Central Pier Blackpool, Blackpool

The Central Pier of Blackpool is on the promenade between the North and South Piers, about 550 yards south of Blackpool Tower. It is easily located by a 33-meter-high Ferris wheel, carrying daring riders high over the Irish Sea. The coastline here is almost straight, so the pier is at right angles to the beach, reaching far into the surf.

The North Pier had been so successful it inspired the construction of the Central Pier in 1868 and the South Pier in 1893. The Central Pier was built by Glasgow's Laidlaw and Son, the firm that built the North Pier. The project was designed by architect John Isaac Mawson.

If the North Pier's emphasis was relaxing entertainment for the elite, the Central Pier focused on more rambunctious fun. Dance halls were the main facility at the time of its opening. In the 20th century, roller skating, fairground rides, and amusement machines were introduced. Steamboats used the landing jetty at the end of the pier. Dance halls became less popular after 1945. A theatre, bars, and arcades took their place on the pier.

The Central Pier is made of cast iron and wooden decking. Screw pilings are used for stability as with the North Pier. The great Ferris wheel was constructed in 1990. Current attractions include Pirate's Bay Family Bar, Blackpool Big Wheel, Peter Segewick's Funfair, Central Pier Family Entertainment Centre, and the Old Time Portrait Studio.