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Complete Guide to Visiting Alton Towers

Last updated: March 26, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 5 Comments

If you’re thinking of visiting Alton Towers, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together this detailed guide to help you plan your visit to one of the UK’s best-known theme parks.

Alton Towers is located in Staffordshire England and is currently the largest and most visited theme park in the UK, featuring a wide variety of rides and attractions from children’s rides to thrilling roller coasters. This guide is going to cover a lot, and is based on our personal experiences visiting Alton Towers.

We’ve visited Alton Towers a number of times, my first experiences were as a teenager and twenty-something old.  Most recently I visited with Jess and with friends who at the time of our visit had a three-year-old and a six-year-old.

My friends have also visited Alton Towers multiple times, and we’re going to be incorporating their experiences and thoughts of visiting Alton Towers into this guide. So hopefully we can give you some thoughts from the perspectives of young single people, a married couple in their 30s and 40s, and of a family with young kids.

We’re going to go through everything you need to know to have an awesome time at Alton Towers. While most of you reading are probably living in the UK, a trip to Alton Towers can also be a fun experience for international visitors as well!

We’ll cover all the rides and what to expect from each one, tips on how to make the most of your time and get the most time actually riding rather than queuing, share our thoughts on the Alton Towers accommodation and dining, and loads more.

Whether you are visiting as a family, a couple, with friends, or on your own, this guide is going to give you everything you need to know for your Alton Towers visit. Let’s get started.

Alton Towers Overview & History

Alton Towers (technically called Alton Towers Resort) is the most-visited amusement park in the UK. It’s also more than a theme park, as it also has a series of hotels, a water park, a spa, and a mini-golf course.

The theme park is found on a large estate which was once the home of the Earls of Shrewsbury and was owned by the Talbot family from 1412 until 1924. They also owned the nearby Alton Castle which dates back to the 11th century.

The mansion house on the Alton Estate, which largely dates to the 18th century, is still there, although it’s in a ruined condition. There’s also a large lake and landscaped gardens on site.

Alton Towers has been open to the public in some way since the 19th century, when visitors were able to pay to tour the gardens. Attractions were added throughout the 20th century including a boating lake, model railway, and chairlift. My mother remembers visiting Alton Towers during her childhood in the 1960s and having a lovely day out.

So when you are visiting here you are on the grounds of what was for centuries the large estate and home of the Earls of Shrewsbury. The magnificent ruins of the home and some of the outbuildings and follies, as well as the landscaped garden are still there. You can still stroll through parts of the gardens.

In some places you would have no idea you are in the middle of an amusement park as it feels like you are in a park or forest. A very unique and British setting for a theme park!

The theme park as it is known today, with thrill rides and permanent attractions, really started in 1973. Today, Alton Towers is operated by the Tussauds Group, who also operate locations including Thorpe Park , Madame Tussauds London , and the London Eye .

Today, the theme park is one of the most well-known and popular theme parks in the UK, with something to offer everyone from kids to adults alike.

It has had a number of impressive ride accomplishments, including the world’s first dive coaster, the world’s first “flying” rollercoaster, the roller coaster with the most inversions in the world, and Europe’s first inverted rollercoaster.

There’s a massive amount to see and do at Alton Towers, more than enough to fill two or three days even. That said, you can definitely do a lot with just one day at Alton Towers if you plan properly.

How to Get to Alton Towers

Alton Towers is in the county of Staffordshire near the village of Alton in England. The address is Farley Ln, Alton, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 4DB.

It’s essentially between Manchester (44 miles drive to the north) and Birmingham (47 miles drive south).

Here are the main options for getting to Alton Towers:

Driving to and Parking at Alton Towers

The easiest way to get to Alton Towers is definitely to drive. It’s fairly close to both the M1 and the M6 motorways, although the last stretch is on smaller roads.

When driving, after leaving the motorway we recommend following the brown “Alton Towers” signs rather than your sat-nav or GPS.

This is because the rural location of the park means that there are a lot of small country lanes around the park. The brown signs will keep you on the larger roads which will usually be quicker.

Parking at Alton Towers

There is a lot of on-site parking available, and stewards will usually direct you to the nearest car park as you arrive. This does depend on how busy the day is and what time you arrive.

There is a fee to park at Alton Towers, depending on where you park, which is as follows:

• £10 for a day in the standard parking, 15-25 minutes’ walk from the main entrance
• £20 for a day in express parking, 1-3 minutes away from the main entrance

There are also ways you can get free parking at Alton Towers.

• Hotel guests staying overnight in the resort can park in the designated hotel carpark, and then either enter the park from the hotel guest entrance (near the Galactica ride and Rollercoaster Restaurant) or take the monorail to the park entrance.
• Guests staying at CBeebies hotel can park for free in the Express Parking lot
• Holders of Gold, Platinum or Premium Merlin passes can park for free in standard parking. They can upgrade to Express parking for £10.

Parking can be booked online in advance here . This is mandatory for Express Parking, with the exception of CBeebies guests, who must show hotel confirmation on arrival.

You can also normally add car parking to your purchase when buying your theme park entry tickets.

Public Transport to Alton Towers

Alton Towers is in a relatively rural location, so whilst it is possible to reach the resort by public transport it will involve some good planning.

The nearest train station is in Uttoxeter, which is 10 miles from the station. From here you can take a bus to Alton Towers. The X41, operated by D&G Bus, runs from Uttoxeter to Alton Towers Resort. You can see the schedule here .

You can also take a taxi from Uttoxeter train station, which is about a 20-minute drive from Alton Towers.

Other relatively close train stations are Stoke on Trent (15 miles from Alton Towers) and Derby (25 miles from Alton Towers). However, you will need to take a taxi from both of these locations to reach the resort.

You can book taxis online in advance here .

If you are relying on public transit, you might want to consider coming up the night before and taking the D*G bus or a taxi from a nearby train or bus station to an Alton Towers Resort hotel.

Then you can walk from any of the resort’s hotels to the park in the morning (or take the Monorail) without needing to rely on a taxi or public transit to get around.

Alton Towers Opening Dates and Times

Alton Towers is open seasonally as well as for certain holidays and school breaks. It is normally open from March through to November. Outside of this time the resort has special themed opening times, normally for the Christmas period and also for school half terms.

In terms of opening hours, the park normally has the following opening hours:

• Theme Park opens at 9am (rides open at 10am).
• Theme Park closes at 6pm during peak times and on weekends, and at 4pm on off-peak days.

It’s important to note that the closing time is the time that the ride queues close. If you have joined a queue before theme park closing time, you will be able to finish queuing and complete your ride even after closing time.

You can check the latest opening dates and hours for Alton Towers online here .

For special events park hours do change so it is important to check what they are before visiting. Also during the holiday and special opening periods, some sections of the park may not be fully open so be sure to check which rides and attractions are open.

Note that the Alton Towers Waterpark and Extraordinary Golf mini golf  are next to but separate from the park and operate with different hours.

The Alton Towers Waterpark (located in the Splash Landings hotel) is open the majority of the year.

The Extraordinary Golf course (next to the Splash Landings hotel) is also open the majority of the year, and is often open quite late into the evening. Hotel guests normally receive a complimentary round of mini-golf as part of their stay.

Note that both the above attractions can be visited separately from the theme park and you don’t need a theme part ticket for these attractions, which are charged separately.

How to Get Around Alton Towers

The main way most people get around at Alton Towers is on foot. The park is fairly spread out, but there are footpaths everywhere.

One thing to be aware of is that there are not a lot of signs or maps around the park, and they also no longer offer paper park maps. Instead, you are expected to use the mobile app .

This is actually a pretty decent mobile app, and the map part of it has built in navigation. It even lets you avoid steps. However, it can be a battery drain, so we’d suggest bringing a USB battery pack like this to avoid running out of juice halfway through the day.

Note that those visiting in wheelchairs and those with mobility issues should check out the accessibility info for the park here .

There are two additional options for getting around Alton Towers. These are the Monorail and the Skyride.

Alton Towers Monorail

The Alton Towers Monorail runs from the main park entrance to the resort area. It’s also close to some of the car parks. This only has two stops, one near the hotels and more distant parking lots, and one at the main entrance to the theme park.

Use of the Monorail is free for all park guests. It can definitely be a quick way to get from the resort and some of the car parks to the main theme park entrance, however there are some caveats.

On busy days, and especially in the mornings and evenings, the monorail gets very busy. Queuing times can exceed 40 minutes. Given that it’s about a 15 – 20 minute walk from the Monorail station to the main theme park entrance, if it is particularly busy it is normally quicker to just walk.

Additionally, Alton Tower Resort hotel guests are eligible to enter the park from a park entrance near the hotels. This is just past the Monorail station, and brings you into the park next to Galactica.

We would definitely recommend hotel guests who already have their park tickets consider using this entrance rather than take the Monorail if there is a long wait.

Alton Towers Skyride

The Alton Towers Skyride is a gondola style cable car ride which provides transport around the park.

There are three stations, one near the main park entrance on Towers Street, one near the Blade ride in the Forbidden Valley, and one in the Dark Forest near Rita.

The Skyride is definitely useful for getting across the Gardens when travelling between the Forbidden Valley and the Dark Forest as otherwise there are quite a lot of steps up and down if you take the most direct route.

The Skyride is free to all park guests. However, in our experience it tends to be closed for maintenance fairly regularly.

Note, the Alton Towers Skyride is closed for all of 2024, as it was for 2023. Hopefully 2025 brings a new Skyride experience!

Alton Towers Map

This is a photo of the map in Alton Towers in 2023. However, we’d recommend using the map in the Alton Towers app.

Confusingly, the map in the app is inverted compared to the physical maps on signs in the park. On the physical maps, the entrance is at the bottom, in the app it is at the top (as it is geographically).

So just keep this in mind if cross referencing between the maps in the park and the map in the app, as it’s easy to get confused (as we know from personal experience)!

Alton Towers Ticket Information

We’ll now go through the main ticket types available for Alton Towers as well as how much they cost and where to buy them.

Pricing information is correct as of February 2024, but prices can vary so do check the latest prices online here .

How Much Are Alton Towers Tickets?

Currently, the price for Alton Towers tickets is as follows (correct as of 2024):

• £35 – £59 for a 1-day pass for ages 3 and up (Normally £68 on the day)
• £47 – £71 for a 2-day pass for ages 3 and up (Normally £80 on the day)
• £29 for a parent and toddler pass . Toddlers are defined as being under 5, and an additional under 5 can be added for £5. This pass is only available on weekdays outside of holiday periods.
• Free for those under 3 and carers

Alton Towers ticket pricing varies depending on whether you purchase in advance or on the day. Pricing also varies depending on the date, with peak dates normally costing more (depending on demand). Peak dates are normally during holiday periods as well as at weekends.

There are also occasional promotional prices and sales on the website, which you can see here .

The pricing for in-person purchases can be much for expensive compared to buying online, so we highly recommend buying online to save money.

Discount Alton Towers Tickets

There are not that many ways to get discounted tickets for Alton Towers, although some options do exist.

• Students who register with Student Beans can purchase tickets from £20
• Tesco Clubcard holders can convert points into vouchers which can be redeemed towards Alton Towers entry .

If you don’t qualify for a discount, then the best way to save money on Alton Towers is to buy tickets in advance from the official website as this is a lot cheaper than buying tickets on the day.

You can also save by visiting on a weekday outside of holiday periods as these tend to offer the lowest prices.

Where to Buy Alton Towers Tickets

The two main options for purchasing Alton Towers tickets are either online on the official website here or in-person at the resort.

We would highly recommend buying online as the prices are significantly lower and then you also don’t need to wait in the ticket lines.

Passes Which Include Alton Towers

There are two main passes which include access to Alton Towers. These are best if you either plan on visiting Alton Towers multiple times a year, or if you plan on visiting the other included attractions. The passes are as follows:

• Alton Towers Annual Pass . This offers yearlong access to Alton Towers (with some peak date exclusions) as well as discounts on food and drink and other benefits. Available from £99 for a year.
• Merlin Annual Pass . This pass offers access to all the main Merlin attractions in the UK, including Alton Towers, The London Eye, SEA LIFE centres, Chessington World of Adventures and more. Starts from £99.

The Alton Towers pass can definitely be worth it if you plan on visiting Alton Towers multiple times in a year (at least three I would suggest), although you will want to check which dates are excluded before purchasing.

The Merlin Annual pass makes sense if you live in the UK and plan on spending your year visiting the Merlin attractions around the UK. There are a lot of these (see full list here ), but you will definitely want to check which days you can visit prior to purchasing.

If you are only planning on visiting Alton Towers once or maybe twice in a year, then a regular ticket will likely offer the best value.

Alton Towers Fastrack Passes

One way to potentially enhance your Alton Towers experience is to invest in a Fastrack pass .

A Fastrack pass gives you access to a special Fastrack line for many rides which has priority boarding, and which can significantly cut your queuing time.

In our experience, on a very busy day where standard ride queue times can be 1 – 2 hours, the Fastrack line will be between 3 and 30 minutes.

This will of course depend on how many Fastrack passes have been sold and how busy the park is, but in our experience on a busy day a Fastrack pass can significantly cut queue times and let you spend more time riding and less time queuing.

Fastrack Pass Versions at Alton Towers

There are different versions of the Fastrack passes, as follows:

• Individual Fastrack tickets for specific rides. These can be bought on the day through the Alton Towers app for many of the more popular rides
• Fastrack Bronze Pass – allows you to join the Fastrack line once for four rides: Gangsta Granny: The Ride​, The Curse at Alton Manor​, Runaway Mine Train, and Spinball Whizzer
• Fastrack Silver Pass – allows you to join the Fastrack line once for six rides: Wicker Man​, Oblivion, Rita, TH13TEEN​, The Smiler, and Galactica
• Fastrack Gold Pass – allows you to join the Fastrack line once for thirteen rides: Wicker Man​, Oblivion​, Rita, TH13TEEN​, The Smiler, Galactica, Spinball​ Whizzer, Gangsta Granny,​ The Curse at Alton Manor,​ Marauders Mayhem​, Battle Galleons​, Rapids​ and Runaway Mine Train
• Fastrack Platinum Pass – allows you to join the Fastrack line as many times as you like for the following rides: Nemesis Reborn, Wicker Man, Oblivion, Rita, TH13TEEN​, The Smiler​, Galactica​, Spinball​ Whizzer, Gangsta Granny​, The Curse at Alton Manor​, Marauders Mayhem​, Battle Galleons​, Rapids​ and Runaway Mine Train

With the exception of the individual Fastrack tickets, all the other passes can be bought in advance online, in person at the park from the customer service office, or through the Alton Towers app.

Note that for 2024, the only Fastrack pass which includes the new Nemesis Reborn ride is the Platinum Pass.

Fastrack Passes can sell out, so if this is something you are sure you want to invest in for your visit, we recommend buying them online in advance of your visit on the official site here .

Buying in advance is worth doing is visiting at a busier time of year, such as during school holidays and during special events like Scarefest.

Fastrack Pass Pricing at Alton Towers

The pricing for the passes is as follows. Note that this does not include park entry, so you will still need a park entry ticket to access the park.

• Individual Fastrack ticket: £8 – £10 per ride
• Fastrack Bronze Pass : £32
• Fastrack Silver Pass : £55
• Fastrack Gold Pass : £75
• Fastrack Platinum Pass : £130

Fastrack is valid for a specific day, so if you are visiting Alton Towers across multiple days and want Fastrack on all of them, you will need to buy a pass for each day you visit.

How Fastrack Works at Alton Towers

With all the Fastrack passes the process is quite simple. When you have a Fastrack pass, whatever type it is, instead of joining the regular line, join the Fastrack line. This will be clearly signposted.

Note it is not the same as the Ride Access line (this is for holders of Ride Access Pass tickets only).

Depending on the ride, someone will check your Fastrack ticket when you enter the queue or when you get to the ride boarding area, so have it ready. They will normally scan the barcode on the pass to validate it.

Depending on the pass you have, how it works will vary slightly.

With the individual Fastrack pass, bought on a per-ride basis, this is only good for one ride on one attraction.

With the Bronze, Silver and Gold passes these entitle you to one Fastrack per attraction. So you can ride all the rides included on the pass using the Fastrack once. If you want to ride a ride again, you will have to join the regular queue or buy an individual Fastrack ticket for that ride.

You can share these passes in a group, so if one person wants to do one ride and another person wants to do a different ride, this can be a good option.

For the platinum pass, this can be used for as many Fastrack rides as you want on the included rides, but it can only be used by one person.

On a recent visit to Alton Towers on a very busy school trip day in July we invested in four Gold Passes. This definitely saved us a lot of time, and meant that we were all able to ride all 13 rides operating that day which were included in the Fastrack pass (Hex was closed and Nemesis Reborn had not opened yet).

Given that queue times for the most popular rides were over 2 hours at some points on the day we visited, that would definitely not have been possible without the Fastrack. For us, queue times on the day varied between 1 minute and 30 minutes with our Fastrack.

If you’re wondering if Fastrack passes are worth it for your visit, see the frequently asked questions section at the end of this guide where we go into our thoughts on Fastrack in more detail.

Rides at Alton Towers

We’ll now go through all the rides at Alton Towers and what you can expect from each ride. There are a lot of different types of ride at Alton Towers.

Everyone likes different types of ride. For example, I prefer rides with a drop and am less keen on being spun around. Jess loves being spun around but doesn’t like being dropped! On our recent visit, one of the kids hated scary rides, whilst the other kid was generally fine with them.

In this section we’ll outline the main features of each ride. I’ll also include an idea of how scary the ride is and how thrilling the ride is.

For the scare factor, this refers to whether the ride has elements that might make you jump or which might be less suitable for younger riders. Of course, this will vary by individual.

For the thrill factor, this refers to how thrilling the ride is. So if the ride spins you around, drops you, or inverts you, I’m going to give that a higher thrill factor than a more sedate ride experience. Again, these scores are very subjective as everyone finds different things thrilling.

This should help you decide which rides to head for and which rides you might want to avoid, depending on the type of ride you like. We’ll also provide our thoughts on the ride experience.

Note that this section may contain ride spoilers so if you want to be surprised on the rides you might want to skip it.

For this section the rides are grouped together by which area of the park they are in. See more about the areas of the park in the section of this guide on park areas, which goes into more detail on theming.

Forbidden Valley Rides

A post-apocalyptic themed area with a mix of family friendly and high-end thrill rides. Rides are as follows:

Nemesis Reborn

New for 2024 is the reopened Nemesis ride, now known as Nemesis Reborn. This was originally opened in 1994, but closed for the 2023 season for major upgrades and improvements.

The new version of the ride runs for 80 seconds, inverts you four times and pushes you to 3.5G. So it’s definitely a thrill ride!

We have ridden this ride, just a few days after it opened in 2024, and it was definitely an excellent experience. The ride was very smooth and a lot of fun, although it felt like it was over too quickly for sure.

The theming as you go through the queue is a lot of fun, and the area where you board the ride itself is also nicely themed.

The one thing we would say is that this is a very popular ride as it is so new, and queue times can be long. If you want to ride it without having to pay for a Fastrack pass, then we highly recommend coming here early in the day.

When we rode it, we made a beeline for this ride and joined the queue for the ride at around 9.30am. The ride opened at 10am and we were riding by 10.10am. After that, queue times were up around 2 hours consistently all day – and this was a quiet weekday in March when all the other rides had queue times well under an hour.

We expect this to be a popular ride for all of 2024, so definitely plan in advance if this is a ride you want to do.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Platinum Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 5/5 Ride type : Rollercoaster Ride length: 1 minute 20 seconds Ride height restriction: 1.4m

Galactica is a flying rollercoaster which debuted at Alton Towers in 2002, although back then it was called Air. It was rebranded to Galactica in 2016, although the ride experience remains the same.

Galactica is definitely a fun thrill roller coaster. After you board, the seats actually rotate 90 degrees so you are essentially dangling under the coaster rail, looking down at the floor. This lets you do your best flying impression, hence the name flying rollercoaster.

The ride itself is quite high-octane as you whizz around the track, experiencing up to 3.5G. It also inverts you twice, and can be fairly disorienting, although nothing to compare to Smiler.

Personally I do enjoy Galactica although I’m not a huge fan of being inverted and spun around so it’s not my favourite ride at Alton Towers. It’s definitely thrilling though, and recommended for those of you who like high-speed coasters.

One tip – if you are staying in the hotels on-site, there’s an exclusive hotel guest entrance which brings you in right next to Galactica. So if this ride is a priority, you can get here before the majority of other riders arrive and get on quickly, even without a Fastrack pass.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Silver, Gold & Platinum Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 5/5 Ride type : Flying Rollercoaster Ride length: 1 minute 40 seconds Ride height restriction: 1.4m

• Nemesis Sub-Terra

Not to be confused with the Nemesis Reborn ride, Nemesis Sub-Terra is a dark drop ride themed around the mysterious Phalanx and Nemesis Creature. It originally opened in 2012, but closed in 2015, and reopened in 2023.

The ride has you entering a darkened area with a small group where you are given some backstory and instructions from a Phalanx operative.

After a short video, you enter an elevator and are transported down to a room where everyone is strapped into chairs around a central podium containing a mysterious alien egg.

Once everyone is secured, the experience continues. There’s fun lighting and effects, as inevitably the alien breaks free and “attacks” the audience. There’s a great drop (yes, I screamed), and fun effects throughout including water, prodding ,and leg tickling.

After the drop, you have to “escape” the ride through a scary lift and a small maze before bursting back out into the real world.

Overall, it’s a fun ride experience with a few different components which is a bit different to most of the other rides. If you don’t like the thought of a scary ride, being trapped in a lift, or are claustrophobic, it might be one to skip.

Included on Fastrack : No Fastrack available Scare factor : 5/5 Thrill factor : 3/5 Ride type : Dark ride / walk-through / drop Ride length: 8- 10 minutes Ride height restriction: 1.4m Other Notes: Due to the drop chairs, this ride has quite restrictive size requirements.

Found near Galactica and Nemesis in the Forbidden Valley, The Blade is the oldest ride at Alton Towers, dating from 1980.

Despite its age, this is still a very popular and really fun ride for those of you who like airtime in a ride. It’s also one of the more thrilling rides for younger visitors as the height limit is relatively low compared to other rides.

The Blade is basically a giant seated swing that looks like a ship, which is why this kind of ride is known as a Pirate Ship. Passengers sit in rows of five facing the centre, and the ride swings backwards and forwards, getting higher and higher as it goes.

At the very peak of the ride, if you sit at the very ends of the ship, it almost feels vertical (ok, it’s actually 75 degrees, but when you’re on the ride you’re unlikely to be measuring angles).

There’s a great sensation of airtime on this ride, and it is definitely not for those of you who don’t like that dropping sensation! However, it is a good ride if you don’t like spinning as there’s no spinning or inversion. Even Jess was able to enjoy this one.

On a recent visit to Alton Towers we rode the Blade four times just as the park was opening. We had stayed in the hotel the night before and came here just as it opened. Despite it being a busy day, the first half hour or so had very few riders, and at one point there were only 8 people on the whole ride.

It was a real hit with the younger members of our group and it was one of the more thrilling rides that we could all do together. Along with the Runaway Mine Train, this was the favourite family friendly thrill ride we did in Alton Towers.

Included on Fastrack : No Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 3/5 Ride type : Pirate Ship Ride length: 1 minute 30 seconds Ride height restriction: 1m (1.3m must ride with an adult)

X-Sector Rides

Home to some of the most extreme rides in the park, all with a 1.4m height restriction. Themed like a secret government test facility.

This contains two permanent rides, Smilar and Oblivion, as well as two carnival style rides, Spinjam and Twistatron. I’m just going to cover the permanent rides in this section.

Opened in 2013, at time of writing The Smiler holds the world record for the most inversions (basicaly how many times you are upside down) on a roller coaster at fourteen.

The Smiler is definitely one of the most thrilling rides at Alton Towers, and also one of the more popular rides. Whenever we visit, it always seems to have some of the longest queue times.

The ride itself is quite a marvel of construction. It takes up a relatively tiny footprint, with every stretch of track seemingly involving a twist, a turn, or a drop.

In terms of the experience, this ride definitely delivers. It is fast, thrilling, and it spins you around a lot. I’m not a massive fan of rides that invert me, but I did get a thrill from this ride, even if my head was spinning for a while afterwards!

I also liked all the theming throughout, with a repetitive sound track that gets in your head and lots of flashing lights and colors. It’s all designed to disorient, and it definitely succeeds.

The only downside of the rollercoaster is that due to its seriously complex design, it does seem to shut down quite regularly. This can be very frustrating, especially if you’ve spent a lot of time queuing only for it to close with no warning.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Silver, Gold & Platinum Scare factor : 1/5 Thrill factor : 5/5 Ride type : Roller coaster Ride length: ~ 3 minutes Ride height restriction: 1.4m Other Notes: Ride early or late in the day to skip the long queues or consider Fastrack. This is also one of the only rides to have a single-rider lane which can be a lot faster.

Oblivion was the world’s first dive rollercoaster when it opened in 1998. This design of rollercoaster offers basically a 90-degree drop from a significant height, offering a sensation of free fall.

The ride experience is quite straightforward. The cars are quite wide but only two rows deep. You get taken to the top of the track and pause for a thrilling moment over the drop.

You then freefall down 55 metres (180 ft), with the thrill being heightened as the car plunges into a dark tunnel under the ground. It then swoops around and is over.

Personally, I’m a big fan of drops so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that this is one of my favourite rides in Alton Towers, despite the relatively short ride time. Jess, who doesn’t like drops, is definitely less convinced by Oblivion and skipped it!

This is a great rollercoaster if you don’t like being inverted or thrown around too much. It’s not a great option if you’re particularly afraid of heights or hate the sensation of free fall.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Silver, Gold & Platinum Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 5/5 Ride type : Dive Rollercoaster Ride length: 1 minute 15 seconds Ride height restriction: 1.4 m

Dark Forest Rides

Themed as a haunted woodland, this area of the park is home to two thrill rides which are:

If you love speed and g-force, then Rita is likely the roller coaster for you. Launched in 2005, this roller coaster is the fastest ride in the park, topping out at 61.1 miles per hour.

It’s also the one with the highest G-forces, which go up to 4.7G.

The main thrill of Rita is the launch. The ride is themed like a drag racer, with slightly panicked voice over providing an air of anticipation as you get ready to go.

