A much-loved family theme park abandoned for two years has announced plans to re-open. Alice in Wonderland-inspired Adventure Wonderland first welcomed visitors through its doors in 1992. Children and families enjoyed the park’s 30 rides and rollercoasters until the Bournemouth based attraction closed amid rising costs in 2023.
At the time, the park said the “trading climate” and a “steep” costs rise “across the board” had driven the decision to close. The COVID-19 pandemic and cost-of-living crisis have taken their toll on Britain’s amusement parks in recent years. Flambards Theme Park in Helston, Cornwall, closed last year, blaming rising costs and falling visitor numbers.
But there are plans for a relaunch at Adventure Wonderland’s site, albeit on a smaller plot. There is no confirmed opening date, but reports suggest it could be this year.
The plans submitted to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council include “creative” outdoor play areas, sensory gardens and water play facilities.
A new mini-golf course is also part of the scheme which would also see the reopening of a café and retention of a maze and karting track.
The aim behind the proposed plans is outlined in a design and access statement prepared by Corstorphine & Wright on behalf of the applicant.
It said: “The aim of this proposal is to create a site which is better adapted for use by the occupants of Merritown, Discovery Village and Diverse Abilities.
“All of these tenants want to create sustainable spaces which focus on creative outdoor spaces which are stimulating environments with outdoor play, sensory gardens, water play, and utilise the existing external spaces and buildings on site.”
The Adventure Wonderland site was a fruit farm before it became a theme park, with popular attractions including the Jungle Falls log flume, Wild Bill’s Runaway Train and The Ghostly Galleon.
When it was open Adventure Wonderland proved a hit with some visitors, according to Tripadvisor reviews. Reviewer Michael W, posting in September 2023, said it was “great value for money”.
Fellow reviewer, em2508, said it offered a “nice little day out” but noted the park needed “some serious TLC”, claiming much of it was “overgrown”.
A third reviewer, Kilm, posting in August 2023, praised the “amazing” outdoor playground and maze for keeping the kids busy for 30 minutes.