In pictures: See people enjoying the rides at the start of Hartlepool Carnival 2025 on historic Headland

Hartlepool Carnival has arrived with the opening of Murphy’s Giant Funfair on the Headland’s Town Moor.

The fairground marks the start of ten days of rides and community events.

Cllr Carole Thompson, the Ceremonial Mayor of Hartlepool, officially got the fun started on Thursday afternoon.

The fairground is open daily from 2am to 10pm until Saturday, August 9.

9. Official opening

Mayor Councillor Carole Thompson, joined by Deputy Mayor Phil Holbrook, official opened Hartlepool Carnival on Thursday afternoon. Photo: Stu Norton

Little ones enjoy a Thomas the Tank Engine merry go round. Photo: Stu Norton

The first day of Hartlepool Carnival on the Headland. Photo: Stu Norton

This ride is surely one for white-knuckle fans only. Photo: Stu Norton