Then, like a drag racer does, you accelerate very quickly in a straight line. How quickly? Well, you get to the maximum speed of 61.1 mph in around 2.5 seconds, which certainly feels very quick when you release!

After the initial thrill of the launch, the ride then banks around some fairly sharp corners and also gives you a feeling of weightlessness as you crest a couple of hills.

This ride is definitely going to be good for those of you who don’t like being completely inverted as there are no inversions.

However the speed of the ride means that the g-forces are quite high at 4.7G, so you will want to keep your head firmly braced back against the headrest as otherwise it can feel like quite a rough ride!

The other downside to this ride is that it’s one of the shortest rides in the park, lasting around 25 seconds. So if there is a very long queue and you don’t have a Fastrack pass then you might want to return when it isn’t so busy.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Silver, Gold & Platinum Scare factor : 1/5 Thrill factor : 4/5 Ride type : Accelerator Rollercoaster Ride length: 25 seconds Ride height restriction: 1.4m

TH13TEEN (or Thirteen, for easier spelling and reading) was another world-first rollercoaster when it debuted at Alton Towers in 2010.

If you’ve not done this ride before and don’t know anything about it, the twist is quite interesting and worth keeping as a surprise. However, if you don’t like surprises and want to know what lies in store, read on.

Thirteen is found in the Dark Forest area of Alton Towers, and is themed to be a bit of a spooky ride. The ride itself is what is known as a drop rollercoaster.

The ride starts with you getting into standard roller coaster carts which are similar to the Runaway Mine train. Passengers sit two by two. 

The train sets off and drops a little around a curve before climbing the main lift hill. From here there are quite a few fun airtime hills and banked turns, which make for a really enjoyable ride. It’s particularly fun if you don’t like too much spinning around like me, but do like the sensation of airtime.

About half way through the ride the train suddenly enters a dark tunnel and the doors close behind you. This is where the surprise takes place. Ghosts light up and air blows at you, and the train and track literally drop out from underneath you.

Then the train takes off backwards and you complete the majority of the rest of the track in reverse.

This is one of my favourite rides at Alton Towers, especially the first time I rode it when I had no idea what was going to happen.

The ride itself is not hugely scary in terms of dark elements, although when it enters the “crypt” and the drop happens there are some spooky elements to be aware of. This is over pretty quickly though, so it’s not exactly a full haunted house experience! But if your kids do not like haunted houses, this part might be scary.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, included on Silver, Gold and Platinum Scare factor : 3/5 Thrill factor : 4/5 Ride type : Rollercoaster Ride length: 1 minute 40 seconds Ride height restriction: 1.2m

The Towers Rides

This part of the park covers all the rides found in the area of the original house at Alton Towers. It’s a bit spread out with no real theme. Rides are as follows:

• Spinball Whizzer

Spinball Whizzer is a rollercoaster which is designed to give you the experience of being a pinball inside a pinball machine.

It’s essentially a rollercoaster with the twist that the four-person carriage spins freely around as it races around the track, so every ride is different.

It’s a fairly thrilling ride with vertical sections of track and lots of dips and dives, but there are no inversions. Despite not really enjoying spinning rides I did actually quite enjoy Spinball Whizzer.

It’s a relatively smooth ride (except at the end where there can be a bit of a janky moment when the cart is aligned to face forward again for loading and unloading).

Spinball Whizzer was a real hit with the six-year-old we visited Alton Towers with recently, as well as with the adults in the group. The relatively low ride height requirement makes for a nice family-friendly rollercoaster for kids looking to branch out into the bigger thrill rides.

It’s technically part of “The Towers” area, but is actually located very close to CBeebies Land.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Bronze, Gold and Platinum Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 3/5 Ride type : Spinning Rollercoaster Ride length: 1 minute 15 seconds Ride height restriction: 1.2 m

Hex is a dark theme ride based on an actual local legend involving a chained up Oak tree, which is actually a location not too far from the park itself.

Given that it is based on the owner of the original Alton Towers property, it’s appropriate that the ride is found within the ruins of Alton Towers.

Like the other dark rides, Hex is definitely a ride that is best experienced as a surprise. So if you want to experience it with no spoilers, now is the time to skip to the next ride.

The main thing to be aware of is that the ride can be disorienting, so if you are prone to motion sickness it’s one to be careful of.

However there’s no drop, inversions or real spinning. The first part of the ride has you progressing on foot between rooms, watching an immersive story with various lighting, sounds and effects.

The latter part of the ride is seated with lapbars. You will move and tilt, with the effect greatly heightened by the clever design of the room and what is essentially a giant optical illusion. So it feels like you are moving and tilting a lot more than you actually are.

Hex is a fun experience but it is a bit divisive in that people either seem to love it or hate it. We think it’s different enough from the other rides to make it worth visiting, and if you don’t feel great you can always close your eyes.

Note, Hex is closed for the first part of 2024, and is due to open later in the season.

Included on Fastrack : When open, Hex is normally included on the Bronze, Gold and Platinum Scare factor : 5/5 Thrill factor : 2/5 Ride type : Walkthrough dark ride Ride length: 5 minutes 25 seconds Ride height restriction: 0.9m (1.2m must ride with an adult)

• Cuckoo Cars Driving School

Found next to the David Walliams area of the park, Cuckoo Cars Driving School gives kids the opportunity to learn to drive their very own Cuckoo Car.

A fun track is set up with a range of traffic features, including pedestrian crossings, traffic signals and even a bubble car wash. The cars are electric, and the kids can steer them and make them stop or go with a pedal.

The cars are not on any kind of track, so the kids can choose where to drive them, just like in a real car. They are quite small and only go 4km/h, and there are also marshals all around the track to keep everyone safe and get the kids back on track should they veer off course at any point (there’s no reverse on the cars).

Cuckoo Cars was a massive hit with the kids we recently visited Alton Towers with. They’d literally finish and run back round to join the ride queue again! So this is definitely a kid friendly ride, as long as they meet the ride requirements.

The ride requirements for Cuckoo Cars are fairly specific, the kids must be at least 1 metre tall, 4 years or older, and under 1.4 metres.

So adults can’t join in on this one as this is for younger kids only. But there is plenty of viewing space so you can keep a close eye on your family members as they learn to drive.

Included on Fastrack : No Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 1/5 Ride type : Kids Driving Ride Ride length: 4 minutes Ride height restriction: 1m minimum. Additionally, maximum of 1.4m and minimum of 4 years old.

Mutiny Bay Rides

A pirate themed part of the park with primarily family friendly rides, as follows:

Opened in 2018, Wicker Man is one of the newest rides at Alton Towers. When it opened it was notable as being the first new wooden rollercoaster to be opened in the UK for 22 years.

As the name suggests, the Wicker Man is themed around the Wicker Man movie , a horror movie which dates from the 1970s and which involves a large woven effigy of a man made from wood which is set fire to.

The rollercoaster is also made from wood, and there’s a large effigy of a man that the ride passes through. There are also flame lighting and smoke effects throughout the ride which add to the themed experience.

Speaking of experience, the ride starts with a preshow that includes some video, light, and smoke effects. This does have a bit of a scare factor so is something to keep in mind if riding with younger children. You then board the train, and from this point it’s a wooden rollercoaster ride.

The ride experience is quite similar to the Runaway Main train or Thirteen, with dips, hills, and twists. There are no inversions or loops or anything like that, and the ride height restriction of 1.2m makes it a family option for many kids as well.

Wicker Man is found right next to Mutiny Bay, although it doesn’t follow the pirate theming.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Silver, Gold and Platinum Scare factor : 2/5 Thrill factor : 4/5 Ride type : Rollercoaster Ride length: 1 minute 50 seconds Ride height restriction: 1.2m

• Marauders Mayhem

Right in the heart of Pirate Bay is the Marauders Mayhem ride, which is basically a classic spinning tea cups ride.

This ride originally launched in 1987 as a tea cup ride, and was relaunched in 2008 with a pirate theme. So instead of sitting in teacups you sit in barrels.

Other than the theme, the ride experience is the same as a typical teacups ride. Up to 6 people can sit in each barrel, with four sets of three barrels arranged around the ride. Each set rotates, the whole ride rotates, and each barrel can also be made to rotate.

I think it’s fair to say that the Marauders Mayhem ride is not ideal if you don’t like spinning rides. But if you do like spinning rides, this is definitely one to go for. It’s a fun family ride with a fairly low height restriction.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Gold and Platinum Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 3/5 Ride type : Spinning teacups Ride length: 2 minutes Ride height restriction: 1.1m (1.3 m must ride with an adult)

• Battle Galleons

If you like rides where there’s a very solid chance of getting soaking wet, you’ll definitely want to head to the Battle Galleons ride at Alton Towers.

This ride has you boarding a pirate ship which “sails” around a part of the Alton Towers lake. The fun part is that there are water cannons on board, which you can fire at other vessels, as well as at anyone standing on the shore where your boats pass.

These water cannons are hand operated – you spin a wheel to make the water flow.

You don’t need to feel too sorry for the folks on the shore though, because they have access to their own watercannons. There are two versions on the shore – free ones where you can spin a wheel, and paid cannons. The paid cannons are definitely more powerful, with 10 “shots” per £1 when we visited.

This ride was popular with both adults and kids in our group but probably not a good one for anyone not wanting to get wet.

Assuming there are other people participating in the ride, there’s a very high chance you are going to get quite wet on this ride. There are some drying rooms nearby where you can pay around £5 to have some air blown at you, but this isn’t hugely effective in our experience so probably not worth the money.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Gold and Platinum Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 1/5 Ride type : Splash Battle Ride length: 3 minutes Ride height restriction: 0.9m (1.1 must ride with an adult)

If you or your kids like the idea of the Blade but all the dropping and height seems like a bit much, then you should definitely check out Heave Ho.

This pirate ship themed ride is found, as you might guess, in the Mutiny Bay part of Alton Towers.

The ride concept is basically a pirate ship which rocks backwards and forwards on rails, but which also spins as it goes. The spinning is not super-fast but it can be a bit disorienting, so if you aren’t a fan of rides which spin you might want to watch it first before boarding.

This was a really popular ride with our family group on a recent visit. The kids really loved it, and it’s also a good ride for viewers to watch from the sidelines and get nice photos.

Included on Fastrack : No Scare factor : o/5 Thrill factor : 2/5 Ride type : Rocking Tug Ride length: 3 minutes Ride height restriction: 0.9 m (1.1m must ride with an adult)

Katanga Canyon Rides

Themed as an African village, this area of the park is home to the following two rides:

• Congo River Rapids

The Alton Towers theme park doesn’t have a lot of water rides, but there are a couple of options, one of which is Congo River Rapids.

This has been getting park visitors wet since 1986, and remains a popular and relatively family friendly attraction to this day.

The ride consists of large circular rafts which seat around seven people. You start the ride going up a shallow lift, and then you float around the river rapids, parts of which have sections of choppy water.

There’s a reasonable chance you’ll get wet on this ride, although it’s normally just splashes of water rather than a full-on dunking. So just keep that in mind.

One really nice thing about this ride is that it’s relatively long by theme park standards, at 6 minutes. With a minimum height of 1.1m it’s also a good family friendly option for many families.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Gold and Platinum Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 2/5 Ride type : River Rapids Ride length: 6 minutes Ride height restriction: 1.1m (1.3 m must ride with an adult) Other Notes: Just be aware that you might get wet

• Runaway Mine Train

Runaway Mine Train is one of my favourite family-friendly rollercoasters at Alton Towers. Jess isn’t a huge fan of big rollercoasters, but she really likes Runaway Mine Train and its her favourite ride in the park.

As the name suggests, the theme is a mine train which has, well, runaway. Riders board carriages seated in pairs, and the train has some pretty good drops and twists as it goes, even pulling a fair bit of g-force. It also does the track twice, which makes for a nice long feeling ride.

There are no inversions or anything like that, but it’s definitely a pretty thrilling ride, and one of the most thrilling rides at the park with a low height requirement.

We went on it with a three year old and a six year old and they absolutely loved it. Just be prepared to join the queue again when you finish if your family likes it as much as ours did! We rode this one several times over two days.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Bronze, Gold and Platinum. Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 3/5 Ride type : Rollercoaster Ride length: 1 minute 50 seconds Ride height restriction: 0.9m (1.1m must ride with an adult)

Gloomy Wood Rides

Gloomy Wood is themed, as the name suggests, around a dark, likely haunted, forest. It has one ride:

• The Curse at Alton Manor

The Curse at Alton Manor opened in 2023, making it one of the newest rides in Alton Towers. However, it builds on a long tradition of haunted house rides, with the original incarnation of this ride opened in the same location all the way back in 1992.

The ride tells the story of the long-deceased Emily Alton, who Alton Towers fans will recognize from previous rides in this location. The story goes that Emily was never invited to the parties her parents held, and this annoyed her so much that evil possessed her, cursing the house and all its occupants.

I guess the moral of the story here is to invite your kids to your parties from time to time.

Anyway, the ride itself has a few components. The queue is where the story starts, winding through the woodland, with various graves and spooky sculptures.

You then enter the house, and walk past various set pieces with lights and sound effects. Finally, there’s a six-minute ride which takes you through the somewhat dark and twisted world of Emily.

The ride is definitely dark, and if you like dark rides and haunted house style rides you will likely enjoy it. If you prefer rollercoaster thrills and spins , this probably won’t be the ride for you as there aren’t any drops, inversions, or twists.

In terms of being kid friendly, the ride is pretty scary with quite a lot of dark themes of death and revenge. So whilst the ride height restriction is fairly low, some kids might find the content rather terrifying. The kids we were with (age 3 and 6) hated this ride and found it too scary. The 3-year-old would not get on the ride at all.

Overall, one to check out if you like dark, haunted house type rides. Personally, Jess and I didn’t really like it as we never really got the full story for the ride and it isn’t a thrill ride.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Bronze, Gold and Platinum Scare factor : 4/5 Thrill factor : 1/5 Ride type : Dark ride / haunted house Ride length: 6 minutes 15 seconds Ride height restriction: 0.9m (1.1m must ride with an adult)

The World of David Walliams Rides

This part of the park focuses on the world created by the author David Walliams. It’s a very family-friendly part of the park, and most of the rides have low height requirements. Rides are as follows:

• Gangsta Granny the Ride

Opened in 2021, Gangsta Ganny the Ride is one of the main rides in the area of the park devoted to the world created by writer David Walliams.

The ride is basically a carriage-based dark ride with a lot of special effects that has you helping the main characters attempt to steal the Crown Jewels from Buckingham Palace.

Everyone in our group on a recent trip to Alton Towers enjoyed this ride. The story is interesting and engaging for kids especially, and the experience is fun for adults as well. There’s also quite a bit of humour throughout the ride which should bring a smile to your face.

It’s neither a thrilling roller coaster nor a scary ride, but we think it’s well worth doing, even if you aren’t at all familiar with the characters in the books. We all enjoyed it.

One thing to note is that the theme of the ride does have characters stealing and committing a crime which might not sit right with all parents with younger children.

Included on Fastrack : Yes, Gold and Platinum Scare factor : 1/5 Thrill factor : 1/5 Ride type : Dark ride Ride length: 4 minutes Ride height restriction: 0.9m (under 1.2m must ride with an adult) Other Notes: This ride has a fairly low maximum rider per hour limit, so queue times can be longer than you might expect

• Raj’s Bouncy Bottom Burp

Found in the David Walliams area of Alton Towers, Raj’s Bouncy Bottom Burp is a bouncing drop ride designed for young kids. It’s similar to the CBeebies Peter Rabbit Ride but the drops are a bit more pronounced, making it a bit more exciting.

The drops are also accompanied by a fart based soundtrack, and honestly, what kid doesn’t find toilet humor hilarious? So this ride is definitely popular amongst kids visiting the park.

The drop is not so terrifying (it’s more of a bounce really), and Jess who doesn’t really like drop rides didn’t mind this. Although accompanying a 3-year-old in hysterics at the sound effects probably helped!

Included on Fastrack : No Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 1/5 Ride type : Bouncy drop Ride length: 1 minute 45 seconds Ride height restriction: 0.9m (under 1.1m must ride with an adult)

• Royal Carousel

Have you even been to a theme park if you haven’t ridden the carousel? Jess would certainly argue no. It’s always a ride that we love to ride at least once at any theme park, fair, or carnival as it’s such a classic.

The Royal Carousel in Alton Towers is found in the David Walliams part of the park, and features a number of horses and carriages. Some of the horses go up and down (those with poles to the roof) and some are static.

It has a royal theme, with a crown on top and a voiceover soundtrack to match. Sure, it’s not the most thrilling ride in the park, but it’s fun for kids and adults who love a bit of theme park nostalgia.

Included on Fastrack : No Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 1/5 Ride type : Carousel Ride length: 2 minutes Ride height restriction: no height restriction but those under 1.3m must ride with an adult

• Flavio’s Fabulous Fandango

This carnival style twister ride found in the David Walliam’s section of the park is great for those of you who love being spun around. It’s actually one of Jess’s favourite rides at Alton Towers because she loves being spun around but doesn’t like being dropped.

The ride consists of twelve sets of chairs which are in groups of four. The groups of four spin together, and then all the groups also spin around a central point. This results in quite a lot of spinning, which at points can seem quite fast as you whiz past gondolas coming the opposite direction.

It is definitely a lot of fun. Just be aware that the minimum ride height of 1.2m is a bit higher than most of the other rides in this area. I’d also add that this is technically a temporary carnival style ride, but we’re included it as it’s themed and seems likely to stay.

Included on Fastrack : No Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 2/5 Ride type : Twister Ride length: ~2 minutes Ride height restriction: 1.2m

CBeebies Land Rides

CBeebies Land is a really family friendly part of Alton Towers with rides, shows and activities designed to entertain younger visitors to the park. It has a huge amount of rides and activities. The main rides are as follows:

• Peter Rabbit Hippity Hop

Pet er Rabbit Hippity Hop is a gentle drop style ride designed for younger riders. The ride is themed around Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit character, with fun sound effects and music.

This ride is definitely not a crazy drop ride, it’s more of a gentle drop and bounce. So even adults who don’t like drop rides will enjoy riding this one with their kids.

It’s probably not a ride that thrill seekers are going to be heading for, but if you are in Alton Towers with younger family members you will definitely want to check this one out.

Included on Fastrack : No Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 1/5 Ride type : Drop Ride length: ~ 90 seconds Ride height restriction: 0.9m (under 1.1m must ride with an adult)

Go Jetters Vroomster Zoom Ride

The Go Jetters Vroomster ride is another fun family ride. This one is themed around the Go Jetters, with ride participants boarding their very own Vroomster.

A Vroomster, for those of you not familiar, is basically a jet powered flying car. And the Alton Tower replica is pretty accurate!

The ride consists of a number of Vroomster cars, which can seat up to four people, which rotate around a central pod. The cars are attached to the pod by a yellow arm, and the riders can control the height of the car with a lever inside the car. This gives the riders the impression of controlling their very own flying car, which is pretty cool.

The ride is not particularly fast, so whilst it does go round in circles, it’s about the same speed as a carousel so it shoudln’t make you dizzy. The up and down motion is also pretty gentle, so all in all it’s a pretty relaxed ride.

Included on Fastrack : No Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 1/5 Ride type : Aerial Roundabout Ride length: 2 minutes Ride height restriction: 0.9m (under 1.25m must ride with adult)

• Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure

Octonauts is a family focused rollercoaster which is likely to be one of the first rollercoasters younger visitors to Alton Towers are going to experience.

The rollercoaster, which is themed after The Octonauts show, offers probably the gentlest rollercoaster experience at Alton Towers. It is a good starting point for kids who meet the height restrictions and want to try a rollercoaster.

If they love it, the Runaway Mine train has similar ride requirements and is a bit more thrilling, with a faster ride and much greater drops and speed.

However, Octonauts is definitely a good starter coaster, with no inversions or particularly steep drops or curves.

Included on Fastrack : No Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 1/5 Ride type : Rollercoaster Ride length: 2 minutes 30 seconds Ride height restriction: 0.9m (under 1.1m must ride with an adult)

• Get Set Go Treetop Adventure

This ride in CBeebies Land takes you high above the trees (ok, 12 ft) in your very own bug shaped car. It’s a fun ride for younger kids for sure and gives nice views of CBeebies land.

It’s also nice and relaxing for adults if you’re looking for a relaxing ride with no crazy thrills or scares.

One thing to be aware of is that this ride is quite popular and as it’s fairly slow moving the queue can get quite long. In fact, of all the rides at the park, this was the one where we had the longest wait on a recent visit!

So try to time your visit for first thing in the morning or later on in the day. There are activities in the queue to keep kids busy, but they’ll only go so far.

Included on Fastrack : No Scare factor : o/5 Thrill factor : 1/5 Ride type : Flat track Ride length: 4 minutes Ride height restriction: No minimum but under 1.1m must ride with an adult.

• In the Night Garden Magical Boat Ride

This is a popular water ride in CBeebies Land which has you boarding a boat for a magical tour around the Night Garden. The boat floats peacefully around a river, and whilst it’s a water ride you are very unlikely to get wet.

This ride has you passing by many of the characters and scenes from the “In the Night Garden” TV series, including the Tombliboos, Upsy Daisy and Iggle Piggle.

It’s a nice relaxing ride which should amuse younger visitors and be nice and relaxing for adults. It’s also a relatively long ride at 6 minutes.

ncluded on Fastrack : No Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 0/5 Ride type : Boat ride Ride length: 6 minutes Ride height restriction: No height restriction but those under 1m must ride with an adult

• Postman Pat Parcel Post

Postman Pat has been a stalwart figure on children’s television since the 1980s. I remember watching him delivering mail around the Yorkshire Dales with his trusty helper Jess the cat as a child, and kids today still get to watch Pat on CBeebies.

Now, you too can experience the life of Pat on the Alton Towers Postman Pat Parcel Post ride in CBeebies Land. This is a flat ride on rails which has you boarding Pat’s signature red post van and go trundling around a course.

The van has various buttons on the dashboard, which you can press to ensure you deliver the right parcel to the right person, giving it a good element of interactivity. There are also lights and a horn that you can control.

Overall this is a fun family experience for younger visitors and especially fans of Postman Pat. It is by no means a thrill ride, but not everything has to be!

Included on Fastrack : No Scare factor : 0/5 Thrill factor : 0/5 Ride type : Track Ride Ride length: 2 minutes 45 seconds Ride height restriction: No height restriction but those under 1.1m must ride with an adult

CBeebies Shows

As well as the rides, CBeebies land has a number of live shows and entertainment options that younger visitors are bound to enjoy.

Show times vary and are available in the app, but usually you can expect to see the following shows throughout the day at the main stages in CBeebies Land:

• The Furchester Hotel Live
• Teletubbies Big Band Show
• Hey Duggee Live
• Bluey Live (new for 2024, starts March 23rd)

Thrill Rides at Alton Towers

Now that we’ve covered all the rides by area, we’ll list the rides divided into various categories. Starting with thrill rides.

If you’re looking for a list of the thrill rides at Alton Towers, I’d suggest the following all classify:

Of course, how thrilling you find a ride will be personal preference, but we think most people would find the above rides fairly thrilling!

Rides for Toddlers and Kids at Alton Towers

If you’re visiting Alton Towers with younger family members, you might be wondering what the best rides for them are going to be.

For the vast majority of rides, the main thing is not going to be the age of your child, but rather their height. This is definitely something to be aware of if you have children of differing heights, as some of them may be able to experience rides that the others may not. This can lead to challenging situations, as no one likes to be left out!

It is therefore a good idea to have an idea of which rides at the park are going to be suitable for which members of your group and which aren’t. That way you can make a plan for which rides to take who to. The Alton Towers app and website has a filter system so you can show only those rides which are going to be suitable.

The last time we visited Alton Towers we had four adults, a 3-year old who was 1.1m and a 6-year old who was 1.25m. So this meant they couldn’t ride every ride together.

We handled this by sharing duties between the adults, and splitting the rides we rode together. This was made a lot easier with the Fastrack passes we had as it meant we were not away for very long.

The good news is that there are also lots of great rides that are suitable for all ages and heights. We’d specifically recommend the following:

• Get Set Go Tree Top Adventure

For slightly taller and more adventurous kids, the following are bound to get their pulses going a bit more:

• Wicker Man (1.2m)
• Spinball Whizzer (1.2m)
• TH13TEEN (1.2m)
• Marauders Mayhem (1.1m)
• Congo River Rapids (1.1m)
• Heave Ho  (0.9m)
• Runaway Mine Train (0.9m)

The two more scary rides (haunted house style) might also be suitable for kids but honestly this is going to be a personal decision as a parent depending on the kid. These are:

• The Curse at Alton Manor (0.9m)

When we visited with a 3-year old and a 6-year old their ride highlights were Runaway Mine Train, Blade, Octonauts, Get Set Go Tree Top Adventure, Cuckoo Cars Driving School, and Heave Ho. The 6-year-old also really liked Spinball Whizzer, Marauders Mayhem, and Wicker Man.

They also really loved the interactive shows and experiences in CBeebies Land, as well as playing the games where you can win a toy like Hook-a-Duck.

Just be aware that the Hook-a-Duck and similar games are not free. The temptation of a giant toy is hard to resist though.

Ride Height Requirements at Alton Towers

Here’s a quick list of all the rides at Alton Towers with their minimum ride heights, ordered from high to low.

Some rides also have a different minimum height if riding without an adult, which is indicated in brackets if applicable.

The majority of rides with height restrictions have a measurement stick next to the ride entrance so you can verify riders’ heights. When you get to the ride, staff will usually check heights if they are unsure, so you’ll want to be sure everyone is the right height to avoid disappointment.

You can also get a bracelet which has the rider’s height on it at some of the rides to save having to be measured multiple times.

Here’s a list of all the rides which have a restriction, ordered from highest to lowest.

• Nemesis Reborn – 1.4m
• Nemesis Sub-Terra – 1.4m
• The Smiler – 1.4m
• Oblivion – 1.4m
• Galactica – 1.4m
• Rita – 1.4m
• Spinball Whizzer – 1.2m
• TH13TEEN – 1.2m (maximum 1.96m)
• Wicker Man – 1.2m
• Marauders Mayhem – 1.1m (1.3m must ride with an adult)
• Congo River Rapids – 1.1m (1.3m must ride with an adult)
• The Blade – 1m (1.3m must ride with an adult)
• Hex – 0.9m (1.2m must ride with an adult)
• The Curse at Alton Manor – 0.9m (1.1m must ride with an adult)
• Gangsta Granny The Ride – 0.9m (1.2m must ride with an adult)
• Peter Rabbit Hippity Hop – 0.9m (1.1m must ride with an adult)
• Battle Galleons – 0.9m (1.1m must ride with an adult)
• Go Jetters Vroomster Zoom Ride – 0.9m (1.25m must ride with an adult)
• Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure – 0.9m (1.1m must ride with an adult)
• Heave Ho – 0.9m (1.1m must ride with an adult)
• Runaway Mine Train – 0.9m (1.1m must ride with an adult)
• Raj’s Bouncy Bottom Burp – 0.9m (1.1m must ride with an adult)
• Royal Carousel – no height restriction but those under 1.3m must ride with an adult
• Postman Pat Parcel Post – no height restriction but those under 1.1m must ride with an adult
• In the Night Garden Magical Boat Ride – no height restriction but those under 1m must ride with an adult
• Cuckoo Cars – 1m. Additionally, maximum of 1.4m and minimum of 4 years old.

Areas at Alton Towers

Alton Towers is divided into 11 areas. Each area is themed differently, with some areas more focused on high-octane thrill rides (like X-Sector) whilst others are more aimed at younger families (such as CBeebies Land).

Here’s a list of all the areas at Alton Towers and the rides they contain. When planning your day, it’s a good idea to try and do all the rides you are interested in in each area, to avoid spending a lot of time walking between locations.

This section of the park contains some of the more extreme rides in the park, all of which have a minimum height restriction of 1.4m. The rides are:

• Spinjam (temporary carnival style ride)
• Twistatron (temporary carnival style ride)

X-Sector is themed like a secret government testing facility, so expect lots of metal fencing and concrete.

Dark Forest

This section of the park is home to two rides, both of which offer fast-paced thrills. These are:

The Dark Forest area is themed as a sort of haunted woodland. The idea is you can only escape by riding the abandoned drag racer Rita. I’m not quite sure how you get out if you’re under the 1.4m height restriction for Rita.

Forbidden Valley

This area of the park has a number of different rides which include some rides suitable for smaller guests. This is the area of the park you enter if you come in the hotel guest entrance.

Forbidden valley is where you’ll find the Blade, which is the oldest ride in Alton Towers, originally opening in 1980!

The rides in Forbidden Valley are:

• Nemsis Reborn
• Funk n’Fly (temporary carnival style ride)

Forbidden Valley has a post-apocalyptic theme, with hints of alien infestation throughout linked to the Nemesis creature.

Gloomy Wood

Found between Katanga Canyon and Forbidden Valley, Gloomy Wood only contains one ride:

However it does have a walkthrough themed footpath which is home to various statues, gravestones and other installations, titled Haunted Hollow. Some of these make noises, including telling jokes.

As you would guess from the name, the theme of the area is a haunted woodland.

Katanga Canyon

Katanga Canyon is where you’ll find the park’s oldest rollercoaster as well as a water ride. Both these rides are a lot of fun, with the rollercoaster suitable for many younger visitors as well.

Katanga Canyon is themed as an African village. The Runaway Mine ride has one of the lowest height requirements of any rollercoaster in the park (the same as Octonauts), and is very popular with families.

CBeebies Land

CBeebies Land is one of the most family friendly areas in Alton Towers, with rides, shows and activities focused around entertaining younger visitors.

Honestly, if you are visiting with toddlers and young visitors there’s pretty much enough to do here to fill a day. It’s a really fun area and you can tell a lot of thought has gone into creating an immersive world. As you can see there’s a lot to do here:

• Postman Pat’s Parcel Post
• Something Special Sensory Garden
• Bugbie Go Round
• Octonauts Roller Coaster Adventure
• Justin’s House: Pie-O-Matic Factory
• Go Jetters V roomster Zoom Ride
• Big Fun Showtime
• CBeebies Photo Studio
• JoJo & Gran Gran at Home
• Andy’s Adventures Dinosaur Dig
• Hey Duggee’s Live

If we had to criticize CBeebies Land for anything, it’s that queue times for some of the rides can be a bit long on busy days.

In fact, the longest queue we had on a recent visit to Alton Towers was for Get Set Go Tree Top Adventure.

Other than that though, this park, which is themed around a whole range of CBeebies programs, is a really fun spot for families visiting Alton Towers offering everything from rides to live shows to fun photo opportunities.

The Towers are actually the ruins of the original house at Alton Towers, and is where the park gets its name from. It is home to a number of rides, which are found around the main building.

The Towers area is a bit spread out, with part of it right next to CBeebies Land and the rest close to the World of David Walliams. Rides are as follows:

• Hex – The Legend of the Towers

There’s no particular theming around the rides to be honest, they just happen to be in the area of the original house.

This area is also where you will find the Alton Towers Dungeon . This is a separate attraction which requires its own ticket, which you can purchase here . This is a walk through attraction with costumed actors.

We haven’t visited the Alton Towers Dungeon but we have visited the dungeon in Edinburgh, London and San Francisco, which offer a similar experience.

It is fun, however there is already quite a lot to do at Alton Towers so we wouldn’t say it was a must-see attraction. That said, it is a good value especially if you book in advance and it is a fun experience.

The World of David Walliams

Found just beyond The Towers, the World of David Walliams offers a range of rides which are primarily aimed at primary school aged kids.

In our experience though younger kids also enjoy the majority of the rides here as they are not particularly extreme and the ride heights are not overly restrictive. The rides here are:

• Gangsta Granny: The Ride

This area is themed around the world and characters created by David Walliams and is another good spot for families visiting Alton Towers.

Found near the main park entrance, Mutiny Bay is home to a lot of family-friendly rides as well as a number of paid fairground style games like Hook-a-Duck and toss the ball type of games. The rides are:

With the exception of Wicker Man, all the rides here have a nautical / pirate theme, and this is another great location in the park for families as the majority rides have low height restrictions and the queues are not normally too long (except for Wicker Man).

This is also where you’ll find Sharkbait Reef by Sea Life Aquarium, an aquarium you can visit which is included as part of your ticket. This is an entirely indoor attraction so is a good option if it is raining.

Finally, there’s also a bar serving drinks as well as a seating area at Mutiny Bay.

Towers Street

When you enter the park through the main entrance you will arrive onto Towers Street. This area is themed like a town high street and is home to various services and facilities, including food and drinks outlets and customer service.

There’s a Skyride station here, but no actual rides. From this area you can see across the lake to the Towers. To your left as you face away from the entrance is Mutiny Bay, and on your right is CBeebies Land.

So if you are visiting with kids you don’t have to go far to find your first rides.

The Gardens

One of the oldest areas at Alton Towers, and one that has been drawing visitors for years, are the gardens. These take up a large area of the park between Mutiny Bay and the Dark Forest.

Many visitors only experience the gardens from above, as the Skyride passes over them, but it is worth taking some time to explore them as they are quite lovely and make for a nice spot for a break.

You’ll find all sorts of features, from neatly trimmed topiary hedges, fountains, old trees, greenhouses, and follies.

Just be aware that the gardens are set across a valley, and there can be quite a few steps to navigate. So this is worth bearing in mind if you have limited mobility or are navigating a children’s buggy.

Accessibility at Alton Towers

Alton Towers provides a lot of information and options for people with various disability and mobility needs, and this information is covered in detail on the page dedicated to accessibility on the Alton Towers site.

The accessibility approach at Alton Towers is designed to assist anyone with accessibility needs have a safe and enjoyable visit to the park, and the site has information to help you plan your visit as well as what to expect on site.

In general, the park and the resort accommodation options cater well for accessibility requirements. All the toilets have accessible wheelchair features as well as accessible changing rooms.

Wheelchairs are available for free, and mobility scooters can be hired for the day. The latter can be booked online in advance here .

Alton Towers also offers a Ride Access Pass , which is designed for visitors who find it difficult to stand for prolonged periods of time. This gives access to a separate line and a virtual queuing system.

Ride Access Pass holders don’t get to skip the line per se, but they don’t have to stand in a line for a prolonged period. This process is explained here .

For Ride Access pass access this needs to be booked in advance of your visit as applications are approved by a third-party who assesses visitors’ needs on an individual basis.

Photos at Alton Towers

Photography is generally allowed at Alton Towers, however for the most part photography is not allowed on the rides (with some exceptions).

So if you want to get photos of yourself and your family enjoying the rides, you’ll need to consider investing in a photo package.

On a recent trip to Alton Towers we bought the digital photo pass for both of the days we were there. This costs £25, and we thought it was pretty amazing.

The way it works is as follows. As you finish a ride, all the ride photos are displayed on a screen with a number. Using the Alton Towers app, you can type in that number, and the photo will appear in the app on your device.

You can also pick up a QR code that links to your account and have the photo attendant scan it for automatic delivery to your app.

If you haven’t bought the digital photo pass, the photo appears in the app with a big watermark and you can’t download it. However, when you pay for the photo pass (either in app on in person), the photos all become available without watermark, and you can download them to your phone for sharing.

The nice thing about this system is that even with six of us, we still only needed to buy one photo pass. I just had all the photos delivered to my phone and then shared them. Over the two days we were there we had around 80 photos, many of which you can see in this guide.

It’s also worth noting that there are more photo opportunities than just ride photos. One good example is The CBeebies Land photo stop. This is a really fun experience, where a green screen is used to add you and your group to many CBeebies Land scenes.

As well as digital photos, you can also pay for printouts of ride photos, although this is a separate fee.

You can buy the digital photo pass online in advance of your visit here . You can also buy it on site in person, or through the app. The cost is the same.

Honestly, while it is convenient to buy it in advance, you might want to wait until the end of the day so you can review the pictures in the app and then decide if you want to buy them.

I believe the pictures are available for purchase for up to 90 days in the app, and once purchased they can be downloaded from the app for up to a year from when they were taken.

If you plan on visiting Alton Towers multiple times throughout the year, you can also pay £75 for an annual photo pass, which will give you access to all the photos from your park visits for a whole year.

Restaurants at Alton Towers

Alton Towers has quite a wide choice of dining options across the park. There are restaurants in the theme park area itself, as well as restaurants at the hotel resorts which serve breakfast and dinner.

There are also picnic areas and a number of places selling snacks and drinks which can be found all around the park. Just note that many of these accept contactless payment only rather than cash.

Be aware that most of the restaurants have an ordering system which requires you to scan a QR code and then order and pay through your phone. We have had issues with this in the past, and have learnt that you can still pay at a till if you have difficulties.

The main dining options are as follows.

Restaurants in the Theme Park

• Woodcutter’s Bar and Grill (near Dark Forest / Towers)- focuses on grilled foods, generally our favourite of the restaurants in the park when it comes to food
• Rollercoaster Restaurant (Forbidden Valley) – has a variety of options, with the twist that all the food is delivered via a mini rollercoaster.
• Explorers Pizza Pasta (Katanga Canyon) – buffet restaurant with a range of pizza, pasta and a salad bar
• The Burger Kitchen (near David Walliams area & Alton Towers Dungeon, also Mutiny Bay) – Primarily burgers, as you would imagine, although you have to buy a combo meal which can push the price up
• Just Chicken (X-Sector) – Primarily focuses on fried chicken
• Corner Coffee (Towers Street) – As well as coffee it also has sandwiches, pastries, and cakes

Restaurants in the Resort Area

Note these generally only serve breakfast and dinner. It’s also good to know that the Rollercoaster Restaurant is also open after the theme park closes, although reservations are required.

• Secret Garden Restaurant in Alton Towers Hotel
• The Crooked Spoon in the Enchanted Village
• The Windmill Restaurant in CBeebies (can only be booked if you are staying on site, and logged in from your reservation)
• Flambo’s Jambo in Splash Landings Resort

Accommodation at Alton Towers

For an extended Alton Towers experience, you can actually stay on site at one of the resort accommodation options. There are six different accommodation options at Alton Towers across a range of different price points.

We think staying on site can make sense, especially if you are visiting with kids as the on-site accommodation is really set up towards enhancing their experience with additional activities and themed rooms.

However if you want to stay somewhere a bit quieter with more flexibility in choice in terms of price, dining options and so on, then check out the section on nearby accommodation further on in this guide.

All the accommodation is found to the east of the main park. Depending on which option you choose, the accommodation is about a 5-10 minute walk from the monorail, which will whisk you to the main park entrance in a few minutes.

You can also walk to the main park entrance in 20 – 30 minutes, or to the exclusive hotel guest entrance which is about 5 – 10 minutes’ walk from most of the hotels.

Here’s a rundown of all the accommodation options at Alton Towers to give you an idea of what to expect.

Alton Towers Hotel

Alton Towers Hotel was the first hotel to be built at the park, opening in 1996. It’s a 4* hotel with a large restaurant, bar and almost 200 rooms.

The hotel is themed after the fictional character Sir Algenon Alton, a famed explorer and inventor. Different areas of the hotel are themed to match his different exploits, including a hot-air balloon pirate ship in the bar area which doubles as a stage.

Various room types are available. On our recent visit we stayed in an Arctic Explorer room which was very comfortable and quite large, especially for two of us. It had an en-suite bathroom with bathtub, air-conditioning, a small fridge and  tea/coffee making facilities.

Most of the rooms can sleep up to four people – two adults and two kids. They are fairly large rooms and even though we visited when it was busy the rooms were quiet.

We really liked the theming in the rooms, which has a lot of thoughtful details throughout, from the carpet to the massive stuffed polar bear on the bed. Different rooms have different themes, as well as different amenities.

Air conditioning for example is not available in all the room, so do check if that’s important to you.

You can see all the room types and their amenities here – there are a lot of options to choose from!

Splash Landings Resort

Opened in 2003, Splash Landings Hotel is also a 4* hotel. It’s the closest hotel to the Monorail station and hotel guest theme park entrance. It’s also where you’ll find the Alton Towers Waterpark.

Splash Landings is themed, as you might imagine, around water, with a sunny Carribean theme running throughout. There are water features and themed installations, and the rooms are also themed along various nautical styles.

On site there’s an all you can eat restaurant, Flambo’s Jambo, which has a Carribean theme. There’s also a Caribbean themed bar on site, as well as regular entertainment.

Splash Landings is definitely a good option, especially with kids. The only thing to be aware of is that it can get quite warm in the hotel as the waterpark is on site, and the rooms don’t have air conditioning. So the rooms can be quite warm, even in the cooler months of the year.

You can see all the room types and their amenities at Splash Landings Resort here .

CBeebies Land Hotel

CBeebies Land Hotel is the newest hotel at Alton Towers Resort, opening in 2017. On a recent visit to Alton Towers with friends they stayed here with their two kids ages 3 and 6 years old.

CBeebies Land is firmly aimed at younger visitors to the park and is themed around the characters found in CBeebies shows. This theming extends throughout, from the rooms to the restaurant and reception.

There are also many CBeebies shows and entertainment experiences which take place here which are included for guests. There’s also a restaurant and bar on site.

There’s a range of rooms available, our friends stayed in the Swashbuckle themed pirate room which slept up to five and had two TVs as well as pirate theming throughout.

The description for CBeebies Land Hotel suggests that it is best for visitors with kids aged up to around three. However, we’d say that this very much depends on your kids and what they are into, and kids up to 9 or 10 will probably love it.

Our friends’ kids honestly thought the hotel was amazing. They loved pretty much everything about it. Their parents particularly appreciated the room layout which had the kids in their own alcove in bunk beds, meaning they felt almost like they had their own room whilst still being in the same room.

They also enjoyed the food, the entertainment, and the theming throughout.

One important thing to be aware of with this hotel and its facilities is that it is only open to guests staying in the hotel itself.

So if you are visiting the park as a group and some of you are staying in CBeebies Hotel and some of you are in other accommodation, this is something to keep in mind if you plan on dining together or watching entertainment.

Guests of the other accommodation options can’t visit CBeebies Land Hotel or use its facilities.

We got around this by having our meals at the Alton Towers Hotel on a recent visit, but the kids did still get to have their breakfast in CBeebies and also they took part in some of the activities like the evening Stargazing.

Overall, if you are visiting Alton Towers with a younger family the CBeebies Land Hotel would be my number one pick if it’s available. You can see all the room types here .

Stargazing Pods

The remaining three accommodation options at Alton Towers fall into the Enchanted Village area of the park, which offers a range of less traditional accommodation options.

The first of these we will cover are the Stargazing pods, which opened to the public in 2019. If you’ve ever been glamping, then these pods will be quite familiar.

They’re basically small wooden structures that offer an experience similar to camping but with the benefit of real beds, lighting and heating. Each pod can sleep up to four, with one double bed and two single beds. Linen is provided.

There are no toilets, showers or other washing facilities in the pods themselves, these are all centrally located at a separate block which offers toilets, showers and baby change areas.

There’s also no cooking or refrigeration facilities, you will need to dine at one of the restaurants (unless you bring your own picnic style meals).

Stargazing pods are definitely the most basic accommodation option which can make for a really budget friendly camping-like experience at Alton Towers.

They are normally the lowest cost accommodation option at Alton Towers Resort, and they also tend to have the best availability whenever we’ve looked for last minute accommodation.

Woodland Lodges

The original accommodation option in the Enchanted Village were the Woodland Lodges, which opened in 2015.

The Woodland Lodges are styled as log cabins, each of which can sleep up to five people. There’s a main room for adults, and a separate kids sleeping area with bunk beds and a truckle bed.

All the rooms have en-suite bathrooms, flat screen TVs and free WiFi. For dining, breakfast is available at the Crooked Spoon restaurant in the Enchanted Village, and guests can also have their evening meal here or at one of the other restaurants.

We haven’t personally stayed at the Woodland Lodges but we have friends who stayed here with their kids and they enjoyed it.

These tend to be amongst the more popular options for accommodation at Alton Towers Resort, and can sell out quickly.

Luxury Treehouses

The most exclusive accommodation option in the Enchanted Village area are the Luxury Treehouses, which are found in a secluded part of the Enchanted Village.

There are five luxury treehouses, and they can all sleep up to eight people in four bedrooms. The luxury treehouses all come with a kitchenette, which includes a fridge, kettle, toaster, microwave and dishwasher. So these are currently the only accommodation option at Alton Towers where you could prepare your own meals.

Other luxuries include a 50″ TV with games console, private hot tub and deck, and the use of an exclusive takeaway service for meal delivery.

Of course, all this luxury and amenities does mean that the treehouses are the most expensive option at Alton Towers. However if you are visiting the resort with a group or just want something extra special, then they are definitely worth checking out.

Accommodation Near Alton Towers

Whilst there are plenty of accommodation options at Alton Towers, it’s not the only option for your visit.

We do like the on-site accommodation but if you are not visiting with kids or would just like a bit of variety in terms of dining options, then there are lots of nearby alternatives across a wide range of budgets.

These can make a good location for staying the night before Alton Towers, or for further exploration in the area as part of a longer trip.

Here are some to consider, ordered by driving distance from Alton Towers.

• The White Hart – a popular inn in the village of Alton, offering a range of en-suite rooms. 7 minutes’ drive from Alton Towers
• The Laurel’s B&B – This is a well-rated B&B which serves breakfast. Rooms are en-suite with tea/coffee making facilities. 8 minutes’ drive from Alton Towers
• The Bay Tree – a very well-reviewed B&B with en-suite accommodation and breakfast available. 8 minutes’ drive from Alton Towers
• Peakstones Inn – This 3* hotel offers a range of en-suite rooms and there’s an on-site restaurant and bar. Breakfast is available. 10 minutes’ drive from Alton Towers.
• Heywood Hall – This property offers a number of self-contained apartments, each with a small kitchen an en-suite bathroom. There’s also a hot tub and garden for guests use. 12 minutes’ drive from Alton Towers.
• Whiston Hall – A former 19th century hall which has been converted into a modern mid-range hotel with its own golf course. A range of en-suite rooms are available, and breakfast is offered. We enjoyed our stay here and the food in particular was very good. 13minutes’ drivee from Alton Towers.
• The Duncombe Arms – This pub/hotel is found in Ellastone and offers air-conditioned rooms with coffee machines and en-suite facilities. Breakfast is available and there’s a restaurant and bar for other meals. 13 minutes drive from Alton Towers
• The Royal Oak – This inn offers a range of comfortable rooms in the town of Ashbourne. There’s a restaurant and bar on site with meals available. 19 minutes’ drive from Alton Towers.
• YHA Ilam Hall – This youth hostel is found in a gothic hall set in 84 acres of parkland. There’s an on-site breakfast, kitchen for self-catering, and a choice of shared or private accommodation. 22 minutes’ drive from Alton Towers.

Of course, there are lots more options to consider. You can see a full range of accommodation options near Alton Towers on Booking.com here , which includes a number of holiday rentals as well.

Other Activities at Alton Towers

As well as the theme park, there are a number of other activities at the Alton Towers resort that you can enjoy. These are as follows.

Found inside the Splash Landings Hotel, the Alton Towers Waterpark is open the majority of the year.

There are a number of pools, both inside and outside, as well as various water slides. It’s a lot of fun and well worth including as part of your visit. You can book tickets online here .

Extraordinary Golf

Right next to the Splash Landings hotel is an 18-hole miniature golf course which is themed around the main rides at Alton Towers.

This is actually a really fun mini-golf course which we had a lot of fun playing. The holes are very unique, and it’s a nice way to spend an hour or two.

A complimentary round of 9 holes is normally included for resort guests, and we highly recommend taking advantage of this. We did it on the day we left, before visiting the waterpark. It’s also open relatively late, so if you have the stamina you could do it after a day at the theme park!

Find out more and book tickets online here.

Alton Towers is very much designed to be fun for the whole family, and adults will definitely want to consider a relaxing trip to the Alton Towers Spa as part of their visit!

The Spa is found in Alton Towers Hotel, and is open year-round to everyone, including non-residents of the hotel and those without theme park tickets.

A range of treatments are available and booking is advised. Find out more on the website here .

Alton Towers Dungeon

The Alton Towers Dungeon is actually found inside the Theme Park, so you do need theme park tickets to visit. However, it is an additional charge to visit, so I thought I should also include it in this part of the guide.

The Dungeon is a walk-through experience with costumed actors, and is similar to other Dungeon experiences including the London Dungeon .

We think it is fairly priced, however given how much there already is to do at Alton Towers it is not a must-see attraction.

Find out more and book tickets here.

Rollercoaster Track Walks

New for 2024 is the opportunity to do a guided walk of some of the park’s rollercoasters.

These ride walks are currently available for Oblivion and Wicker Man and include a guided walk up to the top of the lift hill. They also include a fast-track ticket for the specific ride as well as express parking, but do not include park entry which must be booked separately.

These experiences normally take place outside of park opening hours and are only available on certain days of the year.

They definitely need to be booked in advance and you will want to check all the details prior to booking to ensure the experience works for you.

Find our more and book these experiences here .

Special Events at Alton Towers

Throughout the year, the Alton Towers Theme Park holds a number of special events. These normally have special themes and line up with events like Halloween, Christmas and Easter, as well as school holidays like half term.

At these times of year you can expect to find themed rides, costumed guides, live music, and special experiences like being able to ride some rides in the dark.

Events vary, and you can see them all here , but generally the main events held each year are as follows.

Note that these events can be very busy, so you might consider investing in a Fastrack pass if visiting at these times of year.

Festival of Thrills

The festival of thrills celebrates some of the most thrilling rides at Alton Towers. There are usually special entertainment activities, prizes to be won and themed areas at the park to experience.

Normally held from mid-April to the start of May.

Whilst the real Mardi Gras takes place earlier in the year, the Alton Towers Mardi Gras generally runs from the end of May to the start of June.

Otherwise the event is very much on theme with Mardi Gras, with a carnival atmosphere and special food items. Previous years have also included parades of decorated floats.

Oktoberfest

Set up to align with Germany’s famous festival, the Alton Towers Oktoberfest generally runs from early September to the start of October.

Expect German themed events and food, a family-friendly atmosphere and late opening for riding in the dark.

Held each year in the weeks leading up to Halloween, Scarefest is perfect for lovers of spooky thrills. The park opens much later than normal during Scarefest, meaning you can ride your favourite rides in the dark.

There’s also a lot of spooky theming, costumed actors and special events. This is one of the more popular events that Alton Towers runs and is well worth visiting if you get the opportunity.

Alton Towers Fireworks

Set up to coincide with Bonfire Night , the Fireworks event at Alton Towers normally runs for a few days around the 5th November. It’s also normally the end of the main season at the park.

The Fireworks event sees the park open late, so you can ride in the dark. As is to be expected, there’s also an incredible Fireworks display on each night of the event.

There are more events than the above and events do vary from year to year, but this should give you an idea of some of the main events which happen throughout the year at Alton Towers.

Tips for Visiting Alton Towers

We’ve visited Alton Towers a number of times, and based on our experiences we wanted to share some tips to help you get the most from your day at the theme park.

Make a Plan

If you want to make the most out of your day at Alton Towers, we highly recommend putting a plan together. This should at least cover which rides you and your group are most interested in riding.

Once you know which rides you want to do, you can then plan a route around the park. We’d suggest heading for the rides which are likely to have the longest queues first (usually the more extreme thrill rides), and tackling all the rides in the same area together to minimise walking times.

If you are visiting with kids who don’t meet the ride height requirements for all the rides, or folks who aren’t interested in specific rides, you’ll also want to plan for how to handle splitting your group up if necessary so everyone can have the experience they want. This might require some compromises, so is best handled in advance.

You can also avoid the drama of kids discovering they aren’t the right height to take part in a ride by measuring them in advance, and planning your route so they don’t feel they are missing out on anything. For example, you could take them to CBeebies Land or Mutiny Bay and then members of the group could pop off for other rides.

We’d also recommend thinking about where you want to eat and when. You can either bring your own picnic or eat at one of the on-site restaurants. These obviously get very busy around lunch time on busier days, and reservations are not possible, so you might want to eat earlier or later in the day.

Bring a Smartphone Charger

The chances are that you are going to be using your phone a lot at Alton Towers. From taking photos to communicating with friends to using the app to change ride times and find your way around, it’s going to be used a lot.

Having your phone go flat partway through the day, especially if you’re relying on it to capture memories, find your way around, or display a Fastrack pass, isn’t going to be ideal.

For this reason we recommend bringing a USB charger for your phone. There are lots available, we currently use one like this which worked well to charge our phone and our friends’ phones on our last visit to Alton Towers.

