Birnbeck Pier
A unique Victorian pier connecting mainland to an island, undergoing vital restoration. A historic landmark with a hopeful future.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best for viewing restoration
Birnbeck Pier
Best Time
Best for viewing restoration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique Victorian pier connecting mainland to an island, undergoing vital restoration. A historic landmark with a hopeful future.
"It's fantastic that they are finally renovating it with an opening date of 2028 I believe."
Check Restoration Updates
Keep an eye on local news and social media for the latest on restoration progress and viewing access.
Respect Safety Barriers
The pier is closed for safety. Do not attempt to access it. Admire from a distance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Island Connection
Birnbeck Island
The only pier in the UK to link the mainland to an island. A truly unique Victorian engineering feat.
+1Victorian Architecture
The Pier Structure
Admire the intricate design of this Grade II* listed Victorian pier, a testament to Eugenius Birch's engineering genius.
Restoration Progress Viewpoint
Shoreline Viewing Areas
Witness the ongoing restoration efforts of this historic landmark. See the transformation unfold from the shore.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Restoration in Progress
+1Tidal Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Restoration Updates
Keep an eye on local news and social media for the latest on restoration progress and viewing access.
Respect Safety Barriers
The pier is closed for safety. Do not attempt to access it. Admire from a distance.
Learn About Its History
Visit the information center on-site to learn about the pier's past and restoration plans.
Mind the Tides
Be aware of tidal changes when exploring the shoreline near the pier.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Restoration Updates
Keep an eye on local news and social media for the latest on restoration progress and viewing access.
Respect Safety Barriers
The pier is closed for safety. Do not attempt to access it. Admire from a distance.
Learn About Its History
Visit the information center on-site to learn about the pier's past and restoration plans.
Mind the Tides
Be aware of tidal changes when exploring the shoreline near the pier.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Birnbeck Pier is a beloved historic landmark undergoing much-anticipated restoration. Visitors recall fond childhood memories and are excited about its potential revival, though its current derelict state means it can only be viewed from the shore. The unique island connection and Victorian architecture are key points of interest.
"Birnbeck Pier, often called the “Old Pier,” is a Grade II* listed Victorian structure in Weston-super-Mare, built in 1867, designed by Eugenius Birch. It stands out as the only pier in the UK connecting the mainland to an island, namely Birnbeck Island.
A popular destination during its heyday, the pier hosted paddle steamers ferrying passengers across the Bristol Channel. It played a covert role in World War II, even facilitating trials for Barnes Wallis’s bouncing bomb."
Yarys
"Remember going on this as a child.
Be interesting to see it , after the restoration which they are on with.
Will look great when restored."
Paul Clarke
"I remember going on this pier as a child so it always brings back memories coming to see it again. It's fantastic that they are finally renovating it with an opening date of 2028 I believe.
They have a little information centre on site and people to give you information on what's happening.
Can't wait to be able to walk along it again soon!"
Lesley Elding
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Birnbeck Pier is located in Weston-super-Mare. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby, or via public transport. The pier itself is currently closed to the public due to its condition, but it can be viewed from the promenade. +1
Yes, there are several car parks in Weston-super-Mare that are within walking distance of the Birnbeck Pier viewing areas. Consider the Sovereign Centre car park or the town centre car parks.
While you cannot walk on Birnbeck Pier due to its closure, you can walk along the promenade in Weston-super-Mare to get excellent views of the pier and its ongoing restoration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Birnbeck Pier is currently closed to the public due to safety concerns and is undergoing restoration. You can view it from the shore, but access onto the pier is not permitted.
The restoration of Birnbeck Pier is a multi-phase project. While an official reopening date hasn't been set, there's optimism for its future, with some sources suggesting a potential opening around 2028.
As Birnbeck Pier is currently closed and undergoing restoration, there is no entrance fee. Viewing from the promenade is free.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the historic Victorian pier structure, its unique connection to Birnbeck Island, and the ongoing restoration work. There's also an information centre providing details about the project.
Birnbeck Pier itself is not safe for public access due to its derelict state. However, viewing it from the Weston-super-Mare promenade is safe, provided you stay aware of the tides.
Birnbeck Pier is famous for being the only pier in the UK that connects the mainland to an island. It's also a significant Victorian engineering landmark.
Currently, there are no public activities on Birnbeck Pier as it is closed for restoration. However, the town of Weston-super-Mare offers various attractions and events. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The Weston-super-Mare promenade offers excellent vantage points for photographing Birnbeck Pier. Drone photography can also capture unique perspectives, but always check local regulations.
Drone photography can offer stunning views of Birnbeck Pier and its island connection. However, always ensure you comply with local drone regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during low tide for safer exploration of the shoreline. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities directly on the pier are unavailable. The nearby Grand Pier offers amusement arcades and rides, providing a more traditional pier experience if that's what you're looking for.
📸 Photographers & Drone Enthusiasts
+1For drone enthusiasts, Birnbeck Pier presents a dramatic subject. The aerial perspective can highlight the pier's structure and its relationship with the island and the Bristol Channel. Remember to always check and adhere to local drone regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying to ensure a safe and legal operation.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Restoration of Birnbeck Pier
+1However, safety concerns led to its closure in 1994, and it has since fallen into a state of disrepair, appearing on the Buildings at Risk Register. The pier's future was uncertain for many years, with local authorities considering various options. Fortunately, significant efforts have been made to save this historic landmark.
+1Recent years have seen a surge in restoration efforts, bolstered by funding from organizations like the National Lottery Heritage Fund and @NorthSomersetLife. Work has begun on stabilizing and restoring the pier, with the first stages of the project being completed. While the pier remains closed to the public, these restoration works signal a hopeful new chapter for Birnbeck Pier, aiming to bring it back to its former glory.
+2Community Voices on Birnbeck Pier
There's a palpable excitement about the ongoing restoration. Comments like 'Will look great when restored' and 'Can't wait to be able to walk along it again soon!' highlight the community's hope for the pier's revival. The news of restoration work has been met with widespread approval, with many expressing relief that this 'part of British history' is finally being saved.
However, the pier's derelict state before restoration also evoked sadness. One visitor expressed being 'gutted' to find the pier shut and 'one seagull away from collapse.' The ongoing work is seen as a crucial step in preventing the loss of this iconic landmark and ensuring it can be enjoyed by future generations.
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