In a bittersweet moment, the iconic Coney Beach Amusement Park in Porthcawl, Bridgend county, has closed its doors for the final time after over a century of bringing joy to generations of holidaymakers. The seaside funfair, which first opened in 1918, has been a beloved fixture in the town, offering a mix of classic rides, arcades, and seaside entertainment.
The park’s last official day of operation was on 4 October 2025, as the gates were padlocked after one final run. A traditional fireworks display lit up the Porthcawl skies as visitors bid a fond farewell to the rides and attractions that had become an integral part of the town’s cultural fabric.
For many, Coney Beach was more than just a funfair – it was a family tradition. Children who once clutched onto their cotton candy while riding the dodgems and ghost trains grew up to bring their own children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories. However, the park’s final season was not without incident, as a cart on the Wacky Worm ride derailed in August, resulting in minor injuries to 13 children and one adult.
The closure of Coney Beach Amusement Park comes as Bridgend Council and the Welsh Government have backed a major waterfront regeneration proposal. The plans aim to transform the seafront site with up to 1,100 new homes, as well as a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. The council has stated that the redevelopment is intended to secure the long-term economic sustainability of Porthcawl as a seaside resort, creating jobs and new attractions.
The announcement of the park’s closure has sparked a wave of emotion among local residents and business owners, with many describing the news as “gutting” and a symbol of the changing times in coastal tourism. Councillor Ellen Jones acknowledged that “people are grieving because it’s the end of an era,” while also noting the community’s concerns over the number of dwellings and parking proposed in the redevelopment plans.
Despite the sense of nostalgia surrounding Coney Beach Amusement Park, Jones emphasised that the community must “trust and adapt” to the changes ahead. The park’s legacy, however, will live on in countless photographs and family stories, as the people of Porthcawl bid a fond farewell to a cherished piece of their town’s history.
