A Seaside Architecture Photo Story – Weymouth & Portland

Today I’m continuing with my Odyssey through the British seaside through its buildings, and I’m turning my attention to Weymouth and Portland. This is my favourite part of the Country, a place where I have spent holidays over the past two years, and where I hope to return again and again. It has glorious beaches, is very traditional when it comes to architecture, and has a lovely selection of shops and restaurants, as well as amusement arcades that keep my teen happy.

Weymouth became popular during the Georgian and Regency era, specifically during the reign of George III, who often visited for medicinal purposes, to take in the sea air. Many of the buildings in Weymouth reflect this, with many also be grade 1 and 2 listed. But, as with many other seaside towns, there are also some very iconic Art Deco features, once again supporting the idea that art deco is the seaside architecture of choice. One of the buildings, the former Riviera Hotel in Bowleaze Cove, is currently considered amongst the most at risk buildings in the UK, whilst the restored Pier Pavillion, which now houses an amusement arcade, cafe/shop and an Italian restaurant, is all that remains of the original Weymouth pier.

Coastal towns on the South coast have often been strategically important in times of war, and the many war memorials along the sea front promenade are a testament to this, and are interesting to those with an interest in war, and also those who admire public art and monuments.

Any photographic record of Weymouth and Portland has to include lighthouses, including what has to be arguably the most iconic lighthouse in the UK, the beautiful Portland Bill. I was lucky enough to visit on the most beautiful of days and this resulted in some gorgeous images of this majestic building.

Georgian Buildings