UK’s oldest mainland theme park reveals brand new ride this summer
THE UK's oldest mainland theme park has launched a brand new ride for visitors this summer.
With the warmer weather finally starting to arrive more people are planning days out to theme parks throughout the country.
One place they could consider is Kettering's Wicksteed Park, which has launched its new Garden Wheel ride attraction.
The 25-metre-tall ferris wheel features 18 gondolas and provides stunning views out across the park and the surrounding Northamptonshire countryside.
The ferris wheel, which can accommodate up to 72 passengers, is now situated at the top end of the park and is included in the price of a wristband.
Sam Towers, Operations Manager at the park said: “The new Garden Wheel provides an entirely new dimension to the visitor experience and offers an incredible bird’s eye view of the Park.
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"It's is a fantastic addition and we’re sure it will become a firm favourite with visitors."
The Garden Wheel is part of an ongoing programme of investment in the Park which has included the launch of the new Galaxy Invaders ride, Meerkat Manor, Wicky Bear’s Theatre and Wicky’s Farmyard over the past two years.
Entry to the park is free, however tickets for rides and attractions can either be purchased individually at £3 per person, while day wrist bands are available at £22 for unlimited access.
The wristbands allow guests to go on all the park's rides and
attractions, except Wicky’s Play Factory.
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Wicksteed Park is the oldest theme park on the UK's mainland, after it opened in 1921.
It was initially due to be a model village after owner Charles Wicksteed bought the land in 1913, but he changed his mind after World War One and wanted to create a park for people to spend their leisure time.
Charles was also an inventor and designed and built play equipment, often using bits and pieces from his engineering business to create swings and slides "to thrill young and old alike".
While the Garden Wheel is the newest addition to the park, some of its oldest attractions remain in place.
They include the large lake and the railway, which were built in 1917 and 1931 respectively.
A number of prefabricated houses were also built in the park, some of which still exist and can be seen to this day.
The park celebrated its 100-year anniversary the year before last.
Meanwhile, another of Britain's oldest theme parks also launched a new ride for its guests this summer.
And this is the best value theme park to visit this year.
