Peerless piers

Southend-on-Sea, Essex The longest pier in the world, no less: 1.5 miles, complete with a railway that takes you to the end of it. Llandudno, Caernarfonshire A pretty pier with an ornate blue and white balustrade stretches out from the curl of the northern foreshore.

Eastbourne, East Sussex Built by Victorian engineering genius, Eugenius Birch, the pier is a proud complement to the town’s elegant, white seafront.

Blackpool, Lancashire Boasts three piers – Central, North and South – each reaching out from the promenade and devoted to rides, shows and other hedonistic pursuits.