Withernsea Beach Photo

Withernsea Pier

Model pier on the seafront at Withernsea, put in place (in 2006?) to show the purpose of the rather eccentric gateway to the beach nicknamed 'The Sandcastle'. Information boards on the top of the model pier give some information on its history. Built between 1875 and 1877, Withernsea's ill-fated pier was plagued by accidents even before completion. It eventually opened in 1878 with ornate iron girders stretching 1,196 feet across the beach and out to sea. It suffered much damage in the Great Storm of 1880 and was hit by many ships before being dramatically demolished by the Grimsby bound Henry Parr in 1893. The remaining 50ft. pier was removed in 1903 during the reconstruction of the sea wall, but its unique gateway still stands. The gateway was apparently modelled on part of Conwy Castle in North Wales.

© Paul Glazzard and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence