IMAGES TAKEN NEAR TO
Undercliff Road West, FELIXSTOWE, IP11 2AB

Inside the brightly-lit arcade, where there were far more machines than punters.

Once this pier was the longest in East Anglia. It was one of a trio built by the Coast Development Company who operated the 'Belle' Steamer fleet based at London Bridge. The 'Belle' steamers originally called at Margate, Southend, Clacton and Walton-on-the Naze and by building the three new piers at Felixstowe, Southwold and Lowestoft the company hoped to have plenty of 'stopping off' options en route to Great Yarmouth. Felixstowe Pier was the last of the trio to be built, opening in the August 1905. It was designed primarily to facilitate the berthing of steamers, its design being relatively simple. It was constructed of timber, was 2,640ft (800m) long and was little more than a promenade deck with railings. A large pavilion was also constructed at the shoreward end. In years past a 3.5ft (1.06m) gauge electric tramway ran along its entire length carrying passengers and baggage for the princely sum of one penny. When it was forced into liquidation in 1922, the Coast Development Company sold it to East Coast Piers Ltd. Like most piers on the east coast it was sectioned during the Second World War for fear of German invaders, a situation that it would never really recover from. The tramway had been suspended during the war and the now isolated seaward end, that had remained neglected throughout the conflict, was demolished reducing its length to 450ft (136m). Even today most of its seaward portion is closed to the public.

At one time Felixstowe pier was the longest in East Anglia, but was partially demolished during the 2nd World War due to fears of invasion, and was never fully restored. See also Image] for a clearer view beyond the gate.

This is a brand new facility. Proposals to repair and renovate the pier go back many years but in 2012 approval was given to demolish and replace the main building. The new one finally opened in October 2017 - so, at the time of this photograph, it had yet to experience a summer season. The building houses the inevitable amusement arcade and this café bar with its stylish outdoor tables.

The white building at the landward end of the pier houses an amusement arcade.

The remains of Felixstowe pier from the Martello Tower Q earthworks.

Looking out to sea below Felixstowe Pier.

This arcade is the only construction on the pier, most of which is now inaccessible.

Looking along the beach from the pier with the tide out.