The Grand Pier — Attraction in England

The Grand Pier at Weston-super-Mare is an iconic landmark, proudly standing over the Bristol Channel since 1904. Rebuilt after two devastating fires, in 1930 and 2008, it has risen from the ashes each time, demonstrating remarkable resilience and a commitment to providing entertainment. Today, it operates as an indoor theme park, offering a vibrant escape for families regardless of the weather. Upon entering (there's a small admission fee), visitors are greeted by a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds. Over 500 arcade games, from classic coin-ops to modern virtual reality experiences, cater to all tastes. Thrill-seekers can brave rides like the dodgems, House of Horrors, and a helter-skelter, while younger guests will delight in the three-level dinosaur soft play area. A highlight is the two-level Glo-Kart track, adding a unique twist to a classic activity. Beyond the rides and games, the pier boasts a selection of restaurants, bars, and cafes, ensuring no one goes hungry. Options range from traditional fish and chips to a sit-down Sunday roast, with plenty of sweet treats like donuts and ice cream. For those planning a longer visit, unlimited ride wristbands are available, particularly on weekends and during school holidays, offering better value. The pier is also dog-friendly, providing water stations and even special dog-friendly ice cream, a thoughtful touch for pet owners. While some newer attractions like the Crystal Maze have received mixed reviews, the Grand Pier generally offers a fun-filled day out, especially on a rainy day. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of the British seaside pier, blending nostalgia with modern...

We came here for the day which we often do (but not in November) for the 'fireworks at sea'. We had the most glorious weather. We initially planned to come for the hot air balloons and unfortunately it was cancelled. Such a shame as in the day the air pressure was so low and the sun was shining beautifully. I wished they'd have waited a little to cancel that but it did not spoil the day at all. It wasn't too busy and was able to access the shops and go into the pier which was £1 each. The arcade is great and a fair price. They have little gifts in the 2p machines and we had so much fun trying to win them. We waited unti 7pm for the fireworks, health and safety was brilliant. No-one was allowed on the beach and they would not start until everyone was off. You could pay a fair price for a ticket to access the pier in the eve for the fireworks. Think it was about £7.50 each and with that all the rides were free too. There was one that was £12.50 which gave you the same but you could have a meal in the restaurant bit with this priced ticket. Such good value! We just stood along the prominade like most and even then it wasnt massively overcrowded and the view was great. The fireworks themselves were one of the best displays I've ever seen and I've been to Disney a few times! Such a variety and the fact it was in the beach made it so much more exciting! My 5 year old had the most amazing day and so did we. Was a little busy getting out of the car park but after such a wonderful day, We were happy to put some good music on and wait our...

It's great that there are Piers still around, Weston-super-Mare Grand Pier was re-opened in 2010 having replaced the original 1903 Pier which was destroyed in a blaze in 2008, falling to a similar fate of the original pier which was destroyed in 1930; so not the original pier, kind of but you get my drift 🤔.

There's plenty for families to do, lots of slots, a handful of rides including dodgems and a go-kart track and lots of 2p machines. There are a couple of bars, cafes and a few places to sit and eat your own picnic and on a warm day the walk along the pier from the seafront to the pier is lovely.

There's even a 'noddy' train for the less able or the young to take from and to the pier from the seafront.

There's an entry fee to the Grand Pier, only a pound, not too bad and if it means that the pier is still here in another 100 years. There are wristbands available for the rides, though they did seem quite pricey. A family of four could easily spend £60 plus, more with food and drinks, on a trip to the pier. But could you have as much fun elsewhere on a trip to the seaside?

I'm probably a bit old for this now, but as a trip down memory lane goes from the 1980s, it wasn't bad at all. And the sun made a rare outing too, more than can be said for the sea which was barely visible in the distance. But that's Weston, certainly the Weston that I can remember from my childhood. And of course there are still donkeys on the beach, plodding along under the pier, building memories for the next generation of...