The Fairground Heritage Trust holds a unique collection for the nation to enjoy that spans from the 1800s up to the present day.
Fairgrounds have been one of the most innovative places in the United Kingdom, continuously utilising new technology to provide the latest entertainment to the paying public.
At the same time the artwork on rides and shows mirrors the social changes going on across the world. References to popular culture, fashions and trends were commonplace, often lasting for the duration of that trend before vanishing to be replaced by the next.
Our collections are rich with stories from showland and about the show families who have for generations provided entertainment for the masses across the United Kingdom.
These collections range from complete operational rides and stalls through the transport and living wagons to prizes given away on stalls, archive documents and books.
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Artwork
Fairground art has a style all of its own, even though many of the images... -
Children’s Rides
Mini-Waltzer (narrative in progress) Walter Shaw’s Happy Caterpillar The Happy Caterpillar was built in 1968... -
Edwards’ Dodgems
They have not always been as they appear today. When they were new they had... -
Edwards’ Skid
When Edwards’ Super Sonic Skid was first built up at Dingles Fairground Museum it was... -
Joy Wheel
Originally part of the Fairground Heritage Trust’s collection the Joy Wheel was transferred to Hollycombe... -
Shaws Moonrocket
This is the last complete surviving and operational Moonrocket. These rides were the ultimate thrill... -
Transport & Wagons
The Fairground Heritage Trust has a small number of historic fairground wagons and trailers and...
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Brett’s Ghost Train
The Ghost Train at the National Fairground Museum was built by the Amusement Supplies Company... -
Edwards’ Chariot Racer
It is hard to believe that this ride was built over ninety years ago. It... -
Edwards’ Gallopers
In 1933 Robert Edwards & Sons, showmen of Swindon, acquired the latest thing in fairground... -
Edwards’ Speedway
Edwards’ Brooklands Speedway Track is currently in store, having been built up at Dingles Fairground... -
Rodeo Switchback
By far the oldest ride in the Trust’s collection is the legendary Rodeo Switchback. Believed... -
Shows and Stalls
There are a number of games in the Fairground Heritage Trust’s collection, that when displayed...