Brighton Palace Pier is now on the market as the current owner aims to secure a buyer before summer arrives. Knight Frank has been selected by Brighton Pier Group to oversee the sale of the historic 127-year-old pier, which was acquired for £18 million in 2016.
The decision to sell the renowned 1,722ft long pier comes as Brighton Pier Group, known for managing various leisure sites and mini-golf venues, grapples with declining visitor numbers and escalating expenses. Earnings dropped to £300,000 in 2024 from £1.7 million the previous year, with sales decreasing by 4%. The introduction of a £1 entry fee for non-residents in 2024, later increased to £2 in March of the following year, helped offset the decline in visitor numbers.
Approximately four million individuals visit Brighton Pier annually. Anne Ackord, the CEO of The Brighton Pier Group, emphasized that the pier is a profitable business with substantial potential for further growth. She expressed that the sale represents an opportunity to participate in shaping the next phase of this iconic establishment’s legacy.
The BBC reported that Ms. Ackord mentioned any potential buyer should aim to finalize the purchase by summer, although the exact sale price has not been disclosed. The pier boasts two arcades, 19 amusement rides, a restaurant, two bars, kiosks, event spaces, and a children’s play area, making it an attractive investment opportunity expected to draw interest from both domestic and international buyers.
In response to lackluster trading in 2025, Brighton Pier Group indicated its intent to explore a sale of the pier. Additionally, the company is seeking buyers for its Lightwater Valley theme park in North Yorkshire, listed at £3 million. Ms. Ackord cautioned in March about the importance of not taking tourism for granted in Brighton, highlighting the need for collective action to ensure a prosperous future.
She noted the challenging trading conditions over recent years, citing a 50% overall increase in costs and the impact of the £2 entry fee.