Waterside Holiday Group, a family-owned business with a proud 60-year history, is thrilled to announce the acquisition of the iconic Fantasy Island Fairground and the Sunset Bar & Restaurant.
This exciting new addition marks a significant expansion for Waterside, further enhancing the company’s offering and commitment to providing outstanding family entertainment and dining experiences. With this acquisition, Waterside Holiday Group plans to breathe new life into the fairground and restaurant, blending the nostalgia of the fairground with modern updates to create unforgettable moments for every generation. Securing the valuable area east of the river on Bowleaze Cove beach also promises future growth potential, building on the success of Waterside’s offerings in the Southside area near Bowleaze Cove.
After nearly a year of careful investigations and thorough due diligence, Waterside Holiday Group has moved forward with its vision to integrate the Fantasy Island offering into its family-friendly portfolio. Fantasy Island Funfair and the Sunset Bar & Restaurant are set to continue trading next year, under our ownership, with plans to revitalise the attractions while preserving its unique charm that locals and visitors hold dear.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Fantasy Island and the Sunset Bar to the Waterside family,” said Dave Bennett, CEO of Waterside Holiday Group. “As a family business that has been rooted in this community for over six decades, it’s a fantastic opportunity to expand our offerings while preserving the unique charm of Fantasy Island. We’re committed to creating memorable experiences for families, and we look forward to breathing new life into the fairground and restaurant as we prepare for a grand reopening in March 2025.”
The acquisition signals Waterside’s ongoing commitment to the Dorset region and the continued development of the popular Southside area, integral to the appeal of Bowleaze Cove. Waterside Holiday Group’s plans include a full rebranding of the fairground, an updated logo, and a new website to reflect the vibrant evolution of the park, with further details set to be unveiled as the spring season approaches.
In addition to these developments, Waterside Holiday Group would like to extend sincere thanks to the Simmons family, who have owned and lovingly managed Fantasy Island for 40 years. Their dedication to this cherished local landmark has left an enduring legacy, and Waterside wishes them the very best in their future endeavours.
With this new venture, Waterside Holiday Group is committed to expanding the choice of entertainment and dining at Bowleaze Cove, benefiting both the local community and visitors alike. This is yet another step forward in the company’s growth strategy, which places a premium on investing in local facilities and supporting Dorset’s dynamic tourism industry.
For more information about Waterside, visit https://www.watersideholidaygroup.co.uk.
