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 Since the late
19th century, fairgrounds in the UK have
been run by a guild known as the Showmen's Guild of Great Britain
and Ireland. This lays down laws for managing and running fairs,
helps them organise fairs and settle member disputes and serves to
protect them from deleterious legislation.
These people are usually fairground enthusiasts and can own
preserved older rides. Although they travel and show their
equipment, the Guild does allow them to join but only if they are
proposed and seconded by two showmen.
Fairgrounds are very common at British seaside resorts, usually run
by fairground families who have decided to settle down. Showmen who run fair equipment at the seaside are referred to
as sand dancers.
British side stalls simply sell food and confectionery, with candy
floss stalls being especially
associated with funfairs. Sweets are known as fairings and include
such things as toffee apples, candy floss, and hot dogs. Of savoury food, the
mainstays are hot dogs, burgers and, in the Midland and the North,
hot peas served with mint sauce.
Fairgrounds have declined in popularity over the last few
decades, although many families continue to follow their unusual
lifestyle
Funfair
Attractions
History Guild
Fair Slang Rides
Porthcawl
Western Super Mare
Barry Island
Blackpool |
