Did you know...?
The new Pier was officially opened 125 years ago today.
When George Burt started a steamer service between Swanage, Poole and Bournemouth in 1874, the ‘old’ Pier was being used for day-trippers as well as stone cargo, it soon became clear that the Pier was unable to cope with the ever increasing traffic and it was decided a new and longer Pier was needed.
The first pile of the new Pier was driven on 30th November 1895 and was officially opened on 29th March 1897, however the first steamer, the P.S. Lord Elgin, landed people on May 1st 1896. The Pier was an immediate success. 10,000 visitors arrived by steamer in the first season.
To celebrate this anniversary, we will be raffling a limited addition plaque on the Pier and a fabulous original painting by the acclaimed local artist Rebecca Lardner.
We are delighted that Rebecca has agreed to undertake this commission which she is currently working on. The piece will include the Pier as the main feature and elements of Swanage.
All proceeds will go towards supporting the work of Swanage Pier Trust and you can purchase your tickets at the gatehouse, the Pier gift shop or ONLINE
Tickets: £1 each
Draw will take place at Midnight on Sunday 5th June 2022
We are also putting together an exhibition of photos of the Pier through the years, which will be held in May. If you have any photos of the Pier and the story behind them, please email - activities@swanagepiertrust.com
For full details on all our events and to follow Rebecca’s progress on the painting, visit our website or follow us on social media.