Name: Brighton Palace Pier
Address: Madeira Dr, Brighton BN2 1TW, UK
Telephone: 01273 609361
Rating: 4.4

Opened in 1899 & home to fairground rides, bars, restaurants & deckchairs to enjoy the sea view.

London Eye

Provided by Google

Buckingham Palace

Tower Bridge

The British Museum

Hyde Park

Brighton Palace Pier boasts an impressive 85 miles of planking, a testament to its size and structure.

Planking Miles

Built in 1899, the pier cost £27,000 to construct, which is equivalent to over £2 million today.

Construction Cost

Brighton Palace Pier officially opened to the public on May 20th, 1899, with a grand ceremony and 3,000 light bulbs illuminating the pier.

Grand Opening

In 1905, a collection of amusement machines, including 'The Lady Palmist' and 'Punch Ball' machines, were installed on the pier.

Amusement Machines

The Brighton Pier Concert Hall opened in 1907, adding another dimension to the pier's entertainment offerings.

Concert Hall

Brighton Pier introduced its own Dodgems and Big Wheel in 1928, further enhancing its amusement park appeal.

Dodgems & Big Wheel

During World War II, Hitler ordered the Nazi's not to bomb the Royal Pavilion in Brighton because he admired its architecture and planned to use it as a summer house after the war. This ultimately helped preserve the iconic building.

Royal Pavilion Preservation

Brighton Palace Pier

Brighton Palace Pier, a Grade II* listed pleasure pier in Brighton, England, stretches 1,722 feet into the sea, making it one of the longest in the country. Built in 1899, it replaced the Chain Pier, which collapsed during its construction. The pier features a variety of attractions, including two roller coasters, a haunted house ride, a traditional carousel, and a helter skelter. It also boasts the Booster, a pendulum ride that catapults riders 130 feet into the air. For younger visitors, Fantasia offers a gentle ride featuring Disney characters.

Beyond its rides, Brighton Palace Pier is renowned for its cultural significance. It has been featured in numerous works of British popular culture, including the film "Carry On at Your Convenience" and the album "Quadrophenia" by The Who. The pier has also played a role in local history, serving as a landing stage for troops during World War II and hosting performances by legendary entertainers like Stan Laurel and Charlie Chaplin.

In recent years, the pier has undergone renovations and upgrades, including the addition of a £1 admission fee during peak season. Despite these changes, it remains a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique blend of seaside entertainment and historical charm.

Introduction

Brighton Palace Pier, a Grade II* listed pleasure pier, stands as a testament to Brighton's rich maritime heritage. Built in 1899 to replace the Chain Pier, it quickly became a popular entertainment venue, hosting renowned performers like Stan Laurel and Charlie Chaplin. During World War I, the pier's surroundings were heavily mined to deter enemy attacks. In the 1920s, it underwent significant expansion, including the addition of a distinctive clock tower. Brighton Palace Pier has witnessed numerous historical events, including the Brighton hotel bombing in 1984. Despite facing challenges over the years, including fires and storm damage, the pier has undergone extensive renovations to preserve its historical charm. Today, it remains a beloved landmark, attracting millions of visitors annually with its nostalgic ambiance and array of entertainment options.

Historical Landmark

Brighton Palace Pier, an iconic landmark on the Brighton seafront, stands as a testament to the city's ongoing urban regeneration efforts. Built in 1899, the pier has undergone several renovations and upgrades, transforming it into a vibrant hub for entertainment, leisure, and community engagement. As part of Brighton's wider regeneration strategy, the pier has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the seafront area, attracting visitors and businesses alike. The pier's unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities has made it a popular destination for tourists and locals, contributing to the city's economic growth and social well-being.

Urban Regeneration

Brighton Palace Pier, an iconic coastal attraction in Brighton, United Kingdom, stands as a testament to the city's vibrant seaside culture. This Grade II* listed pleasure pier, constructed in 1899, offers a unique blend of entertainment and nostalgia.

The pier stretches 1,722 feet into the English Channel, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. Visitors can embark on thrilling rides, including roller coasters, a haunted house, and a traditional carousel. The Booster, a pendulum ride, catapults riders 130 feet into the air, offering an exhilarating experience.

Beyond the rides, Brighton Palace Pier boasts a rich history. It replaced the Chain Pier, which collapsed during its construction. The pier's design incorporates elements of kursaals, entertainment buildings found near spas on the Continent, featuring reading and dining rooms.

The pier has been featured prominently in British popular culture, including films like "Carry on at Your Convenience" and "Quadrophenia." It has also served as a backdrop for television series and novels, showcasing its enduring appeal.

