Brighton Palace Pier

When you think of the Brighton seafront, the Brighton Palace Pier is usually the first thing that comes to mind. This iconic structure, a classic Victorian Pier, stretches 1,722 feet into the sea, right in the heart of the Brighton and Hove coast. It’s been a fixture since it opened in 1899, and it’s interesting to remember its past; the old Pavilion Theatre, which was demolished back in 1986, once hosted legends like Charlie Chaplin and Stan Laurel. Even today, it maintains its reputation, having recently been named among the seven best piers in Britain by The Times.

The pier today is a mix of classic seaside fun and modern thrills. You’ll find two large arcades and plenty of traditional beach games like 'Dolphin Derby'. For those looking for adrenaline, there are several rides, including the 'Log Flume', 'Galaxia', the classic dodgems, and the 'Booster', which is often described as the most intense ride there. If you’re bringing younger kids, there’s also Palace Play, which is Brighton’s largest indoor play area. Access to the rides is paid, but if you have a group of teenagers or plan to spend the whole day, buying a full-day pass for unlimited access is usually the most economical option.

Beyond the games, the pier is also a solid spot for food and drink. They are well-known for their famous fish and chips, but you can also grab a drink at places like Palm Court, Horatio's, or The Sunset Garden Bar. It’s worth noting that the pier is increasingly positioning itself as an event venue. They offer exclusive hire for everything from weddings to corporate parties, and they are currently upgrading the Palm Court Restaurant and the Horatio’s and Victoria’s bars to increase their capacity for these types of functions. Logistically, the pier is open daily from 10:00 to 22:00, year-round, closing only on Christmas Day. It’s genuinely a family-friendly attraction that caters to everyone from corporate groups to families looking for a day out.