Familydaysout.com has compiled a list of the top ten theme parks in the UK , to help you plan your next family adventure.
Get ready for an unforgettable day of excitement, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime!
Alton Towers - Staffordshire
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Alton Towers is the biggest theme-park in the UK, and it has something to offer for everyone. From the iconic Nemesis and Oblivion rollercoasters to the family-friendly CBeebies Land, there's plenty of rides and attractions to suit all ages and thrill-levels. Don't miss out on the new Wicker Man ride or the terrifyingly immersive experience of The Smiler.
Families would enjoy Alton Towers because it offers a wide variety of attractions that cater to all age groups and thrill levels. The park has plenty of thrilling rollercoasters for adrenaline junkies, but it also has areas like CBeebies Land that are perfect for younger children. Additionally, the park offers a lot of immersive experiences, such as The Smiler and Wicker Man rides, that are sure to thrill and excite visitors. Overall, Alton Towers is a great destination for families looking for a fun and exciting day out.
Thorpe Park - Surrey
Thorpe Park is famous for its heart-stopping rollercoasters, like The Swarm and Stealth. But there's more to this theme-park than just extreme rides. You can enjoy the water attractions at Tidal Wave, explore the jungle-themed maze of Derren Brown's Ghost Train, or take a leisurely boat ride through the park's waterways on the Amity Beach attraction.
Thorpe Park offers a mix of extreme rollercoasters and other attractions that cater to all ages and thrill-levels. While the park is known for its heart-stopping rides like The Swarm and Stealth, it also offers a range of water attractions, mazes, and leisurely rides that are perfect for families. The Derren Brown's Ghost Train attraction is a must-visit, as it is not only thrilling but also offers an immersive experience that is unlike anything else. Overall, Thorpe Park is a great destination for families looking for a fun and exciting day out with a variety of attractions to suit everyone's interests.
Chessington World of Adventures - Surrey
Photo by Chessington World Of Adventures ©
Chessington World of Adventures is a great option for families with younger children. The park has a mix of rides and animal exhibits, including the popular Gruffalo River Ride Adventure and the thrilling Vampire rollercoaster. Don't forget to check out the zoo and sea-life centre, where you can see everything from tigers to penguins.
Families with younger children would enjoy Chessington World of Adventures because the park offers a mix of rides and animal exhibits that cater to their interests. The Gruffalo River Ride Adventure is a popular ride among children, as it is based on the beloved children's book character. The park also has the thrilling Vampire rollercoaster for older children and adults. In addition to rides, the zoo and sea-life centre are a must-visit, where visitors can see a variety of animals, including tigers and penguins.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach - Lancashire
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Blackpool Pleasure Beach is a classic UK theme-park that's been entertaining families for generations. There are over 40 rides to choose from, including the iconic BigOne wooden rollercoaster and the adrenaline-pumping Infusion ride. You can also catch a show at the park's famous ice theatre or enjoy traditional carnival games and snacks.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach because is a classic UK theme-park that has been entertaining families for generations. With over 40 rides to choose from, there is something for everyone, from the iconic BigOne wooden rollercoaster to the adrenaline-pumping Infusion ride. In addition to rides, families can catch a show at the park's famous ice theatre, where they can marvel at the incredible skating performances. Traditional carnival games and snacks are also available, giving families the chance to experience the fun of a classic fair. Blackpool Pleasure Beach is a great destination for families looking for a fun and nostalgic day out.
Legoland Windsor Resort- Berkshire
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For Lego-loving families, Legoland Windsor is a must-visit theme-park. The park is filled with Lego-themed rides and attractions, including the Dragon rollercoaster and the Miniland exhibit, which features miniature Lego versions of famous landmarks. You can also take a boat ride through the park's waterways or watch a 4D Lego movie.
