Opened in February 1895 as a simple jetty and promenade, Penarth Pier - 197 metres long - was built for paddle steamers across the Bristol Channel which brought visitors to the seaside resort town. In 1907 the wooden pavilion was added. The pier has been owner by the local council. Regular ferry services ended in 1981, but MV Balmoral and PS Waverley, operated by the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society still use the pier.