Funfair Guides
Planning a successful event often starts long before the first ride arrives on site. Whether you're organising a corporate fun day, music festival, council celebration, wedding, Christmas market or community event, there are plenty of practical questions to consider. Our guides have been written to help organisers, venues and event professionals make informed decisions, understand how fairground attractions operate and get the very best from their event.
Within this knowledge hub you'll find advice covering everything from choosing the right fairground rides and planning event layouts to health and safety, accessibility, crowd management, seasonal event ideas, funfair history and behind-the-scenes insights into how rides are transported, installed and operated. We've also included buying guides, frequently asked questions, historical articles, planning advice and practical tips based on decades of experience delivering events throughout the UK. Whether you're simply curious about the fairground industry or you're planning your next event, we hope these guides provide useful information and plenty of inspiration.
Ride-specific FAQs:
- Dodgems FAQs - You might have plenty of questions about our Dodgems. so read our FAQs to discover more about these classic rides.
- Carousel FAQs - The Carousel is a beloved funfair favourite that is loved by all ages. Look into the secrets of the Carousel Merry-go-Round here!
- Mini Golf FAQs - Who doesn't love Mini Golf? Check out some of the questions we're often asked about miniature golf, and discover all the information you could need to become a crazy golf master!
- Ferris Wheel FAQs - The Ferris wheel is a fixture at all kinds of funfairs and festivals, and is often seen at tourist hotspots. Find out more about this ride here, or check out our Ferris wheel hire tips!
- Rollercoaster FAQs - Rollercoasters are a famously ferocious and complicated piece of engineering, and there are plenty of common questions and concerns that people have about them. Find out more here!
- Giant Game FAQs - Our giant games always draw a crowd and get all ages involved. Find out how to get the most out of these garden games, and discover some tips and techniques that could help you beat the competition.
- Funfair Side Stall and Game FAQs - We have advice for winning the games, information about how side stalls were designed and developed, and plenty of interesting facts that should spike your interest.
Funfair Ride Safety FAQs
We take safety very seriously at We Are Tricycle. We've gone into detail about our health and safety obligations below, and answered some questions about particular rides and attractions. Please let us know if we've missed anything, and take a look at our Health and Safety FAQs page for more.
Interesting Information about Funfair Rides
If you've ever been interested in the history of the funfair, we have plenty of information available in our funfair history FAQs! Read on to see the scope of what we've covered.
- What is the history of the Funfair? - Can you imagine a world without funfairs? Read on to find out the history of the much-loved family attraction.
- What is the history of the Ferris wheel? The Ferris wheel was invented by G.W.G. Ferris over 130 years ago! How did it become the perennial favourite we all know and love?
- What is the history of the Roller Coaster? The roller coaster seems like an obvious invention following on from the development of the locomotive, but this funfair ride has undergone many innovations in its history!
- What is the history of the Booster fairground ride? The Booster is a very popular thrill ride that is sure to attract attention. How was this ride developed?
- What is the history of the Carousel? The Carousel, also known as the Merry-go-Round, dates back further than you think! Did you know about its uses for cavalry training?
- What is the history of the theme park? Theme parks have been attracting people for generations thanks to their huge range of roller coasters and thrill rides. But how did these landmarks come about?
- What is the history of Mini Golf? Mini golf, crazy golf, miniature golf and more - whatever you call it, you can find out more about the relaxing, much-loved game with We Are Tricycle!
- What is the history of the Waltzers? This frantic fairground ride is most popularly seen in the UK and Ireland. Where did the Waltzers come from, and how did they become so popular?
- What is the history of the Chair-o-Planes? The dizzying funfair ride could be older than you think! Find out more about the development of the Chair-o-Planes with us!
- What is the history of the Ghost Train? The thrilling Ghost Train has been terrifying riders for many decades, but this is one of the more modern rides around. Did you know this is actually a British invention, and that it was designed by an architect?
- What is the history of the Motion Simulator? The motion simulator actually dates back to early years as a pilot training device, but it has now established itself as a favourite in arcades, theme parks, entertainment centres and more.
- What is the history of the Slide? It feels like slides should have existed since prehistory, but slides were first used for children's play equipment in the 20th century! Helter Skelters and other carnival classics came a while later.
- What is the history of the Miami funfair ride? The Miami Trip funfair ride is a fixture at festivals, fairgrounds and more, thanks to its huge impact and small footprint. Where did this ride come from?
- What is the history of the Dodgems? Who invented and popularised the classic Dodgems ride? We Are Tricycle finds out the facts.
- What is the history of the trampoline? The trampoline seems like a simple invention, but it's a lot more modern than you might think. Discover more about bungee trampolines and other bouncy attractions here.
- What is the history of the Fun House? When did the Funhouse originate, and how did it become such a perennial hit?
