Southwold Pier facts for kids
Southwold Pier
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| Official name | Southwold Pier |
|---|---|
| Type | Pleasure Pier |
| Spans | North Sea |
| Locale | Southwold |
| Design | W Jeffrey |
| Owner | Gough Hotels |
| Total length | 623 feet (190 m) |
| Opening date | 1900 |
Southwold Pier is a famous pier located in the coastal town of Southwold in the English county of Suffolk. It stretches 190 meters (623 feet) out into the North Sea.
Unlike many old piers that are falling apart, Southwold Pier is very popular. It has many fun things to see and do. This includes special coin-operated machines made by the inventor Tim Hunkin.
Contents
The Pier's Story: A Look Back in Time
The pier was first built in 1900. Its main purpose was to be a landing spot for steamships. These ships brought tourists from places like London, Clacton, and Great Yarmouth. They continued to do so until the 1930s. The pier was 270 yards (247 meters) long and had a T-shaped end.
In 1934, a big storm hit and destroyed the pier's landing stage. The T-shaped end was swept away by the waves. A few years later, in 1937, a concert hall and an amusement arcade were added to the pier near the shore.
During the Second World War, a part of the pier was removed. This was done to prevent it from being used by enemies if there was an invasion. The pier was also damaged when it was hit by a mine. After the war, the pier was rebuilt. This cost about £30,000.
More storms caused damage in 1955 and 1979. These storms left the pier much shorter, at only 20 yards (18 meters) long. In 1960, a part of the pier's main building was turned into a pub called the Neptune Bar.
Some parts of the pier were fixed up again in 1987. Work was done on both the theatre and a special room for events. After this work, the pier reopened in December 1988.
Bringing the Pier Back to Life
Chris Iredale bought the pier in 1987. He spent five years making the main building a successful business.
A big project to rebuild the pier started in 1999. This work was finished in 2001. It was designed by Brian Haward and built by Nick Haward [Southwold] Limited. This was almost 100 years after the pier first opened!
In 2002, a new T-shaped end was added. This made the pier 208 yards (190 meters) long in total. This extra length means that Britain's only remaining sea-going steam passenger ship, the PS Waverley, can now visit. Its partner ship, the MV Balmoral, can also visit.
Fun Things to Do
Southwold Pier has many shops and attractions. You can find traditional souvenir shops, cozy cafés, and tasty restaurants. There are also fun amusement arcades to enjoy.
Cool Machines and Games
Since 2001, the pier has been home to a special arcade. It features a collection of unique automata, machines, and games. These were all designed by the inventor Tim Hunkin. Tim first talked to the pier's owner after his original location for one of his games caused some complaints from local people.
Awards and Recognition
- 2002 National Piers Society - Pier of the Year
Gallery
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Southwold Pier
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Southwold Pier
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Southwold Pier
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Southwold Pier entrance sign
