Loudoun Castle Theme Park
The park first opened its gates in 1995, established by a London-based company. Over the years, it changed hands, notably coming under the management of traveling showman Raymond Codona before being acquired by Henk Bembom's Parkware Ltd. in 2002. Bembom made a significant impact right away, pouring £5 million into the park during his inaugural year, followed by an additional £2 million the next year. Each subsequent year saw the introduction of new rides and attractions, including another £2 million investment in 2007. In the winter of 2006, Parkware relocated all operations and ride inventory from Margate to Loudoun.
Tragically, on July 15, 2007, an 18-year-old ride operator named Mark Blackwood fell 24 metres from the Rat roller coaster while attempting to assist it after it became stuck. He was rushed to Crosshouse Hospital in Kilmarnock but sadly passed away on July 16. Following a two-week trial, the jury acquitted the park owners of any wrongdoing regarding inadequate training and supervision on October 10, 2009, at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court.
In September 2010, Bembom announced the park's closure, citing its lack of economic viability. The future of the site remained uncertain, with no clear plans from the owners about whether they would sell the business or repurpose the land. By February 2011, several rides, including Twist 'n' Shout, Goldrush, Barnstormer, Wacky Worm, Crows Nest, and Jammy Dodgems, were listed for sale. Due to its status as a Category A listed building, any redevelopment of the Loudon Castle ruins, distinct from the theme park, faces significant legal restrictions.
