As the second-longest pier in all of Great Britain, Southport Pier provides plenty of entertainment for young and old. Use it as a walking path, take your camera and snap great pictures of the surrounding beach and surf, or take advantage of the arcade and food options.
Southport Pier has been open since 1860 and was the first iron pier in the country. Many piers back in the day were meant to be used as ship docks, but Southport Pier is considered the first pleasure pier built just for the enjoyment of the public.
Walk down the current pier to see the restoration work completed in 2002, bringing the structure up to modern standards and improving its appearance.
Make your way along the pier to the pavilion at the very end. This route offers a great opportunity for cardio exercise or a leisurely stroll, as the length of the pier allows plenty of time to get your activity in. Breathe the fresh air and listen to the sounds of seagulls squawking in the background.
Once you get to the end, you’ll find an exhibit on the history of the pier, as well as some arcade games. Pick up a classic British takeaway meal, fish and chips, at the beginning of the pier and enjoy the smell of the freshly cooked batter as you amble along the oceanfront.
Don’t leave the area without having viewed the pier from the beach, either. At sunset, seeing the pier against the ocean and the horizon is a great experience and makes for some beautiful pictures.
Drive to the pier and park in one of the metered bays nearby or look for on-street parking on Marine Drive. There is no charge to visit the pier, and you can explore for as long as you want to.
Southport Pier is open almost every day of the year but operates with shorter opening hours in the winter months.
