There’s no doubt about it – we all have our favourites when it comes to the rides and attractions at a funfair. And whilst some of these rides are undoubtedly fun and can make us enjoy a funfair or fairground even more, like the Ferris wheel or helter-skelter, some rides may be lesser-known – but this doesn’t mean we enjoy them any less! On the contrary, some of us prefer going on these rides because they are often not as crowded – and their lines are not as long, which is a point in their favour! So which ones do you like – the carousel or the tilt-a-whirl? What about dodgem cars or the scrambler? Here’s the list of classic and popular funfair rides and attractions everyone still enjoys today.
- The carousel
The carousel is perhaps the most popular among all the lesser-known rides out there – especially for the kids! Kids get a kick from riding those brightly-coloured ponies, and it’s one of the most elegant rides ever. The carousel has a long history indeed – dating back to 500 CE, and the drawings from the period show different riders riding circles around a post. The merry-go-round, as others refer to it, is a staple at many funfairs and fairgrounds, and the carousel’s seats today can be made of plastic or fibreglass. In addition, the carousel is composed of different animals and not just horses – they can be giraffes, fish, deer, rabbits, or cats.
- The dodgem (or bumper) cars
Dodgem or bumper cars, as they are more widely known, were launched in the 20s as a fun ride for kids and adults, and a typical ride features a pen or ring with a floor made from graphite (for less friction) filled with mini electric cars that are powered by an overhead electric grid. Since the cars have no brakes, players are protected by wide bumpers, and they are one of the most fun and exciting rides perfect for all ages, as confirmed by funfair specialists such as https://www.wearetricycle.co.uk/.
- The tilt-a-whirl
One of the exceedingly popular rides and attractions that are a close second with anyone visiting a fairground or funfair is the tilt-a-whirl – and there are plenty of good reasons for this. The ride was first designed by Herbert Sellner in 1926, and it featured seven cars attached by pivots to a platform, which then rotated and lowered or raised itself. What made the ride extra fun and daring was the fact that the cars were free-spinning and add in the centrifugal force and the pull of gravity, and you’ve got one ride that spins crazily in all directions at varying speeds.
- The scrambler
The scrambler is known by many names, but its speed sets it apart from other rides. The ride features three big arms, and several cars are attached at the end. Once the ride begins, the big arm – plus the little arms – all spin and rotate, and the Scrambler gives anyone watching it the illusion of collisions between the different cars – and their passengers! It is similar to a roller coaster in that regard, and plenty of riders agree that it’s a ride that puts you at risk of getting scared – or losing your lunch in the process!
