Flambards Theme Park, a major UK tourist attraction, has announced its immediate closure. The shocking news was shared by staff on social media on Monday morning.
The park, which has been operating since the 1970s, is now permanently closed. In a statement, the park said: “It is with great regret we have to announce Flambards Theme Park will close its doors permanently with immediate effect. This difficult decision was reached only after all possible avenues had been exhausted and we fully recognise the impact of this closure on the local community and the sense of loss that it may bring.
“Despite significant and ongoing investment since its rescue from closure in 2012 by the current owners, rising costs and a steady decline in visitor numbers have made the park’s operation and further investment unsustainable. Over the years, Flambards has strived to evolve, overcoming numerous challenges to continue bringing joy to families and visitors from across the region.”
“Unfortunately, this year saw the retirement of several older thrill rides, as the increasing difficulty of sourcing specialised parts and maintenance expertise became insurmountable. Additionally, the much-loved Victorian Village exhibition now requires extensive remedial work; it will remain closed while we investigate alternative options to preserve and honour this unique collection.”
The theme park’s management expressed their sadness, stating: “While the theme park itself will no longer operate, we are pleased to confirm that Ferdi’s Funland, the indoor play centre, will re-open as a standalone attraction on November 17th, providing a familiar place of play for younger visitors. Flambards has been a cherished destination for generations, and it is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell.”
They also extended their gratitude to the park’s loyal supporters and staff, saying: “To our loyal supporters and dedicated team, who have given their unwavering commitment through difficult times, we extend our sincerest gratitude. Thank you for making Flambards a special place.”
The news has sparked an outpouring of sadness on social media, with many sharing fond memories of their visits to the park. One commenter, Julie Payne, reminisced: “So sad, I remember collecting the coupons out of the Cornishman so my children could have a Season Ticket to go whenever they liked with their friends all through the School holidays. They all thought they were so grown up catching the bus from Penzance together. Fond memories, thank you Flambards and best of luck to all the staff.”
Rachel Smith expressed her fondness for the park, stating: “Flambards will always have a place in my heart, I went on my first roller coaster here, love the Victorian village and Britain in the Blitz, going on the Concorde plane and family fun on every visit from a young age. A massive thank you to all staff.”
Tricia Twose also shared her sentiments, saying: “This is just awful…..I loved it here….so did my Mum….when we come now we always have to look for the little mouse in the kitchen as it’s something she always loved seeing….I really hope the Victorian village …blitz and chemist can remain open in some way ..that was all we came for…xx” The park, founded by Douglas Kingsford Hale MBE, started as a simple aviation museum with aircraft displays and war history exhibitions.
Over time, it added rides like small roller coasters and various attractions to broaden its appeal beyond history buffs. It gained recognition for combining educational exhibits with entertainment.
In the 1990s, the park, renamed “Flambards”, expanded further with themed exhibits such as the “Victorian Village,” a detailed replica of a late-19th-century British village. This exhibit gave visitors a glimpse into Victorian life, featuring shops, homes, and streets adorned with authentic period items.