Clacton Pier will celebrate its 155th anniversary this weekend, and is inviting guests to help mark the occasion with giveaways, a history trail, fireworks extravaganza, and free talks. “Everyone is welcome to come along and join the party,” said GM Harry Peek.
Clacton Pier will celebrate its 155th anniversary in style this weekend with a celebratory event featuring a new history trail, ride wristband giveaways, two talks in the Jolly Roger Theatre, and a “bigger than ever” free fireworks extravaganza.
The attraction will begin the festivities on 25 July by offering 155 people the chance to secure a Big Day Out Band for just £1.55, while chef Jon Fraser will prepare a five-tier birthday cake to mark the anniversary.
“We are going to celebrate this special occasion and we want our loyal guests and visitors to join in the fun,” said GM Harry Peek.
“There will be 155 specially made cupcakes given out over the weekend and the biggest and best free fireworks display we have ever staged at around 9.30pm, or as soon as it is dark enough, on the Saturday. The extravaganza will be set to music with some brand new pyrotechnics and effects.”
The pier was built in 1871 as a landing stage for paddle steamers and visitors to the new town of Clacton-on-Sea, and has since developed into the largest pleasure pier in Europe attracting around one million visitors each year.
The new Pier into the Past history trail will highlight 12 specific locations around the site and their past uses, the Dolphinarium, Seaquarium, Children’s Theatre, Ocean Theatre, Ice Skating Rink and the popular Oscars Nightclub.
“Although the current owners Billy and Elliot Ball have owned the attraction for 16 years the entire history of the site remains of the utmost importance to them,” added Peek.
Originally published on Coinslot on July 27, 2026. Republished with permission.