Popular Lightwater Valley Theme Park in North Yorkshire Up for Sale

The renowned Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park, located in Ripon, North Yorkshire, has been put on the market for £3 million. This listing has captured the attention of potential buyers across the region, presenting a unique opportunity to own a long-established theme park.

Lightwater Valley, which first opened its doors in 1969, has been a significant attraction within Yorkshire. The park is now available for sale through a company share sale, as reported by property agents. They describe it as “an opportunity to take ownership of, and develop a long-established theme park business in the heart of Yorkshire,” with planning approved for an extensive scheme of complementary holiday accommodations.

The park has been developed under the ownership of Brighton Pier Group Plc, which has enhanced its appeal over the years. The property spans a vast parkland setting, featuring themed areas and attractions, all centered around a large lake surrounded by mature woodland.

A spokesperson for Lightwater Valley confirmed the sale but declined to provide additional comments. The online advertisement highlights a promising annual revenue of approximately £5 million, alongside recently granted planning permission for 31 luxury glamping pods in a woodland area of the park. This modification reflects a shift from the originally proposed 106 lodges.

Historically, the park’s main attraction was The Ultimate, which was recognized as the world’s longest roller coaster when it opened in 1991. Unfortunately, the ride was dismantled after the park’s closure during the COVID-19 pandemic, as the costs of refurbishment proved prohibitive. This removal marked a significant change in the park’s direction, transitioning from a traditional theme park to a family-oriented attraction. Just last year, another popular ride, Eagles Claw, was also taken down.

The current owners acquired Lightwater Valley in 2021 for £5 million, indicating a potential loss of £2 million in value over a short period. A major rebranding effort was undertaken for the 2022 season, culminating in the new name, “Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park,” along with a refreshed logo and mascot.

The park was originally founded by the father of Amanda Staveley, the former co-owner of Newcastle United. After operating successfully for nearly three decades, the family sold the business in 1997.

As Lightwater Valley seeks new ownership, it continues to be a beloved destination for families in the North East and beyond, promising a wealth of opportunities for future development and enjoyment.