What is the History of Small Funfair Rides?
The history of funfair rides has seen the creation of towering rollercoasters and adrenaline-pumping attractions. Yet, it's the smaller fairground rides that often hold a special place in the hearts of visitors, thanks to their use by families and children. These funfair rides have a rich history; explore the story of some of your favourites below!
Dodgems: A Funfair Staple
The dodgems traces its origins back to 1921. Billy Butlin, a name forever linked with British holiday parks, recognised the potential of this novel attraction and introduced the first dodgems to Britain in 1928. This innovation marked a significant moment in the history of funfair rides, combining the thrill of driving with the safety and fun of a controlled environment. Find out more in our history of the dodgems!
Carousel Innovations
Carousels have long been a cornerstone of funfair entertainment, with modern variations breathing new life into this classic ride. This beloved ride traces its origins back to the 12th century in Europe and the Middle East, initially serving as a military training exercise for soldiers. These early iterations involved real horses and were quite different from the carousels we know today, which only began to resemble modern merry-go-rounds by the mid-19th century with model horses and manual cranking mechanisms.
The Victorian era saw a surge in the carousel's popularity, coinciding with the rise of leisure activities and the accessibility of amusement parks to a broader public, thanks to increased wages and workers' rights.
See more in the history of the carousel!
The Fairground Thrills of Powered Launch Rides
Modern amusement parks have introduced powered launch rides, propelling riders vertically at high speeds. The Ice Blast, opened in 1997 at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, shoots riders up a 185-foot tower, offering breath-taking views and heart-stopping thrills. Similarly, the Volcano at Fantasy Island in Ingoldmells propels riders up to 200 feet at speeds of 70 mph.
These thrill rides showcase the technological advancements and creativity within the funfair and theme park industry.
Small Funfair Rides for Younger Guests
Recognising the need for attractions suited to younger visitors, amusement parks have developed children's funfair rides to offer kids sedate versions of their thrilling counterparts. Small carousels and rollercoasters are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for children, offering them the excitement of the funfair at a scale and pace that's right for them.
The Helter Skelter: A Nostalgic Favourite
The helter skelter, though gradually becoming rarer, remains a beloved attraction where it continues to operate. With its history at Blackpool Pleasure Beach dating back to 1906 and a longstanding presence on Brighton Pier since 1977, the helter skelter epitomises the timeless appeal of funfair rides. See more of the history of the Helter Skelter here!
Discover the charm and history of small funfair rides with We Are Tricycle. Visit our funfair rides and fairground games for a glimpse into the past and present of amusement park entertainment.
Check out our history of big funfair rides!