Herne Bay Pier
A charming seaside pier with Victorian-style shops, carnival games, and delicious food, perfect for family fun and scenic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Herne Bay Pier
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming seaside pier with Victorian-style shops, carnival games, and delicious food, perfect for family fun and scenic views.
"A charming and well-kept place to enjoy the coast with fun games and beautiful sea views."
🎯 Arrive early for parking
Parking can fill up quickly on busy days. Arrive early to secure a spot near the pier. :car:
👟 Comfortable shoes are key
You'll be doing a lot of walking along the pier and promenade. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pier Head Charm
Explore the remaining pier head with its independent stalls selling crafts and food, offering a delightful local feel.
Seaside Games & Eats
Enjoy classic carnival games for kids and savor delicious fish and chips or cocktails with beautiful sea views.
Crabbing Fun
Join families and groups trying their luck at crabbing off the pier, a popular seaside activity.
Victorian Architecture
Admire the cute, tiny beach houses converted into shops, adding to the pier's unique Victorian charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pier's Past and Present
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive early for parking
Parking can fill up quickly on busy days. Arrive early to secure a spot near the pier. :car:
👟 Comfortable shoes are key
You'll be doing a lot of walking along the pier and promenade. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Capture the sunset
The views are beautiful, especially at sunset. Don't forget your phone for photos! :iphone:
💰 Bring cash for stalls
Some independent stalls might prefer cash payments. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive early for parking
Parking can fill up quickly on busy days. Arrive early to secure a spot near the pier. :car:
👟 Comfortable shoes are key
You'll be doing a lot of walking along the pier and promenade. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Capture the sunset
The views are beautiful, especially at sunset. Don't forget your phone for photos! :iphone:
💰 Bring cash for stalls
Some independent stalls might prefer cash payments. :moneybag:
📅 Check event schedules
The pier hosts shows and performances during summer breaks. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Herne Bay Pier for its charming atmosphere, independent stalls, and classic seaside fun like crabbing and games. The beautiful sea views, especially at sunset, are a major draw, and the food options, particularly fish and chips, are well-received. It's considered a great spot for families and a relaxing day out.
"Spent the day here. The weather was beautiful making our time here that much more enjoyable. We enjoyed a walk along the pier where there were a lot of people crab fishing. Little independent stalls selling food and other stalls selling bits and bobs, handcrafted items. Was very busy.
Ate fish and chips outside next to the sea, great service, lush food and tasty cocktails. Lovely place would recommend."
J
"Herne Bay Pier is a charming and well-kept place to enjoy the coast. Great for a walk, with fun games for kids, tasty food stalls, and beautiful sea views—especially at sunset. A perfect spot for families or a relaxing afternoon. Highly recommend!"
Arosha Weerakkody
"I visited on a very sunny day and the pier was busy.
There were lots of families and groups of people around and also this pier has tiny beach houses converted into shops, very cute.
The views are really beautiful and it is worth it when you get there."
Marta Foronda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Herne Bay Pier is easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. It's also reachable by public transport, with train stations in Herne Bay and nearby towns. Many visitors combine a trip to Herne Bay Pier with other Kent coastal towns like Canterbury or Whitstable. +1
Yes, there are several parking options near Herne Bay Pier. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak season, as parking can get busy.
The Herne Bay train station is a short walk from the pier, making it a convenient option for those traveling by train.
The pier is generally flat and accessible, though some of the smaller stalls might have limited space. The promenade is also accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Herne Bay Pier is close to other popular Kent destinations like Canterbury, Whitstable, and Margate, making it ideal for a multi-stop trip. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to walk on Herne Bay Pier. You only pay for rides, games, or purchases from the stalls.
The pier itself is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, individual stalls and attractions may have varying opening times, often closing around 5 PM.
Most activities are suitable for all ages, but some rides or games might have height or age recommendations.
The pier has a stage for performances and can be a venue for events. It's best to contact the pier management directly for booking inquiries.
The beach adjacent to Herne Bay Pier is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a variety of independent stalls selling handcrafted items, souvenirs, and local crafts, adding a unique charm to the pier.
Yes, Herne Bay Pier offers kiddie rides and carnival games, making it a fun destination for families.
Visitors can enjoy a walk along the pier, try their luck at crabbing, play carnival games, shop at independent stalls, and enjoy food and drinks with sea views.
Yes, crabbing is a very popular activity on Herne Bay Pier, with many people seen fishing off the sides.
Indeed, there is a stage on Herne Bay Pier that hosts shows and performances, especially during the summer breaks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find various food stalls offering classic seaside treats like fish and chips, as well as other snacks and drinks. Some reviews mention tasty cocktails too.
While there are numerous food stalls and casual eateries, Herne Bay Pier is more about quick bites and treats rather than formal sit-down restaurants.
Food stall offerings can vary, but it's worth checking with individual vendors for vegetarian or vegan choices.
Prices are generally reasonable for seaside attractions, with many independent stalls offering good value for money.
Yes, there are areas to sit and enjoy your food, often with lovely sea views.
📸 📸 Photography
The pier itself, especially with the Victorian-style beach houses, offers great shots. The sunset views are also spectacular.
Absolutely! The pier provides a fantastic vantage point for capturing beautiful sunset colors over the sea.
It's ideal for seaside landscapes, street photography of the stalls and people, and capturing family fun. +1
While not a primary wildlife spot, you might see seagulls and other coastal birds. For specific wildlife, consider nearby attractions like Wildwood Trust.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of others and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Stroll Through History: The Evolution of Herne Bay Pier
Despite its partial loss, the pier head has been revitalized, transforming into a vibrant area filled with independent stalls. These charming shops offer a variety of handcrafted items and local goods, providing a unique shopping experience. The pier's Victorian architecture, particularly the quaint beach houses converted into shops, adds to its picturesque appeal, making it a delightful spot for a leisurely walk and exploration.
Today, Herne Bay Pier continues to be a popular destination, drawing visitors with its blend of history, entertainment, and seaside activities. From crabbing and carnival games to enjoying local food and soaking in the coastal atmosphere, the pier offers a nostalgic yet lively experience for all ages.
Family Fun and Seaside Delights
Beyond the rides, the pier is a popular spot for crabbing, a beloved activity that engages the whole family. Many visitors can be seen casting their lines over the side, hoping for a catch. The independent stalls lining the pier also add to the charm, offering unique souvenirs and handcrafted items that make for great keepsakes.
Food is a significant part of the seaside experience here, with stalls serving up delicious fish and chips and other treats. Enjoying a meal with the sound of the waves and the sea breeze is a quintessential part of a day out at Herne Bay Pier. The overall atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for a family day trip.
Capturing the Coastal Charm: Photography at Herne Bay Pier
The pier is particularly renowned for its sunset views. As the sun dips below the horizon, it casts a warm, golden glow over the sea and the pier, creating dramatic and beautiful scenes. This makes it a prime location for landscape photographers and anyone looking to capture the magic of a seaside evening.
Beyond the static beauty, the pier is alive with activity. Capturing the fun of crabbing, the excitement of the carnival games, or the candid moments of people enjoying the food stalls can add a dynamic element to your photography. Remember to be respectful of others and ask permission if you plan to take close-up portraits.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit