Theme parks provide a great day out for the whole family and fortunately, the UK and Ireland are blessed with some of the best in the world, with a huge variety on offer for all ages and interests. Here's a rundown of the best theme parks to enjoy with the family.
Thorpe Park
Colossus at Thorpe Park has no more than 10 loops!
One for the thrill-seekers, Thorpe Park in Surrey is packed full of white-knuckle, adrenaline-surging rides such as SAW: The Ride, Nemesis Inferno, The Swarm and Stealth, the UK’s fastest rollercoaster, propelling riders from 0-80 mph in under two seconds.
Alton Towers
Ride Rita and reach speeds of 100km per hour in just 2.5 seconds
Another great day out for adrenaline junkies, Staffordshire‘s Alton Towers boasts epic rides such as Oblivion, Wicker Man and Rita, but also the colourful and cheery CBeebies Land for little ones.
Chessington World of Adventures
Soar through the skies like a bat out of hell on the Vampire ride at Chessington World of Adventures
With rides for all ages – from Vampire to the Gruffalo River Ride Adventure – plus an outstanding zoo and SEA LIFE centre, Chessington World of Adventures in Surrey really is the ultimate day out for the whole family.
Paultons Park
Swoop and spin through the air on Edge at Paultons Park
Little ones will love a visit to Paultons Park, not far from Southampton, Hampshire. It boasts the world’s first and largest Peppa Pig World, with rides, play areas and even opportunities to meet the stars of the show.
Barry’s Amusements
Located in Portrush, Northern Ireland, Barry’s Amusements is great for all ages. The Big Dipper and Big Apple are great for the adventurous, while younger (or older!) family members can enjoy a ride on the Carousel or Dodgems, plus plenty more.
Legoland offers rides, Lego models and events throughout the year
Legoland Windsor Resort, Berkshire, is adored by kids and adults alike. Packed full of colour, imagination and adventure, Legoland has fast and furious rides to enjoy, Miniland to explore and Duplo adventures for little ones. You can even nab your first driving licence and pan for gold.
Oakwood Theme Park
Oakwood is a must-visit attraction while in Pembrokeshire, Wales. The theme park has thrill rides, family rides and plenty more besides, including an arcade, air target shooting range and mini-golf.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
ICON is the UK’s first double launch rollercoaster
The classic when it comes to theme parks, Blackpool Pleasure Beach in Lancashire is still one of the UK’s best-loved theme parks. Nickelodeon Land is great for kids, while the dare-devils can take on The Big One, ICON or Valhalla.
Tayto Park
Located in County Meath, Ireland, Tayto Park is the country’s only theme park and is based around the famous Irish crisp brand. As well as exhilarating rides for the whole family, it also has a zoo and 5D cinema to enjoy on-site.