Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach: Historic Seaside Amusement Park
Historic seaside amusement park blending vintage charm and modern thrills on Great Yarmouth’s iconic seafront.
Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach is a classic British seaside amusement park located on the seafront of Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. Established in 1909, it spans nine acres and features a blend of historic and modern rides including the iconic wooden Roller Coaster from 1932. The park offers family-friendly attractions, thrilling coasters, a 4D cinema, and traditional seaside charm with arcades and food stalls, making it a vibrant destination for all ages.
A brief summary to Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach
- The Pleasure Beach, S Beach Parade, Great Yarmouth, NR30 3EH, GB
- +441493844585
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-5 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-5 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-5 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-5 pm
- Friday 12 pm-5 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Purchase Fun Cards or wristbands in advance for better value and faster entry.
- Try the wooden Roller Coaster early to avoid longer queues later in the day.
- Visit during weekday evenings for fewer crowds and potential late opening deals.
- Don’t miss the Upside Down House for unique photos and family fun.
- Combine your visit with a stroll on the adjacent sandy beach for a full seaside experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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By Train
From Great Yarmouth railway station, the Pleasure Beach is approximately 1 mile away. A taxi or local bus can take about 5–10 minutes. The station is served by regular trains from Norwich and other regional hubs. Walking is possible but involves a 20–25 minute stroll along urban streets.
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By Car
Access via the A47 or A149 leads to the seafront area where the park is located. Parking is available near the park for around £6 per day. Travel times vary but typically range from 10 to 30 minutes from central Great Yarmouth. Expect busy conditions during peak season and limited parking on-site.
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By Bus
Local bus services connect Great Yarmouth town center to the seafront area near the Pleasure Beach. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with journey times around 10–15 minutes. Check local timetables for service frequency and routes.
Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach
Legacy of a Seaside Icon
Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach has been a beloved fixture on the Norfolk coast since its opening in 1909. Over the decades, it has evolved from a modest amusement site into a bustling nine-acre park that combines vintage charm with contemporary thrills. The park’s centerpiece is the wooden Roller Coaster, which debuted in 1932 and remains one of only two wooden scenic railway coasters in the UK. This historic ride requires a brakesperson to control its speed, preserving a unique, hands-on heritage experience cherished by enthusiasts and families alike.Thrills and Family Fun
The park offers a diverse range of attractions catering to all ages and tastes. Alongside the famed wooden Roller Coaster, visitors can enjoy four roller coasters in total, including the Family Star spinning coaster and the Big Apple Coaster. The Upside Down House provides quirky, gravity-defying fun, while the 4D cinema delivers immersive multi-sensory experiences with moving seats, water sprays, and special effects. Numerous flat rides, from spinning classics to drop towers and a gyro swing, ensure that thrill-seekers and children alike find excitement.Seaside Atmosphere and Amenities
Nestled on Great Yarmouth’s golden seafront, the Pleasure Beach blends amusement with traditional British seaside culture. Visitors can stroll along the sandy beach, enjoy classic fish and chips, or explore arcades and sweet shops nearby. The park’s layout includes catering facilities offering a variety of food and drink options, including ice cream and candy floss. Seating areas, restrooms, and information boards are available to enhance visitor comfort.Seasonal Operation and Visitor Experience
The park operates seasonally, generally open from late March through early November, with daily hours typically from midday to late afternoon or early evening. Wristbands and Fun Cards provide flexible access to rides, with options for unlimited rides or pay-per-ride credits. The park is well maintained, with ongoing updates and new attractions like Leo’s Jungle Journey added for the 2025 season. Staff are known for being friendly and helpful, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.Historic Significance and Cultural Value
Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach is not only an entertainment venue but also a cultural landmark preserving early 20th-century amusement park heritage. Its wooden Roller Coaster is a rare surviving example of scenic railway design, linking visitors to a bygone era of leisure. The park’s continued operation and careful preservation efforts make it a living museum of seaside amusement history, complemented by modern attractions that keep it relevant and engaging.Community and Events
Beyond daily rides, the Pleasure Beach hosts seasonal events such as the award-winning Fairground Frights in October, adding festive excitement to the visitor experience. The park’s integration with the local community and its location at the southern end of Great Yarmouth’s famous Golden Mile make it a hub for family outings, celebrations, and cultural engagement throughout the year.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Medieval Town Wall
0.9 km
Discover Great Yarmouth's Medieval Town Wall, a captivating historical landmark showcasing the town's rich heritage and architectural marvels.
