About

South Parade Pier stands proudly in the centre of Southsea’s stunning 4 mile coastline with amazing unique views of the Isle of Wight and across The Solent.

South Parade Pier has a very colourful and eventful history: it has been destroyed by fire 3 times, the most infamous being in 1974 during the making of the film 'Tommy'; it was requisitioned during World War II for the preparation and embarkation of troops for the D-Day landings; and as an entertainment venue many famous names have performed there, including, Frankie Howerd, Peter Sellers, David Bowie and Genesis. After years of neglect, this much-loved Victorian structure has been restored to its former glory and is now fully open for the public to enjoy.

As a traditional seaside pier, South Parade Pier has plenty of fun for all the family. There is an all new family amusement arcade, shopping, fairground rides, fishing and many other seaside seasonal activities.

You can get an ice cream at the ice-cream parlour, have a cup of tea and cake on the promenade, breathe in the sea air with take-away fish and chips or dine in style with amazing views at the Deep Blue restaurant. There are numerous food and drink outlets dotted all around the pier to suit all tastes and appetites.

The heart of the pier is the famous Gaiety Bar. As well as a licensed bar and restaurant serving breakfasts and Sunday roasts, the Gaiety Bar has a full and varied events program with everything from afternoon tea dances to live music concerts and charity boxing matches. For more information visit the website for all up and coming events.

In the summer months, Kidz Island brings all the fun of the fair to South Parade Pier. It's not just for the youngsters, though, with a host of brand new rides allowing adults to get in on the fun as well. Rides include: Giant Pirate Ship, Flying Helicopters, Happy Caterpillar, and Drop 'n' Twist, as well as classic kids favourites, like Bumper Carz, Wacky Races, Flying Jets and Miami Surf.

If all that enjoyment has built up an appetite, you can stop off at the new Coffee @ The Pier, located at the front of the pier and serving Lavazza coffee, plus a wide selection of teas and luxury hot chocolates. It's also ideally located for popping in if you're simply on a walk along the promenade. If you're after something more substantial, there are mouth-watering hot and cold foods, including freshly made baguettes, paninis, toasted sandwiches, breakfast rolls and winter soup to take-away - as well as sweet treats in the form of handmade cakes, muffins, brownies and more.

The pier is open all year round 364 days a year (closed Christmas Day) and is free to visit.