Hampshire is famed for its gorgeous coastline, and what better way to admire it than overlooking the ocean? Make a day of visiting one of these beautiful piers and see what views and activities it has to offer...
Hythe Pier
Where? Hythe, Southampton
What’s nearby? The American Garden, filled with an abundance of flowers, sights and scents
Where to eat? Seashells Lounge Bar, which offers fresh seafood and a lovely view of the pier
This pier is both beautiful to look at and brilliantly useful transport wise, being home to both a railway and a ferry that connects Southampton and the town of Hythe. It’s the oldest continuously operating public pier train in the world, making for a historically and scenically interesting trip. When travelling on the ferry you can also see the best views of the cruise liners in port like the Queen Victoria, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth, when they’re at home.
READ MORE: The most Instagrammable spots in Hampshire
Clarence Pier
Where? Southsea, Portsmouth
What’s nearby? Spinnaker Tower, which you can walk around and even walk up
Where to eat? Southsea Street Food, which has everything from fry ups to fish and chips
All the fun of the fair can be found at Clarence Pier. Filled with amusements galore, it’s a marvellous place to take the family. Unlike most piers, Clarence goes along the coast rather than across the sea – which considering how many attractions it holds, is rather practical. Waltzers, ferris wheels and log flumes are just some of the rides on offer, as well as the patience-consuming penny slots and claw machines.
The Royal Pier
Where? Southampton
What’s nearby? The Medieval Merchant’s house, which has been restored to its 14th century glory
Where to eat? Kuti’s Brasserie, housed in the gatehouse and offering authentic Indian cuisine
Unfortunately after years of attacks rebuilds, the pier itself now is derelict. However, it still holds lovely fond memories for the people of Southampton. The pavilion that originally stood was a popular dance venue in the 1940s, and many locals met partners there. Romance is still kept alive though, with the striking Grade II listed gatehouse still standing and housing a popular Indian restaurant which also doubles as a wedding venue.
South Parade Pier
Where? Southsea, Portsmouth
What’s nearby? Henry VIII’s moated Southsea Castle, which is free to enter
Where to eat? The Gaiety Bar, which has food including sharing platters that can be ordered with bottomless prosecco
For luxurious sights of the Isle of Wight and the chance to partake in your favourite seaside activities, South Parade Pier has plenty to offer. Enjoy the delicious ice cream, afternoon tea by the sea, and rides and games which all line the 180 metres of decking. Like the other piers it has seen numerous restorations, having been set on fire three times – most notably during the filming of the 70s satirical film Tommy. It also has a popular live music venue, which has seen performances from David Bowie, Genesis, and Peter Sellers.
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Yarmouth Pier
Where? Yarmouth, Isle of Wight
What’s nearby? The Needles cliffs, rocks and lighthouse, which are beautifully picturesque
Where to eat? The King’s Head, which is brimming with hearty comfort foods
This is the longest wooden pier in England, stretching a glorious 186 metres and offering an unparalleled walk that showcases the beauty of the area. It was originally built for paddle steamers and ships still occasionally dock here. Plan your visit by having a meal nearby and then walking here for a simply perfect weekend treat. The end of this elegant structure is also a great spot for fishing. It is built with greenheart hardwood that only lasts 15-20 years, and it currently needs donations for restoration.