War Memorial
1.4 km
Explore the War Memorial in Great Yarmouth, a poignant tribute to local heroes and a significant historical landmark reflecting the town's rich heritage.
English Heritage - Greyfriars Cloisters
1.4 km
Experience the rich history and serene beauty of Greyfriars Cloisters, a hidden gem in Great Yarmouth's historical landscape.
Pudding tower
1.8 km
Explore the enchanting Pudding Tower in Great Yarmouth, a historical landmark that offers a unique glimpse into the maritime heritage of the region.
The Broads National Park
9.6 km
Explore the breathtaking waterways and rich wildlife of The Broads National Park, a hidden gem in Norfolk and Suffolk perfect for nature lovers.
The Broads
9.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of The Broads, a national park filled with picturesque waterways, diverse wildlife, and charming villages perfect for outdoor adventures.
St Olave's Priory
9.8 km
Discover St Olave's Priory, a historical gem in Great Yarmouth, where heritage and tranquility intertwine amidst stunning medieval architecture.
Discover the Norfolk Broads
13.4 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquil waterways of the Norfolk Broads, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in East Anglia.
Potter Heigham bridge
16.6 km
Discover the charm of Potter Heigham Bridge, an iconic historical landmark in the heart of Norfolk's stunning Broads, perfect for scenic walks and photography.
Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden
17.8 km
Explore the natural beauty of Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden, where lush landscapes meet serene waters in the heart of Norfolk.
St. Benet's Abbey
17.9 km
Discover the enchanting ruins of St. Benet's Abbey, a historical gem in Great Yarmouth, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and rich heritage.
Hickling Broad
18.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Hickling Broad, a premier nature reserve in Norfolk perfect for birdwatching, walking, and kayaking.
Ranworth Broad
20.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ranworth Broad, a tranquil waterway in Norfolk perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking peace and adventure.
Wheatfen Broad - Ted Ellis Trust
20.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Wheatfen Broad, a nature reserve near Norwich, rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Toad Hole Cottage Museum
20.6 km
Explore the Toad Hole Cottage Museum and dive into the rich history of the Norfolk Broads in a charming and serene setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
4D Cinema
0.1 km
Dive into a thrilling 4D cinematic adventure at Great Yarmouth's Pleasure Beach, where movies come alive with immersive effects and excitement.
Great Yarmouth South Beach
0.2 km
Experience the beauty of Great Yarmouth South Beach, a vibrant coastal paradise with golden sands, exciting activities, and picturesque views.
Grand Prix
0.4 km
Experience the thrill of go-kart racing at the Grand Prix, a must-visit attraction in Great Yarmouth's renowned Pleasure Beach.
Pleasure Beach Mining Company
0.4 km
Experience the thrill and nostalgia of Pleasure Beach Mining Company, a premier seaside amusement park in Great Yarmouth, filled with fun for all ages.
Pleasure Beach Gardens
0.4 km
Experience the tranquil allure of Pleasure Beach Gardens, a vibrant park in Great Yarmouth with stunning landscapes and playful adventures for all ages.
Learners’ Driving School (Kids’ coin-operated cars)
0.4 km
Explore the fun-filled Learners’ Driving School at Great Yarmouth’s Pleasure Beach, where kids can enjoy driving their own coin-operated cars in a safe environment.
The Upside Down House - Great Yarmouth
0.4 km
Discover the whimsical Upside Down House in Great Yarmouth, where gravity takes a holiday and fun awaits for visitors of all ages.
Merrivale Model Village
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Merrivale Model Village, where whimsical miniature landscapes and thrilling fairground rides await your exploration.