Legoland Windsor is entirely Lego-themed, making it a dream destination for Lego-loving children. The park boasts a variety of rides and attractions, including the Dragon rollercoaster and the Miniland exhibit, where visitors can see miniature Lego versions of famous landmarks. Kids can also take a boat ride through the park's waterways or watch a 4D Lego movie. Legoland Windsor is an immersive experience that allows families to step into a world of creativity, imagination, and fun. It's a perfect place for a day out that combines excitement, education, and family bonding. Overall, Legoland Windsor is an excellent theme-park that caters to families with children of all ages, and it's a destination that is sure to create lasting memories.
Paultons Park - Hampshire
Paultons Park is home to the popular Peppa Pig World, which is sure to delight younger children. But there's also plenty of fun to be had for older kids and adults, including The Cobra rollercoaster and the Lost Kingdom dinosaur exhibit. The park also features beautiful gardens and a water park.
Families with young children will especially love Paultons Park, home to the beloved Peppa Pig World. This delightful area of the park is filled with rides, attractions, and even a Peppa Pig-themed hotel. But Paultons Park has something for everyone, from thrilling rollercoasters like The Cobra to the fascinating Lost Kingdom dinosaur exhibit. The park also boasts stunning gardens and a water park, making it an ideal destination for a fun-filled family day out. With so much to see and do, Paultons Park is sure to create lasting memories for families of all ages.
FAQ: Visiting UK Theme Parks
Some of the top theme parks in the UK include Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, Chessington World of Adventures, LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, and Drayton Manor Theme Park.
The best time of year to visit UK theme parks is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is typically warmer and drier. However, be prepared for longer lines and more crowds during this time. Spring and autumn are also good times to visit, as the crowds are smaller and the weather is still mild.
There are several ways to save money on theme park tickets in the UK. Some parks offer discounts for purchasing tickets in advance online. You can also save money by purchasing multi-day or multi-park tickets. Additionally, some theme parks offer discounts for groups, such as families or school groups. Check out out Tickets page top see if we can help :)
You should bring comfortable clothing and shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a small backpack to carry any essentials, such as water bottles, snacks, and extra clothing. It's also a good idea to bring a poncho or raincoat in case of rain.
Yes, there are height restrictions on most rides at UK theme parks. These restrictions vary by ride and are in place to ensure the safety of riders. Check with the park before your visit to see what the height restrictions are for each ride.
Some of the best rides at UK theme parks include Nemesis at Alton Towers, Stealth at Thorpe Park, Vampire at Chessington World of Adventures, and The Dragon at LEGOLAND Windsor Resort.
Yes, there are several accommodations near UK theme parks, including hotels, B&Bs, and campsites. Some theme parks also offer their own on-site accommodations, such as Alton Towers Resort and Thorpe Park Resort.
Yes, many UK theme parks offer special events and shows throughout the year. These can include seasonal events, such as Halloween or Christmas-themed events, as well as live shows and performances. Check with the park before your visit to see what events and shows are scheduled.
Most theme parks have a lost and found area where you can report a lost item or inquire about a lost child or group member. It's a good idea to establish a meeting point with your group before entering the park, in case anyone gets separated. If you do get separated, notify park staff and follow their instructions.
There are no specific age restrictions for visiting UK theme parks, although some rides may have minimum age or height requirements. It's up to parents or guardians to determine whether their children are ready for the rides and attractions at a particular park.
Most UK theme parks allow visitors to bring their own food and drinks into the park, although there may be restrictions on the type and quantity of food and drinks allowed. Check with the park before your visit to see what their policy is on outside food and drinks.
Yes, most UK theme parks offer accommodations for visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair rentals, accessible restrooms, and special seating on rides. Some parks also offer special access passes for visitors with disabilities, which can help reduce wait times for rides. Check with the park before your visit to see what accommodations are available.
Most UK theme parks do not have strict dress codes, but it's a good idea to wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are appropriate for the weather and activities. Some parks may prohibit certain types of clothing, such as swimwear, or require guests to wear appropriate footwear on rides. Check with the park before your visit to see what their policy is on attire.
No, most UK theme parks do not allow pets on site, except for service animals. Check with the park before your visit to see what their policy is on service animals.
