Overview

The collection includes ten major rides including the Rodeo Switchback (the only spinning top switchback still in existence), examples of 1930s Dodgems and Noah's Ark rides (these first three are now operational), and a 1930s Skid ride currently undergoing restoration to working order.

Amongst the the remaining rides, which are not yet built up, Edwards Golden Galloping Horses is probably the finest surviving example of this type of ride. It represents a number of rare and important rides and shows which were once common, including the only known surviving Bioscope show wagon (made by Orton, Sons & Spooner circa 1900; in effect the world's oldest cinema), and a superb 1930s Boxing Booth facade (one of only two known to have survived).

The collection includes an extensive range of children's rides, stalls, shows, vehicles, carved figures and fairground art. It includes work by all the major makers and decorators, especially Orton & Spooner, Savages of Kings Lynn, Lakins, Andersons, the Whiting family of Norwich, and Hall & Fowle, as well as some specialist firms in other parts of the country and some home-made and -decorated stalls from individual showmen.

Some collection highlights

The Edwin Lawrence Bioscope Show wagon


















Detail of carved work from Manders' Menagerie


















The Rodeo Switchback


















Detail of horses from the Edwards' Galloping Horses ride


















Early 20th century showman's living wagon
























Detail of a panel from Hatwells' Galloping horses ride


















First World War FWD lorry, used originally to transport parts of Edwards' Galloping Horses ride


















An early fairground throwing game
















Detail of decoration on Billy Wood's Boxing Show facade


















The ex-Edwards' Dodgem ride
















"Super Chariot Racer" Noah's Ark - a popular ride from the 1930s


















A selection of traditional fairground games
















Fairground Art: 1930s Brooklands-style racers from a Dodgem


















The 1930's Skid ride under restoration


















Fairground Art: a chariot racing scene from a 1930s side stall


















An early childrens' ride
















Coming Soon: Our 1940s Ghost Train will be next full-sized ride to be installed and restored


















One of our traditional fairground game stalls


















Our Vintage amusment arcade complete with working period machines