Yarmouth seafront businesses hopeful for glorious summer

With only four weeks to go until the summer holiday, businesses are preparing for a busy season- as long as the weather stays on their side.

The Britannia Pier had steady trade on Thursday. (Image: James Weeds) People have been flocking to the renovated fish and chip restaurant at the Britannia Pier, with Pier manager Keegan Snell saying it has been hard to find an empty seat on the weekends.

Britannia Pier manager Keegan Snell. (Image: Denise Bradley) "People like the changes that have been taking place," he said. "And there's more to come. We're really excited for the season to kick off as the weather gets better.

"Truthfully, we'd taken a bit of a hit with all the rain over the past few months. But the sun is now shining, it's mid-week during term time and people are already visiting."

Mr Snell said the pier is also "going big" for the 2024 Euros this year. Flags of St George line the bar inside Long John's Back Pier, which has become the 'fan zone' for England games.

The 'fan zone' inside Long John's Back Pier ahead of the England v Denmark game. (Image: James Weeds) "Anyone in an England shirt gets a free shot during the games and we've got a DJ before, during half time, and after the match," he added. "We want the atmosphere to rival watching the game in Germany."

Mr Snell added that the Pier Tavern will also be showing the games but in a more relaxed setting.

People out and about on Great Yarmouth seafront. (Image: James Weeds) The recently opened cafe, Under the Pier, has expanded since opening in March. Owner Matthew Knapp said the business was lucky not to have suffered too much with the wet weather. 

"This weekend just gone was lovely, lots of people were out and about at the beach," he said. "But then there was a downpour and everyone came inside the cafe to take cover.

"It's been a good start to the year and we hope it continues."

Merrivale co-owner Sophi Parkes. (Image: James Weeds) Upgrades have been made at the Merrivale Model Complex, including new models, more classic machines added inside the penny arcade and new retro arcade, and a new ice cream parlour selling locally-made delights.

Working with Arts University Bournemouth, the Merrivale will soon have a replica of Caister Lifeboat's new Medina class vessel.

Retro arcade machines inside Merrivale's amusements. (Image: James Weeds) Merrivale co-owner Sophi Parkes said: "We're continually trying to upgrade the facilities to make sure there's lots on offer.

"The wet Easter and Whitsun did affect trade, but people are coming now the sun has come out. Let's hope it continues. 

"People will make the most of it. We saw that on the weekend. Being a seaside town, it's a destination for many people - but we really need the weather to stay nice to keep people coming."

The road train on Great Yarmouth seafront. (Image: James Weeds) Weekends have been full at the Nelson Hotel, said general manager Nicola Wiseman. Weekday bookings had stagnated during the wet weather, but now the sun is out, the hotel is taking more reservations. 

"It's quite quiet, especially compared to this time last year," she said. "But during weekends, we've been consistently full. We get a lot of coach trip visitors and we're keen to promote other nearby businesses. 

"I hope the weather continues to pick up and that we all have a great summer. That's what it's all about."

The Nelson Hotel on the Golden Mile. (Image: James Weeds) WHAT DO VISITORS THINK?

Lee Goff, from North Yorkshire, is staying in the town with his partner and daughter. He said while somewhere like Cyprus may guarantee better weather, Yarmouth is better value for money.

"I think it's great here," he said. "This is our fifth time and we always seem to bring the weather. Other than a little rain the day we arrived, it's been lovely. 

Emily, 4, and Jade Goff on Yarmouth beach. (Image: James Weeds) "We've enjoyed the Pleasure Beach, which has been great for the young ones. We've noticed a lot of school trips visiting the beach as well, which is great to see. It's nice to see so many take advantage of it."

Holidaymaker Lee Goff by Joyland. (Image: James Weeds) Neil Millard is staying in Kessingland with his wife, Corinne. They both visited Yarmouth for the day and praised the town for having more options.

"We have enjoyed it, but we do keep away from the noisy arcades," he said. "But the town caters for everybody, so it's been easy to do. We love to walk along the promenade, go on the beach and just enjoy the sunshine.

"We didn't expect it to be that busy at this time of year - especially with the kids still in school - but we've seen high school students on trips to the beach. 

"It reminds me of Australia."

Corinne and Neil Millard enjoying the sunshine in Great Yarmouth. (Image: James Weeds)