The History of Cleethorpes Pier

Over 150 years of heritage and charm, Cleethorpes’ Pier remains one of the area’s favourite landmarks

Perched proudly on the Lincolnshire coastline, Cleethorpes Pier has been a steadfast icon of Victorian elegance for 150 years. Originally opened on 4th August 1873, this Grade II-listed gem was designed by London architects and constructed by Head Wrightson. At its debut, it stretched an impressive 1,200 feet, inviting locals and tourists alike to enjoy the thrill of stepping above the waves.

Throughout its storied past, the pier has faced trials and transformations. A devastating fire in 1903 destroyed its original concert hall, but resilience prevailed, with a new pavilion built closer to shore. During World War II, a strategic breach reduced its length to one-third of its original size—a bittersweet alteration, as salvaged timber went on to create Leicester City Football Club’s Filbert Street stand.

In more recent history, Cleethorpes Pier has reinvented itself as a hub for entertainment and dining. From hosting Northern Soul favourites in the 1970s to modernising as a restaurant and tea room, it’s now home to Papa’s Fish & Chips, reputedly the world’s largest fish and chip restaurant. This culinary destination attracts over two million visitors annually, its menu showcasing the finest Lincolnshire produce.

A stroll along the pier today feels timeless. Its history, marked by reinvention and community spirit, is woven into Cleethorpes’ identity. Whether for panoramic views, fish and chips, or sheer nostalgia, Cleethorpes Pier remains a shining beacon on the Lincolnshire coast.

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