Carters Mini Festive Fair

December 7, 2021 in Family

The Carters Mini Festive Fair!

Press Trip

If you haven’t heard of The Carters Steam Fair, they are a family run business based in Maidenhead. Back in the 1970’s husband and wife John and Anna Carter took the plunge and bought their first ride – the Steam Gallopers. John was a collector of classic American cars and slot machines and built up his collection of vintage rides. He rescued and restored fairground rides and attractions, which date from the 1890’s up to the 1960’s.

John restored the collection and Anna did the artwork. But after John sadly passed away of Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2000, son Joby and his wife Georgina took over and now successfully run the fair – along with the rest of the family. Joby also does the artwork and holds workshops and training courses.

Although The Carters Steam Fair is a travelling fair, some of the junior rides are currently all set up at the yard for children to go and enjoy. Based in White Waltham, Maidenhead, you can book thirty minute slots for a small group at the Carters Mini Festive Fair.

It’s the perfect experience for younger children, with a calmer atmosphere and a more personal feel. There’s also no queuing – and it’s all in one smaller space. There is a real festive atmosphere too, with Christmas music and decorations. And there’s a food van on site too for drinks and of course candy floss for that ultimate funfair vibe!

We went along on a Sunday morning. We had plenty of time before it started to take a look around – there is even an old vintage table football to play on while you wait. There’s also a dodgem car that you can sit in for photos!

Joby has displayed some of his artwork and he told me it is available to purchase.

Myself with Joby Carter

Social Distancing

If you are put off by large crowds, there is plenty of opportunity to socially distance during your visit. We were one of about five families, so everyone was able to spread out. Even whilst the children were on the rides, they were able to space out, so no one was close to another household.

The rides were really good value, as the children had a good amount of time of each one. And although the slot lasts for half an hour, no one was made to feel rushed (so it actually went on a bit longer).

Little Kids Adventure

The Festive Mini Fair is running from December 4th 2021 – January 2nd 2022. It’s open every weekend then daily during the Christmas school holiday, but pre-booking is essential. It will be open from 11am – 6pm.

You can pick your slot when you book online, and when you arrive, you will be guided round by a friendly team member. There’s plenty of free parking just outside the yard.

The Little Kids Adventure includes a range of smaller rides suitable for ages up to 7, or children up the the height of 1.3m (babies must be able to sit up unaided). The majority of the rides are not suitable for adults, apart from the Gallopers and the Carters Wonder Railway Steam ride. With the Little Kids Adventure ticket, an adult can accompany their child on the Gallopers for free.

An adult or older sibling (over the age of 7) can purchase an add-on ticket so they can join in with a few of the rides/games that are suitable.