- What is the history of the High Striker Test Your Strength machine? Find out who invented the High Striker Strongman Challenge game and see how testing your strength became so internationally popular.
- What is the history of the Whack a Mole game? From its early days as a Japanese toy to its current status as a fairground and arcade favourite, see how Whack a Mole came so popular here.
- What is the history of the Operation game? The Operation game is a beloved family favourite - we even have a giant Operation game! How did this board game begin, and did the inventor get their credit?
- What is the history of virtual reality at funfairs? Virtual Reality might seem like a modern innovation, but its origins go way back!
- What is the history of the Batak game? From its early beginnings as a tennis training tool to its modern position at everything from fun centres to exhibitions, we look at the story of Batak.
- What is the history of the Seaside Face in the Hole Photograph? The Sea Side Photo Peep Board is seen at tourist hot spots all over the UK, and is a postcard favourite. Where did this originate?
- What is the history of fairground artwork? Funfairs and fairgrounds have a range of different artwork styles and designs in place, including digital prints, airbrush and ornate sculptures. What is the story behind this?
- What is the Nottingham Goose Fair? The Nottingham Goose Fair has been a fixture of the Nottinghamshire funfair calendar since time immemorial. What is this event really about?
- What is the Tavistock Goose Fair? For Devon funfair fun, Goosey has been a tradition for generations. Find out more here.
- What is the Hoppings? The Hoppings are a key fixture in the UK travelling funfair industry, and are one of the biggest fairgrounds in Europe. How did this Tyne and Wear funfair begin?
- What is the history of Hull Fair? Another massive fixture in the European funfair world, this East Yorkshire funfair has been attracting visitors since time immemorial. We look further into this annual tradition.
- What are Charter Fairs? Charter Fairs are some of the oldest fairs in the country, and frequently started off as large trading days. But what exactly is a charter fair?
- What is the history of the Pack Monday Fair? You can't beat the Pack Monday Fair! Find out more about this tradition here.
- What are Mop Fairs? Mop fairs take place in places all over the UK, but did you know that these used to be jobs fairs? Find out how they got their name, and how they transformed to the occasions we know today.
- What is the history of the carnival? From Notting Hill to Rio de Janeiro, the carnival is a day people look forwards to all year, with parades, carnival games and fun food to enjoy. Go back in millennia with us to discover how carnivals began.
- What is the history of Chess? We don't have intellectual capacity to tell you how to win at chess, but we can tell you some fascinating facts about it!
- What is the history of Hoopla? Hoopla, also known as Quoits, is thought to date back to ancient times, and is even referenced in Greek myth!
- What is the history of the Buzz Wire game? The Buzz Wire game is a lot more modern than you might think! Find out more about this innovation here.
- What is the history of the Helter Skelter? This giant slide has a storied history, but it's more recent than you might think!
- What is the history of big funfair rides? The biggest funfair rides are also the most eye-catching! What's the story behind some of your favourites?
- What is the history of small funfair rides? These smaller funfair rides are a lot of fun for young children! Find out how they were invented and how they became so popular.
- What is the history of Ping Pong? Did you know that Table Tennis was invented right here in the UK? Find out more with our history guide.
- What is Carters Steam Fair? There are few companies in the UK funfair and fairground industry more renowned than Carters Steam Fair. Find out more here!
- The Story of the UK's Showmen's Guilds: How the Showmen’s Guild began in 1889 to oppose restrictive bills, evolved into the recognised trade body for travelling fairs, and continues to represent showmen’s culture, safety and livelihoods today.
- What is the future of thrill and white knuckle rides? There's so much innovation in the sector - what will the fairground-goers of future generations enjoy?
But we're not just writing about the history of our various funfair and fairground rides for hire. Check out some of the below questions for an expansion on some FAQs.
- What's the difference between Dodgems and Bumper Cars? Some people think that dodgems and Bumper Cars are synonyms, but at We Are Tricycle, there's a definite difference.
- What is the difference between a Merry-go-Round and a Carousel? Are Merry-go-Rounds the same as Carousels? What do the two terms actually mean?
- What are the names of the horses on a carousel? Find out what a prancer, a jumper and a standing unit are with our illustrated guide.
- How does a Carousel work? Discover the mechanisms behind these beiwtching funfair rides in our in-depth guide!
- How does a Ferris wheel work? The Ferris Wheel is a deceptively-complicated bit of engineering. Find out how this magical funfair attraction stays moving.
- How does the Dodgems work? The Dodgems are a classic funfair ride that has been entertaining for over a century. How does the ride actually work?
- How does the Crazy Cage funfair ride work? The Crazy Cage is the funfair ride that uses the physics of centrifuges to create a bewildering spinning sensation!
- What is Zorbing? Our water zorbs are some of the latest attractions for thrill seekers. Where did zorbing come from, and how was it invented?
