Paultons Park

Paultons Park, often cited as one of the best family theme parks in the UK, offers an enchanting experience nestled in the natural beauty of the New Forest National Park. Far from the hustle and bustle of some larger parks, Paultons cultivates a welcoming and manageable atmosphere, perfectly suited to families with young children while offering enough attractions to entertain visitors of all ages. This park has achieved the remarkable feat of combining exciting rides and immersive themed areas with the preservation of a historic botanical heritage, creating a unique setting for a day of family adventure and discovery.

From Origins in a Historic Estate to a Reputable Theme Park

The history of Paultons Park is intrinsically linked to that of the historic Paultons estate, which dates back centuries. The theme park as we know it today was established by John and Anne Mancey, who acquired part of the estate in 1979. At the time, the site housed landscaped gardens designed by the famous Capability Brown in the 18th century, but the historic manor house had been destroyed by fire in 1963 and the estate was partly derelict. The Manceys undertook to restore the gardens and the lake, opening the property to the public in 1983 as a country park and bird gardens. It was only over the years that the park began to incorporate attractions, gradually evolving from a rural park to a family amusement park. The addition of increasingly large attractions in the 1990s, such as a log flume, marked a turning point, indicating the future direction of the park. A defining moment in its development was the opening of Peppa Pig World in 2011. This themed area dedicated to the famous cartoon character had a considerable impact on the park's attendance and notoriety, firmly positioning it as a leading destination for families with young children. Still managed by the Mancey family today, Paultons Park continues to develop, regularly adding new zones and attractions to enrich the visitor experience.

A World of Attractions for the Whole Family

Paultons Park offers a wide range of attractions spread across several distinct themed zones, each offering a different ambiance and experiences. The flagship attraction for many families is undoubtedly Peppa Pig World. This colorful and joyful space transports toddlers directly into the world of Peppa, George, and their friends, with gentle rides suitable for their size, playgrounds recognizable from the series, and opportunities to meet the characters. It's a magical place for young fans. But Paultons Park is not limited to Peppa Pig. The park has invested in additional themed zones to broaden its appeal. The Lost Kingdom, for example, plunges visitors into a prehistoric world populated by impressive animatronic dinosaurs and houses more intense roller coasters that attract a thrill-seeking audience. Tornado Springs, with its American desert town theme, also offers thrill rides and family attractions in an immersive setting. Other zones like Critter Creek offer more unusual and educational discoveries. Beyond the main themed areas, the park offers classic attractions, playgrounds, a 4D cinema, and, uniquely, the magnificent historic gardens that offer spaces for peaceful walks and contemplation amidst the park's excitement. This diversity ensures that Paultons Park offers entertainment for all ages and interests within the family.

In the Heart of the New Forest: The Location of Paultons Park

Paultons Park benefits from a privileged location on the edge of the New Forest National Park, in the county of Hampshire. This geographical location offers visitors the opportunity to combine their day at the park with the discovery of the picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities that the New Forest offers. The park is easily accessible by road, being located just off junction 2 of the M27 motorway. Brown tourist signs clearly guide visitors from the motorway. For those who prefer public transport, bus services connect the park to nearby towns such as Salisbury and Southampton. The nearest main railway stations are Southampton Airport Parkway and Southampton Central, both a short taxi ride from the park, offering national connections. This accessibility, combined with the surrounding natural beauty and proximity to the south coast of England, makes Paultons Park a prime destination for a day trip or a short stay in the region.