Say goodbye to the infamous Pleasure Island ride that you loved to hate—it’s officially gone. But here’s where it gets emotional: despite its reputation for turning stomachs and sparking nausea, The Pendulus has left a surprising void in the hearts of many. This polarizing attraction, known for its uncanny ability to induce vomiting, has been demolished, marking the end of an era for thrill-seekers and nostalgia enthusiasts alike.
Published by Sofie Jackson on March 3, 2026, the news has reignited memories of this controversial ride. The Pendulus, once a staple at Pleasure Island in Cleethorpes, was infamous for its motion-sickness-inducing design. Yet, its removal has sparked a wave of bittersweet reflections from those who experienced its unique brand of chaos.
Alfie Lugsden, a 21-year-old enthusiast, broke the news on his Facebook page, Pleasure Island Archive. He revealed that the ride was dismantled in August 2025, concluding over two decades of operation across Pleasure Island and Flambards in Cornwall. Alfie, who started the page at just 14, has dedicated himself to preserving the park’s legacy, sharing updates on the fate of its rides after the park’s closure in 2016 and subsequent auction in 2018.
And this is the part most people miss: Alfie’s meticulous efforts have tracked down nearly every ride from the park, documenting whether they’ve been scrapped or relocated. Only a handful of minor, less memorable children’s rides remain unaccounted for. This labor of love highlights the enduring impact Pleasure Island had on its visitors, even as its physical remnants disappear.
Reactions to The Pendulus’ demise have been mixed. While some mourn its loss, others recall its less-than-pleasant experiences. Ryan Badger candidly described it as a ‘horrible ride,’ noting its excessive duration and the unsettling groans of its machinery—not to mention his own unfortunate encounter with motion sickness. Brandon Moore humorously reminisced about staff routinely hosing down the ride after incidents, while Thelma Doo Birtles recalled a particularly memorable day when someone’s sickness covered half the riders.
Yet, not everyone viewed The Pendulus with disdain. Former ride operator Gaz Barron fondly remembered it as his favorite, sharing how it was the first major ride he was trained to operate. This duality—a ride both reviled and cherished—captures the essence of its legacy.
Here’s the controversial question: Was The Pendulus a masterpiece of thrill design or a nauseating nightmare? Its demolition has reignited debates about what makes a ride memorable. While some argue its stomach-churning effects were a flaw, others contend they were part of its charm. After all, isn’t the thrill of a theme park ride about pushing boundaries, even if it means losing your lunch?
If you have photos of Pleasure Island in its heyday, consider sharing them with the Pleasure Island Archive Facebook page to help keep its memory alive. And while you’re at it, why not make Grimsby Live your go-to source for local news? You’ll get breaking stories, exclusives, and must-reads delivered straight to your feed. Simply adjust your Google preferences here to stay in the loop.
What’s your take on The Pendulus? A ride you’ll miss, or one you’re glad to see go? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation spinning!
