It could be said that Brighton is a bit of a theme park culturally speaking, with its eclectic array of fun-filled delights. But aside from the Palace Pier, thrill-seekers will need to look further afield if they’re looking to enjoy a day out in a designated park of fun. Thankfully, East Sussex is packed to the rafters with theme parks and amusements to get the pulse racing and heart pounding.
Brighton Palace Pier
Whether you’re a local to Brighton or travelling to the city for a weekend break, a visit to the Palace Pier is non-negotiable. Simply put, the Pier is Brighton’s biggest tourist trap, but it’s a trap for a reason.
As well as a huge amusement arcade where it’s possible to get lost for hours on end in, the Palace Pier has its very own theme park. From rollercoasters to carousels, dodgems, and water slides, Brighton Palace Pier’s assortment of thrilling rides is unparalleled in the county.
There are, of course, height restrictions for the rides at the Pier and some are not appropriate for small children, however, there is such a wealth of entertainment on offer here that the whole family will be exploring the Pier for hours and never get bored.
Wristbands for the rides and attractions on the pier can be purchased upon arrival or in advance on their website, allowing you to save up to 20%.
Address: Madeira Drive, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, BN2 1TW
Drusillas Park
When looking for a perfect excitement-filled yet educational day out for the kids, look no further than the ever-popular Drusillas Park in Berwick, near Polegate. Drusillas seamlessly combines the educational aspects of visiting a zoo with the hair-raising excitement of a theme park.
All the rides at Drusillas Park are, naturally, animal themed, with highlights including “The Toucan Twister,” “Rainforest Carousel,” “The Hippopotobus,” and “Flying Cheetahs.”
The Zoo at Drusillas is also a fantastic place to wander with the family and admire some exotic wildlife. Drusillas house a wide array of animals, including the rare Red Panda, Eurasian Lynx, Ring-Tailed Lemurs, Humbolt Penguins, and Colobus Monkeys.
Day and Flexi tickets can be purchased through the website or at the park itself.
Address: Zoo Park Ltd, Drusillas, Berwick, Polegate, BN26 5QS
Knockatch Adventure Park
Similar to Drusillas, Knockatch Adventure Park near Hailsham is a treasure trove of family-friendly amusement.
Whether you’re braving the sheer drop of the “Dino Drop” or getting soaked on the “Wave Runner Water Slide,” there’s no shortage of thrilling rides at Knockatch which are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Aside from the theme park amusements on offer here, Knockatch also houses an assortment of animals for the kids to get up close and personal with. The park has its very own farm, as well as an Owl Sanctuary, and “Jungle Kingdom.”
Tickets can be purchased through the park’s website or at the park itself upon arrival.
Address: Hailsham Bypass, Hailsham, BN27 3GD
Bewl Water Aqua Park
For those who enjoy their thrillseeking in water rather than on dry land, Bewl Water Aqual Park on the Sussex-Kent border in Tunbridge Wells is a must-visit for a fun-filled family day out.
Situated on a reservoir, this floating amusement park has a huge Wibit course, as well as inflatable obstacles, water slides, trampolines, and much much more to get the heart racing.
The minimum age for entry to the park is six years of age, and children between the ages of six and twelve must be accompanied by an adult when attending. The journey to Bewl Water Aqua Park may be a long one from Brighton, but it’s worth the drive or train ride for an unforgettable day out in the water.
Tickets can be purchased on the park’s website or upon arrival.
Address: Bewl Water, Bewlbridge Lane, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 8JH