Download the Alton Towers App

In the days of yore, Alton Towers had a paper map that you could use to find your way around the park. If you wanted to know how long a ride queue was, you had to either physically go to the ride itself, or try and find one of the elusive boards displaying ride queue times and statuses across the park.

Nowadays, pretty much everything is handled via the Alton Towers App, which is actually surprisingly good. Although it does require you to have a smartphone of course.

The App lets you do a lot, including:

• Navigate around the park, with directions, estimated walking times and routing available. It can also suggest routes with fewer steps.
• Find rides based on a variety of criteria, from ride type through to ride height restrictions
• Display live ride queue times and open statuses (only works on site)
• Book and use Fastrack passes
• Save and display your Alton Towers ticket
• Find toilets, restaurants, show times, buggy parks, water refill stations and lots more
• Get digital previews of your ride photos which you can purchase in-app
• Add any hotel bookings
• Get information about heritage locations in the gardens
• Find out about parking, getting to the park and accessibility

And lots more! Honestly, the app is a must-have when visiting Alton Towers, and it’s worth downloading in advance of your visit so you are fully prepared. You can find download links for it here on the official site.

Book Your Meals if Staying Overnight

If you are staying overnight at one of the on-site accommodation options, it’s really important that you book your meals in advance. You need to book a timeslot for your breakfast and evening meals.

Normally, your breakfast meal will be at the hotel where you are staying. Even if it’s included, you need to make a reservation for a timeslot. These do fill up, so the further in advance you book the better the chance of getting a good time.

For your evening meal you can choose any of the restaurants, including Rollercoaster Restaurant. However, depending on the restaurant you may still need to book.

Restaurants where bookings are recommended for dinner are the Secret Garden Restaurant, Rollercoaster Restaurant and Windmill Restaurant.

Flambo’s Jambo and the Crooked Spoon only require reservations for breakfast.

The Rollercoaster Restaurant is usually the most popular and has the least seating, so can book out weeks in advance for dinner.

Note that only guests staying in the CBeebies Hotel are able to dine at the Windmill Restaurant. Booking links for all the restaurants are as follows:

• Rollercoaster Restaurant in the theme park
• The Crooked Spoon in the Enchanted Village (breakfast only)
• Flambo’s Jambo in Splash Landings Resort (breakfast only)

Reserving a reservation is free and only takes a couple of minutes. Note that a day or so before your reservation you will normally be contacted by e-mail to confirm your reservation, which just requires clicking a link in the e-mail.

Visit Splash Landings if Staying Multiple Days

If you are staying overnight at Alton Towers, consider using some of your time whilst you are on site to visit Splash Landings , the on-site waterpark.

For example, we recently spent two nights at Alton Towers. We visited the park on the first two days, and on the day we departed we spent the morning at Splash Landings. It was a lovely way to end our trip and meant even on the day we were leaving we still had a lot of fun.

Splash Landings tickets are best purchased in advance, which you can do online here . At busier times of year you need to pick a timeslot for your visit, so it is definitely best to do this in advance to be sure you can visit at a time that suits you.

Arrive Early and Leave Late

There is a huge amount to do at Alton Towers, and your ticket gives you access for the whole day. So we highly recommend taking full advantage of that, and trying to be at the park from opening time to closing.

Normally, the park opens around an hour before the rides start operating. We definitely recommend getting here at opening time so you can head to a popular ride you really want to do. This way you’ll be able to get in the queue before they get too long.

It’s also worth staying as close to closing time as possible. As the day progresses people start to leave, and if you have the stamina for it, we suggest waiting right until closing time to leave so you can maximise your riding times. Queues definitely get shorter as the day comes to an end, so you’ll be able to squeeze a few more rides in.

Alternatives to Alton Towers

You might be wondering if there are any alternatives to Alton Towers in the UK. The answer is yes, there are certainly other theme parks in the UK.

However, Alton Towers generally has the widest choice of rides spread out across the largest area. However, here are some alternatives to consider:

• Thorpe Park
• Blackpool Pleasure Beach
• Chessington World of Adventures
• LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
• Drayton Manor Park

Alton Towers Frequently Asked Questions

We’re now going to go through some commonly asked questions about Alton Towers.

Are Alton Towers Fastrack Passes Worth It?

You might be wondering if you should invest in an Alton Towers Fastrack Pass . We have visited Alton Towers both with and without a Fastrack Pass, and had a good experience with and without.

The passes can definitely be worth it, but a lot will depend on how busy the park is as well as how many rides (and which rides) you actually plan to ride.

If you are visiting at a quieter time of year, then you might find that a Fastrack Pass is not necessary as queue times might not be so long.

We have visited off peak during a fairly wet day in March for example, and most ride wait times were just a few minutes, with even the more popular rides being well under an hour.

If you are visiting at a busy time of year, such as during school holidays, during an event like Scarefest, on a weekend, or during a time when many school trips are visiting (often around the last week of school), then a Fastrack pass might be a good investment.

We have also visited during a busy time at Alton Towers, when lines for the most popular rides were in excess of 2 hours. With the Fastrack Pass, lines were between 5 minutes and 25 minutes.

The latter was more unusual and usually only happened if the ride had paused for a technical reason, causing the queue to build up.

Without the Fastrack, on that visit we probably would have struggled to ride more than 3 or 4 rides in the day, and most of our time would have been spent in queues.

As we were visiting in a group and taking turns to look after the younger members of our group, this wouldn’t have worked out so well.

As it was, members of the group could pop off and ride a larger ride, and be gone and back in around 30 minutes. We were also able to ride many rides, I personally did at least 15 rides in one day. So for our visit on a busy summer day the Fastrack Pass was absolutely worth it.

If you do decide to get the Fastrack, you also have to decide which one to get. This will depend greatly on which rides you want to ride Personally I’d recommend the Silver or Gold passes, as these include the rides which tend to have the longest lines.

Whilst these two passes are only valid for one ride on each attraction, if you manage your time well at the park you can normally fit in at least one non Fastrack ride at the start and end of the day when the park is quieter if you did want to ride anything multiple times. You can also buy one-off Fastrack passes on a per attraction basis.

The platinum Fastrack pass is best for those of you who really want to ride multiple rides multiple times, in which case it can make sense.

For 2024, the platinum Fastrack pass is the only pass which includes the new Nemesis Reborn ride, which is likely to be very popular with visitors. So if you really want to ride that, the platinum might make sense for you.

You can buy Fastrack passes in advance of your visit here , on site at customer services, or on-site through the app.

The price is the same, however Fastrack passes do sell out, especially at busier times of year.

If you are visiting at a busier time of year and want to buy a Fastrack, it is highly recommended you do so in advance on the website here .

If you are visiting at a quieter time of year you may prefer to purchase in person when you arrive after you have seen how busy the park is. Just bear in mind that passes can sell out.

How Long Do You Need at Alton Towers?

I would recommend spending the whole day at Alton Towers, from the time the gates open to the time it closes. It is a relatively expensive day out, so you might as well get your money’s worth.

For an even more comprehensive experience, you can also plan to stay overnight on the resort or at a nearby hotel, and then visit for a second day.

You can often get a second day entry ticket at a lower price when purchasing your original ticket, making this a good value option.

There is definitely more than enough to do at Alton Towers to fill two full days.

Are the Alton Towers Hotels Any Good?

We were actually very impressed with the Alton Towers hotels. On our recent visit we stayed at the Alton Towers Hotel, whilst our friends with their younger kids stayed at CBeebies Land Hotel.

We thought everything was well done: the theme throughout, the seamless check-in process, the attentive staff, the evening entertainment and the food were all excellent.

It really added to the overall experience and felt like an extension of the theme park. The kids in particular loved CBeebies Land, which we can recommend for families with kids up to around 9 or 10.

We also appreciated that staying at the hotel meant that our parking was included, and that there was a hotel guests only entrance just a few minutes’ walk from the hotels. This got us close to Galactica and The Blade at entry time, meaning we were amongst the first riders on board.

The only downside for our stay was that we had to book timeslots for all our meals in advance.

We were staying for two nights so had to book breakfast and dinner slots. As we booked last minute there wasn’t a lot of availability, and it also meant we couldn’t be flexible with our plans.

It all worked out in the end and the food at the restaurants we ate at was actually very good. Just be aware that you do need to plan and book in advance.

When is Alton Towers Busiest?

Alton Towers is usually busiest at the weekends and during school holidays.

There are also often school trips to Alton Towers in the last couple of weeks of the school term in July, although school trips can visit at any time of course.

We have visited Alton Towers at various times of year, including during July school trip time. It will certainly be busier, and you may want to invest in a Fastrack ticket on busier days.

Is Alton Towers Good for Families?

Yes, Alton Towers is a fantastic day out for families. There is such a wide choice of rides, attractions and activities that everyone in the family will be able to have a great day out.

Is Photography Allowed at Alton Towers?

Yes, photography is allowed at Alton Towers.

There are some exceptions. You are not allowed to take photos or videos during rides due to safety, and this will be clearly stated when queuing for and boarding the ride. Using your phone or camera on rides can get you ejected from the park and may shut down the ride temporarily. Keep yourself, your phone, and other passengers safe by stowing your phone and cameras before each ride.

If you want to get photos of you and your friends and family enjoying the rides, then we recommend checking out the digital photo pass, which covers most of the rides. W e all loved that and got lots of photos that way on the rides of all of us. You can buy this online in advance here or in person on site.

In addition, photography and videography is heavily restricted at Splash Landings, for obvious reasons. If you are inside Splash Landings when it is open you can generally take limited photos of your own friends and family, but that’s about it. You are not allowed to take photos of other guests. Best to leave your phone or camera in the locker unless you really need it.

When Splash Landings is closed and empty, you can take photos of the area.

Can I Take My Own Food and Drink to Alton Towers?

Yes, you can take your own food and drink to Alton Towers, and there are picnic benches all around the park where you can consume your own food and drink.

The only real restriction to this rule is that you can’t bring alcohol into the park, although it is served on site.

You also can’t take your own food and drink into venues where they serve food and drink, as the tables are only for paying customers only.

There are a few picnic areas located here and there with picnic benches that you can sit and use, including on the main grassy area by the lake in front of Towers Street, and next to Hex.

Are there Drinking Fountains at Alton Towers?

There are lots of water refill stations around the park where you can refill a water bottle. We’d definitely recommend bringing your own refillable water bottle to Alton Towers so you can stay hydrated as you go.

Water refill stations are marked on the map in the Alton Towers app.

How do I Eat at the Rollercoaster Restaurant?

The Rollercoaster restaurant is one of the most fun dining experiences at Alton Towers, and kids in particular love watching the food fly around the various tracks before arriving at your table. Honestly, adults love it too!

Unfortunately, this does mean that the restaurant is also popular and can get booked up.

For hotel guests, it is possible to dine at the Rollercoaster Restaurant in the evenings. This requires a reservation , and these can sell out months in advance.

The good news is that you can still get the rollercoaster dining experience. The secret is just to go during park opening hours. During this time reservations are not possible, and dining is first come first serve.

If you turn up at close to opening time (around 11am), and don’t mind having an early lunch, then you shouldn’t have any problem getting a table.

We did this recently on a very busy day at Alton Towers and had no problem getting a table at around 11.20am. However we weren’t able to book for dinner as it was fully booked out for the whole month.

How Long Are the Queues at Alton Towers?

Queue times at Alton Towers vary hugely, from a few minutes to over two hours.

There is huge variability in queue time which depends on how busy the park is, the time of day, the number of Fastrack Pass holders and so on.

Generally if you visit in off-peak times (basically during the week outside of school holidays) the queue times will be shorter.

Additionally, normally in the mornings before around 11am and in the afternoons after 3pm most queue times will start to reduce.

Is There Wi-Fi at Alton Towers?

Yes, there is free Wi-Fi throughout the resort including at the theme park and in all the accommodation options.

You just have to sign up to access it. We recommend doing so because the Alton Towers app works a lot better when you are connected to the Wi-Fi network, and using Wi-Fi tends to drain your phone battery slower than using your mobile data.

Does Alton Towers Have Tall Rollercoasters?

One thing you will notice when you visit Alton Towers is that it doesn’t have very tall rollercoasters such as you might find at other theme parks around the world.

The reason for this is that Alton Towers is not allowed to build any ride that goes above tree height. This is why many rides are cleverly constructed in sunken areas or to even go below ground. So there are still several thrilling rollercoasters here!

Does the Weather Affect Rides at Alton Towers?

The UK is not necessarily known for year-round glorious weather, so you might be wondering how rain and wind can affect the rides at Alton Towers.

The good news is that most rides will normally run in the rain, unless it is very heavy rain. If there is thunder or lightning this can also impact rides. High wind can also lead to ride closures.

Otherwise though, visiting on a wet day can actually be beneficial in some regards as there will often be fewer visitors and shorter queues.

Finally, Alton Towers offers a rainy-day guarantee. This means that if the weather results in ride closures to the point that Alton Towers deems it a “Rainy Day”, then you will be able to return on a different day for free.

If this happens during your visit, instead of writing off the day, consider visiting the Waterpark. There is a fee to do so but as you are already on site it might turn the day around. You’ll just need to remember to bring your swimwear.

You can read more about the Rainy Day guarantee and what it covers here .

Further Reading

That’s it for our guide to visiting Alton Towers! We hope you found it useful.

Before you go, we wanted to share a few of our other guides that you might find useful.

• For wider UK trip planning, we have suggested  one week  and  two week UK itineraries
• We have guides to many other cities in England. See our guide to things to do in Manchester ,  things to do in Stratford upon Avon ,   things to do in Bristol ,   things to do in Portsmouth , tips on a weekend in York , tips on  Visiting Oxford on a Day Trip , and  things to do in Cambridge
• If you’re heading to Scotland, check out our  2 day Edinburgh itinerary , our  Glasgow and Loch Lomond itinerary , our guide to the  best day trips from Glasgow , our guide to  things to do in Edinburgh , our  itinerary for Skye and the Highlands , our guide to the  best day trips from Aberdeen , and our guide to the best  day trips from Edinburgh  to get you started. We also have a guide to getting from  London to Edinburgh .
• We have a guide to  10 of the best Stately Homes in England , some of which are not that far from Alton Towers

And that’s it! Have you ever visited Alton Towers? Do you have anything you’d add to the above, or a question about an upcoming visit? Just let us know in the comments below!

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There are 5 comments on this post

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23rd August 2023 at 8:55 pm

hello, so we plan to book regular ticket in advance to save money as you suggested. but for the fast track tickets at alton towers is it best to book those in advance at same time or just book the same day once we see how busy park is? is the prices the same? does it make a difference? thansk!

Laurence Norah says

24th August 2023 at 8:29 am

Yes, definitely book your regular ticket in advance. For the Fastrack tickets, the price is the same if you book them in advance vs booking them on the day, so there’s no difference there. You can buy them in person from the ticket office or in the Alton Towers app.

The only thing to be aware of is that on very busy days some of the Fastrack passes can sell out as there is a maximum number available. This doesn’t happen that often, but it’s just something to be aware of.

Have a great time at Alton Towers!

Liz P. says

19th August 2023 at 3:48 am

Oh my goodness, what a great detailed review!

My family is from a little village near Manchester and we had family passes growing up so I grew up going to Alton Towers at least a few times a year. We didn’t have the money to go on foreign holidays, but we did have Alton Towers! It has changed so much over the years, but now I have started taking my own kids here!

Since you asked for them (you may regret that!), here are some of my own tips for parents and families to help save money and plan ahead—

1. Come like Laurence says at opening and stay until closing if you can. Make the most of your money and tickets and plan ahead and stay all day. But be sure to have breaks planned if going with kids as they will need them. Head to any popular rides you want to do first. Make sure you know how tall your kids are in meters so you know in advance what they can/can’t ride – I once waited in line for over an hour to find out my son was just a little bit under the limit by like a cm or two and we had stood in line for nothing….totally my fault!

2. Bring snacks and if you want to save money just pack a meal and have it in one of the picnic areas. As kids, this is what we my family always did and then we kids were each allowed money to choose one treat during the day like a soda, candy, corn dog, whatever. There are lots of temptations for kids, so let your kids know the rules for your visit!

3. Bring water bottles and refill for free at water points. pack all the other things you think you’ll need – bottles, snacks, juice, suncream, hats, nappies, toys, umbrella, chargers, tissues, etc to avoid temptation or need to purchase things at the park. Things can be overpriced and a purchase like this can really offset a tight budget.

4. The Main Stage near the lake offers free entertainment, great to check out the schedule when you are there. I think it is a mix of kid and more adult shows. (not sure you really mentioned this in your article, maybe something to add?). There is also the one in the kids area that has shows for toddler age kids along the way. If you are coming with young kids, you can easily spend the full day split between CBeebiesland and the David Walliams land which are pretty close together, with a wander over to Mutiny bay.

5. If coming from afar, the park’s hotels are cool, especially for kids, but if you are on a budget, stay nearby at a budget hotel to save that money to spend on other things.

6. The annual passes can save you money if like me you don’t live too far away and come at least a few times a year. I have never used the FastPasses, but they are probably not a good value if coming mainly for the kid rides like we are right now.

7. I have never used it but after reading Laurence’s review and seeing all the photos they got, I definitely agree that the photo pass is definitely worth it if you want photos while on the actual rides. Or if with two adults, one of you can snap the photos while kids and other adult are on the ride. Most of the kids rides are smaller and close to railings so you can get good photos (most adult rides you often can’t really get any good photos of) so you can still get nice photos without the photo pass. But if you do buy it, be sure you know how it works and to use it to its potential as number is unlimited as far as I can see!

8. Children under 3 are free, but just be aware they can ride only a handful of rides, mostly in Cbeebiesland but they can also do things like the shows, aquarium, carnival games, picnic, face painting, walking in the gardens, etc. so easy to keep them entertained. If you also have an older kid, best to have two adults so one can stay with younger one and one can ride the “bigger” rides with the older one – otherwise you might go mad!

9. The Rollercoaster Restaurant is cool as Laurence notes, especially for kids, but based on our experience I am not sure the cost was worth the actual food (it was all so-so). It can cost a lot if visiting with a bigger family so be sure to plan that in budget if you want to do it. I am glad we did it but it was a once and done sort of thing. At night you normally need to have reservations but not during day. If its not too busy, you can probably politely ask to peek in and let your kids see it in action for a minute even if you aren’t eating here.

10. Be sure to let your kids know the rules for things there, whether it be about rides that they are allowed to ride, how meals will go, if they have any spending money, are they allowed any treats, etc. We find this helps reduce the amount of begging in the gift shops and concession stands!

11. You can go to the park and only pay for admission and parking if you plan ahead (be sure to book online in advance to pay less). We’ve done it. Although these days we do normally splurge a little on at least one treat each whether that is an ice cream, face painting, a lolly, stuffed toy, etc. but we do have a budget in mind in advance and are pretty good at being strict about it.

Anyway, hope that helps other parents out there!! Wishing everyone a great time at Alton Towers this summer!

19th August 2023 at 9:26 am

Oh wow, what an amazing series of tips, thank you so much for sharing them! I hope your son was forgiving after your long line experience! I agree that the Fastrack passes aren’t necessarily a great fit if focusing on the kids rides as they don’t cover most of them, although they can be handy if an adult wants to nip away to experience some bigger rides without having to be away too long. The photo pass for sure we thought was brilliant, especially as we only needed one to get photos for all six of us on the day. We liked it so much we actually got it for both days we were there.

I also agree on the Rollercoaster Restaurant. The food was ok, but I think the novelty factor is what makes it so fun. I guess there are only so many foods you can serve that will handle being upside down – soup was definitely not on the menu 😉

Thanks again for sharing your experiences!

19th August 2023 at 10:22 pm

you’re very welcome, i am certain your guide will help so many people of all ages planning a trip to alton towers and resort, and hope my little tips might help some families out there, specially those trying to visit on a tight budget given inflation and all that!

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10 Tips for Visiting Alton Towers 2024 Theme Park Guide

Are you looking for tips for visiting Alton Towers? Do you want to know how to make the most of Alton Towers?

You’re in the right place!

Below I’m sharing my Top 10 Tips for making the most of your day at Alton Towers if you’re visiting in 2024.

I’ve broken down exactly how much it cost us to book a trip to Alton Towers, how much money we spent on food and accommodation near Alton Towers, and the best time to visit Alton Towers.

If you’re looking for Alton Towers outfit inspiration, check out What To Wear To Alton Towers? Style Guide.

Note: this post contains affiliate links at no extra cost to you, which means I can make a tiny kickback and continue to write helpful guides like these for you!

One of my first trips after London’s lockdown lifted took me to Alton Towers, the UK’s biggest theme park. What’s life without a little thrill, am I right?!

A two-and-a-half hour drive from North London, we set out towards our B&B hotel in Cheadle, a small town in Greater Manchester, which is a short 15-minute drive from Alton Towers. We stayed from Wednesday 19 May until Saturday 22 May, and visited the park twice using a 2-day pass.

Despite the UK’s typical May weather (strong winds, cold, pouring with rain), we had an absolute blast. We virtually walked onto most of the rides on day one (Thursday), with zero waiting time or queueing. The atmosphere was more buzzing on day two (Friday), despite longer queues, but it meant we enjoyed the day even more. Never let British rain hold you back from riding roller coasters!

10 Top Tips for Visiting Alton Towers

Table of Contents

Shop around for local hotels in neighbouring towns or villages.

If you’re staying overnight, look for cheaper accommodation before committing to the Alton Towers resort hotels. They’re very expensive and the cheapest lodge option (Stargazing Pods) don’t actually have a toilet inside your room! This, on a rainy day, was a dealbreaker.

Plus we snagged a room at a lovely B&B hotel – The Manor Hotel Guest House in Cheadle – that included a full fry-up breakfast every morning for almost £100 less than the cost of Alton Towers’ Stargazing Pods, which are basic, claustrophobic and overpriced.

The Manor Hotel cost me around £60 per night. It was quiet, leafy, comfortable and clean. The hotel was only a 15-minute drive to Alton Towers and a 3-minute walk to Cheadle’s high street, which had a (limited) number of shops, restaurants and cafe options.

BOOK NOW: THE MANOR GUEST HOUSE CHEADLE (BOOKING.COM)

2. Bring a water bottle or collapsible drink pouch.

Bottled water is expensive at the park, so having a refillable container is ideal. If you’ve got big coat pockets, you can keep an empty water bottle in there (it won’t get crushed during rides), or just stash it in the ride cages before you buckle up. You’ll then be able to use the free water refill dispensers located all around the park whenever you get thirsty. It’s a nice sustainable alternative to buying plastic bottled drinks too. I love my Water-To-Go bottle which has a built-in filter that eliminates 99% of contaminants – perfect if you’re a bit of a germophobe!

3. Bring your own snacks or lunch.

Next time I go to Alton Towers I’ll be bringing my own sandwiches, cereal bars and fruit. There’s an Asda (cheap supermarket) about 10 minutes drive away which you can stock up at, including meal deals. Just bring a small backpack, bumbag or even a plastic bag if you want. We didn’t eat that much on the day because we had full English breakfasts in the morning at our hotel. Most rides have a compartment you can leave your bags or backpack in (at your own risk), so make sure you keep your phone and valuables with you on the rides, but you can leave the sandwiches and snacks safely in the ride cages. On that note…

4. Wear clothes with zip pockets to keep valuables safe.

Bonus points if it’s a secret inner lining zip pocket. This is super duper important! You don’t want your mobile phone, car keys, hotel keys or wallet falling out during a ride – and you don’t want to risk leaving them unattended in the ride cages or storage. There are storage lockers all around the park, but you don’t need them. I really recommend North Face jackets which are light and warm though pricey (I recommend this down jacket or this hooded one ). I also wore a zip fleece with sturdy pockets that kept me warm and dry both days.

5. Bring a parka or poncho to deal with rain like a boss.

Unless it’s a baking hot day in summer, remember you’re in Northern England – so you’ve always got a 90% chance of getting wet! Whether it starts raining or you decide to go on the River Rapids ride, having a waterproof jacket will sort you out. I’m a big fan of these trusty colourful ponchos – cheap and cheerful for the whole gang, plus they have elasticated sleeves to avoid water drip. Make sure your parka or poncho is long enough to cover your butt, as there’s nothing worse than a damp soggy bottom. The heat drying machines cost £2 per minute – so stay dry!

6. Invest in Express Parking (£18) in advance.

If you’re going to invest in a day trip to Alton Towers you may as well make it as easy breezy as possible – I definitely recommend paying £12 extra for Express Parking compared to £6 on Standard Parking. On a busy day, the monorail (the free train from the Standard Car Park to the park entrance) will eat up at least 40 minutes of your time when entering and leaving. With Express Parking, we sailed into a bay and walked straight through the park entrance on our first day, taking a maximum of 5 minutes to get inside. On our second day, we had Standard Parking which is much further away. The monorail was heaving with people (no social distancing, though people wore masks) and we were stuck in a cold, rainy queue for 30 minutes. Boarding the monorail took ages because only one set of visitors were allowed into each carriage, as per COVID guidelines). Avoid the monorail at all costs!

7. Get there as early as possible.

The rides open at 10am but they let us in at 9.15am. We went to Oblivion first and stood there ready to go, first in line, by 9.30am. This was down to staying at a hotel very close to the theme park, arriving at 9am and having Express Parking. A worthy investment!

BOOK NOW: ALTON TOWERS CAR PARKING

8. Head straight for the biggest rides (or rides you most want to experience) first.

Queues are still very short first thing in the morning. On our first day (which was an empty and rainy Thursday morning) we were able to ride 4 roller coasters by 11.30am ( Oblivion, The Smiler, Rita , and Thirteen ). The rides with the biggest hype were The Smiler (which made us feel ill), Wickerman (which was amazing) and Gangsta Granny (which was closed). Make sure you head to those rides first in case they randomly close.

9. Invest in the Alton Towers digital photo app rather than buying printed photos vouchers.

We got royally mugged off at the park gates by investing in a £20 voucher for 4 printed photos, before swiftly finding out that firstly we had to wear our masks on every ride, and secondly, that they didn’t have keychains or fridge magnets on offer. The fact that the staff member who sold us the voucher didn’t disclose any of this felt shady. Whereas for £15 on the app, you have unlimited access to all your photos, so you can print them yourself.

10. Book your Alton Towers visit on a weekday outside of school holiday season (Monday-Thursday ideally).

You will 100% have the best time on a weekday, especially in the morning, as it’s far less likely to be busy, and you’ll have a better chance of walking straight onto rides without needing to queue for very long. Although we enjoyed the atmosphere on Friday, it felt very busy, whereas our day on Thursday was perfect. My iPhone Health app showed we did over 20,000 steps in 6 hours at the park, proving just how empty and easy it was to run around and do all the rides we wanted.

