The UK’s oldest rollercoaster has closed permanently after more than a century of operation, marking the end of an era for one of Britain’s most historic amusement rides.

Dreamland Margate’s Scenic Railway officially ceased operating in January after 106 years. First opened in 1920, the wooden coaster was built as part of the Kent seaside park’s ambition to recreate the atmosphere of America’s Coney Island amusement parks.

The ride, which is Grade II*-listed, survived multiple setbacks over its history, including major fires in 1949 and 1957 and a devastating arson attack in 2008. 

Following an extensive restoration programme, it reopened in 2015 but was taken out of service in 2024 after a technical fault.

Dreamland said that, following an “extensive process of consultations and inspections”, it was concluded that “after 100+ years, the ride has come to the end of its current life”.

The park added: “This is not the end but a new beginning.”

Rather than demolishing the structure, Dreamland plans to preserve the landmark and is inviting the public to submit ideas for how the Scenic Railway can be reimagined as a long-term cultural and visitor attraction for future generations.