Oldest theme park in UK teeters on cliff edge - opened in 1843
Blackgang Chine has lost about 350 metres of land to coastal erosion in the last 75 years.
Blackgang Chine introduces Extinction ride in 2023
The UK's oldest theme park is teetering on the edge of a cliff as it opens for its 183rd year. Blackgang Chine in the Isle of Wight has lost roughly 350 metres of land to coastal erosion in the last 75 years, often a result of rain on its layers of clay.
The amusement park, which opened its doors in 1843, has had to move or lose famous attractions such as the Cliffhanger rollercoaster to stop them falling into the waves below. Thousands of holidaymakers and thrill-seekers flock to Blackgang Chine every year, spanning generations.
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A drone pilot, who asked not to be named, said: "I have seen many changes over the coastline of the south of the Isle of Wight over the years.
"But slightly more so since I have been flying drones, many of which are due to climate change and wetter winters we are experiencing, mixed in with dry summers."
The park is close to Alum Bay, which is known for its colourful sand cliffs and blue water.
Landslips along the Chine's shoreline date back to the late 1700s with significant cliff falls in 1928, 1961 and 1994.
Around 3.5 metres of land is lost each year along this crumbling stretch of coastline.
A landslide in January 1994 saw homes, caravans and chalets evacuated while some attractions had to be moved inland.
Blackgang Chine has continued to attract visitors to new rides and old favourites, including The Crooked House, Cowboy Town and Adventureland. Extinction - a 360-degree cliff-edge swing - was unveiled in 2023 despite the ever-changing coastline.
Alexander Dabell founded the park after realising the potential appeal of the land to Victorian holidaymakers.
In December 2025, Blackgang Chine's fourth generation owner Francis Richmond Dabell passed away aged 101.
Mr Dabell was hailed as a pioneer in finding ways to manage the land to ensure the park's survival. He took up the reins of the amusement park in 1947.
A spokesperson for the park told a local newspaper in February: "We are always monitoring the land, and will take the appropriate action as and when is needed - safety of the staff, guests, as well as preserving any attractions, are always our top priority."