- Carousel superstitions: From haunting ghost stories to good luck rituals, the carousel has always been a fond favourite of storytellers and the imaginative! Find out about some of the famous carousel stories and superstitions here.
- What are the most popular theme parks in the UK? The UK is a hotspot for theme parks, with some of the world's most popular on these shores. From Legoland Windsor to Alton Towers and Blackpool Pleasure Beach, we find out which ones are the most successful.
- What are the biggest roller coasters in the world? We've looked across the globe to find some of the most furious roller coasters around.
- What are the different types of roller coaster? You've heard of steel coasters, wooden roller coasters and more, but what do these different materials mean?
- How are funfair rides powered? Have you ever wondered how fairground rides receive the energy they need to move? Find out here.
- What is the best seat on the roller coaster? It's a controversial topic, but We Are Tricycle has looked into the facts and uncovered the truth!
- How do roller coasters work? These high-octane rides take people on a twisting, turning, adrenaline-pumping journey - but how do they move?
- How does the Tea Cups ride work? - Discover the mechanics and physics behind the charming Tea Cups ride, where centripetal force spins fun into every turn.
- How do Bungee Trampolines work? - Jump into the details of how bungee trampolines amplify fun and safety.
- How does the Miami Trip funfair ride work? - Learn about the exciting dynamics of the Miami Trip ride, where participants experience thrilling spins and unexpected changes in direction.
- How does the Chair o Planes ride work? - Uncover how the Chair o Planes uses simple physics to create delightful and dizzying aerial experiences.
- How does the Tagada work? - Dive into the workings of the Tagada, a ride that combines spinning, bouncing, and music for an exhilarating experience.
- What obstacles are in a fairground fun house? - Explore the classic and quirky obstacles that make navigating through a fairground fun house a wildly entertaining challenge.
- What are the forces experienced on roller coasters? The physics behind the rollercoaster are truly mind-blowing! Learn more about these in our informative guide.
- How do roller coasters go upside-down without falling out? Surely when a roller coaster goes upside-down, the carriage and all of its participants should be pulled to Earth by gravity! How does it stay stuck to the track?
- How are funfair rides transported? We Are Tricycle are constantly travelling the length and breadth of the county to deliver fairground amusements from John O Groats to Lands End and beyond. How do we do it?
- Can mini golf be played indoors? If you're looking for indoor funfair fun, Mini Golf might be just what you need. There's no cries of 'fore' and no smashed windows when you play crazy golf safely.
- Can mini golf be played by all ages? When you want all-ages fun, then miniature golf is a sure-fire hit. Just remember to bring your patience if you're with young children!
- Can mini golf be played by all skill levels? Do you need any experience or technique to enjoy mini golf, or can beginners and amateurs have a go?
- What are the rules to mini golf? How do you play mini golf, and how does the scoring system work? Find out with We Are Tricycle!
- How much space is needed for giant garden games? Maximise the fun at your event with our giant garden games! These mighty classics pack a lot of fun into a small space.
- Can garden games be played by all ages? As garden games are supersized versions of childhood favourites, they can be played by anyone old enough to know the rules. There's a few health and safety considerations, however!
- Can I design my own roller coaster? With our bespoke funfair ride solutions, you can! Tell us about your dreams and we'll turn them into reality.
- Why is the Coconut Shy called the Coconut shy? Discover the etymology of the classic Coconut shy game here!
- How does the High Striker Strongman Challenge funfair stall work? The High Striker Test Your Strength funfair stall, also called the Strongman Challenge and Test Your Strength machine, is one of the most recognisable around, but what happens behind the curtain? Find out more about the mechanics of this classic attraction.
- How accurate is the Strongman Challenge? This Test Your Strength machine is the source of many disagreements. Find out how accurate it really is!
- Hoopla funfair side stall ideas - If you're considering hiring Hoopla for your event, get some great ideas for your funfair side stall with We Are Tricycle.
- Integrating arcade gaming machines into themed events: This guide for event planners details how to effectively match arcade gaming machines with specific event themes.
- How to decorate your event in a carnival style? Red and white stripes, music, lights and more - we explore the classic carnival and funfair decor.
- Customising arcade gaming events for different age groups: Detailing how to select and adapt arcade games, this guide ensures that each game aligns with the capabilities of different attendees.
- Arcade game hire for schools and educational facilities: Find out the role of arcade games in educational settings and their integration into school events and educational programs for interactive learning.
- Safety guidelines for arcade gaming machines: Read some safety measures and best practices for incorporating arcade gaming machines into events to prevent accidents and ensure a safe environment.
- How to incorporate live entertainment into your funfair: Music performances, shows, displays, workshops and more - there's so much live entertainment that can enhance a funfair or fairground! Discover more with We Are Tricycle.
