Britannia Pier in Great Yarmouth has been named Pier of the Year 2026 by the National Piers Society, national recognition following a major investment by owners Joseph Manning and Joseph Abbott to regenerate the heritage attraction as a hub of year-round entertainment.
The National Piers Society has named Britannia Pier in Great Yarmouth as its Pier of the Year, praising owners Joseph Manning and Joseph Abbott for their dedication for revitalising the attraction as a year-round attraction.
Since acquiring the pier in 2022, Manning and Abbott have undertaken a major investment project, dramatically reimagining the pier’s entrance and substantially expanding its footprint, adding new rides, community amenities and hospitality options.
“Huge congratulations to the worthiest of winners who have shown that in challenging economic times investment is still the way forward to success,” said NPS chair Tim Wardley. “Our members were hugely impressed with the new developments and attractions when they visited last year.”
“We look forward to returning in the summer to present the award and to see the new attractions in full swing.”
As well as fully redeveloping the landward end of the pier to treble the size of the arcade and increase the diversity of indoor entertainment, Manning and Abbott have also installed new lighting and display screens, while reopening the former Sea Chef cafe as Krispies Fish and Chip Co, and overhauling the Pier Tavern.
“We see this award as a huge honour and it fills the whole team with pride,” said co-owner Joseph Abbott, following the announcement of the award.
“We feel this is a huge testament to us as new owners for the work, time and investment we have put in since our takeover in December 2022. It’s something we’re very proud of.”
And their work has won plaudits from around the industry, setting new standards from a new generation making their mark in the evolution of the UK amusements sector.
Among the first to applaud the progress made at Britannia Pier and its selection as Pier of the Year came from another proud winner of the award. Llandudno Pier posted: “Congratulations to our friends at Great Yarmouth’s Britannia Pier they have been crowned the Pier of the Year 2026!! Well deserved.”
Originally published on Coinslot on April 19, 2026. Republished with permission.