As a coastal attraction, Brighton Palace Pier offers a captivating blend of entertainment, history, and stunning seaside views. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking a quintessential British seaside experience.

Coastal Attraction

Brighton Palace Pier, a beloved tourist destination in Brighton, United Kingdom, is a historic and iconic pier that has been captivating visitors since its opening in 1899. With its vibrant atmosphere and array of attractions, the pier offers a unique and memorable experience for tourists seeking a blend of nostalgia and modern entertainment.

The pier boasts a traditional carousel, a thrilling helter-skelter, and a variety of fairground rides, including two exhilarating roller coasters. The Booster, a pendulum ride, catapults riders 130 feet into the air, providing breathtaking views of the coastline. For younger visitors, Fantasia offers a gentle ride featuring beloved Disney characters.

Beyond its rides, Brighton Palace Pier is renowned for its cultural significance. It has been featured in numerous films, including "Carry On at Your Convenience" and "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street," solidifying its status as a cinematic landmark. The pier's distinctive architecture, with its ornate metalwork and clock tower, adds to its charm and makes it a popular spot for photography.

The pier's entertainment options extend beyond rides and film history. It hosts live music events, comedy shows, and theatrical performances throughout the year. The Palm Court Restaurant offers a delightful dining experience with panoramic views of the sea, while the four-story soft play area provides entertainment for children of all ages.

Brighton Palace Pier is not just an amusement park; it is a vibrant hub of activity and a symbol of Brighton's rich heritage. Its unique blend of entertainment, history, and stunning seaside views makes it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking an unforgettable experience on the south coast of England.

Tourist Destination

Brighton Palace Pier, a Victorian marvel stretching 1,722 feet into the English Channel, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Victorian era. Built in 1899, it replaced the iconic Chain Pier, which had fallen into disrepair. The pier's elaborate metalwork and elegant pavilion evoke the architectural style of the time, transporting visitors back to a bygone era.

As a Victorian pier, Brighton Palace Pier embodies the spirit of seaside entertainment. Its amusement rides, including two roller coasters, a haunted house, and a traditional carousel, provide thrills for visitors of all ages. The pier's helter skelter, a spiral slide, and its cup-and-saucer ride offer a nostalgic glimpse into Victorian pastimes.

Beyond its entertainment offerings, Brighton Palace Pier played a significant role in the town's cultural and social life. Its theater, once a popular venue for performances, hosted renowned entertainers like Stan Laurel and Charlie Chaplin. The pier's reading rooms, later converted into a theater, served as a hub for intellectual discourse and literary gatherings.

Today, Brighton Palace Pier remains a beloved landmark, attracting over four million visitors annually. Its unique blend of Victorian charm and modern amenities makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking a glimpse into the architectural and cultural heritage of the Victorian era.

Victorian Pier

Brighton Palace Pier, a beloved entertainment hub in Brighton, UK, beckons visitors with its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings. Step into the bustling arcade, where the clinking of coins and the thrill of victory fill the air. Ascend the iconic Ferris wheel, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the city's landmarks.

For adrenaline seekers, the pier boasts an array of thrilling rides, including the Booster, a pendulum ride that catapults riders 130 feet into the air, and the Air Race, a high-speed roller coaster that sends hearts pounding. Younger visitors will delight in Fantasia, a gentle ride featuring beloved Disney characters.

Beyond the rides, the pier transforms into a vibrant entertainment venue. The Palace Theatre, once a grand music hall, now hosts live performances, from comedy shows to tribute acts. The pier's restaurants and bars offer a range of culinary delights, from traditional fish and chips to international cuisine, accompanied by live music and stunning sea views.

Brighton Palace Pier has also been immortalized in popular culture. It served as a backdrop for films like "Carry on at Your Convenience" and "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street." The Who's concept album "Quadrophenia" was inspired by a night spent beneath the pier, and its iconic image graces the album cover.

Today, Brighton Palace Pier remains a thriving entertainment destination, offering a unique blend of classic seaside amusements, thrilling rides, and live performances. It's a place where memories are made, laughter echoes, and the spirit of entertainment reigns supreme.

Entertainment Venue

Brighton Palace Pier, a Victorian marvel, stands as a cultural beacon on the vibrant shores of Brighton, England. Its rich history and enduring legacy have cemented its status as a beloved landmark, attracting visitors from far and wide.

The pier's origins lie in the late 19th century, when it was constructed as a replacement for the dilapidated Chain Pier. Since its grand opening in 1899, the Palace Pier has been a hub of entertainment and leisure, hosting countless performances, exhibitions, and events. Its iconic architecture, featuring a grand pavilion and ornate ironwork, evokes the grandeur of a bygone era.

