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Accessible Theme Parks In The UK

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Disclosure - This is a collaborative post 

As a theme park and a rollercoaster loving family we visit a wide range of UK theme parks each year. Our love of thrill rides is growing each year and as the boys get older we are trying to cram as much in to our days as we can. The days can be long and tough on the legs and as we get older I have often wondered just how long we can continue to visit theme parks as they can be quite a challenge even to those fit and well. It does make me think are the theme parks we visit accessible to all especially those who have limited mobility, use a wheelchair or need to use stair lifts when at home. I have done some research and here are our top 8 accessible themes parks in the UK.

rita rollercoaster


Alton Towers
Alton Towers is the park we visit the most throughout the year. If you have visited you will know that the resort is huge and can be quite challenging to walk around as well a queuing for rides at this popular attraction. However there are facilities to make your day easier should you need it. 

Blue Badge Parking - parking close to the entrance is available for guests who hold a blue badge. The disabled parking entrance is clearly signposted on arrival at the resort. There is a charge for parking and it will be signposted on the day of your visit.

Free Carer Ticket - A free carer ticket will be issued upon proof of a disability. 

Ride Access Pass - This is available to guests who may find it difficult or cannot stand for long periods of time either due to a physical disability or a learning/emotional impairment. Pre registration is required at least 7 days before your visit.

Toilets - All toilets at Alton Towers have wheelchair friendly toilets. The resort also offers changing spaces for those who need it. You do need a radar key to use these facilities and if you do not own one you can loan a key from guest services for £20. (fully refundable).

Hire Options - Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to hire from Guest Services on the day of your visit. A £20 refundable deposit is required for wheelchairs and are on a first come first served basis. If you require a mobility scooter then you will need to pre register before your visit as only a limited number of scooters are available. There is a charge per day of £25 and also a £25 refundable deposit. 

Getting Around - As I mentioned before Alton Towers is a large resort, luckily they do have a 'skyride' which can take you to various parts of the resort to cut down your walking times. 

For more information on accessibility and FAQs you can visit Alton Tower Accessibility Guide

jungle bus at Chessington


Chessington World Of Adventures 
Being a Merlin Pass Holder we haven't visited Chessington as much as I would have liked, however on previous visits we have loved the theme park. There is something for all ages with lots of rides and attractions suitable for younger guests but some thrill rides too. 

Blue Badge Parking - Blue Badge holders can access the disabled parking bays on a first come first served basis. The parking spaces can be found in our Lodge Gate Car Park. You must display a valid Blue Badge in your vehicle. Car parking costs from £7 per car

Free Carer Ticket - A free carer ticket will be issued upon proof of a disability. 

Ride Access Pass - This is available to guests who may find it difficult or cannot stand for long periods of time either due to a physical disability or a learning/emotional impairment. Pre registration is required at least 7 days before your visit.

Toilets - There are wheelchair friendly toilets locate in Lodge Gate, Shipwreck Coast, Adventure Point, Wild Wood and Forbidden Kingdom. There is also a changing space located in Shipwreck Coast. ou do need a radar key to use these facilities and if you do not own one you can loan a key from guest services for £10. (fully refundable).

Hire Options - Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to hire from Guest Services on the day of your visit. For wheelchair hire there is a charge of £10 per day plus a £50 refundable deposit is required. As numbers are limited you are advised to bring your own should you require one to make the most of your visit. If you require a mobility scooter there is a charge per day of £35 and also a £50 refundable deposit. If you would like to bring your own scooter this is allowed however you cannot bring it in to the ride queues, it must be left outside the queue line. 

Getting Around - Chessington World Of Adventures is described as 'hilly' in places so please do keep this in mind should your mobility be limited. 

For more information on accessibility and FAQs you can visit Chessington World Of Adventures Accessibilty Guide

rollercoaster in the distance


Thorpe Park
As the boys have got older this is the park they want to visit the most. Jam packed with thrill rides and definitely not for the faint hearted. 

Blue Badge Parking - parking close to the entrance is available for guests who hold a blue badge. The disabled parking entrance is clearly signposted on arrival at the resort. There is a charge for parking and it will be signposted on the day of your visit.

Free Carer Ticket - A free carer ticket will be issued upon proof of a disability. 

Ride Access Pass - This is available to guests who may find it difficult or cannot stand for long periods of time either due to a physical disability or a learning/emotional impairment. Pre registration is required at least 7 days before your visit.

Toilets - All toilets at Thorpe Park have wheelchair friendly toilets. The resort also offers a changing space located in the Dome for those who need it. You do need a radar key to use these facilities and if you do not own one you can loan a key from guest services for £10. (fully refundable).

