

“The views from the wheel were incredible. The pier was very clean and the staff were friendly and approachable. We had a wonderful time and the pier was great for the whole family and is a fantastic attraction for rainy days because there is so much to do.”

Bournemouth Pier

In Bournemouth, its Victorian pier includes arcades, bars, restaurants and even indoor climbing and a zip wire. Interestingly, the pier, which is located very close to the town centre, was demolished during World War II and later rebuilt.

Brighton Pier

Brighton Palace Pier is another iconic pier and one of the most visited in England, filled with amusements, bars and restaurants.

Cromer Pier

Cromer Pier, in Norfolk, was built in 1901 and its main feature is the Pavilion Theatre. The popular summer spot was named Pier of the Year in 2015.

Eastbourne Pier

In Eastbourne, the Victorian seaside pier, built in 1870, has been refurbished many times. Holidaymakers will find an amusement arcade, restaurants, tearooms and a nightclub.