Postcards From The Past: Great Yarmouth

Haven Bridge, Historical

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Spanning the River Yare, the imposing Haven Bridge is a double bascule - or counterpoised - construction which opens to allow shipping to pass along the river.

Haven Bridge, 1960s

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Haven Bridge, 1970s

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In 1985 a second bridge was opened to relieve the congestion at the only crossing point on the river. The Haven Bridge was recently renovated thanks to a Millennium Fund grant.

Gorleston, Historical

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Our picture here shows Gorleston Beach in the early 20th century soon after the cliffs had been landscaped and slopes/steps installed. Note the very wide beach with changing tents and bathing machines.

The sea front and resort extends along the coastal face of the spit which has controlled the shape of the town and helped to create a smooth stretch of coast with a long, sandy beach.

Gorleston, 1960s

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This postcard from the late 1960s shows the beach at Gorleston much eroded.

The coast has been affected by rising sea levels which have caused silting up, creating a barrier or spit across the estuary.

Great Yarmouth

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Today the main beach lies between the two piers (Wellington and Britannia) and Great Yarmouth remains one of Britain’s most popular resorts. There are also numerous amusement arcades nightclubs and a Pleasure Beach.

Wind Farm

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Great Yarmouth has what is probably the world’s largest rock factory, producing souvenir candy and rock since 1896 - and, right up to date, this offshore wind farm.