Oakwood Theme Park closes after nearly 40 years

Aspro Parks, owner and operator of Oakwood Theme Park in Wales, United Kingdom, has announced the immediate closure of the beloved attraction, confirming that the park will not reopen for the 2025 season.

The decision follows a strategic review of the business, with Aspro Parks citing ongoing economic challenges and declining visitor numbers as key factors behind the difficult outcome. The company stated that all possible avenues to avoid closure had been explored but that the current business environment had made the park’s future unsustainable.

Oakwood Theme Park has been a cherished destination for families and thrill-seekers since its opening in 1987. Aspro Parks took ownership of the park in 2008, rescuing it from the threat of closure and investing over £25 million into its development over the years. One of the most notable recent investments was the refurbishment of the iconic wooden rollercoaster, Megafobia, which received widespread acclaim from enthusiasts and fans.

Despite the investment, visitor numbers have steadily declined, and the park's financial performance has struggled. Rising operational costs — including increases in ride parts, electricity, food and beverage inflation, National Living Wage, and changes to national insurance thresholds — compounded the challenges faced by the business.

A statement from Aspro Parks Group highlighted the difficulty of the decision, marking the closure as a first in the company’s history. “In the entire history of Aspro, we have never closed any park or attraction. We, and our dedicated team of staff, have 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.”

The closure has been met with sadness from both staff and the local community, with Oakwood having been a staple attraction in Pembrokeshire for generations. The park has played a significant role in the region’s tourism industry, with many visitors considering a trip to Oakwood a rite of passage.

Aspro Parks extended its heartfelt thanks to the dedicated team members, suppliers, contractors, and loyal visitors who have supported the park over the years.

“We are sincerely grateful. Thank you for making Oakwood Theme Park a special place.”

Oakwood is the second UK theme park to close within the last 6 months, with Flambards announcing it's closure in November 2024. UK based enthusiasts will be looking now to see if Universal Studios UK gets the go ahead from the British Government.