Arcade Sideshows
Fairground sidestalls and carnival sideshows of the past have evolved over the decades to become modern arcade attractions. Their charm has been preserved and refined over the years for new generations to enjoy.
Shooting Gallery
Arcade shooting gallery or Tin Can Alley? These classic funfair sideshow games have evolved into the arcade shooting gallery dioramas still found on seafront piers today. While modern arcade shooters have mostly taken over, many vintage arcade shooting galleries can still be enjoyed at seaside resorts and amusement parks across the UK.
Coconut Shy
The humble coconut shy has been a fan favourite and summer fêtes since the late 1800s. Real coconuts once served as both targets and prizes, with players getting three chances to knock one off its perch. While the game can still be found today, prizes are more likely to be soft toys. This timeless attraction can also be found in ticket arcades, bringing the fun indoors.
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Camel Derby Game
This famous family attraction features horses, camels, and donkeys, offering seaside fun at piers across the UK. Players aim fast-returning balls into tricky targets to race their rider to victory! Though these games are becoming rarer, many great examples still exist (Blackpool has four). Modern arcade games like Derby Day bring this style of fun to ticket arcades nationwide.
Down the Clown
This popular fairground game (also known as Clown Knock Down) share’s similarities with Tin Can Alley and other target-based throwing games. The objective is to throw balls or bean bags at clown targets, aiming to knock them all down to win a prize. Modern ticket arcades have embraced this classic game, offering many variations where players can earn tickets to exchange for fun prizes.
Prize Bingo
While less of a sideshow and more of a side quest, prize bingo has been a staple in amusement arcades for many years, providing a much-beloved family game that rose to prominence in the post-war era. Found at seafront piers and seaside resorts, prize bingo quickly became a favourite holiday activity across the UK, blending the excitement of traditional bingo with the allure of instant prizes.
Mini Bowling
Mini Bowling (also known as Bowlingo) is a beloved game commonly found at seaside and holiday resorts across the UK. Fun, easy to play, and inexpensive, it's especially popular with families, making it an ideal activity for those on holidays with young children. Mini Bowling is found many popular coastal resorts and entertainment venues in towns and cities.
