Britain’s Oldest Rollercoaster Permanently Closes After Over a Century
In a significant loss for rollercoaster enthusiasts in Britain, the Scenic Railway at Dreamland Margate has permanently closed its doors. This iconic ride, which holds the title of Britain’s oldest rollercoaster, ceased operations after over a century of thrilling guests.
Historical Significance of the Scenic Railway
The Scenic Railway first opened in 1920. Over the years, it has become a cherished part of British amusement park history. The rollercoaster has weathered various challenges, including:
- Surviving World War II
- Enduring accidental fires in 1949 and 1957
- Withstanding an arson attack in 2008
In 2015, the ride underwent extensive restoration as part of an £18 million redevelopment of Dreamland, a park that had been closed for a decade. Despite these efforts, a fault discovered in 2024 led to its closure and eventual permanent shutdown.
The Closure Announcement
The operators at Dreamland announced the closure on January 27, stating that the ride had reached the end of its life after more than 100 years. They confirmed that extensive consultations and inspections had informed their decision to retire the historic ride.
Community Reaction
The news has sparked disappointment among local fans and officials. Councillor Helen Whitehead has reached out to the culture secretary, emphasizing the Scenic Railway’s international importance. Meanwhile, Dreamland is exploring options for its future.
Future of the Scenic Railway
Despite the closure, there may still be a place for the Scenic Railway in Margate’s future. Dreamland plans to host a pop-up exhibition later this year, showcasing the ride’s history. They are also seeking public input on how to repurpose the iconic attraction.
Community Involvement
Suggestions from the public could include:
- Creating a light display
- Transforming it into an open-air museum
As the local community engages with the park, there is hope that the spirit of the Scenic Railway can be preserved in a new form.
For ongoing updates and news about the Scenic Railway and other local attractions, visit Filmogaz.com.
