Southport Pier, Promenade
1 sound
Opened in 1860 Southport Pier is the UK’s oldest iron pier and, at 1000 metres, is nearly the longest. It has had a colourful history, even acting as a station for anti-aircraft guns to pick off bombers heading to Liverpool and other ports during World War II. It was originally used as a pleasure pier for promenading Victorian day trippers in their finest dress. Nowadays you can casually walk along taking in the fresh air and views around the coast all the way to Blackpool on clear days. There is a smell of salt and fresh doughnuts being made, an exhibition on Southport's history as well as traditional penny slot machines in the pier pavilion.
Carole Banks can be heard discussing her favourite attractions in the area from her childhood, including an open-air pool and a certain memory which is recalled by the sound of a small plane buzzing overhead. On the recording you will hear sounds from under the pier, some of the little entertainments at piers-end and the sound of the ‘Promenade Express’ Land Train taking passengers on trips up and down.
Recording ref - UAP007/217 D1 (OH-2158) – Carole Banks - ©️ Manchester Libraries, Information and Archives
Image ref - NS9861 - Peter Pan's Playground and Pool, c.1935 - ©️ Sefton Libraries Information Services courtesy of Sefton Looking Back - Image Archive