11. Bonus Tip: Download the Alton Towers app.

You’ll have all the ride queue times in the palm of your hand, and the location-based map tracker shows you all the routes you need to get to your next ride. It’s really handy and worth downloading!

If you have any other tips to add, or want to ask any questions, hit me up below.

For a detailed guide to Alton Towers, including how much we spent at the theme park and where we stayed, keep reading!

A Travel Blogger’s Guide to Alton Towers: Pros & Cons, Budget, Accommodation

Covid-19: What’s Alton Towers like post-lockdown?

Alton Towers has put a number of different social distancing measures in place since opening up after lockdown. They make you wear masks on every ride (and have themed masks available for sale in their shops). There are also hand sanitiser dispensers available for use before and after every ride, and one way systems in place to help control the flow and direction of people.

Accommodation: Where should you stay if you’re visiting Alton Towers?

We opted to stay at The Manor Hotel Guest House in Cheadle , which was around £60 per night. It was quiet, leafy, comfortable and clean. The hotel was only a 15-minute drive to Alton Towers and a 3-minute walk to Cheadle’s high street, which had a (limited) number of shops, restaurants and cafe options.

If you’re vegan, the hotel caters to you with vegan breakfast options, but for dinner, Wetherspoons is probably your best bet if you’re going for a meal. We had “Curry Club” deals on Thursday night. On our second night (Friday), my companion ventured out into the rain and got us a set menu for 2 from the local Chinese takeaway shop, Hong Tai, which we ate in our room. Peter, the hotel owner, kindly gave us cutlery to use. The walls in the hotel were thin so we could hear people next door and above us talking loudly, but the bed was cozy, shower pressure was strong, and the rooms were well heated. I’d stay again!

Beautiful orange sunset on the M1 during the drive from London to Cheadle.JPG

Budget: How much did I spend on a trip to Alton Towers?

In total, split between two people, we spent £550.40 (£262.60 each) , during our three-night, four-day trip to Alton Towers. For three nights, between two people, that feels reasonable. We could have cut costs significantly by packing sandwiches and bringing refillable water bottles, but decided that we wanted to go in and enjoy the park without carrying anything. We also managed to get a discount on a 2-day pass. See the full budget breakdown below.

As mentioned before, we could have cut down food costs, but the last thing we wanted to do after a tiring day at the park was cook or prepare food – especially since our room didn’t have a mini fridge. We did however desperately fiend for salad, vegetables and fruit afterwards, so went to get strawberries at Asda!

The Pros and Cons of Alton Towers in 2024

The pros: fun and fast roller coasters, lovely staff, beautiful forest surroundings.

I loved our trip to Alton Towers despite some of the hiccups. My favourite Alton Towers rides (as of 2022) were, in order: Wickerman , Galactica , Rita , Oblivion and Old Mine Train . We found Thirteen okay, but disappointing. Nemesis made me feel sick, it was very old school. The Smiler was overrated – mainly because it’s stuffed with twirling loops and spinning around didn’t make me feel good – same with the Spinball Whizzer – and we came off feeling nauseous. That’s probably suited to shorter people with a lower centre of gravity, i.e. 14 year old kids! If you’re above the age of 30, or above 5 foot 11, I’d steer clear.

Wickerman is amazing. We rode it three times. The quality of the wooden coaster and the thought behind the theming was solid. and it’s a real shame that COVID happened, because they had to remove a significant part of the VR storytelling beforehand where riders get locked in a room together beforehand. It would’ve added so much more atmosphere and emotion to the ride. But as far as wooden coasters go, it’s thrillingly fast, a wild ride, very smooth and electrifying, and we loved it. We definitely recommend that you ask to sit at the back, as it feels so much faster back there.

Galactica , the flying coaster, was super fun – it’s best when you’re at the front. Even though they removed the VR headsets component, which aren’t COVID-friendly, it feels like you’re flying, almost like you’re Harry Potter chasing the snitch. You go whizzing above trees and get flipped towards the sky. It’s a brilliant ride, even if it’s pouring with rain! Recommended. Same with Rita – going from 0 to 60mph within seconds meant that by the time the ride finished, our eyes were streaming with tears and our hair was blown back like Sonic the Hedgehog – but it was hilarious fun.

Another honourable mention is Old Mine Train , a small kids ride. We got on it as a laugh because there was no queue time, but ended up absolutely loving it. The staff member operating the ride was hilarious, shouting a friendly “choo choo!” everytime we set off. He ended up letting us ride three times in a row since it was quiet. Each time we thought the ride was about to end he’d shout “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” and send us off again. Great fun. I also recommend using the Sky Ride to get from one end of the park to the other. It’s a nice chilled moment to enjoy a birds-eye view of the park and see rollercoaster riders whizzing past.

The staff throughout Alton Towers were lovely. Very accommodating and full of smiles despite the weather. We’re really pleased that we managed to snag a 2-Day Park Pass at a discount too, because it meant we had one day to blitz through as many rides as possible, and another day to relax and revisit our favourite rides (cough, Wickerman ) at a more leisurely pace.

Alton Towers Cons: Overpriced Food and Amenities, Outdated Rides, Limited Food Options

Does alton towers feel like a rip-off.

We had a good time overall, but there were definitely some moments where we felt that Alton Towers were trying to con us, or pull the wool over our eyes – something you never want to feel as a paying customer.

Firstly, the minute we walked into the park on day one, a friendly staff member encouraged us to buy a £20 voucher for 4 photos, promising that we could use it printed photos, fridge magnets or keychains. We decided to invest. Lo and behold, it turned out keychains and fridge magnets weren’t actually available – and because she didn’t disclose that to us, the transaction felt wildly unethical.

Do rides close at Alton Park when it’s rainy?

Rides also kept closing throughout the day, either because of the weather or technical issues. Nemesis and Gangsta Granny weren’t open on the Thursday, so we managed to try them out on Friday (although we needn’t have bothered.)

Is there anything problematic about the rides at Alton Towers?

The Gangsta Granny “ride” was a huge let down. Not to mention, the cultural appropriation here is real, plus the only Black noble is predictably called ‘Lady Blingdon’ (insert BAME eyeroll). Do better, guys.

Having watched the incredible Imagineering documentary on Disney+ and witnessed the creative storytelling and technology being put into Disneylands around the world, the Gangsta Granny ride technology felt like a relic of early 1960s Disneyland. The ride storyline didn’t resolve itself, we were shot in the face with a weak stream of bubbles for an ‘underwater scene’, and worst of all, they didn’t even bother to hide their Epson projectors overhead. There was no magic.

Halfway through the ride my companion and I looked at each other with extreme disappointment. We understand the target audience for the ride isn’t for a 20-something audience, but other theme parks like Disneyland offer this style of ride so much better. The staff in the general Gangsta Granny area, however, were fully committed to their roles as Beefeaters – including the tongue-in-cheek characters working in Raj’s Shop, who made us laugh.

The River Rapids ride was extremely boring, with no “Congolese” theming other than a few sad Tiki heads tacked onto the wall. We also wanted to visit the Dungeons but realised it would cost even more money to book into the attraction, around £8 extra. It should probably just be turned into a ride.

It was pouring with rain, so, against our better judgement and ethics, thought we’d check out the small SeaLife ‘Sharkbait Reef’ attraction. It was heart-breaking watching majestic sharks, baby whale sharks and huge pufferfish roam sadly and manically around a tiny tank all day under glaring fluorescent lights. We think the park should just get rid of this. It’s unethical. Fish have feelings, people. We got the feeling a lot of these crappier, smaller attractions were stuffed in so that people with young toddlers or kids had something to see.

Is there anything healthy to eat at Alton Towers?

Finally, my last complaint is that if you’re looking for healthy options or vegan food at Alton Towers, it’s hard to come by. It’s all overpriced fast food centered around meat and sugar – not even falafels were available at the kebab/wrap place. Food options are probably different and offer much more variety in summer, as we saw closed Greek Food and Jerk Wrap street food stands knocking around, but not much is open right now (Spring 2021).

Should you visit Alton Towers in 2024?

Even though some of the rides felt a little ‘tired’ and in much need of a spruce up – and although the amenities on offer were fairly overpriced – we had a great day out nonetheless. I highly recommend visiting, whether you’re going with friends, as a couple, or with family. There’s plenty to do for all ages.

Thanks for reading this guide to visiting Alton Towers – I hope you enjoyed my top 10 tips for visiting the theme park this spring/summer season!

Feel free to drop me a comment below if you have any question or share this post with friends and family. Until then, I’ll catch you on Instagram !

Mel Legarda

Melissa Legarda is the founder of illumelation . She has worked as a travel blogger, creator and writer since 2015, and has collaborated with well-known brands worldwide. She has helped over 1,100+ students improve their travel photography skills since launching her creative courses. Her mission is to encourage and empower others to travel and create more. Find her on Instagram .

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Top Tips for Alton Towers

Good to know, beat the queues.

• Timing - Generally it's best to do the biggest rides in the first hour that the park is open, at lunchtime, or in the last hour that the park is open, as the queues tend to be the shortest at these times. Plus, you can often beat the crowds by starting at the back of the park and working your way towards the front.
• Electronic Boards - These are located in various places around the park and display the latest queue times for many of the rides in the park, make sure you check these out to help you plan when to visit each ride.
• Parent Queue Share - On busy days parents with small children can get a special pass which allows just one of the parents to queue, when the first parent has been on the ride the second can go on without having to queue again.
• Early Ride Time - If you have a Merlin Annual Pass or you're staying at one of the resort hotels, you can enter the theme park 30 minutes early!
• Bronze £30 (one Fastrack on Hex​, The Curse at Alton Manor​, Runaway Mine Train and Spinball Whizzer)
• Silver £50 (one Fastrack on Wicker Man​, Oblivion, Rita, TH13TEEN​, The Smiler and Galactica)
• Gold £70 (one Fastrack on Wicker Man​, Oblivion​, Rita, TH13TEEN​, The Smiler, Galactica, Spinball​ Whizzer, Gangsta Granny,​ The Curse at Alton Manor, Hex,​ Marauders Mayhem​, Battle Galleons​, Rapids​ and Runaway Mine Train)
• Platinum £110 (unlimited Fastrack on Wicker Man, Oblivion, Rita, TH13TEEN​, The Smiler​, Galactica​, Spinball​ Whizzer, Gangsta Granny​, The Curse at Alton Manor, HEX​, Marauders Mayhem​, Battle Galleons​, Rapids​ and Runaway Mine Train)

Important Restrictions

Height and other restrictions apply to each attraction, full details of these can be found at the entry point of the attractions, here's a summary of some key categories:

• Minimum Height 1.4m - The Smiler, Galactica, Nemesis, Oblivion, Rita
• Minimum Height 1.2m - TH13TEEN, Spinball Whizzer, Wicker Man
• Minimum Height 1.1m - Marauder's Mayhem, Congo River Rapids
• Minimum Height 1.0m - The Blade
• Minimum Height 0.9m - Gangsta Granny: The Ride, Battle Galleons, Runaway Mine Train, Heave Ho, Justin's House Pie-O-Matic Factory, Go Jetters Vroomster Zoom Ride, Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure, Raj’s Bouncy Bottom Burp, Peter Rabbit Hippity Hop

Where to Eat

• Have a think about when you're going to eat, trying big thrill rides immediately after lunch may not be wise!
• Most of the outlets tend to get busy between 11am and 1pm, try to avoid these peak hours to avoid a wait.
• There's a wide range of outlets across the park, there are vegetarian and healthy options available at many of them. 
• If you're looking for a table service restaurant, there's the Rollercoaster Restaurant in Forbidden Valley and Woodcutter Bar & Grill at The Towers.
• For quick service food, try The Burger Kitchen in Mutiny Bay or The Towers, Explorers Pizza Pasta Buffet in Katanga Canyon or Just Chicken in X-Sector.
• Just want to grab a coffee? Head to Coffee Corner on Towers Street, the Coffee Lounge in Forbidden Valley or the Coffee Kiosk in Mutiny Bay.
• The monorail to the car park can get busy when the rides close, why not grab a bite to eat before your journey.

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Experience the magic of Alton Towers with this guide

Things to do in London Day Trips from London Alton Towers

Embark on an adventure at Alton Towers, the renowned Staffordshire theme park. Brace yourself for heart-pounding rides, explore a variety of attractions, and wander through enchanting gardens. Unleash your inner thrill-seeker, create lasting memories, and let the magic of Alton Towers sweep you off your feet!

Alton Towers In A Nutshell

Handy information, must-see at alton towers.

• The Wicker Man

Getting There

Farley Ln, Alton, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 4DB, United Kingdom Get Directions

Opening Hours

10 AM to 4-9 PM Note: The theme park, waterpark and spa opens everyday at 10 AM while the spa opens at 9 AM. Closing hours depend on the season.

What To Expect At Alton Towers?

• Thrilling Roller Coasters: Get caught up in an adrenaline rush on world-class roller coasters that defy gravity and leave you breathless.
• Family-friendly Attractions: Enjoy a wide range of activities, perfect for visitors of all ages, from gentle rides for little ones to interactive shows and exhibits.
• Live Entertainment: Be mesmerized by live shows, featuring dazzling feats of skills and artistry.
• The Waterpark: Experience the Alton Towers Waterpark, a tropical paradise filled with slides and pools, perfect for cooling-off on a warm day.
• Spooktacular Fun at Scarefest: Step into a delightful Halloween experience at Scarefest, where Alton Towers transforms into a festive wonderland.

Recommended Alton Towers Tickets

Alton towers history.

Dating back centuries, Alton Towers has witnessed numerous significant events throughout its existence. Originally established as a fortress, it has gone through several transformations over the years. It served as a stately home for the influential Talbot family during the 19th century and later transitioned into a popular leisure destination in the 20th century. In 1924, Alton Towers came under public ownership of Alton Towers Limited. During World War II, the War Office requisitioned the site for officer training. But the turning point came in the 1960s and 1970s when the grounds were transformed into a visitor attraction, boasting a boating lake, chairlift, and a small fair around the ruins of the main house. Alton Towers slowly metamorphosed into a world-class attraction around 1980 with the introduction of iconic rides like The Corkscrew rollercoaster, the Pirate Ship, and the Alpine Bobsled ride. In 1990, The Tussauds Group acquired the park, leading to an era of intense development. The park witnessed a flurry of additions, including the dark rides The Haunted House and Toyland Tours, thrilling experiences like Nemesis, Oblivion, and Air (now Galactica), and a hotel complex.

Alton Towers Architecture

The architecture of Alton Towers is heavily influenced by Gothic and Victorian styles, evoking a sense of grandeur and charm. The park encompasses a wide range of enchanting structures, from the iconic Towers themselves to the intricate details of the gardens. The Towers, originally constructed in the 19th century, are a magnificent example of Gothic revival architecture, with their soaring spires and ornate carvings. Inside the park, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The Towers' conservatories feature cast iron domes and French windows, created by Robert Abraham for the 15th Earl of Shrewsbury, adding a touch of artistic brilliance to the architectural masterpiece. The gardens, meticulously landscaped, are a testament to the dedication and vision of the park's architects. In addition to its stunning architecture, Alton Towers boasts the ingenious designs of famous architects such as Augustus Pugin and Robert Abraham. These architects, with their incredible attention to detail and innovative ideas, have left an indelible mark on the park's aesthetic.

Highlights Of Alton Towers

1 fun rides.

For adrenaline junkies, Alton Towers is an absolute playground of fun rides. Brace yourself for an experience you won't soon forget as you ride gravity-defying roller coasters, twist and turn through heart-pounding loops and high-speed attractions.

2 The Gardens

Take a beat with a visit to the Alton Towers Gardens. Explore meticulously landscaped pathways, be in awe of stunning flower displays, and unwind in the calming embrace of nature, for a refreshing break from your adrenaline-packed adventures.

3 Haunted House

Brave souls, prepare for a some spooky encounters in the Alton Towers Haunted House. Navigate themed attractions where ghostly surprises lurk around every corner, promising a toe-curling experience that will leave you wanting more.

4 The Waterpark

Dive into bliss at the Alton Towers Waterpark, where a world of aquatic fun awaits. From exhilarating water slides to relaxing lazy rivers, this waterpark offers plenty of rides for all ages, making it the perfect destination to cool off and make a splash.

5 CBeebies Land

Make sure to not miss out on the world of CBeebies Land at Alton Towers! Designed for families with young children, let their favourite TV shows come to life with fun rides and attractions, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the little ones.

Best Time To Visit Alton Towers

The best time to visit Alton Towers in London is during the spring and autumn seasons. With mild temperatures and fewer crowds, you can fully enjoy the thrilling rides and attractions. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, making it an ideal time to visit. Arriving early in the day can also help you beat the lines and maximize your time experiencing all the fun.

The Best Time to Visit London - The Ultimate Month on Month Guide

Alton towers opening hours.

• Timings: 10 AM to 4-9 PM
• Note: The theme park, waterpark and spa opens everyday at 10 AM while golf opens at 9 AM. Closing hours depend on the season, special events and holidays. Remember to check ahead of time and confirming closing hours before visiting.
• Closure: Alton Towers is usually closed during winter from November to March.

Convenient transport options to Alton Towers via bus include D&G Bus's X41 (Stafford - Uttoxeter - Alton Towers) and 32X (Hanley - Cheadle - Alton Towers) routes, as well as Notts & Derby buses' X52 (Nottingham, Derby - Alton Towers) service.

Uttoxeter Train Station, located 10 miles from Alton Towers, serves as the closest railway hub. A convenient 20-minute drive or a short 30-minute bus ride from the station will get you to the attraction.

Located between the M1 and the M6, Alton Towers Resort is easily accessible via car. Caution is advised due to pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders, along with narrow roads in certain areas.

Insider Tips To Visit Alton Towers

• Beat the crowds by getting to Alton Towers right when it opens at 10 AM.
• Book your tickets in advance so that you won't have to wait in lines at the park entrance.
• Plan your day by taking a look at the park map and deciding which rides and attractions you want to visit. This will help you make the most of your time.
• Ensure that you meet the height and health requirements for rides.
• Alton Towers allows outside food, so pack some snacks and save money on food expenses.
• Given the size of the park and the amount of walking involved, comfortable shoes are a must.
• It's easy to get carried away at Alton Towers, but it's important to take breaks throughout the day. This will help you to stay hydrated and energized.

Restaurants At Alton Towers

Experience dining like never before at Alton Towers' Rollercoaster Restaurant. Witness your meal take a thrilling journey to your table, twisting, turning, and looping-the-loop. Be part of this unique and unforgettable dining adventure – book your spot now for a meal with a twist!

Nestled on the ground floor of Alton Towers Hotel, the Secret Garden Restaurant offers a delightful fusion of British and international cuisine within a charming brasserie setting. Don't miss the healthy children's menu, and be sure to book in advance to secure your spot.

Flambo's Jambo Buffet at Alton Towers serves a delightful Caribbean feast alongside family favorites, catering to all taste buds. Relish your meal in a tropical Caribbean ambiance with stunning views of the Alton Towers Waterpark.

Places To Stay Near Alton Towers

Luxury stays.

• Alton.T Splash Landings Hotel
• Alton Towers Hotel
• The White Hart

Mid-range Stays

• Alton.T Stargazing Pods
• Enchanted Village Treehouses
• The Bridge House Hotel

Economy Stays

• Chained Oak Farm
• Fernlea Guest House
• Marsh Farm B&B & Tea Room

Things To Do Near Alton Towers

Churnet Valley Railway is a nostalgic heritage railway with restored station houses. Operating steam train services, it offers a charming journey along a scenic section of the railway line, providing visitors with an authentic glimpse into the past and a delightful experience for train enthusiasts.

Peak Wildlife Park is a zoo with a focus on bird collections and adorable small mammals, including rare warty pigs and meerkats. Get up close to these fascinating creatures, experience interactive encounters, and learn more about their natural habitats in this exciting wildlife haven.

Thor's Cave, a natural limestone cave, stands majestically on a steep cliff, offering breathtaking views of surrounding valleys. With a rich history of human habitation, it's a captivating destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. The cave's beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit spot.

Ilam Park is a stunning National Trust site boasting untamed landscapes. It offers a vast area to explore, complete with a visitor centre, tea-room, shop, and caravan site. It's the perfect starting point for immersing yourself in the beauty of the surroundings and embarking on unforgettable adventures amidst nature's splendor.

Trentham Monkey Forest offers a unique experience in a woodland sanctuary with 140 monkeys roaming freely. Wander through the forest path, learn from informative boards, and watch captivating videos, all while witnessing these playful creatures living their lives in their natural habitat.

What is the best mode of transport to reach Alton Towers?

The best mode of transport to reach Alton Towers is by car. It is conveniently located between the M1 and M6 motorways, with clear signposting from both. However, visitors can also use trains or buses, to get to nearby towns like Stoke-on-Trent, from where shuttle services or taxis can be used to reach the park.

On what dates is the Alton Towers closed in a year?

Alton Towers typically closes during the winter months for annual maintenance and refurbishment. Exact closure dates may vary from year to year but it typically closes in November and opens in March.

Are there any restaurants inside Alton Towers?

Yes, Alton Towers offers a variety of restaurants and eateries inside the park. From quick bites to sit-down dining options, visitors can enjoy a diverse range of cuisine to satisfy their appetites.

Are there washrooms at Alton Towers?

Yes, there are washroom facilities available throughout the park. Restrooms can be found in various locations, ensuring convenience and comfort for visitors.

Is there a dress code to visit Alton Towers?

Alton Towers does not have a strict dress code, but visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear for a day of walking and enjoying rides. Some attractions might have specific safety requirements regarding clothing and accessories, such as restrictions on loose items on roller coasters.

This author is fully invested in four things in life: good literature, anime, fashion and cats. She firmly believes in living in the moment and grabbing each moment by its cuff. The only goal this author has is to, at some point, be happy.

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Alton Towers

About alton towers.

Alton Towers London is a beautiful escape on a short break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Sprawling across an area of 500 acres, the resort gives access to three fantastically themed hotels, Stargazing Pods, and an Enchanted Village. The place also features 40 world-class rides and attractions that give you a pure adrenaline-rushing adventure.

From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like "Nemesis" and "The Smiler" to family-friendly adventures like "CBeebies Land," there is something to suit every taste. Beyond the rides, Alton Towers also features captivating live shows, beautiful gardens, and enchanting themed areas. Visitors can stay on-site at the Alton Towers Resort, which offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels and lodges. Whether you're seeking heart-stopping thrills or a fun-filled day with family and friends, Alton Towers promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

If you are fond of water rides, slides, and attractions, you should not forget to visit the waterpark at Alton Towers. The water park also features some amazing rides to uplift your mood, where you can spend some quality time with your family. You can slide down through the tropical pool at Flash Floods, rejuvenate yourself in the warm waters of Volcano Springs at Bubbly Wubbly Pool, and enjoy the giant water coaster ride at Master Blaster.

Visit one of the biggest theme parks in the UK, spread across 900 acres of parkland the Alton Towers Resort

Hop on to 40 varieties of thrilling rides and mount unique roller coasters with your friends and family

Experience adrenaline rush in first-of-their-kind rollercoasters- Wicker Man, Nemesis, and Oblivion

Feel the G-Force while free-falling down the 'Th13TEEN' the first of its kind, and completing 14 loops on 'The Smiler' roller-coaster

Book the Alton Towers Tickets and have a fun-filled family experience as you ride the seven world-class rollercoasters

• Please do not carry any luggage or large bags.
• Do not consume alcoholic beverages or drugs, if you are found intoxicated, you might be asked to leave the tour/premises.
• All participants are required to show ID on arrival.
• All international participants will have to share passport and visa details on arrival.
• Participants are not allowed to carry any sharp object, lighter, luggage bag, alcohol, knife, etc.
• Please note that the time slots may be subject to slight variations, and we will allocate a time slot available within a 30-minute window before or after your initial selection.

Available Alton Towers Tickets

The visitors can avail themselves of the Alton Towers tickets in two forms, namely Theme Park Entry Ticket and Water Park Entry Ticket. These tickets will allow them to enjoy all the rides and attractions of the different parks, respectively. You can avail yourself of the discount if you book your tickets in advance.

The Alton Towers tickets, including Theme Park entry, allows you to experience over 40 different rides and attractions. If you book the tickets in advance, you will get a chance to save a decent amount on your entry, making the ticket price more affordable to the public. Children below three years of age are allowed to enter the park for free.

Inclusions : - 40 attractive rides and attractions.- Discounted entry for students and advance ticket bookers.- Free for children below three years of age

Do Checkout: Windsor Castle Horse Drawn Carriage Tour

The Water Park entry ticket comes with a great deal of discounts and offers for students and groups. This ticket gives you access to the splashtastic water park at the Alton Towers London. You can thoroughly enjoy all the water slides and wacky water attractions. If you book your water park entry ticket well in advance. However, it is advisable to check the adult to child ratio while booking your tickets online.

Inclusions :- Entry to the water park.- Water slides and water attractions.- Discounts for students and groups.

Check This Out: Windsor Castle Horse Drawn Carriage Tour

Top Rides In Alton Towers

Alton Towers, one of the best theme parks in London , consists of more than 40 rides and attractions that are suitable for all types of visitors. All these rides allow you to escape the normalities of life and take a step into the world of blasting fun and excitement. You can engage with the much-loved characters at the CBeebies Land or enjoy the thrill of world-class roller coasters with your family.

Sharkbait Reef is a wonderful attraction in the Alton Towers located under the debris of the galleon in Mutiny Bay. It is a tropical interactive pool that offers you a glimpse of plenty of mysterious and amazing inhabitants from the seas and oceans of the world. Some of the marine creatures that you can spot in this pool are spotted rays, seahorses, blacktip sharks, and chocolate chip starfish. You will also find tiny shrimps in the pool that will manicure the tip of your toes as you put your legs into the touch pool.

Checkout and Book: The Postal Museum Tickets

Peter Rabbit Hippity Hop narrates a beautiful story of a playful Benjamin bunny hiding from his friends in the garden that belongs to McGregor. This ride allows you to join Peter Rabbit and Lily Bobtail and try to resolve the puzzle to find the hiding place of the bunny. Thus, it is an adventurous ride that allows you to hop into the sky and find the playful bunny from the top. Children can have a wonderful time at this park and, at the same time, have the stimulation of their brain cells while finding the playful Bunny hiding in McGregor’s garden.

