Thorpe Park, the renowned theme park in Surrey, has announced a significant change to one of its longest-standing attractions. After an impressive 35-year run, the main area of Amity Beach will not reopen for the 2026 season. This family-friendly spot, celebrated for its artificial sandy shores, playful fountains, paddling pool, and four-lane water slide, first opened its doors in 1991 and has been a beloved summer retreat for generations of visitors.
A New Era Begins with The Launchpad
In a move that marks the end of an era, Thorpe Park confirmed via social media that the primary beach section is being removed to make way for a brand-new facility named 'The Launchpad.' This innovative space is designed as a recharge zone, specifically tailored for thrillseekers to rest, reset, and refuel between adrenaline-pumping rides. The park emphasised its commitment to enhancing the visitor experience, stating that as the UK's Most Thrilling Theme Park, providing areas for relaxation is crucial.
What Remains and What Changes
Fortunately for families, the smaller side of Amity Beach will continue to operate seasonally, ensuring that some of the classic fun is preserved. However, the transformation focuses on the main area, where The Launchpad will feature an open-plan layout with vibrant rubber flooring, ample seating, shaded spots, kiosks, flower boxes, and planted trees, as revealed in concept art shared on Instagram.
Not all elements of Amity Beach are disappearing. The exhilarating Depth Charge waterslide, known for its thrilling dinghy rides, will return for the 2026 season, maintaining a link to the attraction's storied past. Thorpe Park recently shared nostalgic photos highlighting Amity Beach's rich history, including visits from royalty like Princess Diana and Prince Harry in 1992, as well as high-profile celebrities and themed events such as Love Island Lates.
Contrasting Fortunes in UK Attractions
While Thorpe Park invests in renewal, another UK attraction faces a different fate. In Blackpool, the Peter Rabbit Explore and Play venture, a £1 million children's attraction operated by Merlin Entertainments, has closed after just three years. Opened in 2022, this interactive experience based on the beloved animated series offered a 45-minute adventure through themed zones but shut its doors in November 2025 and has not reopened, according to local reports.
This closure highlights the challenges in the leisure industry, contrasting with Thorpe Park's proactive approach to updating its offerings. The park's decision to replace Amity Beach with The Launchpad reflects a strategic shift towards catering to modern thrillseekers while honouring its heritage through retained features and nostalgic tributes.
