- Hastings Pier is in East Sussex, England.
- Rebuilt 2016, RIBA Stirling Prize
- Check access, weather and local guidance before travelling.
About Hastings Pier
Hastings Pier is a strikingly modern pier rebuilt in 2016 after years of neglect and fire damage, winning the RIBA Stirling Prize for architecture in 2017. Its minimalist deck and pier head pavilion host concerts, markets and community events.
The story of Hastings Pier
The original pier was opened in 1872, designed by Eugenius Birch and built by the Hastings Pier Company for £23,000. It was a popular Victorian excursion pier with a pavilion and steamer landing, but declined badly in the late 20th century. A devastating fire in October 2010, started by arson, destroyed much of the pier head and pavilion, leaving the structure seemingly doomed. The pier was rescued by the Hastings Pier Charity and rebuilt with a £14 million Heritage Lottery Fund grant to a minimalist design by dRMM Architects, reopening in April 2016. The rebuild won the RIBA Stirling Prize in 2017 — the first pier to do so.
Visiting with care
Open year-round, the pier is free to walk and hosts major concerts in the pier head venue, which has a capacity of 2,200. The rebuilt deck is wide and open, making it ideal for a seafront stroll, and the pier's café and bar have good views over the Channel.
Interesting facts
- The original 1872 pier was designed by Eugenius Birch.
- Devastated by arson fire in October 2010 and nearly lost entirely.
- Rebuilt in 2016 by dRMM Architects with a £14 million Lottery grant.
- Won the RIBA Stirling Prize for architecture in 2017.
Getting there
Parking and access details — check locally for the latest information.