As plans progress on Universal’s 500-acre UK theme park, the MD of nearby Wicksteed Park has explained that both attractions cannot be compared “like for like,” and that the historic Kettering attraction will continue to attract guests by offering something “very different to thrill-seeking parks.”

The MD of Wicksteed Park has dismissed suggestions that Universal Studios UK – soon to be built just 25 miles to the south – will become a rival attraction, telling the BBC that both parks offer something “very different.”

Kelly Richardson said the two could not be compared “like for like,” and that the 104-year-old Kettering amusement park will continue to give customers experiences they cannot find elsewhere.

“Not everyone comes here for the rides,” said Richardson. “Universal is going to be a major park with high-octane fully immersive ride experiences. For many people it will be a once in a generation visit.”

“The beauty of Wicksteed Park is that it’s free to enter, you can visit as many times as you like and have a different experience every time you come here.”

Wicksteed Park was first opened by Charles Wicksteed in 1921, and offers rare ride experiences such as its 99-year-old log flume, the oldest flume in the UK and one of the oldest water-based rides in the world.

Though a campaign to save Wicksteed Park was launched earlier this year after the attraction reported “unprecedented financial difficulties,” Richardson observed “we’re not unique in experiencing those.” 

“Across the industry there are recent reports of theme parks in the UK closing down. We’ve always relied on tickets and wristbands to the rides and attractions [to] generate enough income to keep this wonderful green open space open for free – and that’s getting harder and harder.”

However, she added that introducing an entry fee to the 291-acre park “would be the last thing we would want to do.”