Last Updated Aug 2025
Recently we headed down south to make the most of our Merlin passes and made a return visit to Thorpe Park Resort, one of the UK’s top theme parks for thrill-seekers. Known for its intense rollercoasters, immersive themed areas, and high-adrenaline attractions, Thorpe Park offers a completely different vibe to its family theme park Chessington World of Adventures.
After a day of magical rides at Chessington, we were ready to step things up. And with the park just a short drive away, staying at the Royal Berkshire Hotel meant we could rest in comfort between the two, making our trip seamless and stress-free.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or combining it with nearby attractions like we did, Thorpe Park is perfect for families with teens and thrill-loving adults looking for fast rides, big drops, and unforgettable moments. Here’s everything you need to know plus a full ride guide with height restrictions to help you plan your day.
Returning to Thorpe Park – Ready for the Big Thrills
We hadn’t been to Thorpe Park in a few years, and this visit was all about little J getting to ride the coasters for the first time. He was especially excited for the newest ride to hit the UK coaster scene Hyperia, the country’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster.
Thorpe Park Ride Guide with Rider Restrictions
Thorpe Park caters to a slightly older crowd than Chessington, so many rides have stricter height restrictions and are better suited to teens and adults. Here’s a detailed ride guide with height requirements and key details for each of the park’s top attractions:
Hyperia
The newest addition to the park, Hyperia is already an icon. With a huge drop and a layout focused on smooth speed and airtime, this ride is perfect for adrenaline junkies.
Height Restriction: 1.3m (51 inches)
I was never going to try this one as like many of the new rides they are lap bar only. I just don't feel safe at all, so I passed. The boys however absolutely loved Hyperia and even though they felt like they were going to fall out at times that apparently adds to the thrill.
Stealth
One of Europe’s fastest rollercoasters, Stealth is short, sharp, and intense. You’ll be launched faster than a Formula 1 car before soaring sky-high and plunging back down.
Height Restriction: 1.4m (55 inches)
A oldie but a goldie in my opinion. From launch to almost back in the station is under 15 seconds so if you don't like it, theres not much time to wait until you're off again.
The Swarm
A wing coaster where riders sit on either side of the track, The Swarm features near-miss elements, inversions, and dramatic theming inspired by an apocalyptic disaster zone.
Height Restriction: 1.4m (55 inches)
This is a great ride and one both John and little J enjoyed. Operations are always slow on this ride so queue times were longer than expected and it had lots of downtime throughout our visit.
Saw – The Ride
This horror-themed coaster based on the SAW films features indoor and outdoor sections, sudden drops, and plenty of terrifying moments. One for the brave!
Height Restriction: 1.4m (55 inches)
I didn't like this one. It's like a mini version of Smiler and just didn't feel safe at all with lots of airtime. Obviously the boys loved it.
Colossus
The world’s first 10-inversion rollercoaster, Colossus is a long, intense ride packed with twists and turns.
Height Restriction: 1.4m (55 inches)
This ride is painful. It's showing its age and you get bashed from side to side and will come off with a sore head and neck.
Nemesis Inferno
This fiery cousin of Alton Towers’ Nemesis takes you through a volcano-themed pre-show and into fast inversions and high-speed turns.
Height Restriction: 1.4m (55 inches)
We all agreed this is so much better than Nemesis Reborn at Alton Towers. Smooth, fun and just a great coaster.
Flying Fish
Thorpe Park’s only true family rollercoaster, Flying Fish is a great first coaster for younger visitors.
Height Restriction: 0.9m (35 inches)
This was one of little J's first rollercoasters when he was younger so holds a special place in our heart. Reminds me of Runaway Mine Train at Alton but you go round 3 times.
Rumba Rapids
A family favourite, Rumba Rapids takes riders on a gentle but splash-filled journey through twisting channels, under waterfalls, and past lush tropical theming.
Height Restriction: Minimum 0.9m (35 inches)
John and little J always enjoy these type of rides. You don't get soaked just sprayed a little.
Food, Facilities & Themed Zones
There are several places to eat around the park, from pizza and burgers to fish and chips and grab-and-go snacks. Thorpe Park also has multiple themed areas like Amity, Lost City, and Old Town, each offering immersive storytelling and ride theming.
To make the most of your day, reserve ride access with Fastrack, check queue times on the app, and consider a refillable drinks capsule if the weather’s warm.
Make it a Break – Thorpe Shark Cabins
If one day isn’t enough, the park has its own on-site hotel: the Thorpe Shark Cabins. Compact but well-themed, the cabins sit right on the edge of the park and include early ride access, free parking, and breakfast. A great option for those travelling from further away or wanting to extend their thrill-seeking adventure.
What’s Next for Thorpe Park?
Thorpe Park delivered all the thrills we hoped for and more. From record-breaking rollercoasters like Stealth and Hyperia to water rides and flat rides that challenge your nerves, there really is something for every kind of thrill-seeker.
It was the perfect contrast to our day at Chessington, and by staying at the Royal Berkshire Hotel, we were able to enjoy both parks comfortably in one short trip.
Thorpe Park continues to evolve, and the addition of Hyperia in 2024 marked a new era for the resort. Already a fan favourite, Hyperia has solidified Thorpe’s position as the UK’s leading thrill park.
Although no new rides have been officially announced for 2026/2027 yet, the park is always planning something — and with the success of recent additions, we can’t wait to see what comes next. Whether it’s a new themed land, ride refurbishments, or something completely unexpected, one thing’s for sure we’ll be back!
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning after a few years, Thorpe Park is an unmissable UK theme park destination. We’re already counting down the days until our next visit!
If you are a fan of Theme Parks you can check these out
Family Day Out at Flamingo Land / Adventure Coast Southport / Gullivers World, Warrington Chessington World of Adventures
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