Those ideas to entertain the children really are running low now heading into the last week of the summer holiday.

There may well still be some summery weather holding up and if you have not been on the Brighton Palace Pier this summer there are some some excellent rides for a range of ages, as well as food, preferably in that order. Here are five reasons to head there for the afternoon, or even the day.

The Wild River

The tension builds as you take your seat and your log is pulled up to the top of this roller coaster before you are launched down into the water, twice. It is great fun and created some of the biggest smiles while we were there. One of the most popular rides for children, probably one of the least popular for parents. They love getting soaked. You don't. Oh get on there you big baby you will soon dry off because...

The Argus: Galaxia

Twister and Galaxia

Next to the Wild River is the Twister, a white knuckle ride that throws you from side to side repeatedly as it spins in a circle. It will soon dry you off as you hurtle through the air at high speed. For pure speed Galaxia rivals Twister so they belong together in this round-up. But Galaxia also goes up and down too so just wins it for fun, for me. There's also the Waltzer of course.

Horror Hotel

Who doesn't love a ghost train? You, that's who, as you get spooked by a frightful bunch of weirdos staring at you and carrying out unspeakable crimes in the dark corners of this ride. By the end you will wish you were back on one of the thrill rides to help you forget what you saw. There are loads to choose from, maybe the Dodgems this time?

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The Argus: The Horror Hotel

Helter Skelter

There is fun indoors for younger children and lots of other rides. For pure nostalgia and for still being great the Helter Skelter is a winner though. Just don't look down. A Supersaver ticket covers you for as many rides on the pier as you like, and can be booked online at £26 for those who are 1.2m and over, for a weekday. See terms at brightonpier.co.uk

The Argus: Palm Court

Food at Palm Court Restaurant

There are various places to eat on the pier and the Palm Court Restaurant has great views across the sea to the beach, particularly at sunset. The fish and chips is spot on, perfect batter and nice chunky chips. There are also salads, burgers and starters as well as vegan choices.