Alton Towers is one of Britain’s most popular visitor attractions. Alton Towers is a theme park, located in the pretty Staffordshire countryside – but despite its quiet and peaceful setting, it offers loads of thrills for visitors.
Alton Towers is an excellent family day out, since it offers stacks of rides suitable for all ages, from some of the largest and fastest white-knuckle roller-coasters in the country, to some smaller, gentler rides which will appeal to younger members of the family.
Remember though, that some of the “headline” rides do stipulate a minimum height for safety reasons, so small children might not be allowed on those.
There’s lots of other activities for all age ranges though – Alton Towers even has a golf course – but not a traditional one: This is crazy golf taken to the absolute limit, with a huge array of obstacles and challenges to face. Nevertheless, it’s a welcome change of pace from all those terrifying rides!
Alton Towers opening times differ during the year, with late-night opening sometimes available – so remember to check before you visit.
It would take too long to list each of the rides – but here are some of the best:
Nemesis is probably the most thrilling ride at Alton Towers – and most people consider it to be one of the best anywhere!
Air was the first Flying roller coaster in the world – and you’ll feel like Superman as you soar face-down around the track. Air is a thrilling experience – quite unlike a traditional roller-coaster, and it’s always one of the busiest rides in the park.
Frightened of heights? Oblivion is most certainly NOT the ride for you. The world’s first vertical drop rollercoaster towers 90 feet above a sinister looking hole in the ground. The ride comes to a halt peering over the edge of the plunge, before plummeting downwards. But Oblivion has a petrifying secret – the drop you can see is only half the story: It goes down the same distance again below ground, before levelling off with a force of 4.5g. Not one for the nervous!
There’s no denying, the Alton Towers Theme Park isn’t the cheapest attraction you can go to – but it’s possible to economise: Booking in advance online is less expensive than purchasing your tickets on the day. There are also family tickets, group discounts and a fantastic-value two-day pass – any of which will ease the burden on your purse.
The Alton Towers Resort also has a water park on the same site as the theme park – but don’t forget, this IS a different attraction, and you will need to buy a different ticket. Mind you – you’d have difficulty fitting both places into a single visit anyway.
There are two places to stay on site: The Alton Towers Hotel and Splash Landings. These are ideal if you want to start the day early, or if you’re planning to spend more than one day at the resort.
No matter when you visit Alton Towers, and whatever the weather, you’re bound to have a fantastic day.


