Brighton Palace Pier is currently on the market for sale, with the current owner aiming to secure a buyer by the summer. Knight Frank has been selected by Brighton Pier Group to oversee the sale of the historic pier, which has been in operation for 127 years since its opening in May 1899. Brighton Pier Group, known for managing various leisure facilities and mini-golf venues, has decided to sell the renowned 1,722ft long pier due to declining visitor numbers and increasing operational costs.
In 2024, the company experienced a decrease in earnings to £300,000 from £1.7 million the previous year, as comparable sales dropped by 4%. To counter the decline in visitors, the company implemented a £1 entry fee for non-residents in 2024, which was later raised to £2 in March the following year.
Anne Ackord, the CEO of The Brighton Pier Group, mentioned that Brighton Palace Pier remains a profitable standalone business with significant potential for growth. She emphasized that the sale presents an opportunity for prospective buyers to be part of the pier’s next chapter and contribute to shaping the future of this iconic landmark.
According to reports by the BBC, Ms. Ackord indicated that any potential buyer should aim to finalize the purchase by the summer. Although the selling price has not been disclosed, interested parties are expected to invest “many millions” to acquire the property. The pier features two arcades, 19 amusement rides, a restaurant, bars, kiosks, event spaces, and a children’s play area, making it a comprehensive entertainment destination.
Following lackluster trading in 2025, the Brighton Pier Group announced in November its intention to sell the pier. Additionally, the company is seeking buyers for its Lightwater Valley theme park in North Yorkshire for £3 million. Ms. Ackord cautioned in March about the importance of not taking tourism for granted in Brighton, stressing the need for collective action to ensure a prosperous future for the city.
She highlighted the challenging financial situation faced by the pier in recent years, with costs escalating by approximately 50%. The company anticipates interest from both domestic and international buyers for the iconic Brighton Palace Pier.