Pleasure Beach Gardens
Free seaside fun with quirky attractions, family rides, and award-winning tearooms—a relaxed alternative to the main park.
A free, family-friendly outdoor amusement area located just steps from Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach on South Beach Parade. Packed with activities including 12-hole safari-themed crazy golf, the quirky Upside-Down House, coin-operated go-karts for all ages, gold panning, and multiple food vendors. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon of seaside fun without the main park's admission fees.
A brief summary to Pleasure Beach Gardens
- The Pleasure Beach Gardens, S Beach Parade, Great Yarmouth, NR30 3EH, GB
- +441493844585
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Bring coins for the go-kart attractions and gold panning—these are coin-operated and add up quickly if multiple children want to participate multiple times.
- Visit Sara's Tearooms for homemade cakes and meals; it's award-winning and dog-friendly, with seating along the sea wall offering a more upscale dining experience than the kiosks.
- The Upside-Down House is genuinely unique and perfect for photos—arrive early or during quieter times to avoid waiting and get the best selfie opportunities.
- Check height requirements for Jurassic Gardens (minimum 1.3m) before queuing; younger or shorter children should stick to the Learners' driving school or Grand Prix instead.
- The Gardens are entirely outdoors with plenty of benches—bring sunscreen, hats, and layers as weather protection, especially during windy coastal conditions.
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 Car from Great Yarmouth Town Centre
From the A47 or A143, follow signposts toward Great Yarmouth seafront. The Pleasure Beach Gardens are located at the southern end of the seafront on South Beach Parade. Journey time is approximately 10–15 minutes from the town centre. Parking is available at the south end of the park for £6 all day, with additional seafront car parks nearby. The venue is clearly signposted along the seafront route.
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By Train and Local Bus
From Great Yarmouth Railway Station, the Pleasure Beach Gardens are approximately 1 mile away. Take a local bus service heading toward the seafront—multiple routes serve the Golden Mile area. Journey time is approximately 15–20 minutes depending on the route and traffic. Alternatively, a taxi from the station takes approximately 5–10 minutes. Bus stops are located along Marine Parade near the Gardens.
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On Foot from Great Yarmouth Seafront
If staying in central Great Yarmouth, the Gardens are accessible via a pleasant walk along the seafront. From the town centre, allow approximately 20–30 minutes to reach the Gardens on foot. The route is flat and follows the seafront promenade, offering coastal views throughout. The Gardens are located at the far end of Marine Parade, just prior to the main Pleasure Beach entrance.
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Landau or Land Train from Main Pleasure Beach
The main Pleasure Beach operates seasonal Landau (horse-drawn carriage) and Land Train services along the seafront. These can transport visitors directly to the Pleasure Beach Gardens. Journey time is approximately 5–10 minutes. This option is available during peak season and adds a traditional seaside experience to your visit.
