Brighton Pier

Brighton pier happens to be one of Britain’s most popular landmarks, jutting out into the sea with incredibly beauty and interest. It’s more than one hundred years old, and has a strong heritage which has seen it become one of the focal points of this British town. Indeed, though there were for many years two different promenades that go out into the water, it is this single one which is considered the true one in the area.

It is a Grade II listed edifice, having been granted this incredible honour in 1971 by the local authority and national government. For good reason too: it is a beautiful thing which juts out into the ocean. Prime amongst all other pieces of Victoriana, it is seen as something to be triumphally claimed as forever British.

One thing which has forever been associated with the landmark is the music hall tradition which was emblematic of British culture from the early Victorian era up until the 1960s. A concert hall was opened at the venue fairly soon after it was first constructed and then it was transformed into a theatre by 1911. All of the greatest music hall artists throughout the ages played there.

It was a uniquely British tradition of vaudeville and variety. Jugglers, comedians and serious dramatic actors sat alongside magicians on the same bill. These summer shows dragged thousands of holiday makers to the coast in order to enjoy their holidays.

In the days before low cost international flights and all inclusive holidays, this was what people revelled in. It was their summer entertainment for the year, and the way that they could enjoy some sun, fun and frivolity at a beach. Today, the area is still going strong, even if visitor numbers are down on what they once were.

Sadly, the grand old theatre is no longer there: a terrible storm kicked up the sea to such an extent that it dragged a barge into the wooden structure, causing the loss of some of it. The theatre was closed on the understanding that it would have a grand renovation and reopening, but that has not happened. Despite all this, it is still a fantastic place to visit, with unparalleled views out into the sea and a variety of food places and shops to visit.

For a seaside diversion, there is nothing finer. Even on the coldest day, when the wind whips salty sea spray up into the faces of those brave enough to make it to the end of the promenade, there is a feeling of uniqueness which cannot be matched anywhere else in the world. Despite torrid weather, it is a fantastic place to visit with enough to keep people happy.

However it is best remembered as a place to visit while remembering the better times it had. The halcyon days when this was the true British holiday destination, with thousands flocking to its golden sands, is an incredibly intriguing concept. Brighton pier was once the mecca for holiday makers in the United Kingdom: rows of deck chairs would line the beach, with families frolicking in the sea.