N Parade, Southwold IP18 6BN
Southwold Pier in Southwold, a quintessential English seaside town on the Suffolk coast, is home to a unique amusement center called Under The Pier Show. For tourists looking for an offbeat, quirky experience, a visit to this hidden gem is a must.
Under The Pier Show is the brainchild of inventor and artist Tim Hunkin, who has been creating kinetic sculptures for over 40 years. Hunkin’s wacky creations are a fusion of art and engineering, with a dash of humor and satire. The machines are interactive and have a distinct vintage charm, which adds to their appeal.
As you enter the amusement center, you are greeted by an array of machines, each with a whimsical name like ‘Whack-a-Banker’, ‘Test Your Nerve’, ‘Pet or Meat’ and ‘The Frisker’. The machines are all hand-crafted and operate using a combination of gears, pulleys, and motors. Visitors are invited to put coins into the machines and operate them, triggering a series of chain reactions that result in a comical outcome.
One of the most popular machines is ‘The Chiropodist’, which simulates a foot massage with hilarious results. Visitors place their feet into a pair of oversized shoes, and the machine begins to tickle and vibrate their feet, much to the delight of onlookers. Another machine, ‘The Autofrisk’, pokes fun at airport security checks by scanning visitors with a metal detector and then proceeding to frisk them with exaggerated movements.
Apart from the machines, Under The Pier Show also has a small gift shop that sells souvenirs and merchandise related to the machines. The gift shop also has a collection of vintage postcards, which add to the old-world charm of the amusement center.
The charm of Under The Pier Show lies in its simplicity and quirkiness. It is a refreshing break from the usual bright lights and loud noises of modern-day amusement centers. The machines are not just a spectacle but are also a commentary on contemporary issues, making them thought-provoking as well as entertaining.
The amusement center is suitable for all ages, although younger children may need some help from adults to operate the machines. Visitors should be prepared to spend at least an hour at the center to fully appreciate the machines and their intricate workings.
In conclusion, Under The Pier Show at Southwold Pier is a must-visit for tourists looking for a unique and quirky experience. It offers a delightful blend of art, engineering, and humor, and is a welcome departure from the usual tourist attractions. A visit to Under The Pier Show is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of simple pleasures.
| Monday | 10 am–7 pm |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10 am–7 pm |
| Wednesday | 10 am–7 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–7 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–7 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–7 pm |
| Sunday | 10 am–7 pm |
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