Hire Options - Wheelchairs are available to hire from the accessibility kiosk on the day of your visit. For wheelchair hire a £50 refundable deposit is required. As numbers are limited you are advised to bring your own should you require one to make the most of your visit. Thorpe Park does not offer mobility scooter hire. 

Getting Around - Thorpe Park can be steep in places so please do keep that in mind. 

For more information on accessibility and FAQs you can visit Thorpe Park Accessibility Guide

Flight of the skylion entrance at Legoland Windsor


Legoland Windsor
Legoland Windsor will always hold a special place in my heart as it's so much fun however I can see us visiting less now the boys are more into thrill rides. 

Blue Badge Parking - parking close to the entrance is available for guests who hold a blue badge. The disabled parking entrance is clearly signposted on arrival at the resort. There is a charge for parking and it will be signposted on the day of your visit.

Free Carer Ticket - A free carer ticket will be issued upon proof of a disability. 

Ride Access Pass - This is available to guests who may find it difficult or cannot stand for long periods of time either due to a physical disability or a learning/emotional impairment. Pre registration is required at least 7 days before your visit.

Toilets - All toilets at Legoland Windsor have wheelchair friendly toilets. The resort also offers a changing space located in Heartlake city for those who need it. You do need a radar key to use these facilities and if you do not own one you can hire a key from guest services.

Hire Options - Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to hire from Guest Services or Sensory Space on the day of your visit. For wheelchair hire there is no charge however they do ask for photo i.d. If no photo i.d can be provided then they do ask for a £20 refundable deposit. As numbers are limited you are advised to bring your own should you require one to make the most of your visit.  If you require a mobility scooter there is a charge per day of £25 and also a £25 refundable deposit. You must prebook your mobility scooter before your visit due to limited numbers. If you would like to bring your own scooter this is allowed however you cannot bring it in to the ride queues, it must be left outside the queue line. 

Getting Around - Legoland can be steep in places however they do have a hill train which can take you from the top of the park to the bottom and vice versa. Please do note that we have visited many times and the train does not seem to run everyday so please do keep that in mind. 

 For more information on accessibility and FAQs you can visit Legoland Windsor Accessibilty Guide

people on rollercoaster


Drayton Manor
We usually visit Drayton Manor at least once per year and it's always a fun day out. 

Blue Badge Parking - There is sufficient disabled parking at the front of all car parks. There is a £6 charge for parking and it will be signposted on the day of your visit.

Free Carer Ticket - A free carer ticket will be issued upon proof of a disability. You will need to apply online through Nimbus Disability, at least 7 days prior to visiting.

Easy Access Pass - Drayton Manor recognises that for some guests, accessing a ride via the conventional queue line can be challenging, either due to mobility issues or for example as a result of difficulties with everyday social interaction. If you require an Easy Access Pass you will need to apply online through Nimbus Disability, at least 7 days prior to visiting.

Toilets - There are disabled toilets attached to every toilet block. The resort also offers a changing space for those who need it.

Hire Options - Wheelchairs are available to hire from the main entrance near Thomas Land at a cost of £10 per day, and a £10 cash deposit must be left.

Getting Around - Drayton Manor is quite flat and easy on the legs!

 For more information on accessibility and FAQs you can visit Drayton Manor

ride at gullivers world


Gulliver's World
Gulliver's World is our closest park and one we have been visiting for about 20 years. 

Blue Badge Parking - There is sufficient disabled parking at Gulliver's World however the entrance is extremely close to the car park within a 1-2 minute walk.  There is no charge for parking.

Concessionary Rate - The concessionary rate will be given upon proof of a disability for the disabled guest and one carer.

Ride Access Pass - Guests with particular additional needs who are unable to queue may be eligible for a ride pass. This would allow them and up to three accompanying helpers to access the ride via the ride exit area for ease of access. Proof of disability will be required on the day.

Toilets - There are disabled toilets throughout the theme park.

Hire Options - There is no option to hire wheelchairs or mobility scooters at Gulliver's World.

Getting Around - Gulliver's World is mostly flat with very small inclines. We have been visiting for over 15 years it's a lovely park to walk around with no sudden hill or steep surprises

 For more information on accessibility and FAQs you can visit Gulliver's World

the big one at Blackpool Pleasure beach


Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Another local park for us and again one we always have so much fun at. 

Blue Badge Parking - There is sufficient disabled parking at all car parks. Parking starts at £15 per day depending on which car park you choose.

