Richard III theme park to open near Leicester
Plans are under way to build a Richard III-inspired theme park, it has been announced
Just a week after the reinterment of the controversial monarch, which was broadcast live by Channel 4, proposals have been unveiled to erect an amusement park in his honour.
Due to open in the summer of 2016, the Leicester park will feature three roller coasters, a princes in the Tower ghost train, Bosworth Bumper Cars and a fun slide, as well as teacups and crazy golf. The park will also include a Medieval Mayhem ride, a waltzer, and a water slide.
Visitors will be able to learn about the discovery of Richard III’s remains at the theme park’s learning centre, and sample the types of foods eaten by the king himself, including swan, crane and heron.
Plans had previously been put forward by York to build a theme park near Middleham Castle, where Richard III spent much of his youth. These were, however, unsuccessful.
Richard III was reinterred at Leicester Cathedral on 26 March, in a service attended by Sophie, Countess of Wessex, wife of Prince Edward, and the Duke of Gloucester, who is the patron of the Richard III Society. Last week, more than 20,000 people queued outside the cathedral to see the monarch’s coffin.
Historian Dan Jones, author of The Plantagenets: The Kings Who Made England, told History Extra: “The discovery of Richard's skeleton in Leicester has shown once and for all that far from being a ruthless, power-crazed, crook-backed swine with the blood of innocents on his hands, the last Plantagenet king was in fact a gentle, fun-loving soul who enjoyed nothing more than the sight of honest English people enjoying themselves.
“I can think of no better tribute to this fascinating historical figure and wonderful family man than the erection of a theme park in his honour.”
This was, of course, an April Fools' Day prank! Did you fall for it?
Tick a loved one of your festive gift list - Save 56% when you gift a print subscription, include HistoryExtra Membership
