A visit to Coney Beach reveals a nostalgic atmosphere as the amusement park gears up for its final summer.
As the announcement of Coney Beach amusement park’s closure approaches, the local community is taking a moment to reflect on a century’s worth of cherished memories. Located in Porthcawl, this beloved park will close its doors for good this October, marking a significant loss for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Can you imagine the childhood laughter that will echo no more?
The Journey to Coney Beach
Getting to Coney Beach has always been an adventure in itself. For those of us living in Cardiff, the closest alternative was Barry Island, conveniently accessible by public transport.
However, reaching Porthcawl required a train and two buses, turning a simple trip into a lengthy trek. I made my visit just days before a serious incident on the Wacky Worm ride left 13 children and an adult injured, leading to the park’s temporary closure.
That was a wake-up call for everyone.
Last month, the announcement of the park’s impending closure sent shockwaves through the community, sparking disappointment among locals and visitors alike. The Welsh Government’s decision to purchase the land for redevelopment—which includes plans for housing and retail spaces—adds a bittersweet note to the park’s legacy. After over a hundred years of joy, it’s hard to imagine how different Porthcawl will feel without it.
A Walk Through Nostalgia
Upon arrival, the charm of Coney Beach was unmistakable, even if the rides showed their age. Sure, I expected a bit of wear and tear, but those slightly outdated attractions only added to the park’s nostalgic vibe. While it primarily catered to families, the amusement park still welcomed young adults like me, eager to relive those carefree childhood moments. Were you ever one of those kids who loved the thrill of the rides?
That said, I couldn’t help but notice the absence of major rides that could compete with the bigger amusement parks across the country. Yes, classic attractions like bumper cars and tea cups were there, but they lacked that one thrilling standout ride that gets your heart racing. Still, nothing could beat the warm doughnuts from the American Donuts hut. Locals were queuing up for a taste, and it was hard to resist! Steve, the stand’s owner who has been serving doughnuts since 1967, will retire alongside the park, adding a personal touch to this collective loss.
The Vibrant Promenade
As I explored the promenade, I was captivated by the variety of shops and food stalls that lined the seafront. The friendly atmosphere, thanks to independent vendors like the cockle stand and surf shop, made the experience feel like a picture-perfect seaside town. With the sun shining down, the fairground and promenade buzzed with life, families enjoying the beautiful day. Did you ever feel that sense of community at a local spot?
The laughter of children echoed all around me, reminding me of my own childhood spent saving up coins for arcade games. Yet, this joy was tinged with a touch of sadness as I realized that soon, these moments would no longer be possible at Coney Beach. Conversations with locals revealed a shared sorrow about the park’s closure. Watching families create lasting memories underscored just how important places like this are, and the impending loss weighed heavily on us all. My first visit to Coney Beach might just be my last, and as I look back, I can’t help but feel grateful for the memories it has given us.