Essential Companion Ticket - A free carer ticket will be issued upon proof of a disability. You will need to apply online through Nimbus Disability, at least 7 days prior to visiting.

Easypass Ride Access - Blackpool Pleasure Beach recognises that for some guests, accessing a ride via the conventional queue line can be challenging. The EasyPass service is for guests who are unable to stand in the main queue line whilst waiting to board a ride, due to medical reasons or disability. If you require an Easy Access Pass you will need to apply online through Nimbus Disability, at least 7 days prior to visiting.

Toilets - There are disabled toilets located in Balmoral Car Park, Tickets & Information Area, Bowl A Drome, Superloos opposite the Alice Ride, Superloos opposite the Big Pizza Kitchen and Nickelodeon Land. Changing facilities can be found in Nickelodeon Land behind the SpongeBob Splash Bash Ride, to the left of the Nickelodeon Land Shop. Radar key access is required, however for those guests without a Radar key, a toilet attendant can be summoned by pressing the button outside the changing room.

Hire Options - Wheelchairs are available to hire from Guest Services or Ticket Sales on the day of your visit. For wheelchair hire there is a charge of £5 per day and £20 refundable deposit. As numbers are limited you are advised to bring your own should you require one to make the most of your visit 

Getting Around - Blackpool Pleasure Beach is fairly easy to get around. There are wheelchair friendly paths and the option to avoid stairs if needed,

 For more information on accessibility and FAQs you can visit Blackpool Pleasure Beach Accessibility Guide

rollercoaster at flamingo land


Flamingo Land
We have only visited Flamingo Land once but would love to return.

Blue Badge Parking - A limited amount of designated parking spaces reserved for disabled badge holders are available at the entrance to the theme park. Parking attendants will direct you.

Free Carer Ticket - A free carer ticket will be issued upon proof of a disability. .

Direct Access Pass - A free direct access pass for guests who due to a disability are unable to use our standard queue lines. Proof of disability is required. 

Toilets - Toilets are located around the park and can all be accessed by disabled guests.  Adult disabled changing facilities are available in the first aid centre. This service is accessible using the radar lock key system.

Hire Options - Wheelchairs are available on loan, free of charge from the first aid centre. A non- monetary deposit is required such as a valid passport, driving licence, disability book etc before a wheelchair can be issued. As wheelchairs are limited, it is recommended to pre-book the use of a wheelchair in advance of your visit by phoning the first aid centre on 01653 668 140.  

Getting Around - It's been a while since we visited Flamingo Land however I don't remember it being challenging at any time. 

 For more information on accessibility and FAQs you can visit Flamingo Land Accessibility Guide

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Michelle
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What's New At Alton Towers For 2024

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Excitement is building among theme park enthusiasts as parks across the UK gear up to open this month. Although Alton Towers had limited rides open during half term in February, the park officially opens on March 16th, heralding the start of the 2024 season. Boasting not only a theme park, but also CBeebies Land, World of David Walliams, accommodation options, a waterpark, and an 18-hole golf course, Alton Towers Resort is the ideal destination for a day visit or a weekend getaway. As the new season dawns, anticipation is high for what Alton Towers has in store for its guests in 2024.

nemesis reborn


Nemesis Reborn
Nemesis, the popular ride at Alton Towers Resort, had remained closed throughout 2023 after shutting down at the end of 2022. However, visitors to the park were thrilled to watch the installation of new tracks throughout the year, with most of them being black and red in colour. In May 2023, Nemesis Sub Terra reopened with the return of the Phalanx, who had closed down Nemesis in the previous year. The anticipation around the reopening of Nemesis Reborn is sky-high, and Alton Towers Resort has confirmed that Nemesis Reborn will open its doors to the public on 16th March 2024. Though visitors can't wait to get back on Nemesis, they're anticipating long queues. Will the ride be the same as before, or will there be some exciting surprises in store? Only time will tell.

bluey at CBeebies Land


Bluey at CBeebies Land
There's a new friend coming to CBeebies Land this year and it's Bluey the very popular blue heeler dog. Bluey can be found every day in CBeebies Land for a meet and greet from 23rd March 2024. Bluey is very popular amongst little ones so you won't want to miss him. 

