(1864-84): early years and temporary structures
(1884 - 1897): development of permanent structures and early fun fair
(1897 - 1914): expansion and renewal of buildings and attractions
(1914 - 1931 ): stagnation of funfair
(1931 - 1941): decline of funfair
(1941 - 46): HMS Birnbeck
(1946 - 71): dominance of Welsh steamer traffic
(1971 - 89): Victorian nostalgia
(1989 - present)