^I think it's more to do with the fact that it's a relatively tiny park doing really well for itself, and they don't pretend to be giving you something they're not (Merlin). I wouldn't say Paultons is mega ohmygod fantastic, but I think it is a very pleasant park who seem to take pride in themselves and know that they're not going to be the biggest and best park around, but they'll give an attempt at creating a ride 'experience' as opposed to just bunging it down on some concrete.
I felt the same when I went on Astro Storm at Brean. The park overall is a bit gross, but I think that's more to do with the setting. The fact that they'd tried with their newest attraction really said something. No it's not the best thing in the world but I think effort really does count for a lot, which is something I personally think Paultons always give 100% in.
That said, I am beginning to wonder where all the sweet moola they're clearly making from Peppa Pig is going if this is their latest offering.