10 Years of CBeebies Land
I remember when CBeebies Land First opened. Our youngest was only one and as we are all theme park crazy he had already visited Alton Towers a few times by then. CBeebies Land brought a whole new burst of colour and fun to the park and is great for little ones to enjoy rides but also meet their favourite CBeebies Characters. As it's CBeebies Land 10th Birthday you can expect to lots of live entertainment, activities and special meet and greets to celebrate. More information coming soon. 

oktoberfest sign


Events
While some events have unfortunately been cancelled this year, including Festival of Thrills and one of our favourites Mardi Gras, Alton Towers has confirmed that Oktoberfest, Scarefest, Fireworks, and Christmas will go ahead as planned. Visitors can enjoy a variety of seasonal activities and entertainment throughout the year, making Alton Towers a year-round destination for fun and excitement.

If you're planning a visit to Alton Towers this year, be sure to check out all the latest updates and information on their website. With so much to see and do, the 2024 season promises to be the most exciting one yet. So pack your bags, grab your tickets, and get ready for a thrilling adventure at Alton Towers.


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What To Expect When Visiting Gulliver's World, Warrington

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Disclosure - This post was last updated July 2023 

When we talk of theme parks we always think of Alton Towers or Blackpool Pleasure Beach as they are probably the closest to us. We always seem to forget Gulliver's World which is a shame as it's only less than 30 minutes away from us and it's a great park with lots of rides for all ages including a brand new land Gulliver's Gears and two brand new rides Grand Prix Racers and Overdrive. The theme park is reasonably priced and would make a perfect day out this Summer.

Welcome sign at Gulliver's World

Gulliver's World, Warrington, Cheshire, WA5 9YZ
Gulliver's World is easily accessible by car, train, bike and unlike most theme parks parking is free. Gulliver's World boasts more than 25 rides in 9 different themed lands with almost half the rides suitable for families with children under 90cm when riding with an adult. As well as family rides there are a few perfect for thrill seekers too. Gulliver's World also has lots of themed play areas which are perfect for little ones to pass the time if they don't want to go on certain rides.

boy looking at map

Entering The Park
Tickets can be booked online and if so you will receive a discount on your admission price. Tickets are priced as adults and children, senior, children under 90cm are free and then there is a concession rate too. 

To receive the best price you are advised to book at least 2 days in advance. 

Gulliver's Gears land

Grand Prix racers ride
The Rides
Like I said earlier most of the rides at Gulliver's World are suitable for younger children and up. There are a small selection of thrill rides which is good if you are visiting with siblings, family or friends of different ages. There is something for everyone and makes for a lovely family day out. 

Although it's not actually a circle when entering the park if you can imagine entering the park at the top of the circle and you can choose to go clockwise or anti clockwise. You will see everything this way. We always go clockwise and it ensures we see all the attractions and rides. 

The themed areas begin with Wonderland to the left as you enter the park. Here you can enjoy Veteran Cars and The Mad Hatter's Tea Party. There is also a play area and a maze too. 

Continuing clockwise you will reach Western World. Here there is another huge play area themed around the wild west. A water ride call Apache Falls, a drop tower ride called Desperado Drop and Billy Bob's Bi Planes. 

Next you will reach Gully's Cartoon Studios. The Wriggler, Gully's Grand Prix and Ellie's Animal Merry Go Round are all situated in Gully's Cartoon Studios and suitable for younger guests.

Smugglers Wharf was one of our favourites areas as it features the parks wooden rollercoaster, The Antelope. You can also head to Smugglers Boating School to drive your own boat, hop on board the pirate ship or the spinning pirate ship Pirates Cove. There is also a play area here too. 

Lilliput Land has old school rides such as the carousel and dodgems. It also has a walk through haunted house. 

Gulliver's Gears in the newest land and is themed around race cars. Both rides Grand Prix Racers and Overdrive are not suited for those under 100cm for Grand Prix Racers and under 120cm for Overdrive. A nice land with old fashioned pedal cars mixed in and a play area too.

Discovery World has the classic ride The Log Flume and also a Tractor themed ride. 

The Lost World is theme around Dinosaurs. As you walk you may spot dinosaurs hidden amongst the trees and bushes. Flight of the Pteranodon, Hatchery and Dino Safari Tours are perfect for dinosaur fans and if you want to grab some great views of the theme park head to the Sky Tours Observation Tower.

Last you will head in to Safari Kingdom which is home to water slide Togo Tower, Adventure Canyon, Temple Raider, Jeep Safari and Tree Top Swings. Here there is also another play area and also a mini golf course which is included in your admission.

44 cats characters

Entertainment
There is plenty of entertainment at Gulliver's World. Make sure you check out the entertainment timetable online or at the park so you don't miss out. This is just a sample of what type of entertainment is on offer.

