It’s the end of an era at Paultons Park. After more than a decade of fiery thrills, the Magma drop tower will be removed — and with it goes one of the park’s most distinctive themed attractions. While fans say a bittersweet goodbye to the volcano, excitement is already building for what comes next: Valgard: Realm of the Vikings, a brand-new themed land opening in May.
The Rise of Magma
Magma first erupted at Paultons Park in 2012, introducing something new to the park’s line-up: a family drop tower wrapped in immersive storytelling. Nestled within a giant smoking volcano, the ride whisked guests 25 metres into the air before plunging them back down into the fiery depths.
Unlike a standard drop tower, Magma stood out for its atmosphere. For younger thrill-seekers, it often served as a first taste of adrenaline, striking the perfect balance between excitement and accessibility.
A Fan Favourite
Over the years, Magma became a staple of many families’ visits to Paultons Park. It wasn’t the biggest or scariest ride in the UK, but it had character. Its larger-than-life theming and approachable thrills meant it appealed to a wide audience — especially kids looking to move on from Peppa Pig World rides but not quite ready for the high-speed coasters.
For many visitors, riding Magma was a rite of passage: that first real “big ride” moment that left them grinning ear to ear.
Saying Goodbye
In 2025, Paultons Park confirmed that Magma would be closing permanently. The announcement sparked plenty of nostalgia online, with fans sharing photos and stories of their fiery encounters with the volcano.
While farewells are always tinged with sadness, the removal of Magma isn’t just about letting go of the past — it’s about making way for the future.
What’s Next: Valgard – Realm of the Vikings
Taking Magma’s place will be something truly spectacular: Valgard: Realm of the Vikings, a brand-new themed land set to open in May 2026.
Valgard promises to bring Nordic myths and legends to life, with immersive theming, family-friendly attractions, and new experiences that expand Paultons Park’s reputation as one of the UK’s best family theme parks. The park has teased an exciting mix of rides and interactive features that will transport guests straight into a Viking saga.
It’s a bold new chapter for the park — and it shows just how committed Paultons is to continually evolving and surprising its guests.
Thank You for the Memories, Magma
Magma may be gone, but it won’t be forgotten. For over a decade, it gave families laughter, thrills, and that unforgettable “stomach drop” moment. It was a ride that managed to be both exciting and welcoming, and for countless kids, it was the spark that ignited a lifelong love of theme parks.
So here’s to Magma: thank you for the memories, the screams, and the fiery fun. And here’s to what comes next — because if history has shown us anything, Paultons Park’s best days are still ahead.
End of an era indeed. Magma had such unique theming compared to other drop towers. Hope Valgard continues that tradition of immersive storytelling.
End of an era indeed, though I am intrigued by this Nordic theme they’re going for with Valgard.
I’ve always appreciated how Paultons keeps things fresh. Magma had a good run, now looking forward to Valgard.
Not the biggest thrill seeker but Magma was just right for me. Hoping Valgard will have something for us milder adventurers too.
Always sad when an old favorite goes, but I trust that Paultons Park knows what they’re doing. Bring on the Vikings!