Adventure Coast in Southport has received widespread support from the public after it was ranked the 6th lowest-rated theme park in the UK. According to Google review data collected by OKPromo, the park scored an average of 4.06 stars out of five from 4,229 reviews, placing it 32nd out of 37 UK theme parks on the list.
Ranking criteria and park response
The data included permanent parks with rides that Google lists as a theme park or amusement park with at least 3,000 reviews. Zoos, safari parks, piers, water parks, and indoor attractions were excluded from the ranking.
In response to the findings, Adventure Coast owner and CEO Norman Wallis said: "The response we get from people is really good, very good. We've got a very good offer in the UK and we've got a good offer in the Liverpool city region and Adventure Coast."
"Formerly Pleasureland, [the park] is on an upward trajectory and there are more plans, bigger and better as we move forward in the future. We've got a great offer in Liverpool and in the region and that's something to be commended."
Comparison with other UK parks
Paultons Park in Hampshire was named the UK's best-rated theme park with an average of 4.69 stars, while Pleasurewood Hills in Lowestoft was the lowest-rated with 3.90. Alton Towers was rated 12th and Thorpe Park 22nd.
Public support on social media
On social media, people rushed to support the park and Mr Wallis. Facebook user Shana Kelk said: "I think Norman's doing a great job keeping up with it for many years. He tries his best to accommodate everyone's needs and takes on board people's opinions, for example they way you pay, he's gone from wristbands to walk in and pay for what you ride."
"It's impossible to please everyone. It's not a big theme park like Blackpool or Alton towers. Just a little seaside resort that he's trying to keep alive! Well done Norman."
Chris Richard praised the park after visiting during the summer, writing: "Actually really enjoyed it when we went in the summer. It was a lot more affordable than alternatives like Blackpool or Alton Towers, yes it's small but it offers what it has for a great price."
Ed Marshall said: "Fair play to him for trying to make a go of it. I'd rather see someone try and make something of it than it be abandoned."
However, one comment by Francesca Lean reminisced about the park from years ago. She said: "It was at its best in the 90's when they had independent sellers on there and the rides were good."
Adam Kearsley encouraged people to go online and show support through their reviews: "Let's all use this as an opportunity to get it up to five stars!"