Nelson's Monument
0.6 km
Discover the iconic Nelson's Monument in Great Yarmouth, a historic tribute to Britain's naval hero with stunning views and rich maritime history.
Winter Gardens
0.7 km
Discover the beauty of Winter Gardens in Great Yarmouth, a Victorian glasshouse filled with exotic plants and vibrant floral displays.
SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth
0.7 km
Explore the depths of the ocean at SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth, where adventure and education meet in an unforgettable aquatic experience.
Medieval Town Wall Open Space
0.8 km
Discover the Medieval Town Wall Open Space in Great Yarmouth, where history meets nature in a beautiful park setting perfect for all visitors.
Time and Tide Museum of Great Yarmouth Life
0.9 km
Uncover the maritime history and cultural treasures of Great Yarmouth at the Time and Tide Museum, a family-friendly destination for all ages.
The South East Tower
0.9 km
Discover the South East Tower in Great Yarmouth, a historical landmark that unveils the maritime heritage of this charming coastal town.
Hippodrome Circus
1.0 km
Experience the magic of the Hippodrome Circus in Great Yarmouth, where thrilling performances and family-friendly entertainment await.
Essential places to dine
Great Yarmouth Seafront Beefeater
0.3 km
Experience delicious steaks and British classics at Great Yarmouth Seafront Beefeater with stunning coastal views.
HMS Hinchinbrook great Yarmouth
0.9 km
Experience exceptional seafood at HMS Hinchinbrook - Great Yarmouth's premier fish restaurant offering modern British flavors with stunning seaside views.
Zaks Yankee Traveller
1.3 km
Indulge in authentic American cuisine at Zaks Yankee Traveller in Great Yarmouth - where delicious burgers meet vibrant decor.
Quayside Plaza
1.4 km
Experience Mediterranean cuisine at Quayside Plaza in Great Yarmouth—where delicious flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Metropole Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience authentic British dining at Metropole Restaurant in Great Yarmouth - where tradition meets flavor along the beautiful coast.
Ocean Spray
1.5 km
Experience exquisite seafood and steak at Ocean Spray on Marine Parade – where coastal dining meets culinary excellence.
JAN Restaurant
1.5 km
Discover exceptional dining at JAN Restaurant in Great Yarmouth—where local flavors meet culinary creativity.
Othello
1.5 km
Discover Othello in Great Yarmouth – where Mediterranean flavors meet fresh seafood in an inviting seaside setting.
Olive Garden
1.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Olive Garden in Gorleston-on-Sea - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and warmth.
Chico's Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience delightful seafood and steak at Chico's Restaurant on Marine Parade in Great Yarmouth - a true taste of coastal cuisine.
Charcoal Grill
1.5 km
Experience coastal cuisine at Charcoal Grill, where fresh seafood meets charming seaside dining in Great Yarmouth.
The Courtyard Italian Restaurante
1.5 km
Experience the essence of Italy at The Courtyard Italian Restaurante with authentic dishes in a cozy setting.
The Arches
1.6 km
Experience the essence of British cuisine at The Arches in Great Yarmouth - where tradition meets taste.
Alexandra Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience exquisite dining at Alexandra Restaurant in Great Yarmouth – where flavor meets hospitality in a cozy setting.
Charlie's Tapas Restaurant
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Spain at Charlie's Tapas Restaurant in Great Yarmouth – where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Loft Emporium
0.5 km
Discover The Loft Emporium in Great Yarmouth - a unique shopping center blending local craftsmanship with a cozy atmosphere.
Aurora Gift Store
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts at Aurora Gift Store in Great Yarmouth – a charming shop filled with local crafts and delightful souvenirs.
Gift Emporium
0.6 km
Explore the Gift Emporium in Great Yarmouth for unique souvenirs and local crafts, capturing the coastal charm of this vibrant town.
Picnic Patch
1.0 km
Immerse yourself in vintage style at Picnic Patch, Great Yarmouth's go-to destination for retro clothing and unique fashion finds.
