Pavilion Theatre

The 292.6m (960ft) long pier was completed in 1862. Its head was widened in 1889 to accommodate a ‘recreational’ pavilion. The Concert Pavilion, at the root end of the pier, was built in 1926, following the purchase (in 1920) of the pier company by Worthing Corporation. The pier and its buildings have suffered some damage and rebuilding over the years. Today, the Pierhead Pavilion (rebuilt 1935, now flat floored venue/cafe) and the Concert Pavilion are listed with the pier itself and with the Lido, a close neighbour, also by Adshead & Ramsey.

The single-storey (Concert) Pavilion, constructed half on the shore and half on the pier, is in continental Kursaal style, stucco-faced with curved, metal-clad roofs with oculus dormers. It comprises a central polygonal block with a long, low crowning lantern; pavilions of varied shapes on each side. The oval, domed entrance block has engaged columns with vases above the entablature. Neo-Gothic interior. The auditorium is oval shaped with a semi-circular proscenium on the long side. Neo- Adam style decoration to proscenium arch, gold leaf decoration to edges of huge coved plain ceiling. Burr panelling to side walls. Flat floored, limited stage and dressing rooms. Denton Lounge with panelling and coffered ceiling to side now café and restaurant.

It was home to the municipal orchestra. The pier was closed during the war but the Pavilion re-opened as a garrison theatre in 1942. It is now a popular multi-purpose hall.