Railings To The Esplanade

These railings run along the Esplanade in Brighton, dating to 1886 and likely 1894. They represent two distinct designs. The first, dating to 1886, is a variation on an earlier design found on Marine Parade. This section generally extends from the Palace Pier to the ramp in front of the Metropole Hotel. It comprises standard sections approximately 2 metres long, separated by piers with rounded mouldings to their edges and top, and a console bracket facing the sea. Each section is divided into three parts; the lower section of each part features cross-pieces with a roundel displaying municipal emblems. An upper wooden circular rail completes the design.

The 1886 railings begin with plain panelled piers, featuring gadrooned finials, and a flight of steps leading down to a groyne. The groyne railings have a simpler design, without roundels, and use cast-iron rather than timber for the rail. At intervals, bays and recesses face the sea, incorporating steps or ramps down to the beach. These features are located opposite Brill's Lane, the Hospitality Inn, the Old Ship Hotel, the end of Middle Street, the end of West Street, the Brighton Conference Centre, the Grand Hotel, and the Metropole Hotel. Piers at some of these locations also support fluted lamp standards with spiked octagonal lanterns.

The second design, dating to 1894, runs from the ramp opposite the Metropole Hotel almost to the western boundary of the borough, following a section of King's Road that was widened that year. This design consists of single sections divided into three horizontal parts, with the bottom section having cross-pieces and roundels modeled with dolphins. Above this are two cast-iron rails. These railings are punctuated by the entrance to the West Pier, featuring flights of stairs leading to the east and west. Additional sets of steps are present opposite the Bedford Hotel, the end of Oriental Place, and Bedford Square. The railings ultimately conclude opposite the end of Western Street.