Memories of Dreamland

I first went to Dreamland in 1946
I first went to Dreamland in 1946 when it opened after the war and remember the ducks that you picked up with hooks on a cane. Also had my first ice cream there.
Delia L

I worked in Dreamland when I was 18
My Grandfather Charlie Beeching would repair workers shoes in the workshop below the scenic railway. I worked in Dreamland at weekends when I was 18 and always remember the song “When day is done” being played over the tanoys at the end of the evening.
Raymond B

The Tom Jones ride collapsed
I worked at Dreamland from 1962 and was there when the Tom Jones ride collapsed.
Bill L

Riding a pony around a little track
My father was a local photographer and would take pictures of the people when they got off the coaches. I would then get their details so that dad could sell them to the people later that day. Also riding a pony around a little track.
Carol T

It was real magic there in the 60’s.
I remember the sounds and smells of Dreamland. My dad Bill Ayling owned the Ashley House Hotel and customers would take me with them to Dreamland. It was real magic there in the 60’s.
Beverley N

Only once and never again!
I remember going on the double wheel. Only once and never again!
Mavis G

I spent many happy days there
My Grandad Len Mancey was park manager from 1946 and I spent many happy days there.
Lynn P

Sneaking free rides!
My dad worked on the scenic railway and we were there every weekend sneaking free rides!
Laura R

Fascinated by the lady in the fish bowl
Loved the fireworks on Thursday evening and was fascinated by the The lady in the fish bowl. Also loved the river caves.
Marian M

I have never been on a ride since!
In 1981 I went on the Mary Rose with my children…. I have never been on a ride since!
Terrie K
Since the early 1900s, people have been flocking to Dreamland with their sweethearts, their families and friends, having fun and making memories. The Dreamland Trust are building an archive of stories and pictures, these are just a few from our collection. If you have any photographs, memorabilia or stories that you would like to share with the Trust we would love to hear from you.
Please contact us at either johnc@dreamlandtrust.org.uk or brianf@dreamlandtrust.org.uk
You can also visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/dreamlandtrust