Major theme park announces sudden closure after 50 years

A major UK theme park and tourist attraction has announced it is closing with immediate effect. Staff took to social media on Monday morning to announce the shock news.

Flambards Theme Park has been running since the 1970s but has now closed for good. In an announcement, the park said: "It is with great regret we have to announce Flambards Theme Park will close its doors permanently with immediate effect. his 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.

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"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.

"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.

"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."

Flambards Theme Park is a family-friendly amusement park located in Helston, Cornwall. It’s known for its rides, historical exhibits, and themed attractions. Originally opened in 1976 as the "Cornwall Aero Park," it started as an aviation museum, showcasing aircraft and offering educational exhibits. Over the years, it evolved into a full-fledged theme park, incorporating new rides, attractions, and immersive experiences.

Hundreds of people have taken to social media to express their sadness at the news. Julie Payne said: "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 said: "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 said: "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"

Founded by Douglas Kingsford Hale MBE, the park was initially a simple aviation museum focusing on aircraft displays and exhibitions related to aviation and war history. The park gradually added rides, such as small roller coasters and a variety of attractions, to expand its appeal beyond history enthusiasts. It became known for blending educational exhibits with entertainment.

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Renamed “Flambards” in the 1990s the park expanded further with the addition of themed exhibits like the "Victorian Village," an intricate recreation of a late-19th-century British village. This immersive exhibit allowed visitors to experience life in the Victorian era, complete with shops, homes, and streets decorated with authentic period items.

Flambards has continued to grow, adding more rides and attractions for thrill-seekers, including roller coasters, a log flume, and various fairground-style rides. The park has retained its historical exhibits but added interactive features to attract diverse visitors. One of the highlights, the "Britain in the Blitz" exhibit, offers a realistic depiction of life in Britain during World War II.