Welcome to the exciting world of Fairground rides in the UK. From the adrenaline-pumping drops of roller coasters to the dizzying spins of the Ferris wheel, these rides offer an unforgettable experience for people of all ages. The United Kingdom is considered home to some of the world’s most exciting and innovative fairground rides.
Whether you are an experienced thrill seeker or going to ride for the very first time, there is something for everyone at the UK’s fairgrounds. Let’s look at some of the most famous classical Fairground rides in the UK and explore the thrill and excitement that await you.
What is a Fairground Ride?
Fairground rides or amusement rides are any numbers of devices found at carnivals, fairs, and festivals. These rides are designed to provide entertainment and excitement to their riders. They are designed in various types and sizes, from traditional attractions like the Ferris wheel and carousel to modern and thrilling rides like Roller coasters, spinning rides, and drop towers. People enjoy them and consider them to be their favorite form of entertainment.
Classical Fairground Rides
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The Big Wheel
As its name suggests, the big wheel is a large spoked wheel with revolving gondolas that keeps a horizontal keel. It has been part of the Fairground since the start of amusement rides. The ride is incomplete without riding the big monumental wheel.
Standing tall and proud, the engineering masterpiece offers its riders scenic views of the surrounding areas as they move up and down to earth.
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The Waltzer
The Waltzer is another classic fairground ride that has entertained visitors since 1900. It plays a significant role in the traditional British and Irish fairs. Visitors can sit in cars that are installed on the platform, and as it spins, they feel an unforgettable experience of weightlessness and centrifugal force.
The Waltzer is a great source of entertainment for people of both young and old generations.
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The Dodgems
Dodgems is one of the most popular rides in the United Kingdom. Also goes by the name of the King of Rock N’Roll. This majestic classic ride has been entertaining visitors since 1920.
It consists of small electric cars which run around a track. The riders hit their cars with each other for fun. The dodgems are most famous among families and friends. However, a pregnant woman cannot ride the dodgems.
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The Ghost Train
The ghost train is another classical fairground ride that has been functional since the last century. This train takes visitors on a journey through a dark and horrible thrill with surprises at every turn.
Although the ghost train is suitable for anyone of any age, it is scary and not ideal for babies.
Pepper Bidall and Sons in the 1960s built it. Currently, it is owned by Richard Cadell, who is considered a leading authority in ghost rides.
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The Carousel
The classic carousel ride has been a part of the UK’s safari park since the early 1900s. Its seats are usually in the shape of rows of wooden horses. These beautifully decorated horses move up and down as the carousel spins around.
The carousel is most popular among young children and families. If a child is under 1 meter in height, they can ride free.
Other Popular Amusement Rides
The list of amusement rides does not end there. You can find some other popular rides that can be found at fairgrounds in the UK. For instance:
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Roller coasters
These are thrilling rides that take riders on a fast-paced journey of twists, turns, and drops.
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Drop towers
These rides lift riders high up in the air before suddenly dropping them at high speeds.
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Water rides
These rides often involve getting wet as riders travel down flumes, through rapids, or plunge into pools.
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Kiddie rides
These are small, gentle rides designed for younger children, often featuring popular cartoon characters or animals.
Carnival rides at fairgrounds in the UK are designed to provide a fun and exciting experience for people of all ages. These rides are often more compact and portable than amusement park rides, making them ideal for fairs, carnivals, and festivals. In short, Fairgrounds offer a wide variety of amusement rides to cater to all ages and interests.
Can you go on fairground rides when pregnant?
No scientific study proves that roller coasters and other high-speed rides can be dangerous during pregnancy, but they are not entirely safe. The sudden stops and starts could pose a serious risk to you and your unborn baby.
Are Fairground Rides Safe:
Fairground rides in the UK are monitored under the Health and Safety at work Regulations 1999. These regulations ensure that ride operators carry out regular risk assessments and follow strict procedures for the safe and smooth operation of rides.
Despite these regulations and inspections, an accident is still possible. However, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the number of fairground ride incidents in the UK is very low.
In short, these carnival rides are considered safe if they follow the required regulations and guidelines
How much do Fairground rides cost?
There are different types of fairground rides, and the prices can vary depending on several factors, like location, the time of the year, and the size of the ride. Generally, the cost of a single fairground ride can range from 1 pound to 5 pounds per ride.
It is essential to mention that sometimes fairground ride operators offer discounted tickets to their visitors, reducing their costs significantly.
Conclusion
To cut it short, this amusement site is a popular option that always offers something to visitors of all ages.
There is only excitement and entertainment, from the classic Big Wheel to the Doldgems. Therefore, whether you reside in the UK or are a visitor from another country, you should spend some time visiting Fairground rides to experience enjoyment and thrill.