An exhibition by photographer Simon Roberts invites the public to share stories of their adventures and holidays on our pleasure piers
Southend-on-Sea. Photo: Simon Roberts
Combining the romantic notion of a holiday by the sea with the engineering advancements of the Industrial Revolution, Britain’s pleasure piers represent so much of our unique coastal history. Whether they offer a simple walk out onto the ocean - the magical experience of being at sea, without being on a boat - or an array of colourful entertainment, from helter-skelters and slot machines to candyfloss and fortune tellers, they have become an integral part of a traditional British holiday.
Most people have a pier story to share: perhaps this is where you kissed your husband for the first time, met your best friend or spent happy family holidays? Whatever it is, Brighton Museum would like to know. Until February 21st they will be hosting Pierdom: an exhibition of photographs of our piers. Brighton-based, internationally renowned photographer Simon Roberts spent three years travelling the country capturing the beauty of these extraordinary structures. Following in the footsteps of Victorian photographer Francis Frith, he used a plate camera similar to the one that Frith would have used when he documented many of the same piers years ago.
In 1900 there were over 100 piers dotted around our coastline. Now only half of these remain, and we are left with the challenge as to how we might preserve these iconic landmarks.
The exhibition runs until the 21st February 2016 and is free with Brighton Museum admission of £5 per adult and £2.80 per child.
For more Editor's blog posts click here. If you are interested in coastal photography take a look at these amazing wildlife images from around the UK. Alternatively, read how to improve your photography skills here.
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