Pleasure Beach Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Pleasure Beach Gardens
A Seaside Escape Beyond the Main Park
Pleasure Beach Gardens offers a refreshing alternative to the bustling main amusement park, providing free entry and a more relaxed atmosphere while maintaining plenty of entertainment options. Located just a short walk from Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach on South Beach Parade, this outdoor venue has become a beloved destination since its opening in 1996. The Gardens were specifically designed as a quieter retreat, allowing families to enjoy seaside fun without the intensity and noise of the main park's larger rides.Attractions for Every Age and Appetite
The Gardens feature an impressive array of activities tailored to different interests and age groups. The 12-hole Safari-themed crazy golf course combines putting skills with playful animal-themed obstacles, making it entertaining for both children and adults. The Upside-Down House provides a uniquely disorienting experience where visitors navigate through a topsy-turvy world with beds on ceilings and lights on floors—a guaranteed conversation starter and photo opportunity. For younger drivers, the Learners' driving school offers coin-operated cars on an easy-to-navigate track, while the Grand Prix racing track challenges slightly older children with competitive go-kart racing. The Jurassic Gardens attraction combines dinosaur-themed scenery with coin-operated cars for taller children (minimum 1.3m height requirement). Gold panning through the Pleasure Beach Mining Company adds an element of treasure-hunting adventure, allowing visitors to search for buried treasure and keep their finds.Culinary Options and Refreshment
The Gardens boast multiple food and beverage venues to suit various tastes and budgets. Sara's Tearooms, an award-winning family-run establishment, serves homemade cakes and hearty meals in a dog-friendly environment positioned along the sea wall. The Garden's Kiosk provides quick snacks and refreshments including donuts, hot dogs, candy floss, ice cream, tea, coffee, and cold drinks. The Churros & Coffee Co. specializes in churros, coffee, and luxury ice cream. These dining options ensure visitors can refuel without leaving the Gardens or venturing into the main park.Unique Experiences and Entertainment
Beyond traditional amusements, the Gardens offer distinctive experiences such as the Fortune Telling Hut, where visitors can enjoy palm readings or tarot sessions with walk-in availability. This quirky addition adds character and intrigue to the venue. The entire setting maintains a spacious, open layout with plenty of benches for resting, making it accessible and comfortable for visitors of varying mobility levels.Setting and Accessibility
Situated at the southern end of Great Yarmouth's famous Golden Mile, the Gardens occupy a flat, easy-to-navigate outdoor space that feels distinctly separate from the main park's hustle. The location benefits from proximity to the seafront, offering glimpses of the beach and sea air. The venue's entirely outdoor nature means social distancing is naturally easy, and the spacious layout prevents overcrowding even during busier periods. The dog-friendly policy at Sara's Tearooms and throughout the Gardens makes it welcoming for pet owners exploring the seaside.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
War Memorial
1.0 km
A solemn tribute in Great Yarmouth, honouring local service personnel and civilians lost in 20th-century conflicts with quiet dignity and enduring respect.
Pudding tower
1.4 km
Explore Pudding Tower, a medieval defensive relic in Great Yarmouth, steeped in history and local lore from the town’s fortified past.
Potter Heigham bridge
16.3 km
Historic 14th-century bridge and boating hub in Norfolk Broads, blending medieval charm with scenic waterways and vibrant village life.
TourNorfolk
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Discover the essential internet marketing services at TourNorfolk, where local charm meets digital expertise in the heart of Barton Turf.
Museum of the Broads
24.0 km
Explore the rich heritage and ecology of the Broads at the Museum of the Broads, where history meets nature in a captivating setting.
Barton House Railway
25.3 km
Discover the magic of miniature railways at Barton House Railway, a charming museum and attraction in Wroxham, Norwich, perfect for families and railway enthusiasts.
Hoveton Hall Estate
25.3 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Hoveton Hall Estate, a serene tourist attraction in Norfolk featuring exquisite gardens and rich history.
Wroxham Bridge
25.5 km
Historic 17th-century bridge and vibrant boating hub connecting Wroxham and Hoveton on the scenic Norfolk Broads.
Broads Tours
25.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Norfolk Broads with Broads Tours – your gateway to unforgettable aquatic adventures.
Faircraft Loynes
25.6 km
Discover the beauty of the Broads with Faircraft Loynes, your premier boat tour agency and rental service in Wroxham, offering unforgettable waterway experiences.
Wroxham Miniature Worlds
25.6 km
Explore the enchanting world of Wroxham Miniature Worlds, where intricate models and engaging exhibits create a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
Wroxham Barns
26.5 km
Experience the charm of Wroxham Barns, where shopping, dining, and family fun come together in the heart of Norfolk's beautiful countryside.
Whitlingham Country Park
27.6 km
Explore Whitlingham Country Park: a tranquil retreat with picturesque trails, diverse wildlife, and exciting outdoor activities near Norwich.
East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden
27.7 km
Explore the breathtaking East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden, a hidden gem in Norfolk, filled with stunning flora, serene landscapes, and tranquil charm.
