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Southwold Pier

Southwold, United Kingdom•4.5(10.5k)•Beaches

Explore 623 feet of eccentric British seaside fun with arcade games, interactive shows, dining, and shopping on this historic Suffolk pier.

Southwold Pier is a beloved Suffolk coast attraction stretching 623 feet into the North Sea, offering families a full day of entertainment and seaside charm. The pier features the eccentric Under the Pier Show with Tim Hunkin's unique mechanical creations, the Wacky Walk of Mirrors, the Water Clock, and a classic arcade filled with traditional games. Visitors can enjoy the nostalgic fun that has made this pier a destination for over 120 years. Families can dine at multiple venues including the Boardwalk Restaurant with sea views, the Clockhouse for casual meals and hot chocolates, the Pier Fish & Chip Shop for traditional seaside fare, and ice cream and donut parlours. Shopping opportunities range from gift vouchers and souvenirs at the Treasure Chest to quirky finds at Seaweed & Salt. The pier also offers fishing facilities for those interested in angling. Suitable for all ages and seasons, Southwold Pier combines free access to the pier itself with optional paid attractions, making it an affordable family outing. Whether seeking entertainment, refreshments, or simply breathtaking sea views, visitors experience quintessential British seaside entertainment with unique attractions found nowhere else.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 08:30 – 17:00
Tuesday: 08:30 – 17:00
Wednesday: 08:30 – 17:00
Thursday: 08:30 – 17:00
Friday: 08:30 – 17:00
Saturday: 08:30 – 17:00
Sunday: 08:30 – 17:00

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Boardwalk Restaurant

Fine dining restaurant serving meals with sea views overlooking the pier and North Sea.

Hours: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm (Mon-Fri), 11:00 am - 6:00 pm (Sat-Sun)

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Google Reviews

4.5(10.5k reviews)
D
Daniel Gibson

Daniel Gibson

a month ago

A wonderful place to be! Small arcade at the front does the job for the kids without keeping you in there all day. The restaurant food was great as was the ice cream. The best part is home made arcade is very funny and entertaining for all. Shops were fab and not over priced.

S
Sami

Sami

2 months ago

Beautiful beach! The pier was fun especially with a little treat at the clock! Fish and chips were pricey, not sure if it was because of location, being a bank holiday weekend then prices were put up. Would definitely go again as it's kid friendly and the town centre was also nice to walk around. We parked in the car park and walked maybe 10-15, minutes to the actual pier but did speak to locals who said that you would need to get there from 9am for the closest parking. But if you're ok to walk (with a view of the sea and along a narrow pathway with the huts, it's fine!)

P
Phil Swaine

Phil Swaine

2 months ago

A place to visit for everyone. Great shops, cafe, beach, even for disabled. I would say best fish and chips too, and that's from a person from Yorkshire. Great experience for several hours.

D
Dougie Smith

Dougie Smith

3 months ago

What a brilliant step back to another time. I felt as if a should be wearing victorian clobber as opposed to t shirt and jeans. The Pier has gift shops, eating places and a very interesting amusement arcade called under the Pier, take plenty of change with you.

M
Michael Mayer

Michael Mayer

9 months ago

Lots of fun. Quality food and drink and eccentric fun on this well kept pier. Makes a change from the tat you often find on seaside piers. Do try the quirky arcade cum art exhibition for fun. Also don’t miss the cheeky water sculpture.

Reviews last updated: 6 October 2026

Events at Southwold Pier

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 6 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Southwold Pier

Is Southwold Pier free to visit?

Entry to Southwold Pier is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

Is Southwold Pier dog-friendly?

Dogs are not permitted at Southwold Pier.

Is there parking at Southwold Pier?

Yes — Southwold Pier has on-site parking, plus additional parking nearby.

Is there food at Southwold Pier?

Yes — Boardwalk Restaurant is on site at Southwold Pier. Fine dining restaurant serving meals with sea views overlooking the pier and North Sea.

Is Southwold Pier pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Southwold Pier is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Southwold Pier?

Southwold Pier is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Southwold Pier by public transport?

Southwold Pier is well-served by public transport.

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