Britannia Pier in Great Yarmouth has been named the National Piers Society's Pier of the Year 2026, with members praising the landmark's seafront architecture and warm welcome.

Co-owner Joseph Abbott said: “We see this award as a huge honour and it fills the whole team with pride.

"We feel this is a huge testament to us as new owners for the work, time and investment we have put in since our takeover in December 2022.

"It’s something we’re very proud of," he added.

Joseph Manning and Joseph Abbott at Britannia Pier in 2022. (Image: James Weeds)

Since buying the pier, the owners have opened a new indoor entertainment centre, trebled the size of the arcade, added new rides at the end-of-pier theme park and installed more traditional lighting along the deck.

A new bar has also opened as part of regeneration work which began in November 2024, as the business aims to offer year‑round entertainment and amenities for the community.

Aerial view of Britannia Pier at night. (Image: Britannia Pier)

National Piers Society Chairman Tim Wardley said: “Huge congratulations to the worthiest of winners who have shown that in challenging economic times investment is still the way forward to success.

"Our members were hugely impressed with the new developments and attractions when they visited last year, which has now been acknowledged with the coveted National Piers Society ‘Pier of the Year’ 2026 award.

Aerial view of New Year's fireworks at Britannia Pier. (Image: Britannia Pier)

"We look forward to returning in the summer to present the award and to see the new attractions in full swing," Mr Wardley added.

The next stage of the project focuses on finishing the remodelling of the downstairs of the pier.

The original Britannia Pier opened in 1858. (Image: Britannia Pier)

Britannia Pier first opened in 1858, with later rebuilding and new pavilions after fires and storm damage.

The current structure dates from works begun in 1900, opening in 1901 with a grand pavilion in 1902.

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