by Debbie Marway

Created on: July 11, 2007   Last Updated: July 13, 2007

Carters Steam Fair

Carters Steam Fair is a travelling fair mainly based in the South East of England. The entourage with its traditional rides and hurdy gurdey's, tours for just over half of the year and the remainder months are spent restoring and repairing the machines and equipment.

The steam fair was the idea of a gentleman called John Carter who enjoyed collecting old yet interesting items. Many were destined for the scrap heap as they were too unfashionable or too old to use any longer.

It has taken over thirty years but now a whole funfair has been re-born and rejuvenated, complete with historic vehicles to tow them all over the South East.

With vintage caravans for the family and staff live in, when Carters draw into town, it looks more like a 1930's film set. I must admit I prefer wandering around admiring the caravan's beauty and splendour, each one looks unique and they are immaculate. Nothing like the modern day caravans we see today, these are truly special. Even the dogs have plush kennels.

The founder, John Carter, sadly passed away to cancer aged 58 in 2000 but his legacy lives on through his family.

* The Rides and Attractions *

Please do not expect any modern day music here, the sounds of the 60's fill the air as you wander around.

Ball Blower Stall
Candy Floss, Doughnut and Jacket potato stalls. (really not that appetizing, best to take your own food and drink).
Hook-A-Duck Stall
Chair-O-Planes
Strikers
Gallopers
Steam Yachts
Swing boats (children and adult size boats)
Austin Cars (ideal for under 5's)
Toy Town
Dodgems
Slip
Football Stall
Octopus
Dobbies
Coconut Sheet (throwing balls to knock a coconut off its stand).
Mirror Show (just a room of mirrors distorting your shape).
Slug Shooter Stall (hit a target and get a prize)
Air Rifle Stall (same as above)
Roll-A-Ball
Dart Stall
Ball-A-Stall
Victory Dive Bomber
Arcade
Train Ride (for children)
Arc

There are too many rides for me to describe individually so I have chosen some special ones that always stand out from the crowd.

The latest attraction is the "Ark" which has been packed away since 1980. Owned by Mr T Andrews, all 500 pieces had extensive renovation and it was up and running for the 2006 season.

The Ark is believed to be the one of the most original rides in existence and still retains its original artwork and design. Climb up the three rickety wooden steps and prepare to be spun around as your carriage goes up and down at quite a fast pace. Compared to the modern day rides, this seems quite tame but just as enjoyable.

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• Next Page >>