Check This Out: The Household Cavalry Museum Tickets

Go Jetters Vroomster Zoom Ride is a spectacular global ride in the Alton Towers. It takes thrill-seekers on an adventurous flying ride around the world in a Vroomster with Lars, Kyan, Xuli, and Foz. In this ride, the young riders have complete control over the Vroomster, and they can move it up and down to launch from the Jetpad. This ride in CBeebies Land is a fundamental attraction for children, and they would definitely love to hang out at this place with the famous cartoon characters. including Kyan, Lars, Foz, and Xuli.

Checkout and Book: The Golden Hinde Tickets

Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure is another ride in the CBeebies land for children. This ride allows the kids to join Captain Barnacles and his crew members, while The Ostonauts make their way to the Alton Towers Resort for a rollercoaster adventure. Even toddlers can experience this adventurous rollercoaster ride with their parents and have a fun-filled stay at Alton Towers Resort. The ride lets the young thrill-seekers explore the latest underwater worlds, rescue the wonderful sea creatures, and protect the ocean with Captain Barnacles on their ride. After completing two circuits of the track, children are filled with excitement and joy that they would get charged up for another ride.

Do Checkout: The Foundling Museum Tickets

The Ride is a tour of the Crown Jewels alongside a Royal Carriage. You can hop into the royal carriage and take a spin into the sewers with the help of 360-degree special effects to break into the vault ladened with crown jewels. After finding the jewels, it would be fun to escape into the Gangsta Granny Rooms. These rooms feature different characters from the book Granny & Ben and hidden clues that help you crack the code of the vault for a special surprise inside. The children will surely enjoy it as they attempt to make the greatest heist in history in the Alton Towers.

Must Checkout: The Cartoon Museum Tickets

Another inclusion in the Alton Towers tickets is The Alton Towers Dungeon which offers an experience for a complete 45 minutes. It is a wonderful interactive show with top-notch theming and technology. The ride consists of three fundamental attractions, namely The Judge, The Black River Boat Ride, and The Torturer. The Judge authorizes you to take a stand in the courtroom and plead your case, while The Black River Boat Ride takes you on a boat ride to gaze at some of the Dungeon residents. On the other hand, The Torturer will fill you with laughter with its favorite devices while being rested in the Torturer's chair.

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Wicker Man is the first wooden roller coaster in Alton Towers that embarks you on a multi-sensory ride of passage into the mysterious world of The Beorman. The structure is towering above the treeline, and you can hear an ominous drum beat from within. This rollercoaster ride ignites your senses by burning the flames each time you traverse through its chest. You can also watch your on-ride photo displayed at the entrance and shop for them to cherish the memories enjoyed on the ride forever. The Wicker Man is indeed one of the best rides at the Alton Towers.

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Hey Duggee’s Big Adventure Badge is the new attraction at Alton Towers that allows kids to climb, slide, and bounce their way through engaging sensory play areas. You can then meet Duggee and collect your Big Adventure Batch or connect with the squirrel club and get yourself ready for a giant adventure to all your favorable Hey Duggee locations. In this attraction, you will also find a plethora of play equipment and other interactive elements, like slides, trampolines, tunnels, and climbing structures. The children should also not miss out on their own adventures in a pirate ship and a yellow submarine.

Do Checkout: Palace Of Westminster

Nemesis is a twisting and turning ride that takes dangling adventure enthusiasts around 250 tonnes of tangled steel. It is one of the best rollercoasters in the entire United Kingdom as it spins, loops, and corkscrews at 3.5 G-force past the rocks and rivers of the Forbidden Valley at a speed of 50 miles per hour. It is the most heart-thumping, exhilarating, and exciting ride that you must experience at least once in your lifetime. Unlike other rollercoaster rides, Nemesis keeps you very close to the ground. You can expect yourself diving into an underground tunnel and hoping that your feet do not touch the blood river that flows beneath.

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The Smiler, one of the inclusions in the Alton Towers tickets, is the first 14 loop rollercoaster ride in the world that races at a speed of 85 kilometers per hour. Its tracking twists include the 14 combining loops that have a length equal to thrice the times of the Oblivion. If you are suffering from the pains and aches of everyday’s life, this ride will turn your frown upside down. The five different manipulations of the ride will definitely convert you into a smiling advocate.

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Oblivion is the first vertical drop roller coaster in the entire world that makes every rider face their fear. This ride is a getaway to the state of being forgotten in the surrounding areas of X Sector. It starts with a slow and steep climb to the top to create tension in the minds of the riders and then makes a sheer vertical drop to the mercy of the Oblivion. As you reach the top of the rollercoaster, you will find a moment to savor the thing that is going to come next. Although it is advisable not to see down the ride, your mind will ask you to take a sneak peek at the colossal vertical 180 drop.

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Th13teen is the first vertical free fall roller coaster drop in the world included in the Alton Towers tickets. This dark and mysterious ride features moving track parts that turn brave adventure junkies into falling objects within the limit of an unstable crypt. After you hit the ground, it seems like there is no other way to shift gears into reverse. The ride makes your body sit in a 3.2G force to create an unparalleled level of psychological fear. It does not give you any warning or tick lift hill but drops you 5 meters through the air with no guilt.

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Waterpark At Alton Towers

The waterpark at Alton Towers features fantastic and slippery delights for different age groups. It allows its guests to go splashing in their interactive game areas or hop into pulsating high-speed water slides. You can drift along the lazy rivers, relax around the Bubbly Wubbly pool, and drench yourself while moving at a heart-throbbing speed of an awesome Master Blaster water coaster.

Master Blaster is one of the fun water rides included in Alton Towers tickets. It makes you get ready for the huge blast of water while traversing on a giant water coaster ride at a breathtaking speed. You can enjoy this fun-filled ride if your height is at least 1.1 to 1.2 meters. People can also share the fun together with their fellow travelers by riding on a double ring. This ride does not only take you downhill but also propels you uphill at an incredible speed of 5 meters per second. Thus, it is the best ride for both adults and children alike.

Checkout: Alton Towers Tickets

Rush ‘N’ Rampage is the two high-speed water slides that slip and slide you down the insane turns and twists. You can opt for Rush and relish an engaging experience at these water slides. Before going to an adventurous Splashdown pool, you can even create your own selection of five funky light and music themes. The only thing that you need to keep in mind before going on this ride is that all the riders must be above the age of 3 years, and the children are only allowed to enjoy this ride if they are accompanied by an adult.

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If you are fond of an outdoor adventure, you can indulge yourself in Flash Floods. They are another inclusion of Alton Towers tickets that take the riders on an outside slide before splashing down into the tropical pool. These slides begin at the top indoors with one level below the Rush ‘N’ Rampage. If you slide through the left hatch, you will find yourself in an open lagoon with three different water slides. In other words, you will find a pool at the top followed by two slides that move into a middle pool and three slides that make their way to the bottom pool.

Lagoona Bay is the fundamental tropical pool and is the center of attraction of the Alton Towers Waterpark. This pool is equipped with geysers, water cannons, and waterfalls. You must be wondering if it is a great place to participate in swimming activities. Rather, it is a fun place to paddle across the different areas of the lagoon or just sit back and relax. Therefore, Lagoona Bay is a beautiful place in Alton Towers waterpark to have a secluded time underneath the waterfall followed by a lenient swim in the outdoor pool.

If you move towards the right hatch of the waterpark, you will find a Bubbly Wubbly Pool. Here, you can rejuvenate yourself in the warm, bubbling, and steaming waters of Volcano Springs, irrespective of the weather. However, if the weather is hot outside the pool and you do not watch to get yourself drenched in the water, you can soothe yourself on one of the deckchairs beside this serene area. Thus, the Bubbly Wubbly Pool is pure bliss for the people who are seeking tranquility both inside and outside and want to calm their senses away from the bustling life of the city.

The Wacky Waterworks is a fun and exciting climbing frame that consists of more than 70 engaging water features. This attraction included in the Alton Towers tickets allows its guests to have a fantastic time with buckets, pull ropes, water cannons, and water wheels. You can climb over nets and creep into the tunnels and across bridges to avoid people catching you over with different water features. After reaching the top of this Wacky Waterworks, you can turn on the taps, fill your bucket with water, or use the spray cannon to soak your other fellow riders.

Know Before You Visit Alton Towers

Location : Farley Lane, Alton, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 4DB, United Kingdom.

Timings : 10 am to 5 pm

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays outside of the school holiday season are the best time to visit Alton Towers (i.e., between Monday and Thursday). You should visit this place in the morning to avoid crowds and have enough time to enjoy all the activities at the resort. Moreover, you do not have to stand in long queues to get along the rides.

Important Information : The Alton Towers tickets do not include water park tickets. You need to book the water park tickets separately as it is a separate attraction.

By Train - The travelers can travel by train to reach Alton Towers London. The nearest railway station to Alton Towers is the Uttoxeter railway station, and it is located around 10 miles from the resort. The other railway stations near Alton Towers are Trent Station and Derby train station. Alternatively, you can also take a resort monorail to reach your final destination.

By Bus - Several bus services are available on this route. D&G Bus operates the X41 and 32X to Alton Towers, while Notts & Derby operate the X52 service from Nottingham to Alton Towers.

By Car - If you wish to travel by car, you can drive between the M1 and the M6 from both motorways to reach Alton Towers. Also, be careful while traveling as there are several cyclists, walkers, and horse riders on the ride.

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Tips To Visit Alton Towers

• Carry a water bottle or a collapsible or refillable container.
• Don’t forget to bring your own lunch or snacks to the Alton Towers London.
• Get along the biggest rides you want to enjoy first, and then proceed to the smaller rides.
• Wear clothing with zip pockets to keep your essential valuables safe during the ride.
• Book the Express Parking ticket in advance.
• Carry a colorful parka or poncho to keep yourself dry at all times.
• Book your Alton Towers tickets to visit on a weekday outside the school holiday season to avoid the crowd.

Do Alton Towers Tickets also include waterpark tickets?

No, Alton Towers tickets do not include waterpark tickets as it is a separate attraction. You need to be a guest at the Splash Landings Hotel if you want to use the waterpark, and you can get access to the attraction if you have pre-booked a session.

Do I need to book in advance for Alton Towers Tickets?

Yes, you need to book Alton Towers tickets well in advance, including the pass holders. It is advisable to pre-register your documentation at least 14 days prior to visiting your ideal destination. This process is generally made to keep all the guests and staff of Alton Towers safe and make the process quicker.

What makes Alton Towers so famous?

Spread across 500 acres of fascinating Staffordshire Countryside, Alton Tower is known for its three magnificent hotels, stargazing pods, and enchanting village. Here you get to witness over 40 world-class rides and attractions. It is the largest theme park in the United Kingdom and is efficient in helping guests explore the resorts through fun rides.

What is the best time to visit Alton Towers?

The best time to visit Alton Towers is during the weekdays, i.e., between Monday and Thursday. During this time, the place remains less busy, and you can have a better chance of hopping onto rides without the need to stand in a long queue. It is also advisable to visit the place during the morning time as you can have ample amount of time to be involved in all the fun activities at Alton Towers.

Are there shows for kids in Alton Towers?

Yes, there are plenty of shows for kids in Alton Towers. The kids can have an interactive and fun time with their friends at CBeebies Land Shows. Moreover, the children should also not miss the Teletubbies Big Band Live at Alton Towers.

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The weather world

The Ultimate Guide: Weather and Best Times to Visit Alton Towers

Table of contents.

1. Introduction to Alton Towers Weather 2. The Alton Towers Experience 3. What Weather Can You Expect at Alton Towers? 4. The Four Seasons in Alton Towers Weather 5. Tips for Visiting Alton Towers in Different Weathers 6. Packing for Your Alton Towers Trip 7. Predicting the Weather at Alton Towers 8. How Weather Impacts Your Alton Towers Experience 9. Why Alton Towers Weather Matters 10. Conclusion

1. Introduction to Alton Towers Weather

Discovering the magic of the Alton Towers, set in the heart of Staffordshire, appeals to a global audience. Yet, the fluctuating English weather calls for precise weather information to make the most of your visit.

2. The Alton Towers Experience

Stepping into Alton Towers, you’re welcomed by its remarkable mix of thrilling rides, fairytale landscapes, and distinguished British charm. Regardless of the season or weather, Alton Towers delivers an unmatched amusement park experience.

3. What Weather Can You Expect at Alton Towers?

Located in the West Midlands region of England, Alton Towers experiences a temperate maritime climate. The weather is generally mild, with regular rain showers, cool summers, and comparatively gentle winters.

4. The Four Seasons in Alton Towers Weather

Spring ’s moderate temperatures and blossoming beauty make it an excellent time to visit Alton Towers. Summer in Alton Towers, like the entire UK, is relatively cooler, with temperatures typically in the mid-20s (°C). Autumn brings vibrant colors to the park; however, accompanied by shorter days and colder weather. Lastly, winter at Alton Towers reserves its charm with festive decorations, despite the colder temperatures and reduced daylight.

5. Tips for Visiting Alton Towers in Different Weathers

In rainy weather , waterproof coats and footwear tend to be invaluable. During the mild summer , light clothing suffices, but a raincoat can come in handy due to sudden showers. In colder months , warm clothing, scarves, hats, and gloves would be appropriate.

6. Packing for Your Alton Towers Trip

The unpredictable weather necessitates packing for all outcomes. Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, raincoats, and warm clothing should all be essentials in your Alton Towers luggage.

7. Predicting the Weather at Alton Towers

Although English weather can be unpredictable, various reliable weather platforms provide accurate forecasts, such as the Met Office or BBC Weather. Utilize these resources for an impactful Alton Towers experience.

8. How Weather Impacts Your Alton Towers Experience

Understanding how different weathers can influence your visit is vital. While rainy days may dampen some activities, they usually result in shorter queues. On the other hand, sunny days offer the perfect setting for picnic lunches and outdoor strolls despite longer waiting times at rides.

9. Why Alton Towers Weather Matters

The weather can significantly influence your Alton Towers visit, from deciding the right clothes to pack to determining the best time to visit the attractions. Your understanding of Alton Towers weather can dramatically transform your amusement park experience.

10. Conclusion

The enchanting aura of Alton Towers transcends shifting weathers and seasons, ensuring an intoxicating blend of adventure, enchantment, and relaxation at all times. In-depth knowledge of Alton Towers weather can turn your visit into an unforgettable memory!

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Alton Towers crowd calendar

November 2021

8 Mon 8 Closed

9 Tue 9 Closed

10 Wed 10 Closed

11 Thu 11 Closed

12 Fri 12 Closed

13 Sat 13 Closed

14 Sun 14 Closed

15 Mon 15 Closed

16 Tue 16 Closed

17 Wed 17 Closed

18 Thu 18 Closed

19 Fri 19 Closed

20 Sat 20 Closed

21 Sun 21 Closed

22 Mon 22 Closed

23 Tue 23 Closed

24 Wed 24 Closed

25 Thu 25 Closed

26 Fri 26 Closed

29 Mon 29 Closed

30 Tue 30 Closed

* This crowd level is predicted. All predictions are provided as a guide, you should use your own judgement and contact us if anything seems off. Make sure to check the official opening hours before attending.

Crowd calendar key

Crowd notes.

Tuesday and Wednesday are often the best days to go for shorter queues, while Saturday and Sunday tend to be the busiest. The most popular months are typically August, February and July, while January, December and March are normally quieter. To get the most out of your day we recommend arriving early and leaving late. Make sure to check the live queue times on our site throughout the day to stay ahead of the crowds.

Wait Times at Alton Towers

Alton Towers Resort is an amusement park/theme park resort located in Alton, Staffordshire, England, United Kingdom, featuring numerous rides and attractions, including 10 roller coasters like Nemesis, Oblivion, Wicker Man, and the Smiler, thrill rides, & family friendly attractions in Cbeebies Land. Opened in 1980, the park is owned & operated by Merlin Entertainments. AT is busiest during March, April, June, July, & October, with lower ques times in May and September. See the Alton Towers Crowd Levels Calendar for more details. The Enchanted Village allows guests to stay on-site at the park.

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Alton Towers Typical Wait Times

What are wait times typically like at Alton Towers each day? The table below shows the recent average of wait times at Alton Towers, listed in 5 minute intervals.

Alton Towers Trends

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The busiest day to visit AT is Saturday with a 24 minute average wait time. The least busy day is Wednesday with a 17 minute average wait time.

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best time of year to go if you want to... - Alton Towers Resort

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best time of year to go if you want to avoid the queues!

My fiance and I needed a weekend away and I found on the Alton Towers website a good deal to stay at the Splash Landings Hotel and a 2 day ticket to the main theme park for two of us for £150. This meant staying on the Sunday night and the park tickets were for Sunday and Monday, also included free parking (saving £6 per day) and free breaky! Also you were allowed early bird access to the park which basically means on a select few rides (Nemisis and Oblivion included) you could go on from 9-10am before the Park opened to the public from 10am. We thought this was too good to miss and hoped for decent weather (which we were granted and even caught the sun a bit it was so sunny, albeit fresh!) and not much queuing. Sunday was definitely worse for queues and ended up spending 1hr 30 mins in a queue for the smiler due to it breaking down 3 times and there being a lot of people. There was also a LOT of children on the weekend in big groups which then made the queues that much longer! The rest of the wait times were 10-20 minutes which isnt horrendous but does get tiresome after the first couple of times! Monday was much better and we got into the Park for 9am and went on Nemisis 3 times in a row as there was hardly anyone about and at one point it was just me and my fiancé on the ride at the front! We then went over to Oblivion and did that twice before going on the Smiler, of which the queues at this point (just gone 10am) were minimal. I lost count of how many times we ended up going on the big rides on the Monday but we def got our moneys worth on that day due to there being a lot less people and the rides not breaking down quite as much as the previous day. Both my fiancé and I hadn't been to Alton Towers in 5+ years so we are glad that we came away from it having had an excellent experience and time away. As much as we would of liked not to have to wear 4 layers of clothing and coats and require gloves on occasions, it makes sense to go in the week at this time of year so that you actually get to enjoy the rides and go on them many times, which you wouldn't be able to do later in the year towards and during the summer. Using up a days holiday from work was well worth it compared to having to go on a weekend in the summer when everyone else would be going!

Dear Guest, Thank you for taking the time to complete a review on Trip Advisor, we appreciate feedback from all of our visitors. We are glad that you found your hotel stay to be great value for money as it included your over night stay, breakfast, two days Theme Park entry for the price of one, free parking for the duration of your stay and also Early Ride Time. We apologise for the ride stoppages that you encountered during your visit. All of our rides are tested daily but from time to time problems do occur during the course of the day. Our rides and technical teams strive to keep these down to a minimum. However we are glad that you were able to experience all of the rides that you wished to during your two days, may of them multiple times! We agree that the Theme Park is generally a lot quieter during this time of year, especially on weekdays so it's a great time to visit if you can if you don't mind the unpredictable weather! We hope to see you again in the future! (Possibly sooner than 5 years time!) Best wishes, Charlotte Alton Towers Resort

We visited on the opening day the 22nd March. Stayed in a near by hotel so were there for it opening at 10. The Car park was filling up, there were a lot of cars already there when we arrive. We walked to the park entrance and there were quese for tickets there too. We walked around the park in a clock wise direction and only when we got to Rita did we discover any wait. We then got to Smiler and as we got near the front there was a technical diffculty. As it was getting late we abandoned it and went to Oblivion instead. I love theme parks so was little disapointed not to get on Smiler but i suppose its an excuse to go down again.

Dear Guest, Thank you for taking the time to complete a review on Trip Advisor. Although the Theme Park seemed busy when you first arrived we are glad that for the majority of your day you didn't experience any wait times and enjoyed our rides and attractions. We are sorry that you didn't get a chance to ride The Smiler. We hope that you will be able to at some point in the future, but we're pleased that it didn't spoil your day. We look forward to welcoming you to the resort again soon. Best wishes, Charlotte

Late review again as we visited the 20th July 2013, I have never ben on a roller-coaster until that day and my fiancé made it his mission to get me on one (one that my dad had failed for years as I was just too scared). We pre-booked tickets for the day so getting the tickets was really quick and easy. being a wheelchair user it was nice to see they still had the queue hopper for disabled customers and up to 3 or 4 guests, the only thing I would say about it is you have to be at the back on all rides which wasn't so bad on the backwards bit of Thirteen! We had an amazing day and ended up eating at the all you can eat pizza restaurant in the park, it was lovely! Couldn't fault the staff either they were al so helpful, especially with the river rapids, they had to slow it right down near enough to a stop to enable me to get on, which I thought was lovely, most people these days would just say I cant ride but the only ride im not allowed to ride is the smiler, which at the time didn't bother me too much, it didn't look too safe when we were watching it and then there was an incident the day after we were there! but overall it was an amazing day!!!

Dear Guest, Thank you for your fantastic review! We're extremely pleased you enjoyed your day and you found us accommodating. We strive to be the absolute best for all guests and we're satisfied to hear we achieved this for your visit. On most of our rides you will need to be positioned at the rear of the train as these enable easier and often quicker evacuations should this be an occurrence, however we do agree that the back is the best on Thirteen! Thank you once again for your review, and we look forward to seeing you again! Kind Regards, Peter Alton Towers Resort

We visited in opening weekend on the sunday 23rd March. We had bought Merlin passes which made it great value. When we arrrived whilst the car park seemed more than half empty there was a huge queue for the monorail into the park. Not impressed so we walked to the park instead. This took a good 15 minutes and we walk fast. The queues were pretty short, most about 5 minutes. As we had two children with us we had to take turns going on the bigger rides but they let you go in a different queue for single riders and then you don't really queue at all which is fab. Even the smiler wasn't long although it broke down when I got to it. The staff were all fantastic! So friendly and they were everywhere around the park to ask for directions etc. They really made the day even better. The only problem we had was on the carousel where the staff member told us he had to run the frog hopper too so we had to wait for about 10 minutes. This was pretty poor as people were getting annoyed with him and it wasn't his fault. I think they should have just closed one of the rides instead. Everywhere was really clean. Just want to point out too that as they are building cbeebies land which doesn't open until May, there is very little for younger children until then (as they are building where the smaller rides used to be). Our 7 year old was happy though as he went on many rides 2 or 3 times as queues were short. Food is very overpriced so recommend taking your own lunch as we did. We bought a coffee, coke and chips and it cost £5.95 AFTER the 20% discount. All in all though it's a brilliant park and we can't wait to go back.

Dear Guest, Thank you for spending time to complete a review on Trip Advisor and giving us a 5 star rating! The monorail has a deceptive queue, and will move quickly due to the high capacity of our trains. We would suggest queueing for the monorail if it is in operation than walking as it is a fair distance to the theme park entrance from our main car parks and hotel. We take on board your comments regarding the Carousel, and will be looking into this to see where the issue was at the time. Although Cbeebies Land is currently in progress, we do have Cloud Cuckoo Land and Mutiny Bay aimed predominantly for children to enjoy. However our offering for children will increase once Cbeebies Land opens, which is from 24th May! We're very pleased that you enjoyed your visit with us, and that you had a fantastic day! Kind Regards, Peter Alton Towers Resort

A member of our family recently had a school trip to Alton Towers and overall had a very good time. However, we heard that three rides (The Smiler, Air & Ripsaw) broke down. Although the problems were resolved quickly it is disturbing that three rides should have faults. I hope the management take notice of this review and ensure that the appropriate maintenance is applied.

Dear Guest, Thank you for writing a review on Trip Advisor. We strive to achieve the best reliability for all our rides. Unfortunately, due to the mechanical nature of them, we can experience some downtime. We work hard to reduce this downtime to an absolute minimum, and please be assured that at no times would the safety of our guests be in question as a result of these shut downs. The safety of our guests are our absolute priority at the resort, and although we experienced some technical difficulties we're pleased that these were resolved quickly. Kind Regards, Peter Alton Towers Resort

Fantastic customer service (something went wrong at the tills, error spotted and instant refund given). Staff are very knowledgable and friendly. Excellent rides and accurate wait times.

Dear Guest, Thank you for taking time out to write a review on Trip Advisor. We're extremely pleased to hear that you enjoyed your day with us, and that our staff recognised and corrected an issue without need for you raising this. We pride ourselves on having the very best customer service and we're pleased to hear you experienced this in person. We look forward to your return visit soon. Kind Regards, Peter Alton Towers Resort

Alton Towers is an enormous theme park, covering some 800 acres and incorporating a large number of roller coasters, thrill rides and family-friendly attractions. Seeing everything you want to in a single day is a challenge, particularly during peak seasons when queues for the most popular rides can be hours long.

Fortunately, you can avoid the worst of the lines by planning ahead and using the simple tips we’ve outlined below.

Visit on the quietest day possible

If you can, avoid visiting Alton Towers during the school holidays and on Saturdays. Sundays and weekdays are usually the least busy, although it is possible to have a great time on any day by using the rest of the tips in this article.

Arrive early

Aim to get to Alton Towers at least 45 minutes before rides open, to give yourself a chance to park, catch the monorail and pick up your tickets (if you haven't ordered them in advance).

Take advantage of Early Ride Time if possible

If you're booking tickets online, have an annual pass or are staying one of Alton Towers' on-site hotels, you'll be able to enter the park an hour before it opens to other guests and enjoy a selection of the most popular rides with very short queues.

Choose when you plan to eat carefully  

Alton Towers' restaurants are very busy between 11am and 1pm. If you can eat either side of this window, then do. You’ll find the queues for major rides slightly shorter while others are tucking into their lunch.

Don't start at the front of the park

The rides at the front towards the front of the park (such as Sonic Spinball) get busy early, as many guests head straight to them. Instead, head towards either Air (in Forbidden Valley) or Rita (in the Dark Forest) first as both rides' queues are at their shortest early in the day. If you want to ride both, hit Rita first due to its low capacity.

Use Single Rider Queues  

If you don't mind riding on your own, then you can take advantage of the Single Rider Queues that are used on many of the park's biggest attractions to help fill up empty seats. These are usually much shorter than the standard queue.

Take the Skyride

Alton Towers' Skyride can be a lifesaver on a hot day, saving you from trekking the massive distances between the Dark Forest/Cloud Cuckoo Land area and Forbidden Valley. The views are stunning, too.