10:00 am - Rise and Shine Concert (Magical Main Stage)
11:00 am - Gilly Tot's Bubble Fun (Magical Main Stage)
11:30 am - Meet Elmer (Magical Main Stage )
1:00 pm - Buddy's Pirate Adventure (The Starlight Theatre )
2:00 pm - Gulliver's Royal Crowning (Lilliput Castle )
2:30 pm - Meet the Clangers! (The Starlight Theatre)
3:00 pm - Glittermixers Character Concert (The Starlight Theatre)
3:30 pm - Meet Elmer (Magical Main Stage )
5:00 pm - See You Soon Show (Magical Main Stage)

adult meal at Gulliver's World

child meal at Gulliver's World

Food and Drink
Gully's Grill at Gully's Cartoon Studios serves burgers, hotdogs and fries. There is space to eat inside or out and there is also a large indoor soft play area for children. 

Costa Coffee situated in Lilliput land offering hot and cold drinks and a selection of snacks. 

Big G Diner at the entrance has a variety of savoury snacks and some festive specials!

Diamond Lil's at Western World serves up hot dogs, pizzas and selected festive favourites.

There is also lots of places to buy drinks, sweet treats and ice cream throughout the theme park.

Swings at Gulliver's


Special Events
Throughout the year Gulliver's World offers visitors to enjoy a whole range of special events or discounted entry days or weekends. We have visited on many of the special events over the years including Grandparents weekend, Food donation weekend where admission was hugely discounted if you brought a food bank donation and our favourite, Christmas at Gulliver's.

There is still lots to enjoy for the rest of year so if you are looking for something extra special then check out these events. 

Come and See Elmer at Gulliver's World
23rd Jul-4th Sep 2023

Fireworks Finale
2nd September 2023

Jamboree Weekend
16th-17th September 2023

Grandparents' Weekend
30th Sep-1st Oct 2023

Fright Fiesta
14th Oct-3rd Nov 2023

Fireworks Spectacular
5th November 2023

Christmas at Gulliver's

Staying Over
You can now extend your Gulliver's World fun by enjoying a stay at Gulliver’s Hotel and Lodgings. There is a selection of contemporary hotel suites, glamping tents, lodges, dens and cabins to choose from.

Gulliver's World is surrounded by woodlands and adjacent to Sankey Valley Park, providing you with a peaceful and relaxing environment.

Gulliver's World Theme Park is within walking distance of the accommodation, making it an ideal base for a family short break.

For more information on Gulliver's World, openings and to book visit Gulliver's World, Warrington.

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Michelle
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Mardi Gras At Alton Towers

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This post was last updated May 2023

The second of the six events this year at Alton Towers Resort is happening from 20th May to 18th June and it is Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras also known as Fat Tuesday or Shrove Tuesday happens the day before Ash Wednesday or 47 days before Easter. It’s a carnival celebration which highlights and celebrates the last day of eating rich fatty food and therefore giving up a certain type of food for lent.

Mardi Gras sign at Alton Towers
Alton Towers transform Towers Street into a carnival celebration with lots of themed stages reflecting different areas of the park. The main stage on the front lawn has entertainment throughout the day and you can watch from one of the many picnic benches. For those that would like to sample foods of the world 'food street' is also just under the walkway alongside the towers. You can enjoy a range of foods including our favourite King donut.


Mardi Gras sign at Alton Towers

Mardi Gras sign at Alton Towers

Mardi Gras sign at Alton Towers



Mardi Gras sign at Alton Towers


Whilst walking around the park be prepared to see stilt walkers, dancers, musicians and lots of other family themed entertainment.

The Mardi Gras celebrations are included in your ticket so you can enjoy everything Mardi Gras has to offer at no extra cost.

You will also find some Mardi Gras souvenirs in Tower Street shop including hats, beads and T-shirts.

Alton Towers can be so busy, rushing from ride to ride so it’s nice to just sit back and enjoy the entertainment provided.

Mardi Gras sign at Alton Towers

Mardi Gras sign at Alton Towers

Mardi Gras sign at Alton Towers


As I said earlier this is the second of six events happening at Alton Towers Resort this year. Next is in September when Alton Towers will be transformed for Oktoberfest. Prepare for spooks, chills and family fun in October when Alton Towers is transformed for Scarefest. Another personal favourite of ours is the fireworks display that happens in November and then a nice way to finish off the year is celebrating Christmas time at Alton Towers.

As well as Mardi Gras there are lots of new things to enjoy at Alton Towers Resort including David Walliams World featuring the Gangsta Granny Ride and the four Retro Squad Rides. 

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Michelle
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