Thorpe Park Announces Major Transformation with Closure of Iconic Amity Beach
In a significant shift for one of the UK's premier theme parks, Thorpe Park in Surrey has confirmed that its beloved Amity Beach attraction will not reopen for the 2026 season. This iconic section, which has welcomed visitors since 1991, will be replaced by The Launchpad, a newly designed recharge zone aimed at enhancing the experience for thrill-seekers. The park made the announcement via social media, sharing concept art and details about the upcoming changes, marking the end of an era for a staple of summer fun.
A Nostalgic Farewell to a Decades-Landmark
Amity Beach launched over three decades ago, positioned near the park's entrance to greet guests with its artificial beach, paddling pool, and splash park. It quickly became a favorite during warm weather, offering a refreshing escape for families and young visitors. The attraction also featured Depth Charge, a popular four-lane water slide where riders descended in inflatable dinghies, creating memorable splashes at the base. While the park has not explicitly stated whether Depth Charge will also close, its absence from promotional materials for The Launchpad suggests it may be part of the overhaul.
To commemorate Amity Beach's legacy, Thorpe Park posted nostalgic throwback photos on social media, highlighting celebrity visits and special events over the years. Notably, Princess Diana and a young Prince Harry were captured enjoying the Depth Charge ride in 1992, adding to the attraction's storied history. Other events, such as Love Island Lates with meet-and-greets, further cemented its role as a vibrant hub within the park.
Introducing The Launchpad: A Modern Recharge Zone
The Launchpad is set to debut in 2026 as a dedicated space for visitors to rest, reset, and refuel between adrenaline-pumping rides. Designed with thrill-seekers in mind, this new zone will feature seating areas, including covered spots, and a vibrant aesthetic, strategically located near some of Thorpe Park's most intense rollercoasters. In its announcement, the park emphasized the importance of recharging amidst the excitement, stating, "As the UK's Most Thrilling Theme Park, we recognise how important it is to recharge between our exhilarating rides, and this space will be the perfect place to do that."
This transformation aligns with Thorpe Park's ongoing evolution, which includes recent additions like Hyperia, the UK's tallest and fastest rollercoaster unveiled in 2024 for the park's 45th anniversary. Other thrill rides such as Stealth, The Swarm, SAW-The Ride, Nemesis Inferno, and Colossus continue to draw crowds, making the need for a recharge zone increasingly relevant.
Practical Details for Visitors
Thorpe Park is scheduled to reopen for the 2026 season on March 27, with tickets starting from £32 for individuals over 1.2 meters in height when purchased online in advance. Children under this height can enter for free, offering family-friendly accessibility. Additionally, the park provides overnight accommodation through its Thorpe Shark Cabins, basic ensuite units that sleep up to four guests. Each stay includes two days of park access, complimentary parking, and a buffet breakfast, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
As Thorpe Park bids farewell to Amity Beach, this change reflects a broader trend in theme park innovation, focusing on balancing high-energy attractions with spaces for relaxation. The Launchpad promises to offer a fresh, modern alternative, ensuring that the park remains a top destination for adventure and leisure in the years to come.
