Aerial images reveal the current state of the now-closed Oakwood theme park as iconic rides are being taken down, marking the end of an era for this beloved tourist attraction. Oakwood Theme Park, once a bustling and vibrant destination in Wales, has officially shut its doors ahead of the 2025 season, leaving a void in the community and in the hearts of many who have cherished memories of visiting the park. The closure of Wales’ largest theme park, known for rides like the Megafobia wooden rollercoaster, Speed, and Vertigo, has had a profound impact on both locals and visitors who have enjoyed its offerings over the years.
The decision to close Oakwood Theme Park after four decades was announced earlier this month, with dwindling visitor numbers and financial challenges cited as the primary reasons behind the move. The park was taken over by the Spanish company, Aspro, in 2008, which operates leisure parks across multiple countries. The closure of Oakwood represents a significant loss for nearby communities that have long depended on the park’s tourist influx to sustain local businesses and livelihoods. As attractions are being dismantled in the aftermath of the closure announcement, the once-teeming theme park now stands as a sombre reminder of its former glory.
Among the iconic rides being taken down is the Megafobia wooden rollercoaster, a fan favourite since its inception in the 1990s. The Pirate Ship ride, known for its swinging thrill, is also being disassembled, along with other attractions like Snake River Falls and Speed: No Limits – a rollercoaster that held the title of Wales’ tallest, fastest, and steepest. The sight of these rides being deconstructed serves as a poignant reminder of the park’s vibrant past and the joy it brought to countless visitors.
Oakwood Theme Park’s closure not only impacts the local economy but also stirs up nostalgic sentiments among those who have fond memories of visiting the park. A petition has been launched in hopes of saving the amusement park, underscoring the emotional attachment and sense of loss felt by supporters and former patrons. Despite efforts to revitalise the park in the past, including significant investments in refurbishments, the decision to close Oakwood has left many grappling with a feeling of sadness and a sense of finality.
The owners of Oakwood, Aspro, have expressed their gratitude to the park’s loyal supporters and visitors over the years, acknowledging the role the theme park has played in the lives of generations. As the community mourns the end of an era, reflections on Oakwood’s legacy as a cherished destination for family outings and school trips abound. While the park’s closure marks the conclusion of a chapter in its history, the memories created within its gates will endure as a testament to the joy and excitement it once brought to all who crossed its threshold.
As the dismantling of rides continues and the once-vibrant park transforms into a quiet relic of the past, the closure of Oakwood Theme Park serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of beloved attractions and the enduring impact they have on both individuals and communities. While the future of the site remains uncertain, the legacy of Oakwood will live on in the hearts and minds of those who were fortunate enough to experience its magic during its heyday.