Admission prices for The Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare are going up due to ‘rising costs.’ The attraction welcomes over 600,000 visitors each year, but bosses say maintaining such an iconic structure with a team of 150 staff comes at a substantial expense.
The admission charge will double from £1 to £2 for non-residents – whilst remaining free for local customers – starting in April 2025. This rise will help fund the ongoing essential upkeep of the historic structure.
Tim Moyle, Director of The Grand Pier, explained: “This price increase is vital so we can continue our high level of maintenance and protect the long-term future of the Pier. Last year, we invested over £1 million pound in essential upkeep alone and ongoing projects will ensure that we can preserve the structure for future generations.”
The updated entry fee will apply to all visitors. The My Grand Pier Card will continue to allow local residents to access the pier for free. The card also provides exclusive benefits, including 10% off rides, retail, food, and monthly special offers. In 2024, more than 10,000 local residents enjoyed free access to The Grand Pier.
Last year, the pier also contributed over 1,000 prizes to support local charity fundraisers. The pier remains committed to support local charities, including the RNLI and Weston Hospice Care, through fundraising efforts and donation drives.
“We are proud to serve our local community, and the My Grand Pier Card is just one of the ways we continue to support our residents” added Tim.
To take advantage of free entry, local residents are encouraged to visit The Grand Pier website, where they can check eligibility for the My Grand Pier Card and sign up. Starting on April 5, the new entry fee will grant visitors access to free Wi-Fi, relax on the boardwalk benches with stunning beach views, and entry to the Pavilion, home to over 500 family-friendly arcade games and 12 rides and attractions. Guests can also enjoy a wide range of food and drink options, including Costa Coffee, at the Pier’s many restaurants and food outlets.
The Grand Pier has long been a staple of Weston-super-Mare’s tourism scene, with many celebrities, including Emma Thompson, Jason Derulo, Martin Roberts, and recently Richard Hammond, visiting the seaside town. The hope is that, with the continued support of visitors, the pier will remain a thriving and successful attraction for years to come.
Somerset Live WhatsApp Breaking News and Top Stories
Join Somerset Live’s WhatsApp community for top stories and breaking news sent directly to your phone
Somerset Live is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join our community.
Through the app, we’ll send the latest breaking news, top stories, exclusives and much more straight to your phone.
To join our community you need to already have WhatsApp. All you need to do is click this link and select ‘Join Community’.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Somerset Live team.
We also treat community members to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out at any time you like.
To leave our community, click on the name at the top of your screen and choose ‘Exit group’.
If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.