Southside Funfair

Description

Southside Funfair, formerly known as Fantasy Island, is a reimagined family destination located on the picturesque shores of Bowleaze Cove in Weymouth. Now owned by the Waterside Holiday Group, it serves as a vibrant aquatic and amusement hub along the Jurassic Coast. It is widely considered one of the best things to do with kids in Weymouth, offering a classic seaside mix of adrenaline-fuelled rides, nostalgic arcade games, and a massive indoor soft play area.

Prices for 2026 are structured to offer flexibility, with general public wristbands starting at £15.95 for three hours of unlimited ride access. For those who prefer a pay-as-you-go approach, individual tokens are available for £1.25 each, with ride costs typically ranging between 2 and 4 tokens.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that caters to all weather conditions, Southside Funfair is a top-tier choice. Its combination of outdoor thrills and a "massive" indoor sanctuary makes it a reliable destination regardless of the British coastal weather.

Features

  • Paid
  • Host birthday parties: Yes

Features

Key Features

  • Ireland’s Largest Shark Collection: [Note: This feature refers to a different attraction; Southside Funfair focuses on seaside rides and arcade entertainment].
  • Reimagined Ride Selection: Features everything from the high-thrill 360 ride and Drop Tower to gentle classics like teacups, carousels, and flying elephants.
  • Southside Softplay: A large indoor sanctuary featuring slides, tunnels, ball pits, and climbing zones designed for toddlers and young children.
  • Nostalgic Southside Arcade: A colourful "blast from the past" packed with penny machines, grabbers, and retro games like Space Invaders and mini-bowling.
  • Jurassic Coast Setting: Situated right on the beach, offering rock pools to explore at low tide and beautiful coastal views.

Highlights

  • Brave the Ghost Train: A well-themed classic dark ride that remains a favourite for both kids and adults.
  • The 360 Ride: For the adrenaline seekers, this thrilling ride offers breathtaking views of the Dorset coastline—if you can keep your eyes open.
  • Dodgem Racing: A family staple where you can test your driving skills (or lack thereof) in the classic bumper cars.
  • Soft Play Adventure: Perfect for younger guests to burn off energy in a safe, multi-level indoor environment.
  • Arcade Ticket Winning: Collect tickets from various machines in the arcade to trade in for prizes at the end of your visit.

Beyond the Main Attraction: Southside Funfair is located at Bowleaze Cove, a popular family beach known for its unique geology. After the fair, you can take a short 10-minute drive to Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park or explore the historic Nothe Fort. For a more relaxed afternoon, the Drift Bar & Grill is located right next door, offering panoramic sea views and a full kids' menu.

Facilities

  • Toilets & Baby Change: Clean facilities are available on-site, including baby changing areas.
  • Accessibility: The site is generally accessible, though some rides have specific physical requirements.
  • Food & Drink: Numerous eateries and ice cream stalls are scattered around the complex, with the Drift Bar & Grill providing full meals.

What to see

What Visitors Love

  • Brand New Feel: Since the takeover, many visitors have noted that the equipment is well-maintained and "everything looks great".
  • Indoor Option: Parents highly value the massive soft play area as a fallback for when coastal weather turns rainy.
  • Friendly Atmosphere: The staff are frequently described as helpful and engaging, which adds to the classic "seaside charm".

What Visitors Don't Like

  • Younger Focus: Some parents of older teenagers feel the park is primarily aimed at younger children and may not offer enough high-thrill options for older kids.
  • Staffing Levels: During peak times, a few visitors have mentioned that some rides appeared understaffed, leading to short waits.
  • Wristband Duration: The three-hour limit on wristbands can feel a bit restrictive if the park is very busy.

FAQ

  • Is Southside Funfair suitable for toddlers?: Yes, it is excellent for toddlers. There is a dedicated Little Boomers wristband for those under 1.0m, and the massive indoor soft play is specifically designed for toddlers to early school-age children.
  • Do I have to buy a wristband to enter?: No, entry to the site is free. You can choose to buy a 3-hour unlimited wristband or purchase individual tokens for only the rides you wish to use.
  • Is there an indoor area if it rains?: Yes. The Southside Arcade and Southside Softplay are both fully indoor, making it a great destination for all-weather fun.

Book your seaside adventure at Southside Funfair today!

Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

  • General public wristband: £15.95
  • Locals wristband: €12.95
  • Waterside Holiday Guest Wristband: £9.95
  • Owners, owners' family & friends wristband: £6.95
  • Little Boomers (Children below 1.0m): £9.95
  • Soft play only (peak/school holidays): £7.50
  • Soft play only (off peak/term time): £4.95
  • Move & Munch (Soft Play & Kids meal at Drift, Mon-Fri Only): £10

Pricing URL: https://southsidefunfair.co.uk/tickets/

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: Yes

Birthday Party Details

Southside Funfair is a top-rated venue for seaside birthday celebrations.

  • Package 1 (£12 per child): Includes kids' meals, squash, and 2-hour access to the soft play.
  • Package 2 (£18 per child): Includes meals, 3-hour access to soft play and funfair, plus a ride on the Ghost Train.
  • Details: Minimum group size of 6; maximum 20.

Direct Link for Birthday Parties

The funfair operates seasonally, with peak opening during the summer months.

  • Opening Hours: Typically 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm during open days.
  • 2026 Schedule: Open daily during May Half Term and Summer School Holidays; weekend-only opening during off-peak months.

Address: Southside Funfair, Bowleaze Coveway, Weymouth, UK

Post Code: DT3 6PW

Council: Dorset

County: Dorset

  • By Car: Use postcode DT3 6PW. Located right on the shores of Bowleaze Cove.
  • Parking: Plenty of nearby parking available; rates are approximately £1.00 per hour in the off-season.
  • By Bus: Regular bus routes from Weymouth town centre serve the Bowleaze Cove area.

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