Brighton Palace Pier is now on the market for sale, with the current owner aiming to secure a buyer before summer. The management of the historic 127-year-old pier has entrusted Knight Frank with the task of handling the sale. Originally inaugurated in May 1899, the Grade II listed pier was acquired by Brighton Pier Group in 2016 for a sum of £18 million.
The decision to sell the iconic 1,722-foot-long pier was made by Brighton Pier Group, which also oversees multiple leisure facilities and mini-golf venues. The company cited declining visitor numbers and escalating expenses as the primary reasons for the sale. In 2024, the earnings dwindled to £300,000, a stark decrease from £1.7 million in the preceding year, with a 4% decline in like-for-like sales. To counter the drop in visitors, the company introduced a £1 entry fee for non-residents in 2024, later increased to £2 in March of the following year.
Approximately four million individuals visit Brighton Pier annually. Anne Ackord, the CEO of The Brighton Pier Group, emphasized the profitable nature of Brighton Palace Pier and its substantial potential for further growth. She emphasized that the sale represents not just a transfer of ownership but an opportunity to contribute to the pier’s ongoing legacy.
According to reports from the BBC, Ms. Ackord indicated that any potential buyer should ideally complete the purchase by summer. While the exact selling price has not been disclosed, interested parties are expected to offer “many millions.” The pier boasts two arcades, 19 amusement rides, a restaurant, two bars, kiosks, event spaces, and a children’s play area. The company anticipates interest from both domestic and international buyers.
In November, Brighton Pier Group announced its contemplation of selling the pier following subdued trading in 2025. Furthermore, the firm is seeking buyers for its Lightwater Valley theme park in North Yorkshire at a price of £3 million. Ms. Ackord cautioned in March about the importance of not taking tourism in Brighton for granted. She highlighted the challenging trading environment due to a significant rise in costs over the past few years, compounded by the introduction of the £2 entry fee.
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