SOUTHWOLD PIER: QUIRKY CHARMS AND FREE SMILES
Want to know what to do on a blustery day on Southwold Pier?
Join me to explore some of my favourite things to do on Southwold Pier when the crowds have thinned and a sea breeze is the only sound.
Southwold is definitely a town I like to visit on a chilly winters day, while the usual crowds are curled up on the sofa watching a film and the pier is ours to explore peacefully.
We often visit Southwold as a stop on our way to another destination, and of course, when visiting in the winter, we may find that some businesses are closed, whether for the season or for maintenance. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do!
A GREETING FROM THE SOUTHWOLD PIER ENTRANCE ARCH
I never grow bored of admiring the arch that greets visitors as they cross the threshold onto Southwold Pier. Engineer & Artist, Tim Hunkin was the man behind this interesting piece, creating the sense of letters the words “Southwold Pier” bobbing up and down on waves.
Hunkin had originally planned to wind-power his design, however abandoned this idea following challenges in getting it to work, so instead opted for a solar panel driven motor.
Hunkin’s quirky touch is evident throughout the pier, most notably in his “Under The Pier Show” amusement arcade. While unfortunately closed for maintenance during our visit, you can get a taste of his novelty creations at his sister premises in London. NOVELTY AUTOMATION: More Than Games, It’s a Wondrous Whimsyland
A GEORGE ORWELL TRIBUATE MURAL
As you enter the pier under the Southwold Pier entrance arch, keep a look out to your left (you can’t miss it) for the George Orwell mural. Orwell was the author of “Animal Farm”, a 1945 novel that is still read today.
This masterpiece was created by street artist “Pure Evil” (Charlie Uzzel-Edwards). Orwell lived in Southwold for a period of time, and this mural is a tribute to his connection to the town and his literacy legacy!
Don’t forget to look all the way to the top, the moss often obscures its readability. We enjoyed reading the quotes.
PIDDLE TIME: THE WATER CLOCK
Prepare to be amused! The Water Clock on Southwold Pier, a quirky creation by Tim Hunkin and Will Jackson, is a must-see.
It was constructed out of salvaged copper water cylinders as a temporary water feature to highlight the importance of water recycling, showcasing how water could be reused and recycled in a creative and entertaining way.
The original 1998 clock was scrapped, however the owners of Southwold Pier came across many of its parts and had it reinstated.
Witness the hilarious antics of the figures at their half-hourly performance, including two mischievous figures who squirt water at each other from a bathtub and a pair of boys who attempt to relieve themselves, but miss the mark!
GUARANTEED SMILES: THE WACKY WALK OF MIRRORS
You’re never too old to enjoy the silliness of the Wacky Walk of Mirrors!
Even if you give the mirror the side-eye, you’re sure to catch your reflection in the most hideously distorted way, that even the most serious of individuals cannot resist a smile.
Go on, give it a go….enjoy a FREE SMILE!
SEEK REFUSE IN THE CLOCKHOUSE CAFE
On a particularly blustery day, we sought refuge in the charming Clockhouse Cafe. We enjoyed a cheeky cake and a warm beverage while gazing out at the pier through the condensation-covered windows.
It is a delightful small cafe, which I can imagine gets very busy in the summer months. We momentarily forgot the cold that awaited us outside, as we enjoyed the company of other visitors who had also sought refuge from the blustery conditions too.
SOUTHWOLD PIER’S PERSONAL TOUCHES
Initially, I overlooked the numerous plaques lining the walls and barriers. But as I began to read them, I was captivated by the diverse collection of messages: heartfelt remembrances, celebratory anniversaries, birthday wishes, poems, and more! These personal touches added a unique charm to the pier experience.
Southwold Pier: A Winter Gem
Southwold Pier may not be the longest like Southend Pier (SOUTHEND PIER: Here’s why you need to visit) but it undoubtedly ranks among my favourites. With its unique attractions, from Tim Hunkin’s creations to the amazing George Orwell mural, and the charming Clockhouse Cafe, it offers a delightful and memorable experience. Best of all, it’s completely FREE to explore!
Have you visited Southwold Pier? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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