After several years of painstakingly slow construction, Clevedon Pier was finally opened in 1869 to a huge fanfare from locals who had been longing for a pier for quite some time. Cut to the present day, and the pier is still one of Clevedon’s most cherished landmarks. Every year, thousands of visitors from near and far flock to the coastal town to catch some of the best sunsets in the West Country from the viewpoint of this beloved pier.
There’s tons of stuff to do here. In fact, the pier is a focal point for loads of different things to do in Clevedon including creative workshops, enthralling art exhibitions, and intimate live music concerts. You can also enjoy a spot of fishing at the end of the pier or grab an ice cream from their wonderful Victorian Pagoda cafe while taking in the stunning views of Somerset’s shoreline. You can get the train to Yatton station and then a taxi if you’re traveling from Bristol – there’s no direct route on public transport but as one of the area’s most beautiful spots, it’s well worth making the journey.
Facts, curiosities, and interesting things about Clevedon Pier
1. It’s “the most beautiful pier in England”
Legendary poet Sir John Betjeman once described Clevedon Pier this way and it’s no surprise why. This is the only Grade I listed pier you can actually visit in the country and has won multiple awards for its architecture, facilities and overall beauty. With all this in mind, it’s really no wonder why One Direction chose the pier as the setting for their “You & I” music video back in 2014.
2. The pier offers breathtaking views
Ask any of the locals where to get some of the best views of Clevedon and its surrounding areas and they’ll point you in the direction of this magnificent pier. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Severn Estuary, the islands of Flat Holm and Steep Holm all from the comfort of this 19th-century pier.
3. There’s a gorgeous Victorian pagoda
Time for a coffee and a bite to eat? Make sure to head to the beautiful Victorian Pagoda at the end of the pier. This lovely little coffee shop sells hot cups of tea and coffee as well as yummy cakes and biscuits, perfect for a quick refuel before heading back to the shoreline.
Candlelight at Clevedon Pier
No stranger to hosting magical events throughout the year, Clevedon Pier previously welcomed a stunning series of Candlelight concerts. Perhaps a little more relaxing than a 1D concert, these enchanting candlelit experiences paid homage to musical legends. Candlelight continues to honour music icons such as Whitney Houston, Coldplay and Pink Floyd with breathtaking live music and the spellbinding flicker of candlelight.
Things to do at Clevedon Pier
Clevedon Pier has to be one of the most relaxing spots in Somerset but it’s always buzzing with events to enjoy. During the summer, you can enjoy fizz & chips evenings on Fridays – a glass of fizz and some delicious fish and chips to be eaten on the pier. There’s even a vegan option available. You can also see live standup comedy and from time to time there are art exhibitions to explore at this lovely spot.
Somerset is without question one of the most beautiful parts of the country, boasting outstanding beaches and breathtaking views. Nestled just below Gloucestershire, this part of the country is easy to get to from Bristol which makes it the perfect spot for a Candlelight concert. Bristolians can also enjoy Candlelight concerts at other iconic spots like Bristol Cathedral and Wells Cathedral too, made even more magical by the glow of hundreds of tiny candles and performances by incredible musicians.