Ten miles southwest of Cardiff, Barry Island Pleasure Park is perhaps the oldest amusement park in Wales, situated on the coast at Barry Island in the Vale of Glamorgan.
The current Pleasure Park continues the long tradition of seaside escapism first popularised on Barry by the Victorians. Nicknamed ‘Barrybados’ by locals, this is a fun-packed location for a summer day out with the kids. Rides include a breathtaking roller coaster, the Sky Flyer, Freak-Out, Miami Fever and the traditional draws of the Waltzer, Dodgems and trampolines.
Overlooking the wide sandy beach of Whitmore Bay, Barry Island Pleasure Park allows you to let the kids have their fill of rides and candy floss and still enjoy a refreshing dip and a play in the sand. Whitmore regularly wins the coveted Blue Flag beach awards, meaning the water here is as clean as it gets.
Currently undergoing a five year renovation, Barry Island Pleasure Park has plans to relaunch as one of the top tourist attractions in Wales. For thousands of families, it’s an iconic part of the national seaside heritage, well served by its own train station which offers a regular service from across South Wales. If you’re attempting a visit during peak season, a good tip would be to make use of the park and ride facilities nearby: the car park can have some legendary queues on busy days.
