Brighton Palace Pier Put Up for Sale Amid Challenging Trading Environment
Brighton's Palace Pier, a Grade II-listed structure opened in 1899 and spanning 540 metres, is being put up for sale by Brighton Pier Group (BPG). The 126-year-old pier attracts more than 4 million visitors annually but has faced a difficult trading environment in recent years.
BPG, which acquired the pier for £18 million in 2016, reported a 4% decline in like-for-like sales in 2024, with profits falling sharply from £1.7 million to £0.3 million year-on-year. Costs have risen by about 50% in recent years. To partially offset these declines, an admission fee for non-residents was increased from £1 to £2 in March 2024.
The group's net book value for the pier, landing stage, and deck dropped to £13.7 million in 2024 from £17.3 million the previous year. BPG had indicated in November 2025 that it was exploring opportunities to sell the pier and some or all of its remaining assets due to the extremely challenging trading environment.
Knight Frank is handling the sale process, with BPG aiming to complete the sale by summer 2026 and anticipating interest from both UK and international buyers. No guide price has been disclosed. The sale aligns with BPG's strategy to divest leisure assets and return capital to shareholders. Additionally, BPG is marketing Lightwater Valley, its theme park in North Yorkshire, for £3 million.
