Beloved theme park Flambards in Helston, Cornwall, has suddenly shut its gates after 48 years, now lying abandoned and desolate. The adventure park, once a cherished destination for locals and tourists, closed permanently in November 2024, leaving behind a forgotten and decaying site.
A Storied History
Flambards Theme Park originally opened in 1976 as the Cornwall Aero Park, founded by Douglas Kingsford Hale MBE and his wife Audrey. It started as an aviation museum showcasing aircraft, engines, and airframes, gradually expanding to include rides and exhibitions. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the park grew steadily, becoming the largest theme park in West Cornwall and a vibrant hub for the community.
In 1984, the popular 'Britain in the Blitz' attraction opened, featuring a recreation of a bomb-damaged World War II street. 'The Victorian Village' followed soon after, and by 1990, the park was rebranded as 'The Flambards Experience' to reflect its diverse offerings. Early rides included the Canyon River Log Flume, Dragon Coaster, Hype Glide, and Paddle Boats.
Expansion and Challenges
Between 2007 and 2013, new rides such as the Space Shuttle, Rocking Tug, Carousel, and Cornish Mine Train were added. In 2010, the park introduced the Skyraker 001, the UK's first twisting drop tower, and was officially renamed Flambards Theme Park. However, in 2013, the park entered administration and was sold to Livingston Leisure Ltd.
Under new ownership, the Sky Swinger ride debuted in 2015, followed by the Jurassic Journey dinosaur exhibition in 2016 and the Sky-Force ride in 2017. Major renovations took place between 2017 and 2022, including the removal of outdated attractions like the Science Exploratorium and a complete rebuild of the outdoor play area.
The Downfall
The Covid-19 pandemic caused significant disruption, with at least two full site shutdowns. While the Western Mine Train (2021) and ThunderDome (2024) were introduced, four headline thrill rides—The Thunderbolt, Sky Swinger, SkyForce, and Hornet Coaster—were removed in June 2024 due to supply issues. The SkyForce briefly returned in August 2024.
With flagship attractions gone, Flambards reduced admission prices and added two new rides, Flying Planes and Dodgems, for the 2024 season. Despite rumors of redevelopment, owners denied plans to turn the park into a fast-food restaurant. On November 4, 2024, the park announced its permanent closure, stating: "It is with great regret we have to announce Flambards Theme Park will close its doors permanently with immediate effect."
Current State
Today, only Ferdi's Indoor Play remains operational on the site. Over 1,000 items from Flambards were auctioned off. Urban explorer Charlee, from Penryn, described feeling "saddened" by the park's condition, noting that most rides are still there but some have been sold. The site is patrolled by security, but access remains easy.
Former visitors have shared memories online. One Reddit user wrote: "Wow. That is so gutting. So many amazing childhood memories." Another added: "An iconic part of a Cornish childhood gone." On Facebook, a visitor recalled: "Fond memories of visiting Flambards when we were on holiday in Cornwall."
The closure of Flambards Theme Park has dealt a devastating blow to the local community, and the future of this now-deserted attraction remains uncertain.
