Leisure Expert Group, a leading experience design company, and Paultons Park, UK are celebrating the official opening of the new Viking-themed zone, Valgard, which launched on 16 May.
This represents a significant landmark in the almost 10-year collaboration between the two organisations, which has included projects such as Tornado Springs and Ghostly Manor.
The Drakon Euro-Fighter coaster
"The opening of Valgard is a milestone that reflects what long-term collaboration can achieve," says a spokesperson from Leisure Expert Group.
"Together with Paultons Park, we have worked to shape a vision for growth and strengthen the overall guest experience.
"This new area is not just an expansion, it’s a great example of how strategic master planning, creative design, and partnership come together to create lasting value for both the park and its visitors."
Leisure Expert Group has been closely involved in shaping the Viking-themed land, from the initial blue-sky phase through to detailed design, supporting Paultons Park's phased approach to increase capacity and elevate the visitor experience.
The masterplan includes room for further expansion, which Paultons Park is expected to announce in the near future.
Valgard at Paultons Park
The first phase of Valgard has already significantly expanded the park, and features Paultons Park’s first roller coaster with inversions, Drakon, which offers a new experience for both families and thrill-seekers, accompanied by the Raven bobsled coaster, which has been entirely re-themed for the Viking land.
See also: The 26 best new roller coasters for 2026
Visitors can also enjoy the UK’s first ‘Vild Swing’, an extensive Nordic-themed restaurant, and a themed playground for the youngest guests.
Strategic expansion
Leisure Expert Group collaborates closely with theme park owners to think beyond individual projects and support their long-term strategic growth.
By looking beyond programming and masterplanning, its team of concepters, architects and technical experts can address the full project scope, from early concept and strategy through to detailed design.
At every stage, Leisure Expert Group carefully considers how best to serve the visitor profile and create the right balance across experiences, attractions, theming, food and beverage, and playgrounds.
"Growing a medium-sized theme park is not just about adding attractions or theming; it’s about shaping a cohesive vision that guests can truly feel throughout the park," says the company.
"We help unlock new opportunities for environments and attractions, always with a strong focus on growth and guest experience."
Valgard at Paultons Park
Lawrence Mancey, marketing and technology director at Paultons Park, says: “Our long-standing partnership with Leisure Expert Group has been instrumental in shaping the world-class guest experience that defines Paultons Park.
"As we look towards the future, our phased masterplan is about more than just adding individual rides or attractions; it’s about the creation of immersive worlds and experiences that resonate with families for generations.
"By combining our long-term vision for sustainable growth with the Leisure Expert Group's design expertise, we are ensuring that every new development maintains the high standard of quality and detail our guests have come to expect.
"We are excited to continue this collaborative journey, evolving our park offerings while staying true to our identity as the UK’s favourite family theme park.”
As the second phase of development approaches, the opening of Valgard marks the next chapter in the long-term partnership between Leisure Expert Group and Paultons Park, focused on creating meaningful, narrative-driven experiences for families.
Last year, Leisure Expert Group celebrated the opening of Barbie: The Dream Experience at WONDR Experience in Amsterdam.
