Annual Southend-on-Sea Pier Barge Match returns this Bank Holiday weekend

August 20, 2017 by SBC

Monday 21 August 2017

The popular annual Southend-on-sea Pier Barge match will once again returns this Bank Holiday weekend.

The 54th Annual Southend-on-Sea Pier Barge Match will take place on Sunday 27 August and see barges race in up to three separate classes, in a course that spans the Thames Estuary from West Leigh to South Shoebury, and ending at the Pier head.

The pier will be offering the best views and running commentary during the match. The race starts at 10am so be sure to catch the pier train at 9:30am.

In addition to the excitement of the Barge Match a 3-day Thames barge themed exhibition will also be held in the Royal Pavilion from Saturday August 26 to Monday August 28, from 10am to 6pm each day.

Cllr Ann Holland, Executive Councillor for Culture, Tourism and the Economy said: “Sailing barges were an important part of the early days of Southend-on-Sea, being able to transport goods swiftly across long distances.

“It is always a delight to see them return for the Annual Barge Match and to see the Estuary so full of activity and character.”

This is a free event but Pier admissions apply.