Happisburgh Owls
28.1 km
Explore the fascinating world of owls at Happisburgh Owls, a unique tourist attraction on the stunning Norfolk coast, perfect for families and wildlife lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pleasure Beach Mining Company
0.0 km
Discover hidden treasures and family fun at the interactive Pleasure Beach Mining Company in Great Yarmouth’s charming Pleasure Beach Gardens.
Learners’ Driving School (Kids’ coin-operated cars)
0.0 km
Where young drivers take the wheel in a safe, fun seaside setting.
Grand Prix
0.0 km
Family-friendly seaside fun with mini golf, kids’ driving tracks, and unique attractions in a relaxed garden setting by Great Yarmouth’s coast.
The Upside Down House - Great Yarmouth
0.0 km
Step into a topsy-turvy world where ceilings become floors and fun defies gravity at Great Yarmouth’s unique Upside Down House.
Merrivale Model Village
0.1 km
Explore over an acre of enchanting miniature English countryside with handcrafted models, garden railway, and family fun on Great Yarmouth’s seafront.
Great Yarmouth South Beach
0.2 km
A classic sandy beach in Great Yarmouth offering family fun, seaside views, and easy access to Pleasure Beach and the new outer harbour.
Winter Gardens
0.2 km
Historic Victorian Winter Gardens in Great Yarmouth, undergoing a major restoration to become a sustainable seaside cultural landmark by 2028.
4D Cinema
0.3 km
Dive into an immersive 4D cinematic adventure blending thrilling visuals with sensory effects at Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach.
SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth
0.3 km
Dive into the vibrant marine world of SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth, where sharks, penguins, and interactive exhibits await on the Norfolk coast.
Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach
0.4 km
Historic seaside amusement park with thrilling rides, family fun, and classic British beachside charm on Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile.
Medieval Town Wall
0.5 km
Walk the mile-long remains of one of England’s longest medieval town walls, where flint towers and ancient defences tell the story of a powerful fishing port.
Medieval Town Wall Open Space
0.5 km
Explore one of England’s longest medieval town walls, a mile of historic fortifications nestled in tranquil parkland at Great Yarmouth.
Time and Tide Museum of Great Yarmouth Life
0.6 km
Explore Great Yarmouth’s maritime heritage in a beautifully restored Victorian herring curing works, with immersive exhibits and interactive experiences.
The South East Tower
0.6 km
Stay in Great Yarmouth’s medieval South East Tower—an iconic historic fortress turned unique holiday retreat with original features and sea views.
Hippodrome Circus
0.6 km
Britain’s only surviving total circus building, the Hippodrome Circus dazzles with historic charm and spectacular seaside performances.
Essential places to dine
HMS Hinchinbrook great Yarmouth
0.4 km
Classic British fish restaurant on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade, blending tradition with modern flavors in a friendly seaside setting.
Great Yarmouth Seafront Beefeater
0.7 km
Family-friendly Beefeater on Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile serving hearty grills and British classics with beach views.
Zaks Yankee Traveller
0.9 km
Experience vibrant American dining with huge portions, diverse vegan options, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
Metropole Restaurant
1.0 km
Classic British comfort food served with friendly warmth on Great Yarmouth’s vibrant Marine Parade.
Ocean Spray
1.0 km
Fresh seafood and succulent steaks served with stunning sea views on Great Yarmouth’s iconic Marine Parade.
JAN Restaurant
1.0 km
Award-winning fine dining in an intimate art deco setting overlooking Great Yarmouth’s iconic seafront.
Othello
1.0 km
A cozy Mediterranean and seafood restaurant on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade, blending vibrant flavors with warm hospitality.
Quayside Plaza
1.1 km
Mediterranean-inspired dining with charming waterfront views and warm hospitality in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s South Quay.
