The legendary seaside town where you can find the UK’s only scenic rollercoaster

It was with a heavy heart that we reported on the closure of Dreamland Margate’s Scenic Railway a couple of weeks ago. After more than 100 years, the ride’s operator waved goodbye to the Scenic Railway, saying the nation’s oldest ride would ‘take well-earned retirement’.

Dreamland’s Scenic Railway was the oldest ride of its kind in Britain – but it wasn’t the only scenic coaster in the UK. There remains one surviving ride, one of only seven similar attractions in the entire world.

Thrill seekers far and wide can head to Great Yarmouth for their scenic coaster fix. The Norfolk town’s 98-year-old coaster is still standing, and so has naturally now taken up the mantle of the oldest scenic ride in Britain. In fact, it’s now the UK’s last remaining scenic railway – that is, a ride designed to give a view of picturesque landscapes.

Built in 1928, Great Yarmouth’s Roller Coaster began life in Paris before being shipped to Norfolk and opening to the public in 1932. The attraction is also unique in that it’s the only one of its kind to be controlled manually by a seated operator using a lever.

And unlike Margate’s Scenic Railway, the future of Great Yarmouth’s attraction is safe – at least for now. Albert Jones, who manages the ride, has assured people that the rollercoaster isn’t heading in the same direction as Dreamland’s retired ride.

Jones told BBC News: ‘It’s disappointing that unfortunately another coaster is closing... we’re the only one that will be left running using a brake man.’

Great Yarmouth’s legendary ride is Grade II-listed, meaning it’s considered to be of national importance and specific consent is needed for any alterations or renovations. Jones said preserving the attraction can be a ‘maintenance headache’, but that it is still in ‘very good condition’.

And it’s almost time to pack your swimming trunks and book a train to the seaside town, because the big dipper’s brand new paint job will be dry in time for the season opening in March. We’ll race you there.

Did you see that Great Yarmouth is getting a grand makeover in 2026?

Plus: the world’s first PAW Patrol theme park area is opening in the UK this spring.