UK’s best seaside attraction is like stepping into a time capsule – with huge indoor play area for kids

A FAMILY amusement arcade in Merseyside has been voted the nation's favourite seaside attraction.

in New Brighton has been at the forefront of seaside entertainment in the town for over a century.

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The funfair was built in 1939 after being commissioned by W H Wilkie, the present owner's grandfather.

During World War Two, amusements gave way to an ammunition factory, which is still partly preserved, and the New Palace became US Army spot 0616.

Today, there's a traditional family amusement arcade, The Bright Spot, which includes state of the art video driving, adventure and shooting simulators, dance games, as well as mini bowling and toy grabbers.

Adventureland is its indoor children's play area, which was fully refurbished in 2003.

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It's one of the largest indoor children's play areas in the country, with a 30ft snake slide, a 25ft climbing wall, ropes to climb, ball ponds, large inflatables and soft play areas.

New Palace and Adventureland was voted favourite seaside place and experience by the public as part of The Seaside Heritage Network's Bucket and Spade List.

Other attractions that made the list were Vetnor Paddling Pool in the Isle of Wight and the Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare.

The New Palace and Adventureland also offers fully-catered children's parties in its Party Room.

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And if the weather's good, children can enjoy the outdoor funfair, which features traditional and modern rides.

One voter for The Seaside Heritage Network's list said they'd been visiting the New Palace since they were five years old.

They now take their grandchildren there, who also love it.

They said: "The building is iconic and very little has changed in 65 years, it is part of New Brighton's heritage."

Another voter noted how the attraction was from an era when New Brighton was the place to be seen.

They added: "It has everything quintessentially seaside amusements, ice cream, beach ware, cafes, and candy floss."

David Wilkie, owner and manager of the New Palace and Adventureland, said 'all the fun of the fair' is one phrase that reflects the family's commitment and dedication to providing New Brighton with an unforgettable attraction.

He said: "To be awarded first place in the Seaside Heritage Network Bucket and Spade list is the icing on the cake - not only for the resort's tourism - past, present and future - but for all the generations who have taken the Palace to their hearts."

No booking is required for New Palace and Adventureland, but entry for one hour is £7.50, £12 for two hours, and an all day pass is £20.

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