Flambards Theme Park in Helston, Cornwall, announced its immediate closure on Monday morning. The park, which first opened in 1976, cited rising costs and a steady decline in visitor numbers as the reasons for the difficult decision. “Flambards has been a cherished destination for generations, and it is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell,” read a statement on the park’s page.
The closure has left fans devastated, with many expressing their sorrow and describing it as a “huge loss” and “absolutely gutting.”
The theme park, which was renamed after a popular TV show in the 1990s, boasted family rides, roller coasters, a Victorian town, and a life-size replica of a London street during the Blitz. However, earlier this year, the park announced the closure of four of its rides due to an ongoing shortage of specialist parts, forcing owners to reduce the cost of a ticket to just £14.95 each. A spokesperson for 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 recognize 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. The park added, “Unfortunately, this year saw the retirement of several older thrill rides, as the increasing difficulty of sourcing specialized parts and maintenance expertise became insurmountable.
The much-loved Victorian Village exhibition now requires extensive remedial work and will remain closed while alternative options are investigated to preserve and honor this unique collection. While the theme park itself will no longer operate, Ferdi’s Funland, the indoor play center, will re-open as a standalone attraction on November 17th, providing a familiar place of play for younger visitors.
Flambards announces immediate closure
“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 spokesperson added.
Visitors expressed their sorrow, with one saying the closure meant there was “nothing for children and young people” in the whole of Cornwall. Another commented, “So sad to read this. They’ve provided employment for lots of teenagers over the years.
Where else can they work within walking distance of home?”
The closure is a great shame for the local area, with one visitor stating, “Devastating news. Have supported Flambards for the last 5-6 years with season tickets and you could see the gradual decline, even more so beyond Covid-19. I can’t bring myself to tell my six-year-old son as he will be gutted.
Such sad news for those who are going to lose their jobs.”
Flambards has left an indelible mark on the community, and its closure is indeed a significant loss for Cornwall.
