The Nottingham based, family owned Mellors Group, a leading force in the UK leisure and attractions industry has announced the acquisition of Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park in Ripon, North Yorkshire, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for one of Yorkshire’s most cherished family attractions.
Lightwater Valley holds a special place in the hearts of many families across the UK, including the Mellors family, who visited the park often as children. Now, with decades of experience transforming and operating successful attractions both in the UK and internationally, Mellors Group is committed to bringing new life, new energy, and significant new investment to the beloved adventure park.
The Group has ambitious plans for Lightwater Valley, including new rides and attractions set to debut in 2026. While the park’s focus will continue to cater for younger families and guests under 12, Mellors Group aims to broaden the appeal for all ages, creating an experience that the whole family can enjoy together.
Known for revitalising major leisure destinations, including the award-winning redevelopment of Fantasy Island in Skegness, Mellors Group brings extensive industry expertise in operations, ride installations, engineering, guest experience, theming, entertainment, and large-scale event management. Their hands-on approach has consistently transformed attractions into modern, thriving family destinations.
Lightwater Valley, originally established in 1969 and now home to more than 35 rides, family adventures, character entertainment and seasonal events, will benefit from fresh vision and investment designed to strengthen its legacy while exciting a new generation of visitors.
James Mellors, Managing Director of Mellors Group, said:
“Lightwater Valley is a park with real heart, history, personality, and potential, and it’s a place our own family has loved since childhood. We’re incredibly proud to be taking on its future. Our goal is simple: to put the park back ‘on the map’ as a major theme park, by introducing new rides, injecting new energy, and creating something truly special for families for many years to come.”
He added:
“We’re very excited about this acquisition and looking forward to planning a wide range of new attractions for 2026; fresh, fun, and full of excitement. While Lightwater Valley will continue to be a haven for younger families, we’re also widening the experience so that guests of all ages can enjoy the thrills, charm, and adventure together. The team here have done a brilliant job, and we’re looking forward to working closely with them as we begin this new journey.”
With the acquisition, Mellors Group strengthens its position as one of the UK’s fastest-growing operators of family attractions, reinforcing its commitment to delivering memorable, affordable, high-quality days out.
More details on the redevelopment and the new 2026 attractions will be announced in due course.