We visited Herne Bay Pier for the first time on a very hot Saturday. The pier is shorter than originally as part was destroyed in 1978. However the shortened version makes up for lack of length. It is the most packed pier I have seen. Little shops line the east side and other attractions such as a carousel, food places etc. Crab fishing was also taking place at the end. All in all a very impressive use of the pier.
One word of warning. We found that parking in the pier area was at a premium so try to consider your options before you arrive and have a back up if the car park is full.

We arrived in Herne Bay, never having visited before, and thought we'd go straight to the seafront to get a drink and something to eat.
Walking onto the pier, it was so lovely to see the individual cabins with retailers selling crafts and to find the perfect location to get a drink and something to eat. There was such a range to choose from. We decided to get something from the Caribbean stall - which we had never eaten before, as well as a traditional cup of tea and scone. We could have stayed much longer and sampled pizza, Thai, or even a glass of beer. Definitely something for everyone, and even though it was raining, that didn't matter as there was seating undercover. This is the place to go to when you arrive and want to enjoy the sea !

We live in Herne Bay, we took the grandchildren to the pier, they loved it, BUT, the rides have become too pricey for what they are. We always get £20 of tokens which gave the kids a great time, now they get a couple of rides and that’s it. The operator has become greedy which will eventually bite them on the backside. The food and drinks are reasonably priced and reflect the demand.