Thorpe Park has confirmed that its long‑running Amity Beach waterpark will not return for the 2026 season, drawing a line under more than three decades of operation and signalling a fresh approach to in‑park downtime for thrill‑seekers. The move sees the majority of the water area replaced by The Launchpad, a new “recharge zone” designed to let guests rest, reset and refuel between rides, reflecting changing visitor behaviour and operational priorities at the UK’s self‑styled most thrilling theme park. For industry observers, the Thorpe Park waterpark closure marks a notable pivot from seasonal aquatic capacity to flexible, event‑ready space.
Opened in 1991 near the park entrance, Amity Beach offered a sandy bay, shallow pools, sprays and small slides that gave families a place to cool off away from headline coasters such as Stealth and Hyperia. Under the new plan, the larger side of the Thorpe Park waterpark footprint will become The Launchpad, featuring open seating, shade structures, F&B kiosks and planting, with views across the park’s coaster skyline. Concept art shared on social channels shows a bright, multi‑use environment that can support everyday relaxation as well as seasonal activations and live entertainment.
The Thorpe Park waterpark story is not ending entirely, however. A spokesperson has confirmed that the smaller side of Amity Beach, including a sandy area and children’s splash pool, will continue to operate on a seasonal basis, preserving a limited water play offer for younger guests. The popular Depth Charge slide, a four‑lane, 39‑foot‑tall inflatable dinghy ride, is also set to remain in service as part of the reconfigured zone. Thorpe Park will reopen for the 2026 season on 27 March, with The Launchpad expected to play a key role in managing guest flow and length of stay as the park leans harder into its thrill positioning.
The Thorpe Park waterpark decision highlights a broader trend towards maximising high‑yield land with flexible, low‑maintenance social spaces that complement major ride investments, while still retaining targeted family amenities where they add the most value.
Image: Thorpe Park
