Often referred to as the first true ’pleasure pier’ this is one of the earliest pier structures to be erected using iron. Using Brunlees pile ’jetting’ system, construction of the pier was swift. The second longest pier in the country, at 3,650ft (1,112m) in length, was completed in 1860. Plagued by disasters consisting of fire, gales, rough seas and debts the pier is now owned and maintained by the ‘Southport Pier Trust’ enabling it to be viewed and enjoyed by foot or on tram.