Chico's Restaurant
1.1 km
Fresh seafood and succulent steaks served with warm hospitality on Great Yarmouth’s vibrant seafront.
Charcoal Grill
1.1 km
A beloved Great Yarmouth steakhouse serving hearty, fresh dishes with warm hospitality on the scenic Marine Parade.
The Arches
1.1 km
A family-friendly British restaurant in Great Yarmouth serving hearty traditional dishes in a casual, welcoming setting.
Alexandra Restaurant
1.2 km
A warm, family-run restaurant in Great Yarmouth serving traditional English and Mediterranean homemade dishes with attentive service.
Charlie's Tapas Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas with diverse vegetarian and vegan options in a warm, welcoming setting at Charlie's Tapas in Great Yarmouth.
Gilfreds Restaurant
1.2 km
A beloved Great Yarmouth gem serving authentic English home-cooked meals and hearty Sunday carveries in a cozy, welcoming setting.
The Courtyard Italian Restaurante
1.2 km
A cozy, award-winning Italian gem in Great Yarmouth serving fresh, homemade dishes with warm, attentive service and inclusive menus.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift Emporium
0.2 km
Discover unique maritime-inspired gifts and authentic local crafts at Great Yarmouth’s charming Gift Emporium by Wellington Pier.
Aurora Gift Store
0.4 km
Discover charming gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Great Yarmouth at Aurora Gift Store, your local stop for unique keepsakes.
Life's A Beach
0.6 km
Charming seaside gift shop on Marine Parade offering beach-themed souvenirs and a taste of Great Yarmouth’s coastal spirit.
The Loft Emporium
0.7 km
Discover unique treasures and hidden gems at The Loft Emporium, Great Yarmouth’s charming shopping centre for eclectic finds.
Picnic Patch
0.9 km
Discover timeless retro fashion and unique vintage treasures at Picnic Patch, Great Yarmouth’s charming vintage clothing boutique.
Crown Stores
1.0 km
Your friendly neighborhood convenience store in Great Yarmouth, open daily with a wide range of essentials and long hours for your convenience.
Mermaid Quay
1.1 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s historic seaside town.
Ferailles Shop - (Knot Just A Furniture Shop!) - Great Yarmouth
1.1 km
Discover Ferailles Shop in Great Yarmouth – a treasure trove of antiques, art, and unique fashion accessories that tell timeless stories.
Grasshopper
1.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Grasshopper, Great Yarmouth’s charming gift shop on King Street.
Handmade GIFTS AND CRAFTS From Bali
1.1 km
Discover authentic Balinese handmade crafts and unique gifts that bring vibrant artistry from Bali to Great Yarmouth’s Regent Road.
Steve's 'n' Mix
1.1 km
Traditional British sweet shop preserving seaside nostalgia on Great Yarmouth's Regent Road.
Martyns Walk Round Store
1.2 km
A quirky Great Yarmouth gift shop with a gothic and fantasy twist, perfect for unique alternative gifts and spooky collectibles.
Vogue
1.2 km
Discover unique gifts, beach essentials, and collectibles at Vogue, a vibrant and welcoming shop in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s Regent Road.
Cottage Jewels
1.2 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery and unique gifts at Cottage Jewels, a charming boutique in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s Regent Road.
Branded Collectibles
1.2 km
Discover a vast world of licensed collectibles and rare memorabilia at Branded Collectibles, Great Yarmouth’s ultimate treasure trove for enthusiasts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alexandra Freehouse
0.4 km
A lively family-run pub in Great Yarmouth offering traditional ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Red Herring
0.5 km
A cozy, traditional Great Yarmouth pub offering quality ales, local charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Marine
0.5 km
A lively beachfront pub and hotel in Great Yarmouth, blending traditional charm with vibrant entertainment and family-friendly dining.
The Rumbold Arms
0.8 km
A friendly, family-oriented pub in Great Yarmouth known for hearty home-cooked meals, lively community spirit, and a spacious garden with play area.
