Ha'penny Pier

Home to the Harwich Society


Ha’Penny Pier is one of the UK’s only surviving wooden, working piers, attracting thousands of visitors to Harwich each year.

The Victorian pier once served as a departure point for paddle steamers and played a part in both world wars. These days it’s a popular spot for crabbers, day trippers and fishermen, and it’s home to the Harwich Society who manage the Harwich information centre.

Constructed in 1853 Ha’penny Pier is Harwich’s most iconic landmark and remains one the UK’s only surviving working, wooden piers. The name of the pier originates from the 1/2d (half an old penny) toll that was charged for entry to visitors using the regular paddle steamer services.

Today, this charming and typically 19th century pier attracts thousands of visitors each year and provides the perfect vantage point to view the comings and goings of both large and small vessels using the Haven. It’s the perfect spot to while away an hour with friends or family over a coffee and homemade cake from the Café on the Pier. It’s also home to the regular ferry service and visitor centre, which is open daily from 1 May to 30 September.

This unique and much loved pier is owned and maintained by Harwich Haven Authority who continue to invest in its preservation to ensure future generations can also enjoy this unique – and historically important  – landmark.

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