The Grand Pier set to increase admission charge from £1 to £2 due to rising costs

The Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare welcomes over 600,000 visitors each year, but maintaining such an iconic structure with a team of 150 staff comes at a substantial expense.

In response to rising costs, the Pier has made the tough decision to raise its admission charge from £1 to £2 for non-residents whilst remaining free for local customers, starting in April 2025. This increase will help fund the ongoing essential upkeep of the historic structure.

As a privately-owned business with no access to grants, The Grand Pier is committed to keeping its heritage building in top condition. The £1 admission fee, introduced back in 2011/2012, has been crucial in covering required maintenance costs, including regular structural checks and necessary upgrades. This fee has remained unchanged through challenging times such as the Coronavirus outbreak and the cost-of-living crisis. However, with rising inflation and the growing costs of preserving a Grade II listed building, this price increase is required to ensure the Pier remains a key part of Weston-super-Mare’s tourism offering.

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, but there is good news for local residents. Thanks to the My Grand Pier Card, locals will continue to enjoy free entry to the Pier. 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 Moyle.

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 5 April 2025, 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.