Southwold Pier — Attraction in England

Really sweet little pier (- be ideal if they renewed the external white paintwork as it's looking abit worn/untidy in places, could make more of the George Orwell connection artwork perhaps, as this is/could be more special maybe? As it's a cool feature). This would make it all look really good, but obviously realise marine environments are very tough on buildings). However little shops are very well kept, interesting to look around, some nice products, nice staff (on our visit anyway).. & also provide good cover from showers(!) as do some seating areas (& there's a lot of outdoor seating too). It's free to walk the length; not very long so an easy walk, nice views of the town & sea, beach, etc. Found despite a little bit of renovation work in the middle, it was pretty flat, fairly wide, pretty accessible & quite easy to traverse. Some fishing off the pier end, you couldnt fit too many anglers on there 'tho, so busier days you probably couldnt/wouldnt want to try).. I didnt notice anyone catch, but intense rain prevented further enquiry! Toilets in the carpark are handily close by too, though you do have to come off the pier itself (- they had paper, water & soap all running well, reasonably clean; for public, at time of visit). Was impressed with the Boardwalk restaurant for lunch, at time of visit they were very friendly, polite, provided a quick service & nice food & drink selection, plenty of room. Had a very nice coffee & a nice rosé wine. Fish finger sandwiches with pea puree & salad, but done with 'real' v flaky fish & in an almost tempura-style batter (I think) & unusual dressing. Cafe style seating overlooking sea outside & restaurant tables inside. Would like to visit again for an evening fish meal (- presume locally caught?) as seem of a pretty good standard & not overly expensive ('tho we never find food out exactly 'cheap' anywhere now, but it wasn't excessive). Didn't go into end of pier show/old fashioned pier entertainment machines bit (can't think of correct name!?) but looked quite intriguing. Last visit was a bit disappointed with our fish & chip meal on the pier (- at entrance; plenty of seating or can take onto beach or pier), as it was rather small, felt over-priced, fish kind of 'over processed' & we didn't rate the quality much. However, this was some time ago(!) & so cannot judge this time as it could have changed, a lot. But it is very convenient to have it there. Ice creams were good 'tho & the range of bits & bobs, & treats on sale useful.. Brief look at modern arcade area, which was small & partner felt was a bit limited, & pricier compared to others, n some prizes offered really not great (lol). But not generally having frequented these for years & years(!) & no expert, I suspect they are all a bit like this?! (You could always have lost quite a bit of money in them if not careful).. However, it has quite a good range of different games & machines for a small arcade, old & newer, not all on screens which is nice, 'tho it even had a VR game area. I think it'd still be a laugh, especially for families to while away a bit of time in & ideal if the weather changes for the worst, which it did. So nice to have it there, obviously not everyone's cup of tea (- we much prefer looking at nature, getting a walk, food al fresco etc, which you can also do), but I have seen much, much more gaudier & overbearing arcades on seafronts! It's quite tucked away & not very loud, which is good (otherwise it'd spoil the pier I think?). So generally, there's a nice mix of different things to do...

Southwold Pier is a nostalgic haven of old-school family fun, boasting a unique array of attractions that will delight visitors of all ages. As you stroll along the pier, you're transported back in time to a bygone era of seaside charm and amusement. From quirky arcade games to whimsical interactive exhibits, there's something here for everyone to enjoy.

What sets Southwold Pier apart is its collection of unusual attractions that you won't find anywhere else. Whether it's the mesmerizing water clock, the thrilling Under the Pier Show with its eccentric creations, or the captivating vintage slot machines, each experience is a delightful surprise waiting to be discovered.

But beyond the attractions, it's the sense of joy and wonder that permeates every corner of the pier that truly makes it special. Families laugh together, children's eyes light up with excitement, and memories are made that will last a lifetime. It's a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of seaside entertainment.

For a day of pure, unadulterated fun unlike anything you've ever experienced, look no further than Southwold Pier. It's a treasure trove of whimsy and wonder that will leave you longing to return...

Gone downhill

We used to love it here. We would go to the arcade followed by a walk and then sit in the cafe and have fish and chips whilst the children played in the children corner. Even on the wet winter days we would come as we could spend time in the arcade followed by fish and chips. For a treat we would go to the restaurant and order coffee and cake and enjoy the sea view. But this has all changed for the worse. The tables have now all been removed and you are forced to eat fsh and chips in the rain and cold, which means we no longer go in the winter months. The other main restaurant do meals only and then you have to book. I just can't understand it. Its almost as if they want to fail as a business and is probably the reason why the pier has changed hands many times.

Even the ice cream shop that used to have massive queues has gone and been replaced by 4 machines that no-one ever uses.

I also cannot understand the red and blue colours at front. It makes the pier look like it's a Tesco Value bargain pier rather than a pier in an affluent town. The locals absolutely hate the external appearance of the front of the pier.

What a mess ! Please turn the pier back to how it used to be before the business is closed down...