New Brighton Tower Returns

Описание: The tallest building in Britain you've never heard of...

At 567ft tall the tower was an attraction in itself, as the tallest building in the country in 1900. Work started in 1897 and was completed between 1898 and 1900. From the top of the tower, on clear days, it was possible to see as far as the Isle of Man, The Lake District and the Welsh mountains.

During its first year, the New Brighton Tower attracted over half a million visitors, who enjoyed its panoramic views during the day and its illuminated pathways and buildings at night.

Situated in its own grounds, the tower complex included a boating lake, amusement park, sports facilities, ballroom and theatre, all surrounded by iron railings. At night, the gardens were lit up by 30,000 fairy lights in red, green and white.

Within the grounds, visitors could find a bandstand, a dance area, a fountain, a seal pond and tennis courts. A lake also offered attractions such as a water chute and gondola rides.

The tower was forgotten during the first World War and the steel began to rust. Demolition began in 1919. The building at the base remained and it was very popular as a ballroom up until it burned down in 1969. The Beatles played there 27 times. Other famous performers included The Rolling Stones and Little Richard.

This video is a modern day drone shot of New Brighton with the tower reinstated in its original location as a 3D model, utilising motion tracking to match camera movement. The original film was black and white, I've sharpened and colourised it.

I don't know the source of the original film, only a name, Kev Connolly. Get in touch Kev if you see this for credit links etc.