Flambards Theme Park in Helston, Cornwall, has closed its doors permanently after 48 years of operation, leaving the site abandoned and desolate. The park, once the largest in West Cornwall and a vibrant hub for the local community, shut down to the public's dismay.
Originally opened in 1976 as the Cornwall Aero Park by Douglas Kingsford Hale MBE and his wife Audrey, the site began as an aviation museum. Over time, it expanded to include rides and attractions, rebranding as 'The Flambards Experience' in 1990 and later as Flambards Theme Park in 2010.
Notable attractions included the 'Britain in the Blitz' exhibit (1984), the Skyraker 001 (the UK's first twisting drop tower, introduced in 2010), and later additions like Jurassic Journey (2016) and the ThunderDome (2024). However, the park faced financial difficulties, entering administration in 2013 before being sold to Livingston Leisure Ltd.
The Covid-19 pandemic caused multiple shutdowns, and in June 2024, four major thrill rides—the Thunderbolt, Sky Swinger, SkyForce, and Hornet Coaster—were removed due to supply issues. Despite introducing new rides and cutting admission prices for the 2024 season, the park could not recover and has now closed for good.
Speculation about redevelopment, including potential conversion into a fast-food outlet, has been denied by the owners. The site now stands abandoned, a stark contrast to its former glory as a beloved family destination.
