Severn Beach, fondly remembered as the ‘Blackpool of the South West’ in its heyday, was a popular holiday destination from the 1930s to the 1960s. Located just north of Bristol, this coastal village once bustled with activity, drawing crowds for its sun, sand, and a plethora of attractions.
The Heyday of Severn Beach
During its prime, Severn Beach was more than just a seaside village. It boasted an array of attractions including the famous open-air swimming pool, the Blue Lagoon, a cinema, casino, and even a strip club. Visitors flocked to engage with these lively venues, which offered entertainment and excitement for all ages.
One of the most cherished attractions was Tubbies, a mini amusement park that became a central feature of the village. Tubbies was loved for its coin-operated rides, fruit machines, and a burger bar, encapsulating the spirit of fun that Severn Beach was known for.
The Decline and Abandonment
As decades passed, the allure of Severn Beach began to wane. The iconic attractions that once drew hordes of visitors fell into decline. The famous swimming pool was demolished in the 1980s, and other businesses closed their doors. One by one, the symbols of the village’s vibrant past began to disappear.
Tubbies itself faced a similar fate. After the death of its owner in 2006, the land was put up for sale for a modest £65,000. However, the amusement park was never bought, and it slowly became a forlorn sight. The once-joyful rides were left to rust, and the burger bar was battered by years of neglect, creating an eerie atmosphere where children once played.
For nearly a decade, Tubbies remained abandoned, a ghostly reminder of happier times. The bustling sounds of joy and laughter were replaced with the somber silence of decay. Many interested buyers came and went, but none took the step to revive the park.
The Revival and Legacy
It wasn’t until 2016 that significant changes were made. The site was finally cleared, the old machines taken away, and the land tidied up. This marked the end of Tubbies as it was known. By September 2018, the ‘Just As You Are’ tea cottage opened on the site, providing a new chapter while quietly acknowledging the past.
Though Tubbies and its contemporaneous attractions have faded into obscurity, they live on in the collective memory of those who experienced Severn Beach’s golden age. It’s important to remember these pieces of local history, even as the village moves forward.
Severn Beach Today
In the present day, Severn Beach may not be the bustling tourist spot it once was, but it remains a quaint village with rich historical roots. Now, it is more known for its proximity to the Severn Crossing and as a quiet escape from city life.
The tale of Tubbies serves as a symbol of the ever-changing nature of local attractions and how they adapt or fade with time. Even as new developments arise, the memory of a once-thriving amusement park remains an endearing chapter in Severn Beach’s storied past.
Conclusion
Severn Beach, with its lost amusement parks and changing landscapes, offers a poignant reminder of the transient nature of our recreational spaces. While modern attractions take their place, the history and memories of places like Tubbies ensure that they are never truly forgotten.
