Flambards Theme Park, a beloved amusement park that has brought joy to generations in Cornwall and beyond, has announced its immediate closure after nearly fifty years of operation. Established in 1976, Flambards was an iconic destination for British families, drawing over 76,000 visitors in its first season alone and creating countless memories over the years.
Famous for its classic attractions, the park featured 15 main rides, including the fan-favourite Hornet rollercoaster and log flume. Flambards was also celebrated for its immersive exhibits, including a meticulously recreated Victorian Village and a vivid “Britain in the Blitz” display. In recent years, however, the park has faced mounting operational challenges, including rising costs, dwindling ticket sales, and the temporary closure of several rides in June due to a shortage of specialized replacement parts.
Only months earlier, Helston Mayor Paul Kenchington had voiced optimism that the park would remain open. But now, Flambards’ management has shared the difficult news of a permanent closure. “Flambards has been a cherished destination for generations, and it is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell,” the park said in a statement. “To our loyal supporters and dedicated team, who have given their unwavering commitment during difficult times, we extend our sincerest gratitude. Thank you for making Flambards a special place.”
The decision was described as “heart-wrenching” and followed an exhaustive search for viable solutions. According to management, despite substantial investments from the park’s current owners since they took over in 2012, operational costs and declining visitor numbers have made further investments unsustainable. Many of Flambards’ older thrill rides were also retired this year due to the increasing difficulty of sourcing specialized parts and maintenance expertise. Additionally, the cherished Victorian Village exhibit requires extensive repairs and will remain closed while the park considers alternative ways to preserve this unique piece of history.
Flambards’ closure has saddened locals and long-time visitors who remember it fondly. Julie Payne recalled, “I remember collecting coupons from the Cornishman so my children could have a season ticket to go whenever they liked with their friends during the school holidays.” Tiff Wingfield Hodgson shared her memories of the park’s bustling days in 1993, with packed queues for rides, classic carnival games, and lively parrot shows. “Those were the days,” she reflected.
While the main park is closing, the indoor play area, Ferdi’s Funland, will remain open as a separate attraction, set to reopen on November 17.
For Cornwall’s local community, Flambards’ closure is more than the loss of a theme park—it represents the end of an era. As families reminisce about their experiences at Flambards, the memories live on, reminding Cornwall of a special place that will be missed by all who enjoyed its charms.
