Some links on this site are affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
Brighton Palace Pier is one of the best known seaside piers in the UK, and entry to the pier itself is free, though rides, arcades and some attractions are paid. If you are planning a visit, the main things to check are the current opening times, how you want to pay for rides, and whether you are visiting at a busy weekend or a quieter weekday. Always check the official website for up to date information, because details change by season.
This guide covers the main questions visitors ask, including whether the pier is free, how rides are priced, what time it opens and closes and whether it suits toddlers and younger children. It is part of our Brighton and Sussex coverage and is useful if you are building a weekend away or day out.
Is Brighton Palace Pier free to enter?
In general, walking onto the pier is free, and you can stroll along the boards, look at the sea and soak up the atmosphere without paying. You then pay for individual rides, games and some attractions. Because policies can change, check the official site before your visit. Walking the pier at sunset is a popular and inexpensive activity.
How much do the rides cost?
Ride prices vary and are subject to change, so we do not quote specific figures. In general you can pay per ride or buy a wristband or credit for several rides, and which option is better value depends on how many rides you plan to do. If you have a group of children who want to go on many attractions, an all day wristband may be cheaper than paying individually, while a single ride or two is best bought one at a time. Check the official pricing and any age, height or weight restrictions before you go.
What time does the pier open and close?
Opening hours differ depending on the season, the day of the week and the weather, and certain rides may close earlier than the pier itself or close in bad weather. Rather than relying on an old figure, check the official opening times on the day you travel. In summer the pier is usually open late into the evening, while winter hours tend to be shorter. Wet or windy weather can lead to temporary ride closures.
Is the pier suitable for toddlers?
Many families bring toddlers and younger children, as there are gentle rides, carousel style attractions and amusements aimed at smaller children, as well as plenty to look at. The boards have gaps, so keep a close eye on little ones, and consider a sling or buggy, as the crowds can be thick on summer weekends. Noise levels in the arcades can be high, which some young children dislike. Check each ride for height and age restrictions.
Food and drink on the pier
You will find the traditional seaside menu, including fish and chips, doughnuts, ice cream, rock and hot drinks, along with some places to sit down. Prices on tourist attractions are often higher than in the town, so if you are on a budget, eat in the Lanes or along the seafront and just pay for rides. Gulls are bold, so keep an eye on your food.
Getting to the pier and where to park
The pier is on the seafront at the bottom of the town, a short walk from Brighton station, so the train is the easiest way for most visitors. Parking in central Brighton can be expensive and busy, so consider using a park and ride or arriving by train. If you are travelling from London or Gatwick, services run frequently, and our holidays from Gatwick guide covers airport transport.
What else is nearby?
The seafront is full of things to do. You can visit the i360 viewing tower, walk along the promenade to Hove, explore the narrow Lanes and North Laine for independent shops and cafes, or visit the Royal Pavilion. For a longer stay, our UK coastal holidays page compares Brighton with other seaside destinations. For more local tips, visit What To Do In Brighton.
Tips for a good visit
- Visit on a weekday or early morning to avoid the biggest crowds
- Wrap up, as the sea breeze can be cool even on a sunny day
- Set a budget for rides before you go, especially with children
- Check the weather, as rides can close in high winds
- Keep valuables secure in busy areas
How long do you need on the pier?
Most visitors spend between one and three hours on the pier, depending on how many rides and games they try and whether they stop for food. If you are mainly there for the atmosphere, a walk to the end and back with an ice cream might take an hour. Families with several children who want to try many attractions can easily spend half a day. Build in time to enjoy the beach next to the pier, because the seafront setting is a big part of the appeal.
Is Brighton Palace Pier good value?
Walking on the pier is free, so you can set your own spending level. The best value approach is to decide in advance which attractions matter most, compare the cost of individual rides against any wristband or credit option, and avoid buying more than you need. Compare the pier with other seafront activities, such as paddling in the sea, walking to Hove or visiting the Royal Pavilion, which can offer good value for money.
Accessibility and practical advice
The pier boards are mostly flat, but there are gaps and uneven areas, and crowds can make it harder to move around. Check the official accessibility information if you use a wheelchair or mobility aid, as some rides may have restrictions. Facilities such as toilets and refreshment points are usually available, but confirm details before you visit. Take layers, as the seafront can be breezy.
Planning a wet weather day on the seafront
British seaside weather can change quickly, so it helps to have a back up plan. If the rain sets in, the pier arcades and covered attractions offer shelter, and nearby cafes, museums and shops in the Lanes can fill a few hours. The Royal Pavilion and local galleries are good indoor options, and a hot chocolate on a rainy day is part of the seaside experience. Check the forecast, pack a waterproof and consider whether a different day might be better, especially if you are travelling a long way. Our day trips from Brighton page includes ideas for alternative days out.
If you are staying overnight, our cheap holidays guide explains how to compare accommodation prices and look for deals outside peak weekends.
Making a day of it on the seafront
The pier is only one part of a Brighton seafront day. Many visitors combine it with a walk along the promenade, time on the beach and a visit to nearby attractions. If the weather is warm, expect the seafront to be busy at weekends and in school holidays, so arrive earlier in the day if you prefer a quieter visit.
Seagulls are a well-known feature of the seafront, so keep an eye on food as you eat outdoors. Beach shoes can be helpful because the beach is made of pebbles.
Where to stay and how to get there
If you are staying overnight, the central seafront area is convenient but can be noisy, while quieter parts of Brighton and Hove offer better value and a calmer atmosphere. Our best hotels in Brighton and Hove guide compares areas. Trains from London and Gatwick are frequent, and our Gatwick train comparison explains the options.
More Brighton ideas
If you are planning a longer stay, our Brighton and Sussex breaks guide, weekend breaks page and day trips page offer more to do. Check official sources for current ride prices, opening hours and any seasonal changes before you go.
Planning a visit with children
A seaside pier is a classic family outing, but a little preparation keeps it enjoyable. Agree a meeting point in case anyone gets separated, keep younger children close in crowded areas, and set a spending limit for rides and games before you arrive. Check the official pier website for current opening times, ride availability, ticketing and any height or age restrictions, because these can change by season and by day.
Making the most of the seafront
- Arrive earlier in the day for shorter queues and an easier journey.
- Combine the pier with a walk along the promenade and a stop on the beach.
- Bring a light waterproof, as sea breezes can feel cool even in summer.
- Keep valuables secure, particularly in busy crowds.
Turning it into a longer stay
The pier works well as one highlight of a wider Brighton weekend. Our weekend breaks from Brighton page offers ideas for nearby escapes, and the Sussex breaks guide helps you plan a longer trip. Some links on this site may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.
Getting there without the stress
Parking in central Brighton can be limited and expensive, so many visitors prefer the train and a short walk from the station. Check the official rail and local council pages for current services, charges and any seafront restrictions before you set off.
Brighton Palace Pier FAQs
Is the pier open all year? The pier is generally open year round, but hours and ride availability vary by season.
Can I take a dog on the pier? Policies vary, so check the official guidance before you go.
Is there an entry charge for parking? There is no parking on the pier itself, and nearby car parks charge fees.
Can I pay by card? Many attractions accept cards, but it is sensible to check.
Is Brighton good for a weekend break? Yes, and our weekend breaks guide explains how to plan one.