Last Updated Aug 2025
This summer we finally made it back to Chessington World of Adventures, and it’s been years since our last visit! As one of the UK’s best family theme parks, Chessington has always been a favourite and we wish it was closer as we'd definitely visit more often.
Being back at Chessington brought back lots of memories and we couldn’t wait to ride some of the classic attractions we remember from years ago especially Dragon’s Fury and Vampire. But what really drew us back this year was we had yet to experience World of Jumanji, Chessington’s latest themed land.
Our visit to Chessington was part of a longer family getaway that also included a thrilling day at Thorpe Park. To make the most of our break, we stayed at the Royal Berkshire Hotel, which is ideally located just a short drive from both theme parks. It made our trip so much easier and allowed us to rest and recharge between adrenaline-fuelled days.
Chessington World of Adventures Ride Guide
If you're planning a visit to Chessington World of Adventures soon, here’s a handy ride guide with everything you need to know about the park’s top attractions.
Dragon’s Fury
One of Chessington’s signature rollercoasters, Dragon’s Fury is a spinning coaster that delivers a high-speed, twisting experience. The unique design means the cars spin unpredictably throughout the ride, creating a different experience every time. It’s fast, fun, and perfect for thrill-seekers.
- Height Restriction: Minimum 1.3 meters (51 inches)
- Age Suitability: Recommended for ages 8+
- Other Notes: Riders must be able to sit upright and hold the safety restraints securely. Not suitable for those with back or neck problems
Very similar to Spinball Whizzer at Alton Towers. Little J really loved this ride and was on his re-ride list.
Vampire
This suspended coaster glides through the gothic-themed Transylvania area, with trains hanging beneath the track. It’s one of Chessington’s oldest rollercoasters but remains a firm favourite thanks to its smooth swoops and spooky vibe. Great for families who want a moderate thrill.
- Height Restriction: Minimum 1.2 meters (47 inches)
- Age Suitability: Ages 7+ recommended
- Other Notes: Suspended coaster with legs dangling; not suitable for expectant mothers or those with motion sickness.
This was not how I remembered it, it hurt! It's so rickety and you get thrown from side to side. Our head and neck were hurting after riding. I wouldn't recommend at all
Mandrill Mayhem (World of Jumanji)
The standout ride in the new World of Jumanji area, Mandrill Mayhem is a wing coaster. It blasts riders forwards and backwards through loops, twists, and inversions, creating an intense jungle adventure. It’s a must-ride for thrill enthusiasts.
- Height Restriction: Minimum 1.3 meters (51 inches)
- Age Suitability: Ages 10+ recommended due to intensity
- Other Notes: Wing coaster with inversions and backwards sections; riders must be able to secure over-the-shoulder restraints safely
This ride is so much fun. It's scary in places with plenty of air time but it's a great ride. I managed it once and the boys did it twice. Definitely a highlight of the day.
Ostrich Stampede (World of Jumanji)
A bouncy, lively ride designed for families and younger guests. Riders bounce on the back of giant ostriches, hopping and dodging obstacles in a fun, jungle-themed setting. It’s energetic and perfect for kids who want a little excitement without too much intensity.
- Height Restriction: Minimum 1.1 meters (43 inches)
- Age Suitability: Suitable for children and families
- Other Notes: Children under 1.1m must be accompanied by an adult
We loved this. You sit in 3's so perfect for our visit and it just makes you smile. Perfect family fun. Queue moves very quickly and we waited no longer than 1 ride cycle even when queue time is displayed as 20 mins.
Mamba Strike (World of Jumanji)
Mamba Strike shoots riders from side to side while providing panoramic views over the Jumanji land. It’s a great introduction to thrill rides for older kids and anyone who enjoys a quick adrenaline boost.
- Height Restriction: Minimum 1.2 meters (47 inches)
- Age Suitability: Ages 8+ recommended
- Other Notes: Not recommended for those with heart conditions or pregnant guests
Another highlight for us. Similar to a Miami Wave that you find at most travelling fairs. Good fun with some nice air time.