Life's A Beach
1.1 km
Explore Life's A Beach, a charming gift shop in Great Yarmouth, offering unique souvenirs and local treasures that capture the spirit of the seaside.
Crown Stores
1.4 km
Discover convenience at Crown Stores in Great Yarmouth, your one-stop shop for essentials, snacks, and local treats during your travels.
Ferailles Shop - (Knot Just A Furniture Shop!) - Great Yarmouth
1.4 km
Explore Ferailles Shop in Great Yarmouth for a unique blend of antique furniture, art, and fashion accessories that captures the essence of local craftsmanship.
Mermaid Quay
1.4 km
Discover unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at Mermaid Quay, Great Yarmouth's charming gift shop and craft haven.
Grasshopper
1.5 km
Shop at Grasshopper for unique gifts and souvenirs in Great Yarmouth, capturing the spirit of your visit to this charming seaside town.
What Is Hip
1.5 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and homewares in Gorleston-on-Sea's charming What Is Hip shop, where each piece tells a unique story.
Handmade GIFTS AND CRAFTS From Bali
1.5 km
Discover authentic handmade gifts and crafts from Bali in Great Yarmouth, celebrating the vibrant artistry and culture of Indonesia.
Steve's 'n' Mix
1.5 km
Explore Steve's 'n' Mix in Great Yarmouth for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of your coastal adventure.
Martyns Walk Round Store
1.5 km
Explore unique gifts and souvenirs at Martyns Walk Round Store in Great Yarmouth, where every find is a piece of art and memory.
Branded Collectibles
1.6 km
Explore Branded Collectibles in Great Yarmouth for unique memorabilia and a nostalgic journey through pop culture collectibles.
Cottage Jewels
1.6 km
Explore exquisite handcrafted jewelry at Cottage Jewels in Great Yarmouth, where elegance meets artistry in every piece.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Rumbold Arms
0.8 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Rumbold Arms in Great Yarmouth, where delicious food and friendly service await every visitor.
The Alexandra Freehouse
0.8 km
Discover the charm of The Alexandra Freehouse in Great Yarmouth, a delightful pub offering a warm atmosphere and a fine selection of drinks.
The Red Herring
0.9 km
Discover the charm of The Red Herring, a cozy pub in Great Yarmouth offering local ales and traditional British fare in a warm atmosphere.
The Marine
0.9 km
Experience the charm of The Marine in Great Yarmouth, where traditional pub vibes meet modern dining with stunning sea views.
The Landmark
1.2 km
Discover The Landmark in Great Yarmouth - A family-friendly grill and pub with an indoor playground, serving delicious meals and drinks by the seaside.
The Blue Oyster
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Blue Oyster, Great Yarmouth's favorite bar, where every sip comes with a splash of fun and friendly service.
Liberty's Rock Cafe
1.3 km
Discover the heart and soul of Great Yarmouth at Liberty's Rock Cafe, where great food, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere await.
Merlin’s Sports Bar
1.3 km
Experience the thrill of live sports at Merlin's Sports Bar in Great Yarmouth, where good food and great company come together.
The Empire
1.4 km
Discover Great Yarmouth's vibrant entertainment scene at The Empire, where live music, comedy, and delicious dining come together by the sea.
In The Mix
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at In The Mix, Great Yarmouth's premier cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Uptown Bar
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Uptown Bar in Great Yarmouth, where affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Peggotys Lounge
1.5 km
Discover the heart of Great Yarmouth at Peggotty's Lounge, a charming pub and restaurant serving delicious food and local brews.
The William Adams
1.6 km
Experience the warmth of Gorleston-on-Sea at The William Adams, a beloved pub offering hearty breakfasts and refreshing local ales.
Prince Regent
1.6 km
Discover the warmth and tradition of the Prince Regent Pub in Great Yarmouth, a must-visit for tourists seeking local flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
Troll Cart Wetherspoons Great Yarmouth
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Troll Cart Wetherspoons in Great Yarmouth, where hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Family Friendly
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Fun
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
