The history of funfairs in the UK dates back to the Middle Ages, where they were originally referred to as "fairs". These fairs were large events that brought together merchants, performers, and communities for a day of food, games, and entertainment. Over the years, these events evolved into the funfairs we know and love today.
Funfairs in the UK were at their peak during the Victorian era, where traveling fairs would tour the country, bringing their exciting games and attractions to different towns and cities. These fairs became popular as they provided a day of excitement and entertainment for people, especially in rural areas where entertainment options were limited. The fairs were known for their carousels, Ferris wheels, and various side stall games, including coconut shies, shooting galleries, and other carnival games.
The Victorian era was the golden age of showmen
The Victorian era was the golden age of showmen, who used the latest novelties and attractions to capture the attention of the show-going public. Showmanship and illusion were key ingredients for a successful fair, and the showmen's ability to entertain and hoodwink the public was what made the fairground a profitable business. Showmen performed their art in various venues, including traveling or fixed circuses, permanent halls, and even on the high street. Everything from displays of beauty or grotesqueness to optical and scientific wonders was presented as education and entertainment.
However, as the audience became more literate and knowledgeable, the showmen's stories became more outrageous and had to be backed by scientific and technological developments. By the end of the 1890s, technological novelties such as the cinematograph found their way into the shows, but the public fascination with the fairground remained unchanged.
Families with long histories of travelling fairs often descended from or were related to 19th-century showmen. Renee Marshall, born to prominent circus families, continued the family tradition of performing in the circus until her marriage in 1938 to Walter Marshall, a fairground man and prominent member of the Showmen's Guild. Another important show family was the Shufflebottoms, who had a three-generation history of performing and were famous for their Wild West show.
The founder of the Shufflebottom firm, Texas Bill, went to America with a circus act and saw Buffalo Bill's show, which inspired him to create a similar show in England with his family. Texas Bill's legacy to the entertainment industry was a large family of performers, and his children and grandchildren continued to work in the fairground for many years. Showmen families often intertwined through marriage or business, and every member of the family had a role in the fair from a young age.
The Victorian era was a crucial time for the development of the fairground industry, and showmen played a significant role in its success. Their art of showmanship and illusion entertained and fascinated the public, and their ability to adapt to the changing times kept the fairground relevant and profitable. The rich history of showmen families and their contributions to the industry remain an important part of the legacy of the Victorian era.
Modern Funfairs: Elevating Thrill Rides to the Next Level
Gone are the days of simple merry-go-rounds and ferris wheels at funfairs. Today's showmen are taking the amusement park experience to the next level, with exciting, cutting-edge rides that cost upwards of £1,000,000. These state-of-the-art attractions are drawing in crowds and helping to establish funfairs as a staple in modern society.
One of the biggest driving forces behind the elevation of funfairs is technology. Advances in engineering and design have allowed for the creation of rides that are more thrilling and interactive than ever before. For example, some of the most popular rides now feature 360-degree flips, high-speed drops, and intense g-forces. These rides push the boundaries of what is physically possible and provide an adrenaline rush unlike anything else.
Another factor contributing to the modernisation of funfairs is the integration of technology into the experience. From virtual reality to augmented reality, showmen are incorporating cutting-edge technologies into their attractions to create a more immersive experience. For example, some rides now feature virtual reality headsets that transport riders to a different world, while others use augmented reality to enhance the visual and sensory experience.
The integration of technology has also made funfairs more accessible to a wider audience. For example, many modern funfairs now offer smartphone apps that provide information about the different rides and attractions, making it easier for visitors to plan their day and navigate the fair. Additionally, the use of electronic tickets and mobile payments has made the process of purchasing tickets and accessing attractions more seamless and convenient.
Another factor contributing to the modernisation of funfairs is their growing popularity as a destination for special events and celebrations. Showmen are now partnering with event planners and companies to host birthday parties, corporate events, and other special occasions at their fairs. This has helped to establish funfairs as an important part of modern society, providing a unique and exciting venue for people to come together and have fun.
Finally, the rise of social media has played a role in the modernisation of funfairs. With more and more people sharing photos and videos of their funfair experiences online, showmen are using social media to promote their attractions and reach a wider audience. They are also leveraging social media to engage with customers and get feedback, allowing them to constantly improve the funfair experience.
Funfairs in the UK have come a long way since their early beginnings. Today, they are sophisticated events that offer an exciting day of entertainment for people of all ages. Whether you're looking for thrills, games, or just a day of fun, there's something for everyone at a UK funfair.
So, if you're a fan of carnivals and funfairs, be sure to visit one near you! And if you're looking for something new and exciting, be sure to check out Funfair Play, where you'll find a variety of mobile funfair stalls and accessories. Contact us at 07738607466 or email us at info@Funfairplay.co.uk, or visit our website at www.funfairplay.co.uk.
<< Return to news