Beyond its architectural charm, the Palace Pier has played a pivotal role in British popular culture. It has been immortalized in literature, film, and music, serving as a backdrop for iconic works such as Graham Greene's "Brighton Rock" and the Who's concept album "Quadrophenia." Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of the British seaside experience, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past while embracing the present.

Today, the Palace Pier continues to thrive as a cultural destination. Its amusement rides, arcade games, and traditional seaside attractions provide entertainment for visitors of all ages. The pier also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music concerts, fireworks displays, and art exhibitions.

As a cultural landmark, the Palace Pier offers a unique blend of history, entertainment, and nostalgia. Its enduring legacy and iconic status make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic British seaside experience.

Cultural Landmark

Brighton Palace Pier, a prominent Victorian-era structure, stands as a testament to the architectural ingenuity and cultural significance of its time. Constructed between 1891 and 1901, the pier's design incorporates a blend of steel, cast iron, and wrought iron, showcasing the innovative use of materials during the Industrial Revolution. Its kiosks and buildings, adorned with wood and metal, add to its eclectic charm.

The pier's longevity is attributed to its meticulous restoration and refurbishment efforts. In 1984, the Noble Organisation embarked on a comprehensive two-year project to revitalize the pier, preserving its architectural integrity while incorporating modern amenities. This commitment to conservation ensures that future generations can continue to appreciate its historical value.

Brighton Palace Pier's historical significance extends beyond its architectural merits. It played a pivotal role in the development of Brighton as a popular seaside resort. The pier's entertainment offerings, including a theater, concert hall, and funfair, attracted throngs of visitors, contributing to the town's economic prosperity. Its status as a Grade II listed building further underscores its importance as a heritage asset.

The pier's resilience is evident in its ability to withstand the ravages of time and natural disasters. Despite suffering damage during storms and a fire in the early 2000s, the pier has undergone extensive repairs and restoration, ensuring its continued presence as a beloved landmark.

Today, Brighton Palace Pier stands as a vibrant symbol of historic conservation. Its enduring legacy as a leisure destination and its architectural significance make it a must-visit attraction for those interested in preserving and celebrating the past.

Historic Conservation

Brighton Palace Pier, a beloved seaside destination in Brighton, United Kingdom, offers an array of thrilling rides and classic amusements that cater to all ages. As an amusement park, it boasts a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions, ensuring an unforgettable experience for visitors.

The pier's centerpiece is the Turbo Coaster, a high-speed roller coaster that takes riders on an exhilarating journey through twists, turns, and drops. For a more leisurely experience, the traditional carousel offers a charming ride for younger visitors. The Air Race, a thrilling aerial ride, provides breathtaking views of the coastline.

Beyond its rides, Brighton Palace Pier houses a variety of attractions, including the Palace of Fun arcade, where visitors can test their skills on classic arcade games. The pier also features a haunted house, a helter skelter, and a cup-and-saucer ride, adding to the diverse range of entertainment options.

Brighton Palace Pier is not just an amusement park; it's a cultural landmark that has played a significant role in British popular culture. It has been featured in numerous films, including "Carry On at Your Convenience" and "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street," solidifying its status as an iconic destination.

Amusement Park

Brighton Palace Pier, an iconic architectural marvel on the shores of Brighton, United Kingdom, stands as a testament to Victorian grandeur and seaside entertainment. Designed by R. St George Moore and opened in 1899, the pier's intricate metalwork and elegant pavilion evoke the charm of a bygone era. Its distinctive clock tower, added in the 1920s, has become a beloved landmark, while the pier's length of 1,722 feet makes it one of the longest in the United Kingdom.

Beyond its visual appeal, Brighton Palace Pier is renowned for its architectural innovations. The pier's substructure, a marvel of engineering, consists of cast iron screw piles driven deep into the seabed, providing exceptional stability and resilience against the relentless waves. The pier's deck, made of durable planking, has been meticulously maintained over the years, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.

The pier's architectural significance extends to its cultural impact. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and literary works, including Graham Greene's "Brighton Rock" and The Who's concept album "Quadrophenia." Its iconic status is further cemented by its Grade II* listed building status, a testament to its architectural and historical value.

Today, Brighton Palace Pier continues to captivate visitors with its unique blend of architectural splendor and seaside entertainment. Its amusement rides, arcade games, and traditional fish and chips stalls provide a nostalgic and exhilarating experience. As the sun sets, the pier transforms into a magical realm, illuminated by 67,000 twinkling lights, creating a breathtaking spectacle that has enchanted generations of visitors.

Brighton Palace Pier

Did You Know?

Planking Miles

Construction Cost

Grand Opening

Amusement Machines

Highlights from Reviews

Location