Yes, most UK theme parks allow visitors to bring strollers or pushchairs into the park. However, be aware that some rides may require you to leave your stroller or pushchair in a designated area while you ride.
Drayton Manor Resort - Staffordshire
Drayton Manor is both a theme-park and a zoo, making it a unique family day out experience. The park's biggest attraction is the adrenaline-pumping rollercoaster G-Force, but there are also plenty of gentler rides for younger children. The zoo features animals like tigers, lions, and meerkats.
If you have older kids or if you're a thrill-seeker yourself, you'll love the park's roller coasters. The standouts include Shockwave, a stand-up coaster that reaches speeds of up to 53 mph, and Apocalypse, a drop tower that plunges down from a height of 54 metres. For younger children, the park offers a variety of gentler rides like the Thomas Land train and the Flying Dutchman. There's truly something for everyone!
But Drayton Manor isn't just about the rides. The park's zoo is home to over 100 animals from around the world. You'll be able to see tigers, giraffes, monkeys, and more. There are also daily animal shows where you can learn about the park's inhabitants and even get up close and personal with some of them.
And let's not forget about Thomas Land. If you have young children who love the beloved blue engine, they'll absolutely adore this area of the park. You can ride on Thomas and his friends or play on the many themed playgrounds. There's even a stage show
Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park - North Yorkshire
Lightwater Valley is a smaller theme-park that still packs a punch with its thrilling rollercoasters like The Ultimate, which is one of the longest in Europe. The park also has a range of family-friendly rides and attractions, including a pirate-themed area and a mini-golf course. For a unique experience, don't miss out on the Eagle's Claw ride, which swings you 360 degrees in the air.
Families will love Lightwater Valley because it offers a variety of thrilling rollercoasters, including The Ultimate, as well as family-friendly rides like the pirate-themed area and mini-golf course. The Eagle's Claw ride is also a unique and unforgettable experience. Despite being a smaller theme-park, Lightwater Valley still packs a punch and is sure to provide a fun day out for families of all ages.
Adventure Island - Essex
Located in the seaside town of Southend-on-Sea, Adventure Island is a fun-filled theme-park that's perfect for a day out with the family. The park has over 40 rides, including the famous Rage rollercoaster and the Time Machine ride, which takes you on a journey through different eras. You can also enjoy classic seaside attractions like arcades and amusement stalls.
Adventure Island is a fun-filled theme-park that offers a variety of exciting rides and attractions for all ages. Whether you're looking to ride the famous Rage rollercoaster or take a journey through different eras on the Time Machine ride, there's something for everyone. And when you need a break from the rides, you can enjoy classic seaside attractions like arcades and amusement stalls. Adventure Island is the perfect place for a day out with the family in the seaside town of Southend-on-Sea.
Fantasy Island - Lincolnshire
Fantasy Island is a unique theme-park that combines thrilling rides with an indoor market and beach. The park boasts Europe's longest and tallest spinning rollercoaster, as well as a range of other exciting rides like the Odyssey and the Millennium rollercoasters. The market offers a variety of shopping options, and the indoor beach is perfect for a break from the rides.
Fantasy Island offers a unique experience that combines thrilling rides with an indoor market and beach. The park's spinning rollercoaster is the longest and tallest in Europe, and there are other exciting rides like the Odyssey and the Millennium rollercoasters. Additionally, the market has a variety of shopping options, and the indoor beach is perfect for a break from the rides. Fantasy Island is sure to provide a memorable and fun day out for families of all ages.
Overall, the UK has a fantastic selection of theme-parks to choose from, each with its own unique attractions and experiences for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or looking for a more laid-back day out, there's something for everyone in these top ten theme-parks.
So grab your tickets and get ready for a fun-filled day with the family!
AshleyPugh ;
Ashley Pugh is one of the Co-Founders of Familydaysout.com and has been committed to writing family related content since 2008. There isn't much about family attractions that Ashley doesn't know, after visiting hundreds of them worldwide over the last 20 years.
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