A cherished but often overlooked theme park in Devon is preparing to significantly enhance its visitor experience with the introduction of two major new thrill rides scheduled for the 2026 season. Crealy Theme Park & Resort, situated in Clyst St Mary near Exeter, has confirmed exciting expansion plans that will broaden its appeal while maintaining its strong family-friendly reputation.
Accolades and Existing Attractions
The park has recently garnered significant recognition, securing awards for Best Theme Park for Families (Small) and Best Theme Park for Toddlers (Small) at the 2025 UK Theme Park Awards. This success is largely attributed to its innovative Sooty Land area, Britain's first dedicated theme park zone based on the beloved children's television programme. The new rides will join an already impressive roster of over 60 attractions, including popular favourites like the Tidal Wave log flume and the uniquely Roman-themed Maximus Rollercoaster.
Spring 2026: Pirates' Plummet Drop Tower
Launching in spring 2026, Pirates' Plummet is set to become the tallest drop tower adventure in the entire South West region. This attraction is not entirely new to the UK scene, having previously operated at Paultons Park in Hampshire under the name Magma. However, its relocation to Devon comes with a complete thematic overhaul, now featuring a fresh pirate-inspired design and narrative.
The ride will cater to thrill-seekers meeting specific height requirements. Guests must be over 110cm to experience the drop, while younger visitors and teenagers wishing to ride alone will need to exceed 130cm in height. This strategic addition aims to provide exhilarating moments for older children and adults visiting the park.
Summer 2026: Rotor Inverted Attraction
Following in the summer months will be the debut of Rotor, promoted as the South West's very first inverted attraction. This high-speed adrenaline ride promises to deliver intense sensations by rotating and flipping passengers in a manner that creates the illusion of defying gravity. While specific operational details remain limited at this stage, preview images show participants securely fastened in specialised seating arrangements, hinting at a dynamic and immersive experience.
Strategic Expansion and Family Legacy
In an official statement, park management revealed their strategic ambition to expand the park's appeal to older children and teenagers while continuing to deliver memorable experiences for visitors of all generations. This balanced approach reflects Crealy's evolution since first opening its gates in the late 1980s, during which it has consistently grown as a beloved multi-generational destination.
The recent years have seen substantial investment, most notably with the 2022 launch of Sooty Land. This dedicated area features The Sooty Show Live, where families can watch Sooty, Sweep, and their companions perform in a specially crafted stage production. It also includes four themed rides such as Sweep's Flying Circus and Izzy Wizzy Let's Get Dizzy, alongside character meet-and-greet opportunities for younger visitors.
Comprehensive Visitor Experience
Crealy has developed into a comprehensive resort destination since introducing on-site accommodation options back in 2012. Visitors can now choose from various lodging styles including comfortable lodges, glamorous camping facilities, and traditional camping pitches. The park offers convenient stay-and-play packages that combine accommodation with unlimited park entry throughout the duration of a family's break, enhancing the overall value proposition.
Positioned conveniently near Exeter, basing a holiday at Crealy provides easy access to numerous local attractions. The historic city of Exeter boasts landmarks like the magnificent Exeter Cathedral and the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, housed within a stunning Victorian building. A short journey towards the coast reveals the classic British seaside resort of Exmouth, with its expansive sandy beach and charming traditional atmosphere.
Exmouth further offers family-friendly destinations such as the World of Country Life, a farming museum with both indoor and outdoor exhibits, and the delightful Exmouth Museum where visitors can explore the rich historical tapestry of South Devon. These surrounding attractions complement the theme park experience, making the region an ideal choice for extended family holidays.
