A winter morning and still busy and beautiful
1 / 10

Paignton Pier

4.1
·8k reviews·, United Kingdom

A classic British seaside pier offering arcades, rides, crazy golf, and stunning coastal views. Fun for all ages!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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A winter morning and still busy and beautiful

Paignton Pier

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A classic British seaside pier offering arcades, rides, crazy golf, and stunning coastal views. Fun for all ages!

4.1
(8k reviews)

"It was one of the best piers we've been on. There was so much for families to do."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arcade Payouts

Many visitors note that payout machines can be rigged, but the fun is in the experience!

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the pier, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Retro Arcades

Retro Arcades

Step back in time with a vast collection of classic and modern arcade games, including the popular 2p machines.

Jurassic Crazy Golf

Jurassic Crazy Golf

Challenge your family to a round of mini-golf amidst dinosaur-themed obstacles at the end of the pier.

Pier Views

Pier Views

Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the English Riviera from the pier's vantage points.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Nostalgia

Paignton Pier offers a classic British seaside experience with arcades, rides, and food stalls. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during peak season. Consider visiting during off-peak times for a more relaxed visit.

Seagull Savvy

Be prepared for the local seagull population! They are known to be bold and can be a nuisance if you're eating. Keep your food secure and be mindful of your surroundings. Some visitors find them a bit much.TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, lights
Crowd
High
When
Off-season weekends
Why
Quieter, still enjoyable
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @A_humble_Gnome Torbay Seagulls are next level Cun.. #devon #uktowns #uksociety #torquay #paignton #westcountry #ukproblems
@olly_dobson
13.9K likes • 212.1K views

🎯 Arcade Payouts

Many visitors note that payout machines can be rigged, but the fun is in the experience! Reddit+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the pier, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Early morning start on Christmas Day. #paignton #seafront and #paigntonpier #pier looking amazing #photography #landscape #seascape #sunrise #cloud
@jamiecaldwellphotography
4.3K likes • 51.5K views
Paignton pier activity’s #paignton #pier #uk #devon #coastalliving #Repost #bornoninstagram #reels #viralreels #mallu #malluviral #instagram #trendingvideos #mallutraveller #mallutrolls #trolls #mallusentertainment #entekeralam #godsowncountry #branthan #viralvideos #mallufails #mallucomedy #positivemalayalam #lovemalayalam #lovebraanthan #crazymalayalam #mallus #malayalamromantic
travelrecords___
157 likes • 11.7K views

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Plenty of great spots for photos, especially with the dinosaurs and sea views. :camerawithflash:

🍟 Seaside Snacks

Enjoy traditional treats like fish and chips and ice cream. :ice_cream:

Paignton pier #fyp #foryoupage #viral #foodreview
dylanyeah20
60 likes • 3.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arcade Payouts

Many visitors note that payout machines can be rigged, but the fun is in the experience! Reddit+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the pier, so wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Plenty of great spots for photos, especially with the dinosaurs and sea views. :camerawithflash:

🍟 Seaside Snacks

Enjoy traditional treats like fish and chips and ice cream. :ice_cream:

🐦 Seagull Alert!

Keep your food secure; seagulls are notorious here! :bird:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Paignton Pier is widely praised for its clean, well-maintained facilities and classic seaside charm, offering a fun-filled experience for families with a variety of rides and arcades. While some visitors note that certain arcade games may not pay out as expected, the overall atmosphere and the enjoyable activities, like the Jurassic Crazy Golf, make it a popular and recommended destination for a retro day out.

"Very clean and tidy pier all the kiosks and children's rides looked new! The 2p arcade was fun and again very clean. At the end of the pier is a crazy golf Jurassic Park with dinosaurs. Great fun for all the family and great photo opportunities."

Sue Ruddick

"The pier itself is lovely and the views off the end are well worth the walk. My issue was with the arcades,it was quite obvious that the games are all rigged not to pay out. I've never played a 2p machine that literally didn't drop a single coin. It's a real shame because the place is well looked after and could easily be a nice place to spend an hour if they weren't cheating people."

Paul Owens

"The pier is quite long but it's all covered with games and fun. It all looks nice, but everything is old and not everything works or doesn't accept money. There's a nice golf course at the end of the pier. There are also takeaways here. You can always come and have fun with your family.😀😀😀"

ThisIsMexD

What People Like

Clean and tidy pier
Retro arcade games
Jurassic Crazy Golf

What People Dislike

Rigged arcade payouts
Seagull nuisance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Paignton Pier is easily accessible by car, with nearby parking available. It's also a short walk from Paignton train station and bus services connect to the pier. Many visitors arrive by public transport for a stress-free day out.TikTok

Yes, there are several car parks within walking distance of Paignton Pier. Expect them to fill up quickly during peak season. Consider using public transport if possible.TikTok

While it's a scenic walk along the coast, it's quite a distance. It's more practical to take a bus or train from Torquay to Paignton and then walk to the pier.TikTok

Absolutely! Paignton town center is well-served by buses and trains, and the pier is a short, flat walk from the station and bus stops.

Many visitors opt for the train, which offers lovely coastal views. Buses are also a budget-friendly option. Driving is convenient but parking can be a challenge.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Paignton Pier itself is free. You only pay for the rides, arcade games, and activities you choose to participate in.Instagram

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Paignton Pier website or their social media for the most up-to-date information, especially outside of peak summer months.

Keep an eye on their social media pages for potential promotions or special offers, especially during quieter periods. Some visitors mention looking for deals online.TikTok

Typically, you purchase tickets or tokens for rides and arcade games on-site. There isn't usually an option to buy in advance for individual attractions.

Yes, there is a separate charge for the Jurassic Crazy Golf at the end of the pier. It's a popular family activity.

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

Paignton Pier offers a variety of family-friendly rides, including classic fairground attractions. There are also tenpin bowling and a racing simulator.TikTok

Some visitors report that payout machines, like the 2p machines and claw games, can be rigged. However, many still find them fun for the retro experience.Reddit+1

You'll find traditional seaside food kiosks offering fish and chips, burgers, ice cream, and other snacks. There's also a cafe.TikTok

Yes, it's very family-friendly with rides and games suitable for younger children. The pier is also accessible for strollers.TikTokReddit

The views from the end of Paignton Pier are lovely, offering panoramic vistas of the coastline and the English Riviera. It's a great spot for photos.Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The entire pier offers great photo opportunities, from the colorful arcade fronts to the sea views at the end. The Jurassic Crazy Golf also provides fun backdrops.Instagram+1

Drone usage may be restricted. It's always best to check local regulations and any posted signage before flying. Some aerial shots have been captured.Instagram+1

Yes, the pier offers beautiful sunset views over the sea, making it a popular spot for photographers looking for golden hour shots.TikTok

The combination of classic seaside amusements, the pier structure, and the coastal scenery provides many unique photo opportunities. The dinosaur golf is a fun element too.

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds,TikTok while evenings provide a vibrant, illuminated atmosphere.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

Paignton Pier is a fantastic destination for families with young children, offering a safe and engaging environment. The pier is easily accessible and features a variety of rides and arcade games that are perfect for little ones.TikTokReddit The Jurassic Crazy Golf is a hit with kids, providing an interactive and fun activity. Many visitors appreciate the clean facilities and the abundance of traditional seaside treats available, making it a classic family day out.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Paignton Pier offers a great value experience. Entry to the pier is free, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere and views without spending a penny. You can choose to spend money on specific rides or arcade games that appeal to you, or simply enjoy the novelty of the place. Packing your own snacks can also help save money, though enjoying some traditional fish and chips is part of the experience.TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Paignton Pier a charming subject. The colorful arcade fronts, the classic pier structure, and the sweeping coastal views offer plenty of visual interest.Instagram+1 Early mornings provide beautiful light and fewer distractions,TikTok while evenings offer a different kind of magic with the pier illuminated against the night sky.Instagram The Jurassic Crazy Golf also presents quirky photo opportunities.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Paignton Pier Experience: More Than Just a Pier

Paignton Pier is a vibrant hub of classic seaside entertainment. It's not just a walkway over the sea; it's a destination in itself, packed with activities for all ages. From the moment you step onto its wooden planks, you're greeted by the lively sounds of arcades and the tempting aromas of traditional seaside snacks.TikTokReddit The pier is lined with a diverse range of amusements, including a 2p arcade that evokes a strong sense of nostalgia for many visitors.TikTokReddit

Beyond the games, the pier offers a variety of rides, a bowling alley, and even a racing simulator, ensuring there's never a dull moment. At the very end, you'll find the Jurassic Crazy Golf, a unique attraction that adds a prehistoric twist to your visit. The pier also provides stunning panoramic views of the coastline, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some memorable photos.Instagram+1 Whether you're seeking family fun or a trip down memory lane, Paignton Pier delivers a quintessential British seaside experience.

Community Insights: Many visitors highlight the retro charm of the arcades and the family-friendly atmosphere. While some mention that payout machines might be rigged, the overall sentiment is that the fun and nostalgia outweigh this concern.Reddit+1 The pier is described as well-maintained and a great place for a day out, especially for families with children.TikTok

Navigating Paignton Pier: Tips from Visitors

When planning your visit to Paignton Pier, several practical tips from fellow travelers can enhance your experience. Firstly, be prepared for the local seagull population. They are known to be quite bold and can be a nuisance if you're eating outdoors.TikTok It's advisable to keep your food secure and be mindful of your surroundings. Many visitors also recommend wearing comfortable footwear, as you'll likely be spending a good amount of time walking along the pier and enjoying the various attractions.TikTok

For those interested in the arcades, a common piece of advice is to manage expectations regarding payouts. While some visitors feel certain machines are rigged, the general consensus is that the nostalgic experience and the fun of playing are the main draws.Reddit+1 If you're looking for the best photo opportunities, consider visiting during the early morning for softer light and fewer crowds,TikTok or in the evening when the pier is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.Instagram

Key Takeaways from Travelers:
* Seagull vigilance is key when dining.
* Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring.
* Embrace the retro arcade fun, even if payouts are questionable.
* Sunrise and sunset offer the most picturesque views.TikTokInstagram

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