Brighton’s West Pier is more than just a relic of the past—it symbolises Victorian innovation, seaside glamour, and enduring charm. Although it has now become a haunting skeleton standing in the sea, the pier once thrived as a vibrant centre for entertainment and leisure activities. From its glorious opening in 1866 to its tragic destruction in 2003, Brighton’s iconic West Pier remains one of the city’s most captivating landmarks. Here, I share that story with rare photographs I took in 1999—just four years before the fires—and images taken in 2012 after the devastation. They show the stark contrast between the pier’s last days of elegance and its skeletal state today.
A Victorian Masterpiece: The Story of Brighton’s West Pier
Eugenius Birch, one of the most renowned pier architects of the Victorian era, designed Brighton’s West Pier. Builders completed the pier in 1866, creating a stunning example of 19th-century engineering and design. Stretching 1,115 feet into the sea, builders created West Pier to provide a promenade where visitors could enjoy Brighton’s fresh air and scenic views.
The pier quickly became a centrepiece of Brighton’s growing tourism industry. Over the years, the Victorians expanded it to include a concert hall and a theatre, attracting locals and holidaymakers. West Pier’s graceful iron framework and decorative kiosks became iconic features of the Brighton skyline, making it a popular destination for seaside entertainment.
Rare Photos of Brighton’s West Pier Before the Fire
The pier closed to the public in 1975 due to safety concerns, and over the next few decades, it fell into disrepair. Sadly, nature took its toll on the structure. Storms battered the pier, causing sections of it to collapse into the sea.
In 1999, I had the unique opportunity to photograph Brighton’s West Pier before tragedy struck (see Figures 2 & 3). Using my Pentax MZ-50 camera and Konica Centuria 200 colour film, the images I took preserve a view of the pier in its pre-fire glory. It still showcased the intricate designs and structural elegance that had made West Pier famous. The elegant silhouette of the pier against the waves is a poignant reminder of its vibrant past.
The Tragic Fires of 2003
Brighton’s West Pier was dealt a fatal blow in 2003 when two separate fires ravaged the remaining structure. The first fire, on March 28, 2003, destroyed much of the concert hall, leaving a charred skeleton in its wake. Just weeks later, on May 11, another fire engulfed the pier, leaving it in ruins. While the exact cause of both fires remains unknown, arson was suspected.
After the fires, restoration efforts became impossible. The pier became a haunting silhouette against the Brighton skyline as its iron framework slowly succumbed to the sea (see Figure 4). These ghostly images contrast with the skeletal remains we see today, emphasising West Pier’s quiet dignity and timeless beauty.
The West Pier and Palace Pier: A Contrast of Eras
While Brighton’s West Pier serves as a haunting reminder of the past, its neighbouring Palace Pier stands out as a vibrant symbol of modern seaside entertainment. Opened in 1899, Palace Pier offers a lively atmosphere with amusement rides, vibrant arcades, and seaside treats that continue to attract visitors today (see Figure 5).
Palace Pier celebrated its centenary in 1999. At that time, the pier exuded nostalgia with vintage amusement rides and charming arcades, capturing the essence of a bygone era (see Figure 6).
However, Palace Pier was officially renamed Brighton Pier in 2000, coinciding with its centenary celebrations. Despite the name change, many still call it Palace Pier out of habit or nostalgia. The pier has undergone various renovations and updates, enhancing its appeal as a modern seaside attraction while preserving its centennial appearance (see Figures 7 & 8).
Brighton’s West Pier Today: A Symbol of Nostalgia
Brighton’s West Pier now stands out as a poignant reminder of the city’s rich history. Although it is no longer the vibrant attraction it once was, its remains continue to draw visitors and photographers worldwide. The skeletal remains of the pier have become an iconic part of Brighton’s seafront. It is a testament to the city’s past and the resilience of its community.
A Lasting Legacy
Despite the devastation caused by the 2003 fires, Brighton’s West Pier remains integral to the city’s identity. The West Pier Trust, a charity dedicated to preserving its memory, honours its legacy through exhibitions and historical projects. The pier may no longer be physically accessible, but its story endures, inspiring generations to appreciate Brighton’s rich heritage.
Conclusion
Brighton’s West Pier may no longer be the bustling landmark it once was, but its legacy endures. My photographs from 2000, taken before the fires, sharply contrast with the current skeletal frame we see today. They symbolise the pier’s enduring influence on Brighton’s heritage, which residents and visitors still cherish. Whether drawn by history, nostalgia, or simply the beauty of the coastline, the West Pier remains an essential part of Brighton’s identity.
Below are more photos I took in Brighton, showcasing other stunning scenes and memories of this vibrant seaside city.
