The story of the Grand Pier
22nd October 2024
Weston-super-Mare's Grand Pier will be lit up by its annual Fireworks at Sea spectacular event on Friday, October 25. It is one of the town's most eagerly-anticipated and best loved events. But how much do you know about the Grand Pier itself?
The History of Weston's Grand Pier
The Grand Pier, located in Weston-super-Mare, has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s. As seaside towns became popular, thanks to the railway network and more leisure time for workers, Weston-super-Mare saw a surge in visitors. To cater to these tourists, a grand attraction was needed, leading to the construction of The Grand Pier.
The idea for the pier was approved by Parliament in 1893, but delays meant that work didn’t begin until 1903. By June 1904, The Grand Pier officially opened with a performance from Signor Bocchi's Milan Orchestra. The pier originally stretched 324 meters and featured a pavilion that could seat 2,000 people. Over the years, the pier hosted various performances, from opera and comedy to boxing and wrestling matches.
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Image - The Grand Pier in 1904
From Ferryport to Amusement Centre
In 1907, an ambitious plan to extend the pier further to accommodate ferries from South Wales was attempted. However, strong sea currents made docking unsafe, and the extension was eventually removed after World War I. Still, the pier remained a popular attraction, and in 1926, amusements were introduced for the first time.
Tragedy struck in 1930 when a fire destroyed the pavilion. However, businessman Leonard Guy purchased the pier and rebuilt it, reopening with a brand-new pavilion in 1933. The updated pavilion no longer focused on theatre performances but transformed into a funfair, marking a shift towards more interactive entertainment.
Image - The Grand Pier extension in 1907
In 1946, George Brenner purchased the pier and showcased arcade machines manufactured by his company, Brenco. The pier continued to evolve, adding new amusements, and in 1974, it became a Grade II listed building, acknowledging its historical significance. The pier’s popularity surged again in the late 20th century with modern additions, including a bowling alley, children’s play areas, and rides like the 'Crazy House' and 'Balloon Wheel'. It even featured in the movie 'Remains of the Day' in 1992. By 2001, it had earned the prestigious title of “Pier of the Year.”
Weston's Grand Pier devastated by 2008 fire
Image - Fire on The Grand Pier in 2008
Sadly, another fire devastated the pier in 2008, but the new owners, Kerry and Michelle Michael, were committed to its restoration. After much planning, the pier was completely rebuilt, reopening in October 2010. The new pier was more popular than ever, setting visitor records during its opening weekend.
Since then, The Grand Pier has continued to thrive, hosting concerts, weddings, and TV shows. It even won the “Pier of the Year” award for the second time in 2011.
With continuous updates and modern attractions, The Grand Pier remains an iconic symbol of entertainment in Weston-super-Mare.
Image - The Grand Pier and Red Arrows display in 2017
The world famous Grand Pier at Weston-super-Mare is a historic landmark that has been a beloved attraction for many generations. Stretching out into the Bristol Channel, this iconic pier offers a variety of entertainment options, including amusement rides, arcades, and charming shops.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline from the pier's promenade or take a leisurely stroll along its wooden planks. With its rich history and lively atmosphere, The Grand Pier remains a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the beautiful seaside town of Weston-super-Mare.