Eat breakfast before you arrive

Breakfast at Alton Towers is both expensive and time-consuming, so make sure you eat before you head to the park.

Buy a car park token on the way in

Buying your car park token on the way into the park will save time on the way out, when queues often build at the machines near the exit.

Turn to the dark side and buy Fastrack tickets

We hate it when theme parks charge extra for queue-jumping options, which leave everyone else in the park feeling like second-class citizens. But if you must, or you're desperate, you can buy Fastrack tickets which enable you to avoid the lines for some of the most popular attractions. If you follow the other tips in this article, though, there should be no need.

Don’t forget that the closing time refers to the queue, not the ride

A fact that is often overlooked by many visitors to Alton Towers is that the stated closing time for each ride actually refers to its queue. So if Nemesis is due to close at 18.00, you can still join the queue at 17.59.

Take note of the queue time boards

Located in a number of positions around Alton Towers, electronic boards display the current queues times for major attractions. Try and take a peek at these before you trek across the park, only to find that a huge queue has formed for the ride you were planning to experience.

Founder of Theme Park Tourist and a lifelong fan of everything Disney and Universal. He loved everything about Theme Parks and his goal in starting the site was to create a resource that could help fans make the most of their park trips, and to make visiting theme parks a little more affordable by capturing as many money-saving tricks as possible.

To do everything in 1 day get the fast track or if you can get a 2 day pass. take sandwiches and eat/drink while queuing.

ALSO to add to the review which is good - Woodcutters near Dark Forest and Pizza buffet have last orders 15min before the park shuts so if you can wait eat then means you miss the traffic and it dont (eat) into your day - Also did you know that park guests can use the HOTEL restaurants. Well they can even if not staying over. The secret Garden starts at £12.99 to £19.99 for a 3 course meal and you get 20% if you hold a pass thats in the towers hotel. In splash landings Falmbarts is £19.99pp and again 20% off only difference is its a buffet - We do this and it saves stacks of time trying to get out the park :)

My advice, take out a second mortgage on your home & use the money to buy fast-tracks, without it, you haven't a hope! I went on Tuesday (Rainy & In school term-time) & despite not stopping for a second we managed 6 rides in total. We got through the gates at opening & went straight for the smiler, still had to wait 2.5 hours to get on it. Probably due to the park not even starting the daily testing until a half hour AFTER the park opened, nice planning AT. Queue after queue after queue. Nice to see that 10 years on Air is STILL breaking down every half hour. The Quality of the rides at AT outshine every other park in the country (Seriously, the Smiler is STAGGERINGLY good), but I still come away every time with a bad taste in my mouth from the disgusting way that they rip you off at every turn & make it impossible to get on anything more than a handfull of rides unless you spend a fortune on fast-tracks. Do yourself a favour & go to Flamingo land or Drayton Manor, yes the rides are not as good, but you can nearly always get on every ride & never come away feeling ripped off.

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ULTIMATE Alton Towers for Toddlers Guide

By: Author Wandermust Daddy

Are you looking for a comprehensive guide of Alton Towers for toddlers? Well look no further. In this guide we round up the best Alton Tower rides for toddlers and our tips for enjoying Alton Towers with toddlers. 

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Table of Contents

Tips for Alton Towers with Toddlers 

Alton Towers With toddlers

Best Time to Visit Alton Towers with Toddlers

Alton Towers is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Peak District. As such you can expect there to be huge crowds especially when you are traveling at peak times such as school holidays and weekends. 

One of the great benefits about traveling with toddlers is that you can travel off peak. Therefore if you are traveling to Alton Towers with toddlers we recommend trying to visit off-peak to reduce your waiting times and also to save you some money – keep reading to find out why.

Is there an Alton Towers Toddler Ticket? 

There is indeed an Alton Towers Toddler ticket and it is a great way to save money if you are visiting Alton Towers on a budget. 

On select off-peak dates Alton Towers offers a parent and toddler ticket  for £25. For purposes of this ticket toddlers are defined as under 5s and allows a grown up and toddler to spend the day at Cbeebies Land. However this is not available at weekends or during holidays and does not allow access to other lands at Alton Towers. 

Are Toddlers Free at Alton Towers? 

Toddlers by the Alton Towers Definition goes to age 5. However for toddlers under the age of 3 entry is free. 

However I would caveat this. We went with my two year old who is exceptionally tall and we found that he could not go on many rides and the day was a bit of a waste for him. Therefore I would advise waiting until your toddler can go on more rides. 

Best Age for Alton Towers?

While you may be tempted to take children under the age of 3 to Alton Towers due to the free entry, we would advise against this. 

My toddler who is very tall could not go on much at Alton Towers. However rather than waiting for a specific age we recommend waiting for a specific height. 

We recommend not taking toddlers to Alton Towers until they reach a minimum of 0.9metres (which our toddler was) or more ideally over 1 meter in height to ensure that they can get on enough rides to make a day at alton Towers worthwhile. 

What is the best area of Alton Towers for Toddlers?

Alton Towers For toddlers / Cbeebies Land Review

As with many theme parks there are several lands at Alton Towers. The main lands that you will want to visit with toddlers at Alton towers are Cbeebies land and the pirates area. 

For a full Cbeebies land Review check out this post. 

Should I stay on-site at Alton Towers with toddlers?

Should you stay on-site at Alton Towers

Perhaps when you are looking at visiting Alton Towers with toddlers the biggest decision you have to make is whether to stay on or off site. 

Now usually when we travel to theme parks with toddlers such as Disneyland Paris with toddlers we always recommend staying onsite. That is because you can get into the parks early and make the most of your day. On top of that they usually have character meet and greets too. 

However I don’t think it is strictly necessary when visiting Alton Towers with toddlers. 

The reason for this is because there are limited toddler rides at Alton Towers so I don’t think you need to get there for opening to ensure you do everything with toddlers. 

However if you are traveling a distance to visit Alton Towers with toddlers then you may decide it is worth staying on site. If you do plan on staying on site there are two hotels to choose from:

• Cbeebies Hotel
• Splash Landings Hotel

The Cbeebies Hotel has some fantastic theming that Cbeebies fans will love. There is also some evening entertainment for toddlers at this hotel. 

Alternatively you can stay at Splash Landings which has a water park. This can be good for those visiting on a rainy weekend however there are limited slides that toddlers can go on too. 

Can you do Rider Swap at Alton Towers?

One of the biggest disappointments for us at Alton Towers when visiting with toddlers was that the park does not offer Rider Swap. 

When we have visited Disneyland Paris with toddlers or even UK theme parks such as Legoland Windsor with toddlers, we have used rider swap. 

Rider swap is where the members of your party who are tall enough to ride queue, while one adult waits with the baby or toddler. Once the first group has ridden they wait with the little one while the other person swaps onto the ride. 

However this is not available at Alton Towers. This effectively means that adults visiting Alton Towers with toddlers can not go on the larger rides and rollercoasters which Alton Towers is most famed for. 

What to Pack for Alton Towers with toddlers

Now whether you are going to Alton Towers for a day or staying overnight it is worth planning on what to pack for Alton Towers. 

We recommend bringing the following with you:

Bring a Stroller / Pushchair 

The thing that surprised me about Alton Towers is how hilly the site is. If you re visiting with a toddler I would definitely recommend bringing a stroller with you to save your little ones legs. 

While Cbeebies land is at the top of the site, the rest of the site is on a big slope and it is quite a walk to the car park or to the Alton Towers hotels. 

We would never go to Alton Towers with a toddler without a stroller. 

Bring a Carrier 

While a stroller is a necessary for getting around the site, you may also want to bring a carrier. The reason for this is that strollers are not allowed in queues at Alton Towers. If your little one is liable to get tired queuing then a carrier may be worth having with you to save their legs in the queue. 

Bring Snacks

We found the food at Alton Towers to be both expensive and not all that great or healthy. For this reason we recommend bringing plenty of snacks for your little one to have in the queues. 

This will save you money and be more convenient. 

Best Rides at Alton Towers for Toddlers 

When you go to Alton Towers the thing you go for has to be the rides. In this section of the guide we will round up all the best rides at Alton Towers for toddlers. 

Alton Towers Rides with No Height Restrictions 

Rides at Alton Towers for Toddlers

The first rides we will look at are those Alton Towers rides with no height restriction which mean toddlers of any age and height can go on these rides.

In the Night Garden Magical Boat Ride

The In the Night Garden Magical Boat Rides sees guests board a boat and go round the night garden and seeing their favorite characters such as Iggle Piggle, Upsy Daisy, The Pontypines and more! 

My two year old liked this ride however my five year old did find this boring and I thought that the scenes were rather sparse and in need of an update. 

Get! Set! Go! Tree Top Adventure

The Get! Set! Go! Tree Top Adventure is one of the most popular rides in the Cbeebies land area. For this reason we recommend heading straight for this ride when you arrive otherwise you are looking at around a 45 minute wait on peak days. 

This ride is basically a treetop car you board in twos that takes you on an aerial viewing of the park. 

Postman Pat Parcel Post

If you have a Postman Pat fan this would be hit. You board the post van and head around with Pat on his delivery route. 

Bugbie-Go-Round

This is effectively a carousel with little cars that you can steer. All kids will love this. 

Royal Carousel

Let’s be honest, a carousel is a hit in any park. 

This takes you on an aerial viewing of the park but can close own a windy day. 

Alton Towers Rides with 0.9m Height Restrictions 

Go jetters vroomster zoom ride.

This along with the Octonauts Ride was my older child’s favorite in this area. On this ride you board the Vroomster and control the height of the vehicle as it goes round. 

Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure

Alton Towers Rides for Toddlers

This is the only rollercoaster in the Cbeebiesland area and will definitely be the favorite ride for those traveling with children at the upper end of the Cbeebies land age range. 

This is a classic small coaster where you meet underwater animals on your journey.

Peter Rabbit Hippity Hop

Rides at Alton Towers with Toddlers

This is a classic up and down ride. It is easier if you have taller children however as they can go on alone which is a benefit as there is only one grown up seat on each vehicle. 

This is another classic but isn’t in the Cbeebies Land but in the Pirates land at Alton Towers. This is a classic spinning pirate ship that children can go on once 1.1.m

Battle Galleons

This is one of the few water rides taller toddlers at Alton Towers can go on. You board a galleon and shoot water at other vessels on the water. 

Runaway Mine Train

Another rollercoaster that is suitable for younger children at Alton Towers. 

Alton Towers Rides with 1.1m Height Restrictions 

Congo river rapids.

Rapids are another theme park staple. There is nothing exceptional about this ride that would scare toddlers or preschoolers who meet the height requirement. 

Marauders Mayhem

A classic Teacup style ride with barrels instead of teacups in the Pirates land at Alton Towers. 

Cbeebies Land Meet and Greets

However there is more for toddlers at Alton Towers than just rides. Other things that you can do include Character Meet and greets in the Cbeebies Land. 

Characters that are usually available include:

• Bing and Flop
• Ubercorn from GoJetters

What else is there to do at Alton Towers for toddlers

What to do at Alton Towers with Toddlers

But if you want some other things to do beside rides and meet and greets the following should be included on your Alton Towers itinerary. 

Justin’s House Pie-O-Matic Factory – 1.1m

This is an interactive play area where you collect and fire balls at each other. My five year old loved this but younger children who meet the height requirement may find this experience overwhelming. 

Andy’s Adventures Dinosaur Dig

This is part interactive show and part dinosaur dig. Basically if your toddler is a dinosaur fan they are going to love this one. 

Sharkbait Reef by SEALIFE

This was definitely my toddlers favorite area at Alton Towers. My toddler loves an aquarium and this is a great little area to get away from the crowds or escape the weather on a rainy day at Alton Towers. 

JoJo and Gran Gran At Home

This is an interactive make believe play area that will appeal to the younger Cbeebies audience. 

Hey Duggee’s Big Adventure Badge

This is an interactive play area with trampolines, slides and more. This was a hit with both my children. 

Something Special Sensory Garden

This is your typical sensory garden but it is of a limited size. 

Big Fun Showtime

Both my kids loved this area as they watched shows with Duggee and Bing. 

Is Alton Towers Good for Toddlers?

So overall is Alton Towers good for toddlers? I would have to say it really depends on the height of your toddler. 

If your toddler is 0.9m or 1m then chances ar your kids will love it as they can go on plenty of rides and meet characters. However as my little one was .89m we found that it really wasn’t great for him especially in relation to the rides. 

We would not go back with children under 1 meter and as parents were disappointed that the park offers no ride swap. 

For this reason we don’t think it is the best UK theme park for toddlers. 

However if they are over this height and love Cbeebies I am sure you will have a great day in the park. 

Important Information for visiting Alton Towers with toddlers

CBeebies Land is open from March until November every year. The theme park opens daily from 10am and closes at 5.00pm – 6:00pm. 

Have you visited Alton Towers with toddlers? What did you think? we would love to hear your thoughts in the comments 

Alton Towers rollercoaster guide for people who hate rollercoasters

A guide to Alton Towers' biggest rides has been created for those who aren't fans of rollercoasters. These brave souls, often parents or grandparents, face their fears to make the most of a day out at the theme park with their families.

They are the ones who would rather wait in line and even find the Runaway Train too thrilling. These individuals often look pale and sick after each ride, but they don't want to appear scared in front of their friends or children.

This guide is dedicated to these unsung heroes of Alton Towers, who step far outside their comfort zones to overcome their fears. It's important to note that closing your eyes on Alton Towers' rollercoasters isn't really an option. Like seasickness, it will only make things worse.

So, hold on tight, here's how you can survive the rides without losing your sanity. Or your breakfast, reports Bristol Live .

My children are big fans of Alton Towers, so we've visited quite a few times. However, I must admit that rollercoasters aren't my cup of tea - they make me feel dizzy and sick, and the only relief I get is when the nausea subsides, just in time for us to join another queue.

Nemesis Reborn

The Nemesis ride has been given a makeover. The ride itself hasn't changed, but its new red and black paint job and a large glowing eye make it look much scarier than before.

Before The Smiler was built, Nemesis was the most thrilling ride at Alton Towers. If you're planning on riding it, make sure not to wear loose shoes as they might fall off during the ride, potentially hurting someone or landing in an area too close to the rollercoaster to be retrieved.

This ride features two corkscrews, a vertical loop and a zero-g roll, which is meant to create a feeling of weightlessness. However, to me, it feels more like being held by a giant squid's tentacle and being swung around.

Riders experience between three and four times the force of gravity on this ride. It only lasts for 120 seconds, but if you're not a fan of rollercoasters, those will be the longest two minutes of your life.

I'd advise against going on it right after a big meal.

The Smiler at the Staffordshire theme park is arguably the most thrilling ride there, but only if you're a fan of rollercoasters. For those who feel faint at the sight of the looping and twisting metal track, it's a nightmare.

The eerie music only adds to the feeling of dread. If you're scared of rollercoasters, we suggest tackling The Smiler first. It's quite intense, so the other rides won't seem as bad afterwards.

Closing your eyes won't help much on this one. Because it moves around so much, trying to anticipate the movement and shifting your weight might make it a bit easier. But not really.

You'll be relieved when it stops. But then, to your horror, you see a sign saying you're only halfway through the ride. Then you're pulled up vertically for more.

If you're not used to rollercoasters, you might feel sick and dizzy. At the end of the ride, you have to walk through a dark tunnel with a trippy light show, which doesn't help.

Spinball Whizzer

Compared to The Smiler or Nemesis Reborn, it looks pretty mild. But in my opinion, it's just as terrifying, if not more so. It doesn't go as fast, but you feel really high up and the carriages are quite small.

The Spinball Whizzer ride is the most terrifying of all. It's not just the up and down, left and right movements that are scary, but also the spinning around in the carriage.

You're taken to the top and then, without warning, you spin out into space. There's no telling which way the carriage will spin next. It's as scary as any of the big rides at Alton Towers.

This ride is like a super-fast ghost train with a twist. But be warned, it has a big shock waiting for you.It stops in the dark and then comes the surprise.

Get ready for a spoiler. There are sounds of creaking and cracking, then the carriages fall through the floor and your heart jumps into your mouth.

But there's more. After the shocking drop, just when you're trying to get your bearings, the ride goes into reverse. And yes, it's very fast.

Hold on tight. This ride is like being in a racing car. The speed is amazing. In 2.5 seconds, it reaches over 60mph.

That's faster than a speedy car. The first rule is to keep your head back against the headrest.

The second rule is the same as the first, and brace yourself. A voice shouts: "YOU MUST ESCAPE."

But there's no escaping, you're buckled in. It's like being in a race car. The air whooshes out of your body as the ride zooms forward, so take a deep breath before it starts and hold on tight.

If you fancy the sensation of all your insides being pushed into your throat by gravity, this is the ride for you. For those scared of rollercoasters, the best part about Oblivion is that it only lasts around 25 seconds.

But these 25 seconds are quite scary as you dive down a frightening 180ft nearly vertical drop. The usual advice is not to look down, but self-preservation makes this hard to do. You need to keep your eyes open to brace yourself for the moment when you plunge into the void and your insides get all mixed up.

On the bright side, it goes quite high so you can enjoy the view of the Staffordshire countryside for a few seconds before the screaming begins. Enjoy.

Galactica (previously known as Air)

During this ride, you're held horizontally, looking down instead of forwards, which can be disorienting. Alton Towers seems to have removed the virtual reality headsets that used to accompany this ride, as I haven't seen them during our last few visits.

You might think that the virtual reality headsets would transport you to another world and perhaps ease the strain on your body from being flung through the sky.

If you're scared of rollercoasters, a virtual reality headset might seem like a good idea. It can make you feel a bit cut off from the real world.

But it can also be really confusing. Knowing that what you're seeing isn't real can make you even more nervous if you're already scared of rollercoasters.

The Wicker Man

This is the newest rollercoaster at Alton Towers and it's made out of wood, which is a bit different.

If you're worried about how safe rollercoasters are, you might find this one a bit scary. It looks like it's made out of big match sticks and squashed baked-bean tins.

And because it's made of wood, it makes a lot of noise, which can be pretty scary. It goes really fast but at least it doesn't go upside down.It does make a lot of noise though.

Well done to any scaredy-cats who manage to go on all seven in one day. That's a really big achievement.

Especially if you're like me and your stomach flips just thinking about the Runaway Train ride and how it suddenly swings to the right at the end. You're a true Alton Towers rollercoaster hero.

Here are the opening times for Alton Towers. Good luck!

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• 10 Attractions Near Alton Towers

Attractions Near Alton Towers

Here are some of the best attractions to visit near alton towers:, quick navigation.

Dimmingsdale valley

• Located in Staffordshire’s heart, Dimmingsdale Valley is an important ecological and historical site.
• Dimmingsdale has been transformed from an aristocrat's dream into a place that everyone can enjoy thanks to Forestry England.
• The Valley Walk contains the Earl of Shrewsbury's beautiful drives.
• Visitors to this picturesque spot in North Staffordshire can now walk where once fine carriages transported the gentry on outings.
• At any time of year, the green hills and dramatic rocky outcrops of this woodland are a treat.

Church of the Holy Cross

• Greenford's historic parish church is Holy Cross Church, and is one of the main attractions near Alton Towers. 
• Stop by an old 14th century church and a newer, more modern church which is also present in this area.
• Roman Catholics have gathered in this place since 1842 to participate in religious services, to affirm the Gospel and mark important events in people's lives.
• Holy Cross has become a spiritual home for people of all ages and nationalities, as well as their families.

Peak Wildlife Park

• Peak Wildlife Park zoo is one of the unique attractions near Alton Towers located in the heart of the Staffordshire Peak District.
• Their expansive exhibits let you get up close and personal with all of the exotic animals from three continents providing a truly immersive animal experience.
• There is something for everyone at the park, whether you're a fan of lemurs, penguins, or just want to hang out with the wallabies or simply hand feed them.
• Observe otters, meet the meerkats, listen to the Rheas, and don't forget to stop by an African village to see the Pygmy Goats. 
• The children's play area features a giant bouncy castle, space hoppers, and other fun-for-the-kids rides.

The Blacksmith Arms

• The Blacksmiths Bar & Restaurant in London's Rotherhithe Street is one of the famous attractions near Alton Towers.
• This family-run establishment possesses a passion for preparing the finest cuisine in the area, as they take pride in serving traditional pub food prepared with care.
• Everything from hand-battered cod and chips to gourmet hamburgers and the perennial favourite "Brewer's Chicken" is available here.
• Spend quality time with friends and family during brunch by Indulging in a variety of traditional and decadent dishes while enjoying the staff’s warm hospitality.
• Do try one of their classic Sunday roasts with a massive Yorkshire pudding and an unlimited amount of gravy.

Best of Switzerland

Dovedale Valley

• Dovedale's breathtaking limestone valley is one of Peak District National Park's most beloved scenic areas.
• One of the prime attractions near Alton Towers is Dovedale which is best known for its stunning rock formations, which have been shaped by water, ice, and wind over millennia.
• Dovedale's easy grassy slopes and access paths make it a popular destination for families and picnicking day-trippers. 
• Once you arrive in the valley, a pleasant riverside walk is a must and besides crossing the stepping stones.

Best of Paris

St Giles Catholic Church

• Designed by A.W.N. Pugin in the nineteenth century, is one of the best churches, and places to visit near Alton Towers. 
• If you're a Catholic, you must make a pilgrimage to one of Pugin's finest works, as the 200-feet spire of this Gothic Victorian church can be seen from a distance.
• For a small fee, you can even turn on the building's lights to make photography easier and then explore the area at your own leisure.

Best of Italy

St Oswald's Church

• For hundreds of years, Guiseley's St Oswald's Church has served as the town's focal point, and it's one of the most popular attractions near Alton Towers.
• Among the church's many notable features are the magnificent Cokayne chapel and its 13th-century stained glass, and it will be well worth your time.
• If you are an architecture enthusiast, you will love appreciating the slate and roughcaster stone roofs of the church. 

Best of England

Beamhurst Museum

• One of the remarkable places to visit near Alton Towers is the privately owned museum of Beamhurst that is open to the public on weekends so that they can take advantage of the collection on display here.
• Over 1000 items related to Uttoxeter are on display, including enamel signs, prams, music boxes, clocks, and bicycles.
• Other items on display include brewery memorabilia, bottles, pumps, pottery, lamps, barrel organ, small carriages, radios, telephone boxes, and petrol globes, besides several others.
• The latest additions to the museum have been Wonderful antique watercolour and oil paintings which are also on display.

Best of Istanbul

Ashbourne Recreation Ground & Memorial Gardens

• Ashbourne Memorial Gardens is one of the important places to visit near Alton Towers which honours those who sacrificed their lives in the service of the country.
• The adjacent Memorial Gardens, which include a bandstand that serves as a shelter in the middle of the gardens, are designed to complement the Recreation Ground's role as a hub of activity.
• Look out for the statue of Catherine Booth, the Salvation Army's co-founder who was raised in Ashbourne.
• Fishpond Meadow, which can be reached via two river bridges from both Park Road and Cokayne avenue, provides a lovely contrast to the formal gardens that surround them.

Best of Zurich

• Ilam Park, Dovedale, a National Trust estate, located in the Staffordshire Peak District is where you'll find beautiful Italian gardens, riverside strolls, and Ilam Hall.
• Here you can witness the Ilam Hall, a 17th-century gothic manor house, is currently a Youth Hostel and is a popular destination for tourists.
• In the grounds of Ilam Park, you'll find a 13th-century church with a beautiful early English and Norman design.
• An interesting Saxon font and the tomb of St. Bertram await visitors, so if you're in the area, stop by.
• Ilam Park is a great starting point for many walks, including the lengthy Ilam Dovedale circular walk, which includes the well-known Peak District Stepping Stones.

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London Top Attractions

Located on London’s Southbank, the London Eye is the world’s tallest cantilever wheel and an iconic figure in the London sky. This wheel attracts nearly 4 million visitors every year, making it a popular destination among tourists and locals alike. If you're planning a trip to Europe, consider including the London Eye in your itinerary as part of our exciting Europe tour packages.Wheel consists of 32 capsules which are made of glass. On a clear day one can see up to 40 km from the wheel. There are multilingual guides giving a commentary on the details of the spectacular view of the city. Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and other famous London landmarks can be seen from the London Eye.The slow rotation of the wheel enables one to take pictures of the famous landmarks. Apart from the stunning view, another major attraction is a 4D show that forms a part of your London Eye experience. Over the past 19 years, it has become an important feature of the London skyline.You can also look out for special themed events like pop-up dining events, Valentine day celebrations or an anniversary dinner. London Eye is one of the major attractions in London’s New Year day firework celebrations. Seeing London at a glance should definitely be a part of your London itinerary. The wheel was dedicated to the public in 2000. It was originally planned to be in public service for only 5 years. However, its popularity made it a permanent feature in the tourist map of London. Tourists love the experience of the thrilling ride on the wheel and observe the breathtaking view of the London city over the River Thames.If you are planning for a honeymoon trip to Europe, you can checkout Europe Honeymoon Packages

Popular as one of the unique UNESCO World Heritage sites in London, Kew Gardens is one of the pleasant getaways in the city to enjoy with your family and friends. Explore this captivating destination as part of our curated Europe tour, home to a fascinating collection of living plants and an internationally recognized scientific research center. With over 14,000 trees, Kew Gardens' exquisite natural landscape spanning 300 acres is truly spellbinding, making it a leading center of research, complete with a library, museums, and beautiful gardens.It invites people of all ages to discover a day of serenity in the city of London. The visitors here can enjoy a number of activities whether it is taking a stroll along the colourful canopies of trees or exploring the beautiful glasshouses. Some of the popular attractions of Kew Gardens include the Palm House, Princess of Wales Conservatory and the Waterlily House.There are activities which the visitors can enjoy at Kew Gardens like the 59 ft high Treetop Walkway, catching the views of the city by climbing the Great Pagoda and getting to know about its history at the Kew Palace. Kew Gardens is also a paradise for photographers who wish to capture the natural beauty of London at its best.

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Why storytelling is the future at Alton Towers Resort

Words:  Graham Speak

| 10 min read

Crafting engaging stories helps to foster more meaningful connections with visitors

by  Graham Speak ,  Speak Consulting

Is there a more unique theme park location anywhere on the globe than the Alton Towers Resort? Hidden away in the Staffordshire countryside, centred around the Towers themselves and surrounded by beautiful gardens, woods, and lakes, the attraction has history, stories, and myths to tell, dating back as far as the 1400s.

