Bosses at Clacton Pier have warmly welcomed top praise for the attraction from a global travel publication.
Travel and Tour World highlighted the pier and its role in redefining the UK’s seaside tourism.
The publication highly commended it for the way it is modernising traditional seaside experiences.
Harry Peek, general manager at Clacton Pier, said it was an honour and testament to the ongoing hard work of its owners to be put in the international spotlight.
“In so many ways it justifies all the time, effort and money that Billy and Elliot Ball have put in over the past 17 years of their ownership to get our 155-year-old attraction truly on the global map,” he explained.
“We have received many accolades in recent times, including being placed in the top 20 amusement parks in Europe by TripAdvisor, and that is extremely important to us.
“This latest accolade from Travel and Tour World is extremely welcome and has come at the perfect time as we head into the main season. It is a major world travel publication with a readership of more than 15 million.
“It makes us very proud that we are seen as evolving to attract newer generations of tourists and is genuine recognition for what the whole team is achieving.”
Travel and Tour World noted the investment in attractions that have taken place at Clacton Pier, family experiences and entertainment which have helped to revitalize the Essex Coast as well as the way it has strengthened its all year round appeal.
It stated Clacton Pier “combines nostalgic seaside charm with contemporary leisure options, placing it alongside major national destinations like Brighton.”
Mr Peek added that the aim since the Balls took over was to create a sustainable all-year-round attraction, one that is traditionally British seaside but with a modern twist.
“Travel and Tour World seems to have picked up on just those very features which are so crucial to us and that is really pleasing,” he said.
“It is encouraging the publication validates the direction we are going and it is good to hear that from an outside source which is so prominent in the travel industry.
“It also noted a rising tourism interest in Clacton and that can only be good for us, the whole town and district.”
The pier was also highlighted for offering a unique hospitality experience and enhancing overall visitor experience.
Clacton Pier is open 364 days a year with a wide range of indoor and outdoor attractions. Rides are currently open at weekends and school holidays and then every day from June 29 to September 2.
