Paultons Park Wins Top Theme Park Award in Hampshire

A family visit to Paultons Park in Hampshire found the attraction offering lower booking costs, shorter waits and a wide range of rides after the park was named Theme Park of the Year in the 2026 UK Theme Park Awards.

According to the review published by The Telegraph, the family-run park charged a fixed £46.50 day ticket price, while a family of five paid £187 because children under one metre entered free and parking was not charged.

The same comparison found a Legoland booking attempt reached £235 including parking, while the Paultons purchase was completed in less than a minute. The review said the difference was linked to different pricing approaches.

The visitor reported arriving at 11am when the park was operating at around 65 per cent occupancy and found no entry queue. Several rides, including the jeep safari and log flume, were available with minimal waiting.

The review highlighted that Paultons Park offers more than 70 rides and attractions, including Peppa Pig World, live shows, animal areas, gardens and the Viking-themed Valgard section launched in 2026.

The attraction was recognized by the UK Theme Park Awards through public voting, with Paultons Park receiving the main Theme Park of the Year award. The awards also recognized categories including family and toddler experiences.

A staff member named Dylan discussed why visitors appreciate the park, particularly its condition and maintenance standards.

"The Coaster Club is in today, and they really love how clean the park is, apparently," said Dylan.

The review described clean pathways, rides, baby-changing facilities, toilets and play areas as part of the park experience. It also noted that staff included both younger workers and employees from a wider age range.