About Brighton Palace Pier

Brighton Palace Pier, commonly known as Brighton Pier or the Palace Pier, is a Grade II listed pleasure pier located in the heart of Brighton, England. With a rich history spanning over a century, it has evolved into a lively and beloved seaside attraction.

Key Facts

• 🌟 Location: The pier stands proudly in the city centre, directly opposite the Old Steine.
• 🌟 Original Victorian Charm: Much of Brighton Pier’s original Victorian architecture remains intact, blending nostalgia with modern entertainment.

What You'll Find

• 🎠 Rides: A wide selection of exhilarating rides suitable for all ages.
• 🍔 Restaurants: Enjoy seaside dining at the Palm Court Restaurant.
• 🎰 Arcades: Experience classic amusements and exciting games.
• 🎈 Soft Play: A multi-level play area, ideal for children’s parties.
• 🐦‍⬛ Starlings Roost: Catch mesmerising starling murmurations at certain times of the year.
• 🥳 Private Hire: Host your special events or weddings in a picturesque setting.

History

Design and Construction

Brighton Palace Pier was designed by R. St George Moore and was the third pier in Brighton, following the Royal Suspension Chain Pier (1823) and the West Pier (1866).

The pier’s construction began with a ceremonial pile-laying on 7 November 1891, led by Mayor Samuel Henry Soper. As part of the agreement for building the new pier, the dilapidated Chain Pier had to be demolished. A storm in 1896 destroyed the Chain Pier remains, narrowly avoiding the incomplete Palace Pier. Some Chain Pier parts were repurposed in the new construction.

Early Popularity & Entertainment

Originally built as a replacement for the Chain Pier, Brighton Palace Pier quickly rose in popularity, becoming a vibrant entertainment venue by 1911. Despite interruptions due to wartime closures, the pier continued to host regular events into the 1970s.

Transition to an Amusement Park

The pier once featured a 1,500-seat theatre, opened on 3 April 1901. Over time, Brighton Palace Pier evolved from a seaside theatre venue into an amusement park with thrilling fairground rides and roller coasters. In 1973, the theatre suffered damage and was later demolished in 1986.