After the declining number of visitors have resulted in financial struggles, Oakwood Theme Park in Pembrokeshire will sadly close its gates with immediate effect
Wales’ premier attraction, Oakwood Theme Park, has shockingly declared it will be shutting doors permanently, after nearly four decades of fun and thrills.
The Pembrokeshire-based park, a staple for family entertainment in the region, expressed “much sadness” over the decision, attributing the closure to dwindling visitor numbers that have led to insurmountable financial troubles.
Back in 2008, in a bid to dodge disaster, Aspro Parks stepped in to save the day, infusing a whooping £25m into rejuvenating the park’s attractions, thus extending its life span. But more recent news did hint at trouble, with plans revealed in February to dismantle the popular water ride ‘Drenched’.
The tough choice to close Oakwood Theme Park means it won’t be welcoming visitors for the 2025 season. The knockout blow came from rising costs cutting across all fronts, from spare parts for rides and shocking electricity bills, to soaring food prices, wage increases, and tax changes.
A statement released by Aspro Parks Group reflected on the unprecedented nature of the closure within its portfolio, explaining: “In the entire history of Aspro we have never closed any park or attraction. We, and our dedicated team of staff has strived to overcome numerous challenges to continue to bring joy to families and visitors across the region and country. Unfortunately, we could no longer see a sustainable way forward and will seek to improve our other parks using the assets and where possible team elsewhere,” reports Wales Online.
Oakwood Theme Park has made the sombre announcement of its closure, sharing a moving tribute to all who have been part of the park’s journey. The park expressed deep gratitude with its statement saying: “We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the dedication and commitment of our team members past and present, suppliers and contractors who have loyally supported us and of course all those that have visited Oakwood Theme Park over the years. We are sincerely grateful. Thank you for making Oakwood Theme Park a special place.”
This closure has struck a chord across Wales, prompting many fans to ponder what will become of their beloved rides. One distressed fan took to X to express their concern, writing: “Well this is sad news. Oakwood Theme Park in Wales is to close. I hope Megafobia will be saved somehow.”
Another shared their heartache, commenting: “Actually devastated about oakwood closing… speed and new megafobia were some of the best coasters in the country and the feeling of surviving waterfall made the trek down there worth it alone.”