“It’s a special place. Alton Towers is about escapism and leaving the real world to enter stories,” Larry Roles , the resort’s marketing director, told me when we spoke earlier this month.

Driving down the country lanes to find the park is an adventure in itself. Families often compete to be the first to see the Towers poking over the trees or the bright signs marking the entrance to this story-filled adventure.

A big year for Alton Towers

Alton Towers is celebrating a big year – and storytelling is at the heart of it all. Its 30-year-old, iconic roller coaster, Nemesis, has just returned as Nemesis Reborn, ready to terrify another generation of thrill seekers. Alongside this, the Bluey phenomenon has arrived to help the UK’s only CBeebies Land celebrate its 10th anniversary. Plus, the resort is welcoming back the beloved Hex attraction. This is based on the story of the Earl of Shrewsbury and the mysterious Chained Oak.

Having grown up with Alton Towers, Roles looks back fondly at time spent at the park, with the likes of Thunder Looper and the Corkscrew. “I’ve always been intrigued by the way Alton Towers makes you feel.”

Joining nearly three years ago from Molson Coors, he is passionate about how storytelling can make a difference in our lives. “Successful brands create stories, which in turn create connections with fans. It’s a way of effectively linking what a product is through to why people actually care about it.”

Differentiating in a way only Alton Towers can

“Telling great stories is a way to differentiate the experience for guests. We’re focused on pulling our expert teams together to create ‘only at Alton Towers Resort can you…’ moments. The story helps to take the experience beyond the metal and hardware we use.”

Combining storytelling with Alton Towers’ unique geographical attributes is a real differentiator. “If we get it right, we should be able to look at our work and say we’re the only ones who can tell that story.”

Hex is one of Alton Towers’ popular dark rides . Guests enter through the Towers themselves and become immersed in the story of a past resident, the Earl of Shrewsbury. “The fact there is so much love for Hex tells us there is probably more we can do with the Alton brand in terms of the history and heritage and how that is applied through attractions and experiences.”

Roles explains it isn’t just about the history of the site but also its unique geographical location:

“The fact you’ve got The Curse at Alton Manor in the middle of a forest that is naturally there is a great thing.”

Whilst often a benefit for the purposes of storytelling, Alton Towers’ location also creates challenges that the teams have to contend with. When Nemesis opened in 1994, it had to be dug into a massive pit in the ground. This was to avoid being seen over the tree line to be in line with planning regulations.

However, this constraint could be argued to have provided the spark for the greatest example of storytelling in the resort’s history.

Building emotional connections through stor ytelling at Alton Towers

In a recent blooloop article , I delved into some of the reasons for the multi-generational success of Nemesis. Roles adds to the topic:

“If we can build a substantive attraction, with a strong story, we’ll build a much deeper connection – which is more likely to stand the test of time and build nostalgia, as has been the case with Nemesis.”

“The love for Nemesis gave us an opportunity to tell a story about the attraction’s rebuilding rather than just putting up signs saying it would be closed for a year. We built out the story around the Phalanx to excite guests and fans in the project. We used moments like the Fireworks events to launch key plotlines.”

Creating stories for different audiences

Asked about making stories work for different audiences, Roles explained:

“Fans are vocal in this industry. You only need to look at our social feeds when we put something out there to see if it’s landed well.

“We develop plotlines that have enough depth for enthusiasts. But we are also careful to make sure they make sense for more casual fans. We want guests to be able to dip into things as much or as little as they like and still make sense of it.”

There are other balances to consider, too, including how to ensure stories aren’t too dark. After all, many visitors come for a thrilling but fun break from reality.

Roles points to the example of the Nemesis Reborn advert starring night security guard Percy. One minute, he is seen being swallowed up by the Nemesis creature (which in itself would be a pretty dark storyline), and the next minute, he is flung around the alien’s tracks, screaming and smiling.

“We worked with a fantastic creative agency, director, and production company who were really on board with delivering the whole message and recognised that ultimately, we wanted this to be a story where people want to go and be part of that.”

Bringing together stories as part of Alton Towers escapism

Whilst much of the storytelling at Alton Towers is targeted at different audiences, Roles says:

“We always wrap them so it feels like they come from the same brand of Alton Towers escapism” – whether that is the creative style or music used through communications.

One well-loved feature often deployed by the storytellers at Alton Towers is the use of the familiar ‘In the Hall of the Mountain King’ musical piece .

“Now synonymous with Alton Towers, the piece is adapted based on the specific story we are telling, be that light-hearted and jolly or slightly more thrilling and mysterious. Either way, it’s one of the tools we use to link each of the individual stories back under the broader Alton Towers escape narrative.”

Appealing to all age groups means telling stories for younger guests is equally important at Alton Towers.

This year, the partnership with CBeebies celebrates its 10th anniversary. This has allowed the resort to appeal to visitors with younger children. The stories of many of these characters form part of guests’ lives every day. In some cases, like Postman Pat, they have been loved by multiple generations of visitors. 

Speaking about IP partnerships at the resort, Roles says:

“Whilst we work with the specialists across the Merlin business to create many of our own stories, we sometimes work with external IPs and their stories.” Asked about when they choose to do this, he added: “It’s really about establishing the need we are trying to answer for our guests”.

Helping guests buy into the stories

Whatever audience stories the Alton Towers Resort aims to excite, Roles is keen to ensure guests can fully immerse themselves in the experience. “ Retail and F&B are important because that’s another way for our guests to engage with the story.”

Raj’s Shop, as part of The World of David Walliams, is full of character and jokes, making the space an attraction in its own right. Guests can buy themed F&B from Coach House Confectionary outside The Curse at Alton Manor.

However, Roles is particularly proud of Supply Store Bunker 94. This is part of the redeveloped Forbidden Valley and Nemesis Reborn project.

“The new shop for Nemesis Reborn is quite incredible. There’s theming in there that almost forms part of the attraction itself, like the 3D-printed model of the Nemesis creature and original eyes [from the original Nemesis monster]. All of the lighting is rigged to deliver that story as well.

“I think it’s super intriguing that we had queues on opening weekend for the shop at the same time as having them for the ride. It’s a testament to how much people wanted to be part of the total experience. It’s definitely what we’re trying to do as an organisation.”

Storytelling at Alton Towers is a team effort

Asked how this came about, Roles talked about the involvement of both internal and external teams across the Merlin organisation from the start of any project:

“Everyone gets a seat at the table, whether that’s creative, commercial, retail, and many others. The story arc plays a critical role here, as it becomes a single version of the truth – of how things need to be executed. We can ask, is this execution delivering against the story we’re trying to execute?”

Commercial partnerships can also be incredibly powerful in the attractions sector when delivered authentically. With some well-established partnerships across the Merlin group, putting guests at the heart of decision-making is the magic formula. Roles says:

“It’s less about turning commercial opportunities down but more about developing things that our guests would want to take home or be part of.”

Finding the right products (that are authentic to the story) for the target audience segments and engaging the right partners is critical:

“In the 1990s, when Nemesis launched, there were some key merch items that people remember. For instance, a limited-edition Nemesis blackcurrant and liquorice-flavoured fizzy drink. So, this time, we’ve worked with Coca-Cola Freestyle to create a bespoke flavour on the park for Nemesis Reborn. It echoes the original story.

“Then we looked at taking this one step further. Last year, we worked with a local brewer for Oktoberfest to have our own themed ale. It had a great reception, and so we partnered with them again to create a Nemesis Reborn canned beer. It has flown off the shelves. That is a great example of a well-targeted partnership based on what we know fans want. Furthermore, we could never have done that ourselves.”

Becoming part of the story

Roles discusses other considerations outside of the immediate ride envelope besides retail and partnerships. He explains the importance of redeveloping whole areas at Alton Towers, like Gloomy Wood or Forbidden Valley, to immerse guests in the storytelling before they even get to the attraction itself.

Lots more theming has been added around the park to help tell the story. Roles adds:

“What is great is that the story of Nemesis is being told every day by our actors on-site. And every day guests come to visit, they can be part of that story.”

Over the past few seasons, a greater focus has been placed on live actors . This includes gravediggers performing around The Curse at Alton Manor, The Beornen at Wicker Man, and The Phalanx in place across Forbidden Valley.

“The reason that they are landing so well is because they’re an intrinsic part of telling that story. There’s the physical experience – but then the individualised experience you get with actors is fantastic. We will keep asking ourselves how we continue to integrate actors to help tell the story.”

When it comes to stories, it’s not all about the rides and shows. Events programs are becoming a much more significant part of an attraction’s calendar, and Alton Towers is no exception.

Whilst Roles is tight-lipped about plans for future events, he comments:

“I think as we continue to develop storytelling, it will continue to grow. If you were here for our February half-term event, you’d have seen the Pirate Takeover, which was a great example. This was fundamentally storytelling throughout that whole event.”

The future of storytelling at Alton Towers

“I think the future’s bright for Alton Towers. We’ve got strong backing from the Merlin business and a pipeline of developments coming down the line. The Curse at Alton Manor was a great start for us from a story point of view. We’ve taken that to the next level with Nemesis Reborn.”

Roles isn’t resting on his laurels, though. He passionately talks about healthy competition in the industry, creating better experiences for guests. “Hopefully, other resorts and attractions look at what we do for inspiration. We’ll then want to go bigger and better—and together, the industry just gets stronger and better for the guests.

“We will continue to try and outdo ourselves with the stories we tell. We’re asking ourselves how we can continue to innovate and be at the forefront. I think that’s the personal challenge that we set ourselves.”

If Nemesis Reborn is anything to go by, I can’t wait to experience the stories that are brought to life next.

All images courtesy of Alton Towers Resort unless otherwise captioned

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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Great for photo enthusiast - Kremlin Walls and Towers

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I did right this in the middle of June. At ease, taking my time, admiring each of its twenty... read more

Recommend to see changing of the guards at the evening. Kids will be impressed, then continue to... read more

Great for photo enthusiast

If you are lucky enough to have a good weather is a perfect spot to take a photo from the bridge. My favourite time for taking the photo is t time for blue light.

My husband dreamed to take a photo of Kremlin Walls and Towers at sunrise. Last days of December 2014 were cold and cloudy. On fourth day of our visit, he walked all the way to the bridge behind the St. Basil's early morning and the Sun came out! That is how my husband got his great photo. We also got good pictures from that new bridge near the Christ The Savior at afternoon. Now we have lots of good pictures and memories.

Walk down Kremlin to get best feel of the grandiose peace of historical architecture - that gives window to the glorious past and ambitious present of Russia. Best time to visit is late afternoon but in day light to actually appreciate the colours , buildings and the location - Whether you like history or not - one should visit it to understand what it means to Russia- as you find Russians Teens making repeat visit regularly to connect with Russia and the revival of USSR dream . the place is clean, safe women in late evenings too.. family can a great time in the open parks which are neatly maintained . Shopper can to delight themselves in adjacent large mall considered to house the most expensive global brands. enough options to eat drink and enjoy. travel to Moscow between from August to November for pleasant climate before the severe winters.

The walls and towers of the Kremlin look amazing. There are a number of towers, some bigger than the others. Five of the towers have a huge red star on them which can turn in the wind and these also light up at night. I recommend walking along the river beside the walls as there is a great view from there.

Amazing doesn't cover it, quick tip avoid the queue for tickets and go into the ticket office, where there are automatic machines to buy tickets, then once inside, head to the diamond tour to then purchase tickets for the armoury saves you loads of time.

The wall is amazing. Famous people are buried here. Lenin's Tomb is on the outside. The towers are magnificent. Walk all around to get the best feel. Inside the wall also is interesting but has a completely different feel. Free--enjoy!

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United Airlines flight is forced to DIVERT after a dog POOPED in first class aisle - as passenger shares horrifying images of the 'mess' that left travelers 'ill' and took TWO HOURS to clean up

• A Reddit user said a dog defecated in the aisle next to the first-class bathroom  
• The United Airlines flight from traveling from Houston to Seattle
• It was diverted via Dallas, where ground staff tried cleaning it for two hours

By Emily Lefroy For Dailymail.Com

Published: 13:00 EDT, 9 April 2024 | Updated: 18:44 EDT, 9 April 2024

View comments

Delayed flights are one of the most irritating parts of flying, but a fight being diverted due to a dog's defecation is much worse.

But that was the case on a recent United Airlines flight, which was forced to land half-way through its journey after a dog relieved himself in the aisle of the plane - right outside the first class bathroom, a spokesperson confirmed to DailyMail.com.

The messy incident was captured by Reddit user gig_wizard , who said they were on the five-hour Flight 422 from Houston to Seattle on Friday, April 7, when the incident occurred.

'Dog had messy accident in the aisle right in first class,' the passenger wrote alongside the photo.

A United Airlines flight was forced to divert after a dog relieved himself in the aisle of the plane - right outside the first class bathroom, a spokesperson confirmed to the Daily Mail

Ground crew spent over two hours trying to clean the carpet with paper towels, noting the smell made them ill 

The Reddit user said the flight was diverted to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, where the ground crew spent over two hours trying to clean the carpet with paper towels, noting the smell made them ill.

'Gate agents kept yelling at passengers and the cabin crew,' they continued.

'The smell never quite went away.'

The multi-hour cleaning effect was ultimately unsuccessful, after the first class toilet declared unusable.

'The dog mess was apparently unresolved in there,' the passenger wrote. 'Food went bad while on the ground so very few snacks left.'

In an email to DailyMail.com, United Airlines confirmed that the incident had occurred but declined to share any other details.  

However comments on the post slammed people who bring their dogs on flights, some even sharing their own stories. 

'All animals need to either be in a crate or in the cargo hold. Only service animals should be for the blind. You don't need an "emotional support dog" for a freaking plane ride,' one user raged.

'Dog people are crazy and I am sick of the "he's my baby" mentality of owners. It's a freaking animal. And the owner should be made to clean that mess up. Take a dog on a plane-clean up your mess,' they concluded.

The plane was flying from Houston to Seattle on Friday, April 7, when it was  diverted to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (stock image)

Comments on the post slammed people who bring their dogs on flights, some even sharing their own stories

Another user agreed, sharing they moved to Germany recently and had to fly with their pet.

'I don’t want my dog in cargo, but that’s where most dogs belong,' they wrote. 'Too many people have main character energy and think their dog should be in cabin. If it’s a carrier fine, but so many aren’t. There are legit service dogs, but the rules have got way too lax.'

Another passenger shared a tale from their flight experience with a canine companion. 

'The first time I flew with my dog he escaped his bag while I was sleeping and took a crap in the aisle. I felt sooo bad and I was lucky it was solid,' they reminisced.

'Since then I’ve learned to travel way better with him and he is now better trained to stay in his bag under the seat for the whole flight. Now you don’t even realize he’s there,' they shared. 

In January, passengers were  horrified after a fellow traveler pooped their pants on their flight - and left the feces 'spread out like peanut butter' all over the seat.

One of the disgusted travelers took to Reddit to share their dismay over the situation - and it quickly went viral, while sparking some suggestions that it may have been a fabricated story.

• www.reddit.com/r...

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When is the best time to visit United States of America?

The info on this page is based on historical averages and might not reflect current conditions. Check with local authorities for the latest travel advice.

The best time to travel domestically in the US is either during spring (late March to late May ) or autumn (late September to late October ). Since these are the shoulder seasons before and after summer, these months have milder temperatures as well as fewer visitors in the most popular destinations.

From east to west, the US measures 1,665 miles across – and in that range, there are five climate regions. So, the best time to travel domestically in the US really does depend on what specific location you have in mind. If you’re not particular about when you're traveling, then spring and autumn are generally the most pleasant times to travel domestically.

Lasting from mid- March to late May , spring brings warm temperatures and beautiful natural scenery to the national parks, forests, and wetlands of southern states like California , Florida , and Nevada . The northern states and cities take some time to catch up – but when they do, New York , Washington D.C. , and Chicago make for popular city getaways. Similarly, fall guarantees pleasant weather and beautiful autumnal landscapes in many parts of the country. So for lovers of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping, these shoulder seasons are the perfect time to make the trip.

More about the best time to visit United States of America

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Monthly weather and travel tips for United States of America

After the excitement of Christmas, things are much quieter across the country in January . The northern states in particular can feel bleak with short days and heavy snowfall affecting many regions. So you’ll need to bring your thickest winter coat to stay toasty in cities like Boston and New York , as well as Philadelphia , which hosts its annual Mummers Parade on New Year's Day. Instead of avoiding the snow, embrace it at ski resorts like Park City , Utah and Aspen , Colorado – both famous for their powder skiing and the latter for the Winter X Games competition held at the end of the month.

By contrast, southern states like Florida , Louisiana , and Texas are much warmer with average highs of 60–65°F. Southern California also attracts its fair share of sun seekers in January , mainly to the beaches of Orange County and laid-back San Diego , or the desert landscapes of Palm Springs , Joshua Tree , and Death Valley . But Hawaii is the place to go if you really want to escape the winter blues, with temperatures fixed in the low to mid 70s every day.

In February , the days are cold and dark across many of the northern states. However, it’s a great time to enjoy cozy mountain resorts and take advantage of discount prices at major destinations like Chicago and Washington D.C. You could time your trip with President's Day or the Superbowl if you don't mind the crowds. Alternatively, head into the wilderness of Wyoming and Montana for wolf-watching safaris and dog-sledding adventures – but be sure to bring your warmest clothes.

In the southwest, travelers flock to the Grand Canyon to see it covered in snow, or further east to New Orleans . There, locals and visitors alike will be gearing up for the legendary parades and masquerade balls of Mardi Gras at the end of the month. It’s much warmer down there during February , so make sure you pack lighter clothing and a colorful costume if you're planning to visit then.

With the first buds of spring, many Americans—especially those in the south—start thinking about festivals and holidays again. States like Georgia , Tennessee , and California start to warm up around this time, and it’s usually during March when many young travelers descend on Florida for spring break. This is the warmest part of the country, with average highs of about 72°F and more beaches than you can think of.

But the change isn’t quite so obvious further north, where continued snowfall keeps the ski season going strong in states like Utah , Colorado , and Wyoming . You’ll need to wear plenty of layers if you’re planning a trip to cities like Boston or New York – two cities who duke it out every year to host the best St. Patrick’s Day parade. At the end of the month, there’s nowhere better than Washington D.C. , where hundreds of pink and white cherry blossoms bloom around the capital’s Tidal Basin during the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

In April , the northern states can finally start shaking off the winter chill. Temperatures can climb into the mid-60s and sunny days start rolling in. However, much of the snow is replaced by rain—especially in coastal regions including New England and the Pacific Northwest —so it’s best to come prepared for wet and windy weather.

Down south, it’s road-tripping season. If you’re planning a cross-country drive, April is a great month to see the southern national parks while avoiding the summer crowds. The ones in Utah and Arizona are great options to explore while en route to Las Vegas , Nevada . Sin City isn’t too hot this time of year, and hosts its annual Great Vegas Festival of Beer at the beginning of the month. Other major events taking place in April include California ’s Coachella Music Festival, Miami ’s Wine and Food Festival, New Orleans ’ Jazz & Heritage Festival, and The Boston Marathon. Other holidays this month include Easter Sunday and Earth Day ( April 22), which are are celebrated nationwide.

April showers bring May flowers – or so the saying goes. By now, most of the country will be in full bloom. With daily highs of 64–73°F, it’s also warm enough to explore northern cities like New York , Chicago , and Washington D.C. without worrying about the cold – though you might want to take a light waterproof jacket just in case.

These peak conditions make May a prime time to experience the country’s natural wonders too. Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and Utah ’s many national parks are especially great to visit this time of year since the wildlife comes out of hibernation, while California ’s Death Valley is in peak condition for amazing views of the Milky Way. The month’s big event is Cinco de Mayo, so try to enjoy the festivities wherever you may be. Then say hello to summer, as you ring in Memorial Day on the last Monday of the month.

The beginning of June is arguably the sweet spot for domestic travel in the US . For a week or two, the weather is warm and sunny almost everywhere you go, and there aren't too many tourists around yet. It’s a great time to visit national parks such as California ’s Yosemite , when the waterfalls are at their most spectacular as the high-altitude snow causes rushing meltwater. Festival season is also in full swing, with major events including Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival (Manchester, Tennessee ) and the legendary San Francisco Pride parade taking place.

Further north, temperatures will be a little cooler but still consistently warm – especially in waterfront cities like Cleveland , Providence , and Atlantic City . There’s no shortage of events either. Take Chicago ’s Blues Festival—a free, three-day party celebrating blues and jazz—or New York ’s aqua-themed Mermaid Parade on Coney Island . But the main attraction is "Summerfest," held each June in Milwaukee , Wisconsin , and currently the biggest domestic music festival.

July is one of the hottest and most crowded months to travel domestically in the US . With schools being out for the summer, American families join tourists at the national parks and beach resorts all over the country – so you’ll need to book your trips well in advance. Temperatures stay comfortably within the high 70s and hit the mid-80s in southwestern cities like Austin , Texas , and Phoenix , Arizona . It’s more humid in the east, but occasional thunderstorms help cool things down.

If you want to get away for Fourth of July, one of the less rainy cities is best so you can still enjoy a barbecue with your family and don't miss the fireworks. July is also great for exploring the otherwise rainy Pacific Northwest , when it's mostly sunny even in cities like Seattle and Portland . The former hosts the Bite of Seattle food festival in July , while the latter goes craft beer-crazy at the Oregon Brewers Festival. Other July highlights include Santa Fe ’s Folk Art Festival and Taste of Chicago – the largest food festival in the world.

Expect sweltering heat in August , with daytime temperatures rarely dropping below the mid-80s in the south. It’s also very humid in some eastern cities and regions, from which the best escape will be your nearest waterfront. But brace yourself – most beaches are packed with city dwellers and families cramming in one final summer vacation before school restarts. However, that also means lower rates and thinner crowds in otherwise crowded destinations like New York , Chicago , and Los Angeles .

The good news is that the US has thousands of miles of glorious coastline to explore, from the shorelines of New England to the beaches of the Carolinas and Southern California ’s Pacific Coast . You could also take the opportunity to explore mountainous national parks such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton , both in Wyoming . Another option are the national parks in Alaska , with long and mild days during August . Elsewhere, the Iowa State Fair runs in Des Moines for most of the month, while tennis fans rush to see world pros take to the court at New York ’s thrilling US Open.

September brings calm and cooler temperatures to much of the country, with only the hottest cities in the south featuring daytime temperatures above 86°F. Don't forget that September also marks the start of hurricane season in Florida , so it’s probably best to avoid it then. 9/11 is also in September, which is observed with the Tribute in Light at Ground Zero in New York City.

You'll find festivals all over the country in September . It kicks off with Labor Day, with New York ’s Electric Zoo music festival and the Detroit Jazz Festival being two of the most popular ones. California ’s wine harvest also occurs in September , while beer and bratwurst lovers celebrate the arrival of Oktoberfest to cities such as Cincinnati and Pittsburgh . But the ultimate party is none other than Burning Man – a 9-day jamboree of electro music, stunning artwork, and community spirit in the middle of Nevada ’s Black Rock Desert .

Temperatures drop in style in October , as golden-red tones wash over the trees across the northern states. It's not too cold though, so you can comfortably explore the forests of New England and look for the viewpoints to admire the kaleidoscopic canopies. Other autumn leaf hotspots include the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee , as well as Lake of the Ozarks , Missouri .

The southern states cool down but are still a bit warm, so now would be a good time to experience the dazzling lights and sights of Las Vegas . Further south, Fantasy Fest— Key West 's answer to Mardi Gras—brings tens of thousands to the subtropical enclave in the ten days before Halloween. And Halloween itself is a big deal no matter where you celebrate it, with Halloween-themed parades taking place in New York , New York, Los Angeles , California, and Salem , Massachusetts .

Tourist numbers drop off sharply in November , as winter takes hold. Cold winds blow through many of the northern states, bringing plenty of rain and even snowfall to some. Down in Florida , the end of hurricane season triggers the start of a warm but drier period that makes it ideal for visiting the theme parks of Orlando . So what you pack really does depend on which region you visit, since the northern and southern climates are very different this time of year.

November also features Veterans Day on November 11, and Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of the month. Wake up early to catch the Macy’s Day Parade in New York , or stay up late to take advantage of the many Black Friday doorbusters around the country.

December is a busy month across the country. Not only do the streets of major cities become filled with Christmas shoppers, but it’s also the month that ski season kicks off in the Rockies . Resorts in Colorado , Wyoming , Montana , Idaho , and Utah are busy with winter sports lovers, determined to make the most of the fresh snowfall. Meanwhile, cities across the east and midwest are illuminated with incredible holiday displays—including European-style markets and ice-skating rinks—leading up to Christmas. You’ll need to bundle up if you're visiting the north in December – and it’s best to book your stays well in advance in order to avoid the highest rates.

Elsewhere, southern destinations like Miami and San Diego are still warm enough so that you can walk around in a t-shirt. Close out the year with a bang—literally—by watching fireworks on New Year's Eve, or the Times Square ball drop if you're determined enough to brave the crowds. December is also the best time of year to see the Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the northern lights, throughout Alaska .

Weather and temperature in United States of America

Knowing the best time to visit domestically in the US depends on what you’re looking for in a trip. If weather is your main concern, remember that the US contains five distinct climate regions that vary significantly at any given time of the year. However, you'll generally find the best weather around spring and autumn across most of these regions.

The Northeast—home to cities such as New York , Boston , and Philadelphia —is usually around 48°F in spring and 52°F in the fall, with frequent showers across the region. In contrast, the sun-kissed cities of the Southwest like Los Angeles , San Francisco , and San Diego bask in temperatures of 53–63°F through both shoulder seasons. Further up the West Coast, Portland and Seattle are cooler and wetter. Late spring temperatures are warmer in Midwest hotspots like Chicago and Columbus but can get chilly in autumn, while Southeastern cities like Miami , Orlando , and New Orleans experience average highs of 66–72°F in both seasons.

Weather data provided by Forecast.io

Cost of stay in United States of America

Want to travel smart? Check here for the cost of stays in United States of America for each month.

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The best places to visit in United States of America

Check out some of the most popular cities, places to visit, and things to do in United States of America!

Popular in December

Sightseeing, Shopping, City Walks

Popular in August

Entertainment, Nightlife, Gambling

Popular in July

Theme Parks, Universal Studios, Shopping

Los Angeles

Sightseeing, Beach, Universal Studios

Shopping, Beach, Nightlife

San Francisco

Sightseeing, City Walks, Scenery

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