The Grand Pier at Weston-super-Mare is one of the top seaside experiences in the UK, according to the Bucket and Spade Awards, which are organised by the Seaside Heritage Network.
But the winner was the New Palace and Adventureland at New Brighton, with its amusement arcade and funfair.
Second was Ventnor Paddling Pool at the Isle of Wight. The pier was voted third and the awards were presented at a ceremony in the town.
The Network pinpointed the results from a survey in which thousands of people voted for their favourite seaside spots in the country this summer.
Making the award, Kathryn Ferry, of the Seaside Heritage Network commented: “Our winners this year are not the usual suspect, but that is a timely reminder that seaside heritage is not always grand or obvious.
"These are attractions that make their location unique; they are distinctive things that are highly valued by residents anbd visitors alike.”
Also on the list were the St Annes Beach Huts, Leas Lifts at Folkstone, the Punch & Judy booth at Swanage, the Cleethorpes Lakeside Area, the Showtown Museum at Blackpool, the Grand Hotel at Scarborough and the Great Orme Tramway at Llandudno.
