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The Rise and Fall of Somerset’s Beloved Blobbyland Family Theme Park

Blobbyland, the enchanting theme park inspired by Mr Blobby and created by Noel Edmonds, opened its doors at Cricket St Thomas, Somerset, in 1994. At the height of Blobbymania, when the pink, polka-dotted character was a household name due to Edmonds’ television show, the park became a magical haven for families and fans alike.

The park was constructed on the historic estate of Cricket House, already known for its wildlife habitats and adventure playground since the 1960s. Visitors could marvel at animals ranging from leopards and zebras to flamingos and ring-tailed lemurs, making it a unique blend of entertainment and nature.

Central to the attraction was Mr Blobby’s residence, ‘Dunblobbin’—a vividly pink house with yellow spots and a blue roof—where guests could peek into the quirky world of the beloved character. Live performances featuring Mr, Mrs, and Baby Blobby delighted crowds, while children enjoyed the play areas, miniature railways, and imaginative recreations of Crinkley Bottom’s high street, complete with the iconic Blobby shop and bakery.

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The park featured several immersive experiences, including the ‘Animals of Farthing Wood’ adventure, sea lion presentations, a safari, and the ‘TV’s Family Favourites’ indoor water ride. This ride, which sailed guests through animated scenes created by the team behind Longleat’s Noddy and Postman Pat attractions, culminated in a vibrant Magic Roundabout chamber cherished by visitors.

Despite its initial popularity, Blobbyland’s operation was short-lived. It closed after just five years and, after a period of abandonment, was eventually demolished in 2014. During its deserted years, the once-colorful park became a magnet for urban explorers and nostalgic visitors eager to reconnect with childhood memories. Images and videos of the dilapidated site spread online, sparking renewed interest but also leading to challenges in maintaining the property’s security.

In 1999, Warner Leisure purchased the grounds, removing many wildlife features and transforming the estate into an adults-only hotel centered around Cricket House. Nearly all traces of Mr Blobby and his whimsical world have since been erased.

Today, Blobbyland survives only in memories and archival footage—a testament to a unique moment in British pop culture when a zany TV character captured the hearts of families and inspired a delightful theme park experience.

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