Festive pier display will be new Bay of Lights

For the first time in its history, Paignton Pier will be sparkling with Christmas lights this year.

The aim is to bring holiday cheer to the heart of Paignton from November 23 to January 5.

Inspired by the success of Torquay’s "Bay of Lights" and its positive impact on local businesses, the pier’s directors are to launch a festive display designed to delight both locals and visitors. 

The lights will switch on daily from 4pm offering a winter-long spectacle for everyone to enjoy.

Directors John and Julie Martin will do the honours of turning on the lights at 4pm on November 23.

John and Julie, along with co-directors Shaw and Jolene Wallis, believe this display will help Paignton capture some of the magic seen in Torquay, saying, “As a beloved local landmark, we feel it’s our duty to bring festive cheer to Paignton and encourage other businesses to join us in making this a tradition.”

The directors envision the display growing bigger and better each year and hope it will inspire other businesses in Paignton to embrace the holiday season. 

“By extending the season, we’re creating opportunities to offer more work hours to our team during what is typically a quiet period,” said Jolene Wallis. “And personally, I wanted the children of Paignton to have a bright, Christmassy place to visit after school. Even if families only park along the seafront to gaze at the lights, it’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

The decorations, set in blue and white to reflect the pier’s coastal surroundings, feature lights positioned around the pier’s perimeter, ensuring they can be seen not only from the shore but also from passing boats.

"We chose these colours to complement the sea and the pier’s existing year-round white lights, creating a display that harmonises with the natural beauty of our setting,” said John Martin.

The pier itself is free to visit and fully accessible, including wheelchair-friendly access all around, so everyone can enjoy a stroll to see the lights up close and capture holiday photos in this magical setting.

The public is encouraged to visit the pier and enjoy a festive outing complete with mulled wine, loaded donuts, loaded brownies, and boozy hot chocolates.