Birnbeck Pier Weston-super-Mare

An historic pier returning to life

Birnbeck Pier in Weston-super-Mare is one of the UK’s most unique historic landmarks, and right now, it’s in the middle of an extraordinary comeback. A £44 million restoration project is now underway, bringing new life to this iconic pier, and visitors can already watch the transformation unfold from the seafront.

What makes Birnbeck Pier so special?

This isn’t just any old pier with a bit of history. This is where hordes of Welsh day-trippers once piled onto paddle steamers, crossed the Bristol Channel, and made a beeline for a good time – drawn by England’s more relaxed licensing laws. Long before stag dos and party ferries, Birnbeck and Weston was the place to let loose. Birnbeck Pier was effectively the birthplace of the Booze Cruise.

Then there’s the setting. Stretching a full 1,040 feet out to Birnbeck Island, it’s the only pier in the UK that actually connects the mainland to an island – and you feel that sense of escape the moment you look out towards it. Add in the fact that Weston-super-Mare is one of only two English towns (alongside Blackpool) with three piers – Birnbeck, the Grand Pier and Revo, and you start to see why this place is a bit special.

A pier with a story to tell

Birnbeck has never been boring. Over the years it’s been packed with attractions, from early rollercoaster-style rides to bustling pavilions, a lifeboat station, and even a secret wartime weapons site. Reinvention is part of its DNA.

Now it’s happening again. After years of decline, the pier is being transformed with a major restoration that will secure its future while keeping its character intact.

Can you visit Birnbeck Pier now?

While the pier itself is being restored, it’s still very much worth visiting. In fact, this is an interesting time to see it.

You can see it all unfolding right now. Take a walk along the footpath from the seafront promenade or head up to Prince Consort Gardens for sweeping coastal views. From these vantage points, you’ll see the work going on as the pier is carefully brought back to life – adding something a little different to your visit alongside Weston’s beach, attractions and lively seafront.

Don’t miss: Birnbeck Regeneration Trust

If the story captures your imagination, stop by the Birnbeck Regeneration Trust Information Centre along the footpath. It’s a must-visit if the pier’s story has caught your imagination. Step inside to explore its rich history, learn more about the restoration, share your own memories, and discover how you can support this much-loved landmark.

Why visit Birnbeck Pier?

Whether you’re planning a classic seaside day, exploring Somerset’s coast, or looking for unique places to visit in Weston-super-Mare, Birnbeck Pier adds an extra layer to the experience. It’s not just a walk – it’s a glimpse of the past, a project in motion, and a comeback story you can witness for yourself.