I couldn’t have asked for more from my recent visit to Hastings pier. Well actually if the sun had been shining as strong as the wind was blowing then I would have been even happier, but despite the unfortunate weather I was most impressed with the changes that have shaped the Pier since my last trip.
The pier was built between 1869 and 1872, by Eugenius Birch. Visitors swarmed to the town because of the new railway links and the pier quickly became a landmark. Regardless of its ups and downs, the pier just gets better and better.
Looking at it today, it’s hard to believe that four years ago it was closed to the public. Since then the current owner, Ian Stewart, has ploughed so much into it. The pier has a real sense of community and the shop owners all seem to share a love of their unique work environment.
The landmark has so much to offer, not only for tourists to the town but for residents as well, with such a diverse range of enterprises. The latest editions include an ice skating rink, which takes pride of place in the centre of the shops and a wacky vintage clothing shop called ‘TimeWarp’, where the clothes have been handpicked to meet the varying demand of its customers.
These shops, as well as the traditional tourist essentials the Ice Cream Shop and Barmy Bottles, a souvenir buyers dream.There are many establishments that have been on the pier for the full four years since it re-opened and are still going strong. They range from the 1880s style Confectionary Shop, which once you’re in you won’t want to come out of, to the healthier option of the colourful juice bar Raw, where a shot of wheatgrass will energise you for the day. One of the most popular visitor destinations remains the Gritti Palace, which hosts a mix of events all week round, foreign films, DJ nights and during the day its a drinking haven with its friendly atmosphere.
Some of the more unexpected delights include White Waves, the ambient gift shop which has its very own clairvoyant, the Tan Deck where you can top up your tan all year round with the guidance of its owners who are experts in health and science, and the glass making and all-round craftshop where you can watch your purchases being made.
Last but not least at the end of the pier stands the ballroom, a huge space and the venue for many popular events. It can hold up to 2,000 people. These are just some of the attractions on offer, plus admission is free, so there is no doubt that this summer season will draw the crowds to Hastings Pier.
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This page last updated: 22/06/2005