Culver Pier, Sandown (Isle of Wight)

Sandown is one of the most popular towns on the Isle of Wight with tourists from all over the world, largely due to its wide variety of attractions, including its iconic pier. The pier was originally built over three years from 1867 to 1870, however it has undergone many dramatic facelifts since then, including a massive extension to the 870ft length it is now, eventually resulting in the popular attraction it is today. It originally had a theatre but, after a massive £2m refurbishment after damage caused by a fire in the late 80s, this is no longer a feature. It does, though, have a mass of other facilities and attractions that have taken its ...  Read the complete review

Since Woolworths packed up shop and deserted town, Sandown really only has one saving grace left - the pier. Its so unfortunate that the town has gone so downhill - as it could be a fantastic spot right by the sea, but with zero investment by the local council and drunkards vommiting in the street every night - It seems a bit far off happening. The Pier hasn't changed a huge amount since I was young, the main difference being that the theatre part has been closed. Yes, Sandown's only venture into culture (apart from the library) is no more. I once saw Norman Wisdom there as well! Thats culture for you! The Pier now boasts a myriad of ways to lose ...  Read the complete review

Sandown Pier - Sandown Esplanade Isle of Wight Sandown Pier..... Fun for all the family! Well that is what it says on big letters on the outside of the pier. So is this statement true? Well let's see... The building of Sandown Pier started in 1876 but it took a good many years before the grand opening to the public which was in 1887. This was a long time considering the pier itself is relatively short going out only 360foot or 109 meters. Not long after the opening plans were put forward to extend the pier out further making the total length of the pier a more impressive 875 foot or 265 meters. This extension was completed in 1895 ...  Read the complete review

We visited Culver Pier after it advertised great things in our tourist guide. At first you walk into a very well looked after amusement arcade with every type of bandit and video game you could ever want! There is also a bar situated in there which we didn't go into due to have our toddler with us and an indoor childrens soft play area. We were going to take our son into the play area but it is up quite a few stairs and you have to leave your pushchair at the bottom which we weren't too happy about so decided not to bother. I'm sure it wouldn't of got stolen but didn't like the risk. There is an indoor crazy golf which looked good for ...  Read the complete review