A much-loved classic returns to Sundown Adventureland

The return of the Galleon

There’s something special about the places you remember from childhood - and this spring, one of Sundown’s most iconic play features made its triumphant return.

After a short period where it was out of action, the upper decks of the famous Galleon in Smuggler’s Cove have been fully rejuvenated and brought back to life. It's ready to welcome a whole new generation of young adventurers.

Standing tall at 10 metres, the ship has been a centrepiece of the park since 1992, so it is great for all of us to be able to see it carefully restored and once again taking pride of place.

Better than ship shape

The restoration has been a significant project, with over £250,000 invested in reviving the structure. The team worked through the winter to replace and treat the timber, but also install new waterproofing with a fibreglass membrane and new stairs to reach the upper decks. For the budding pirates, there's a new ship's wheel to allow guests to steer their own adventures. 

With the weather now more reliable, we've also added the finishing touches and applied a full exterior repaint - bringing the Galleon back to its bold, characterful best.

And of course, it wouldn’t be Smuggler’s Cove without a proper pirate adventure. Now the upper decks have reopened, little sailors can climb aboard, explore above the waves and make their way to the three-metre plank and brand-new slide - sending them straight back down into the heart of the play area.

A winter well spent

The work forms part of Sundown’s annual winter programme - a quieter but essential time behind the scenes. Following the busy Christmas Spectacular, the park closes briefly every year to allow for deep cleaning, repairs and improvements across all of the attractions.

Shaun Malvern, director at Sundown Adventureland, explains:
“We always use this period to make sure everything is in the best possible condition for the season ahead. It’s about maintaining what people love, but also finding ways to keep improving what we offer.”

Alongside maintenance work, the team also uses this time to develop new ideas and experiences for visitors - with more to be revealed as the year unfolds.

Part of the park’s story

For many families, the Galleon isn’t just a play structure - it’s a piece of shared history. Generations have climbed its decks, crossed its walkways and made memories within Smuggler’s Cove.

For Shaun, that connection runs even deeper:

“The Galleon has been part of my own experience growing up here as a child. My grandparents opened the Galleon over 30 years ago and I was fascinated watching it rise out from out of the ground. I'm really proud to be bringing it back to "ship shape" condition for families to enjoy once again.”

Ready for a new crew

When the Galleon reopened in early spring, it wasn’t just a restoration - it was a revival. A chance for returning visitors to rediscover an old favourite, and for first-time guests to experience a piece of Sundown’s heritage for themselves.

So whether you’re stepping aboard again or discovering it for the first time, The Galleon at Smuggler’s Cove is now fully open and ready to welcome a new crew once again.