The Margate Scenic Railway, Britain’s oldest roller coaster has closed down, and its owner is asking for help in “reimagining” possible uses for it, because its listing as a Grade II landmark means it’s not going away, just not going around.
When it opened in 1920, part of an attempt to emulate coasters at New York’s Coney Island, it drew a million riders in its first season. It was advertised as the largest in Europe.
Over the years, the wooden structure suffered several fires and other failures and was rebuilt, most recently about ten years ago, but will now “take well-earned retirement as a ride,” say the operators. It last ran in 2024, when it shut down due to a fault that was detected.
The park will be hosting a pop-up exhibit this summer to celebrate the ride’s history. Long-term, Dreamland says it will reuse the structure for people to “enjoy in a different way.”