- How can I get feedback after my funfair? If you're planning to host your funfair regularly, then receiving feedback and reviews after the event can be helpful in ironing out any problems.
Fairground Food FAQs
The food of the fairground is almost as important as the rides and attractions! Read these pages for some more information about your favourite foods from our food trikes, our food carts and bars or from our event caterers.
- How Mobile Food Carts & Bars Run at Outdoor Events: An explainer on power, water, waste and licensing for mobile catering, covering generator setups, floor plans and the unit types available.
- What is the history of ice cream? Ice cream has been known for millennia, but it was the creation of modern refrigeration techniques that turned this sweet treat into the international favourite it is today.
- Fast facts about candyfloss - Candy floss is one of the most mysterious funfair foods! How can you turn sugar into wispy floss?
- Fast facts about popcorn - Popcorn machines are truly amazing! How do they turn the kernels of corn into the crunchy snack we all know and love?
- How does a German Swing Grill work? Have you ever wondered how the German swing grill makes food so delicious? Find out here!
- Creepy Carnival Foods at Halloween: Seasonal menus and serving ideas for spooky fairs, from black candyfloss and pumpkin-spiced popcorn to themed hot drinks, plus ways to pair food stalls with Halloween Funfair Games & Stalls.
- Bonfire Night Food Traditions: A look at classic 5 November treats such as toffee apples, parkin, jacket potatoes and smoky grills from Event Catering Solutions, with notes on regional favourites and how to style stalls for fireworks events.
How to Beat Funfair Side Stalls and Games
We have a wide range of traditional funfair stalls and games for hire at We Are Tricycle, plus plenty of modern versions, too! Read our guidance to defeat the competition and win a prize!
- How to beat the Buzz Wire game - The Giant Buzz Wire game sees participants passing a wand through a curved wire, making sure that the wand doesn't make contact with the wire. How do you beat this fiendish challenge?
- How to climb the Unclimbable Ladder - Is it really unclimbable? You might need a few goes to get the knack for it, but with our reference guide and a lot of patience, we're sure you can succeed.
- How to win at Mini Golf - Do you take Crazy Golf seriously? Our service is never under-par, but with our advice, you might be!
- How to win at Pac Man - Pac Man is one of the most tried-and-tested arcade games in existence. Follow our advice and you'll know all the best tricks.
- How to beat the arcade coin pusher: The Arcade Coin Pusher is a test of timing and luck - but can you do anything to tip the scales in your favour?
- How to play the Dance Machine: You've seen the dance machine at arcades, bars, bowling alleys and more - but do you know how to play this arcade classic? Check out our instructions here.
- How to get the high score on the Dance Machine: We've learned how to play it - now find out how we beat the dance machine in our comprehensive guide.
- How to win at Street Fighter: There's no need to button bash any more. Follow our techniques and defeat the opponent every time.
- How to win Target Shooting fairground stalls - These sharp-shooting stalls put your skills to the test! Follow our advice to win a prize.
- How to win at the Ring Toss - The Ring Toss funfair stall is a beloved favourite that is evocative of back garden classics such as Hoopla. But how do you beat the Ring Toss? Find out here!
- How to win the Ball in the Bucket Slide Stall: This fairground stall take a little bit of patience and a very accurate throw. Get some more tips for the Ball in the Bucket funfair game here!
- How to play Giant Jenga: Giant Jenga is an exciting garden game that can be enjoyed by the whole family. How can you ensure you defeat the competition?
- How to play Giant Connect Four: This classic game is loved by young and old, with two players competing in a logical challenge. How do you play the game, and how might you win?
- How to win at Draughts: Draughts, also known as Checkers, is a fun game that can be enjoyed by all ages. How can you maximise your chances of winning?
- How to win at the Test Your Strength machine: Find out the best technique for the Strongman Challenge and boost your chances of winning a prize. The trick is in the swing!
- How to play the Hook a Duck game: Hook a Duck is a classic fairground game that can be enjoyed by almost all ages. Find out the rules of the game here!
Christmas Market FAQs
We're often spending much of December at Christmas markets at We Are Tricycle. With our Christmas-themed attractions, plus our Alpine Christmas huts and our giant snow globe, there's plenty of space for our services at festive events. Check out some of our Christmas Market FAQs below.
Exhibition Stand FAQs
We Are Tricycle spends a lot of time providing exhibition stand entertainment hire. We know these occasions inside and out, and are happy to share our expertise with you. Check out our exhibition stand FAQs below.
Teambuilding Day FAQ
Teambuilding days are very important for business cohesion, and we have a wide range of cool activities available that will get your team collaborating properly. Read on for some teambuilding event hire FAQs!
Contact We Are Tricycle
If you've got any more questions, or would like information on any of our rides, then visit our contact page, email info@wearetricycle.co.uk, or call us on the numbers below.