Croc Drop
This vertical drop tower plunges guests down the open jaws of a giant crocodile. The sudden free-fall delivers heart-pounding excitement and is a newer addition to the park’s thrill ride collection.
- Height Restriction: Minimum 1.2 meters (47 inches)
- Age Suitability: Ages 8+ recommended
- Other Notes: Vertical drop tower; safety harness must fit snugly. Not suitable for expectant mothers or those with neck/back issues
We've all wanted to ride this for a long time so it was great that it didn't disappoint. It was fun and we were not expecting the tower to rotate as we went up so that was nice that we got to different views of the park.
Tiger Rock
This log flume ride offers a scenic journey through lush, Asian-inspired landscapes. Riders pass close to real tigers in Chessington’s zoo before ending with a big splash. It’s one of the park’s most picturesque family rides.
- Height Restriction: Minimum 1.0 meter (39 inches)
- Age Suitability: Suitable for all ages, children under 1.2m must be accompanied
- Other Notes: Log flume with gentle drops; some splash and water exposure
We didn't get to ride this last time so we were glad it was operating during our visit. Unfortunately I couldn't ride this one as the logs move as you get in and out something I don't particularly enjoy but it did mean I got to watch the boys as they came down and made a huge splash.
The Gruffalo River Ride Adventure
This gentle boat ride brings Julia Donaldson’s beloved story to life with immersive scenes, animatronics, and storytelling. Perfect for younger children and fans of the Gruffalo.
- Height Restriction: No minimum height
- Age Suitability: Suitable for all ages
- Other Notes: Gentle boat ride; suitable for toddlers and families
We are huge fans of Julia Donaldson so the boys really liked enjoyed this ride. Unfortunately this is similar to Tiger Rock and the ride vehicle moves as you get in and out so I had to sit this one out which is such a shame.
Zufari: Ride into Africa!
An off-road safari experience, Zufari takes guests on a journey through Chessington’s animal reserve. You’ll see giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and more in a real wildlife setting. It’s a unique attraction that combines a theme park ride with a wildlife encounter.
- Height Restriction: No minimum height
- Age Suitability: Suitable for all ages
- Other Notes: Off-road safari ride; children under 1.1m must be accompanied by an adult.
It's only short and there were not many animals to look at we all still really enjoyed it.
Rattlesnake
Rattlesnake is a wild and jerky mine-cart-style rollercoaster that takes you on a runaway ride through sharp turns, sudden drops, and thrilling dips.
- Height Restriction: Minimum 1.4 meters (55 inches)
- Age Suitability: Ages 10+ recommended due to sharp turns and drops
- Other Notes: Riders must be able to sit upright and brace for sharp lateral movement. Not suitable for guests with back, neck, or heart conditions, or expectant mothers. Due to the small ride cars and lap bar design, larger guests may find the fit restrictive. Riders must be unaccompanied there is no option for children to ride with an adult.
We all really enjoyed this but you have to be ready for the sudden breaks as the lap bar is tight so it could hurt.
Our Thoughts On Chessington World of Adventures
While we’ve shared some of our favourite rides and highlights from Chessington World of Adventures, this isn’t everything the park has to offer. There are plenty more attractions to discover, from gentle rides for little ones to exciting walkthroughs and seasonal events. Beyond the rides, Chessington is also home to an incredible zoo with over 1,000 animals and a SEA LIFE Centre, offering even more for families to explore.
For those wanting to extend the adventure, Chessington has two onsite hotels, the Safari Hotel and the Azteca Hotel both fully themed and perfect for staying close to the action.
Looking ahead, there’s even more reason to visit. Development is already underway for an exciting PAW Patrol-themed land opening in 2026, and Chessington has also teased a brand-new attraction for 2027. We can’t wait to see what’s next for this much-loved family theme park!
Why not check out more reviews of UK Theme Parks
Family Day Out at Flamingo Land / Adventure Coast Southport / Gullivers World, Warrington Thorpe Park
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