The Landmark
0.8 km
A lively seafront pub with family-friendly play area, freshly grilled meals, and a warm, rustic atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
The Blue Oyster
0.9 km
A lively Great Yarmouth bar blending expertly crafted cocktails, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a vibrant social setting.
Liberty's Rock Cafe
0.9 km
A vibrant rock-themed pub in Great Yarmouth offering lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and extended late-night hours in the heart of town.
Merlin’s Sports Bar
0.9 km
A vibrant sports bar in Great Yarmouth offering live games, pool, snooker, and a lively social scene with sea views and great drinks.
The Empire
1.0 km
A vibrant Great Yarmouth landmark blending live music, street food, craft beer, and community spirit on the iconic Marine Parade.
In The Mix
1.0 km
Chic cocktail bar and dessert haven on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade, blending stylish vibes with expertly crafted drinks and sweet treats.
The Great Eastern Party Bar
1.1 km
A lively Great Yarmouth hotspot blending live music, karaoke, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out in a vibrant social setting.
Uptown Bar
1.1 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Great Yarmouth offering lively atmosphere and good ales in a casual, welcoming setting.
Peggotys Lounge
1.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and expertly crafted cocktails at Peggotys Lounge, Great Yarmouth’s lively pub and restaurant hotspot.
Prince Regent
1.2 km
Traditional pub with lively live music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere near Great Yarmouth’s seafront and town centre.
Troll Cart Wetherspoons Great Yarmouth
1.2 km
Lively Wetherspoon pub and hotel in Great Yarmouth offering affordable British fare, comfy rooms, and a friendly atmosphere near the seafront.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Buddha Club
0.7 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Buddha Club, where modern beats, colorful lights, and coastal vibes create unforgettable weekend nights.
Mavvy’s
0.7 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Mavvy’s, where music, dancing, and lively atmosphere come alive until the early hours.
Fallen Angels
1.4 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and adult entertainment at Fallen Angels, Great Yarmouth’s premier late-night club on Marine Parade.
Moonlight Cabaret & Karaoke
1.6 km
Experience lively karaoke nights and captivating cabaret shows in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife scene.
The Bermuda Club
10.8 km
A welcoming nightclub and bar in Hemsby offering lively evenings, family-friendly nights, and affordable drinks near Norfolk’s scenic coast.
Loft Nightclub
29.4 km
Norwich’s vibrant gay nightclub with over 30 years of inclusive nightlife, music, and community spirit in the heart of the city.
Popworld - Norwich
29.5 km
Norwich’s vibrant late-night hotspot for pop hits, friendly vibes, and unforgettable party nights on Prince of Wales Road.
Fluke
29.5 km
Experience Norwich’s vibrant nightlife at Fluke, where great music, affordable drinks, and a lively crowd come together for unforgettable nights.
Mojo's
29.5 km
Mojo's: Norwich's gritty, no-frills nightclub pulsing with late-night beats and authentic urban energy.
Sole Bay Bowls Club
29.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and community spirit of Sole Bay Bowls Club in Southwold, where leisure and tradition blend seamlessly.
Mantra
29.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and great music at Mantra Nightclub, Norwich’s energetic weekend party destination with friendly staff and affordable drinks.
Sugar & Spice - Strip Club and Lap Dancing Norwich
29.6 km
Norwich’s premier American-style strip club offering vibrant entertainment, VIP experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
St Edmund's Hall
30.1 km
Discover the vibrant performing arts scene at St Edmund's Hall in Southwold, where culture and scenic beauty meet for an unforgettable experience.
Southwold Reydon & District Constitutional Club
30.4 km
Experience the local social scene at Southwold Reydon & District Constitutional Club, where community spirit and friendly faces await.
Southwold Cricket Club
30.4 km
Discover the rich heritage of cricket at Southwold Cricket Club, where tradition meets the enchanting charm of Southwold's coast.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
- Casual
- Quirky
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
