An area of Thorpe Park that was particularly popular during the summer months will not reopen for 2026, and the theme park has confirmed its replacement.

In a social media post, it said: "We're thrilled to share a first look at the concept art for The Launchpad! As we say goodbye to Amity Beach and get ready for this next exciting chapter, we’re proud to reveal what’s coming next!

"The Launchpad will be a recharge zone, designed for thrillseekers to rest, reset and refuel between adrenaline hits. As the UK's Most Thrilling Theme Park, we recognise how important it is to recharge between our exhilarating rides, and this space will be the perfect place to do that."

Amity Beach opened in 1991, and its position close to the front of the park meant it was one of the first attractions people would come across. It had a fake beachwith a shallow pool for paddling, and a splash park where kids could cool off on hot days. The beach only opened during warm weather, so visitors would need to check the app to see whether it was open on specific days.

Amity Beach was also home to Depth Charge, a four-lane waterslide which guests rode down in an inflatable dinghy, splashing at the bottom. While the theme park hasn't confirmed whether this ride will also be closed, it doesn't appear in the promotional imagery for the new area.

Thorpe Park shared a number of throwback snaps of Amity Beach over the years, including celebrity guests it had hosted and events such as Love Island Lates, where fans of the reality show could enjoy meet and greets with the cast. Visitors over the years included Princess Diana, who was photographed enjoying the Depth Charge ride back in 1992 along with a young Prince Harry.

Images of the new Launchpad area showed seating spots, including some shaded areas, and a colourful design for the new zone, which will sit close to some of its biggest rollercoasters.

Thorpe Park opened in 1979, and in 2024 it opened Hyperia, the UK’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster, to celebrate its 45th anniversary. The Surrey-based theme park also offers thrill rides including Stealth, The Swarm, SAW-The Ride, Nemesis Inferno, and Colossus.

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Thorpe Park reopens for the 2026 season on March 27, and tickets cost from £32 for anyone over 1.2 metres in height if booked online in advance. Children under 1.2 metres get in for free. The park also offers overnight stays in its Thorpe Shark Cabins. These simple ensuite cabins sleep up to four people, and each stay includes two days at the theme park, free parking, and a buffet breakfast.

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