Celebrating Oktoberfest At Alton Towers

No comments

Last update August 2023

Each year I feel Alton Towers gets bigger and better and this year Alton Towers have 6 events to celebrate. They started with Festival of Thrills and then Mardi Gras that took play May/June. Now we are on to the third event and from 9th September Alton Towers will be transformed into the German festival Oktoberfest. The festival will take place till 1st October and you can enjoy all the fun and entertainment of Oktoberfest included in your admission fee. 

What to expect at Alton Towers Oktoberfest

For those not familiar with the festival, Oktoberfest. Oktoberfest, annual festival in Munich, Germany, is held over a two-week period and ending on the first Sunday in October. The festival originated on October 12, 1810, in celebration of the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria, who later became King Louis I, to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

Alton Towers bring the fun of the festival to the resort offering delicious food, live entertainment and of course, beer.

When you enter Alton Towers you will be greeted with German music, blue and white decorations and the smell of delicious food in the background.

If you head to the front lawn you will see a huge Oktoberfest entrance leading to a variety of food stalls including churros, brownies and marshmallows.

You will see the Wunder Bar to the left of the stage which has a range of German beers on offer. You can choose to purchase a pint at the bar or head to the souvenir stall first and purchase a stein glass. Then you can head back to the Wunder Bar where they will fill up your stein which averages about 2 and a half pints. 

There are plenty of picnic benches on the front lawn where you can sit and enjoy your beer and snacks or you can sit upstairs in the Wunder Bar however seating is very limited to just a few tables. 

The live entertainment stage which has been a permanent fixture over the past few months has a variety of  entertainment including german dancing which was a crowd favourite. 

If you are familiar with the resort you can head to the Bierkellar which is situated in the courtyard in Mutiny Bay. Undercover seating options are available here with live entertainment throughout the day. This year Oktoberfest has extended from the theme park entrance and front lawn to the whole of Mutiny Bay. 

Anything Else?

As well as enjoying the German fun you can also enjoy all your favourite rides. 

Opening times do vary so be sure to check out the opening times schedule. The park closing is anywhere from 4-7pm depending on the day. 

Oktoberfest is included in your ticket price so is no extra cost to you. 

Head to the resort before the 1st October for your chance to join in all the fun. 

To extend your fun you can stay over at one of the many choices of accommodation at Alton Towers. 

If you found this post useful there are a few ways that you could say thanks and support Playdays and Runways

Have you visited Oktoberfest at Alton Towers? Leave us a comment below and let us know about your visit 

Like us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Buy Us A Virtual Coffee

Share This Post With Friends Who May Also Find It Useful. 

Michelle

Read More

What To Expect When Visiting Gulliver's World, Warrington

No comments

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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)

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.

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.

READ THESE NEXT

9 INFLATABLE AND TRAMPOLINE PARKS CLOSE TO LIVERPOOL

DINO FALLS ADVENTURE GOLF, TRAFFORD MANCHESTER

5 BEST BEACHES YOU NEED TO VISIT NEAR LIVERPOOL

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

Read More

The Block House, Staffordshire

No comments

Disclosure - We were invited to visit The Block House. All thoughts, opinions and photographs are our own. 

As a family we spend a lot of time in and around the Staffordshire area and after a day at Trentham Gardens, The Monkey Forest or Alton Towers we are always looking for somewhere to eat which is close and family friendly. We recently visited The Block House which delivered everything we needed after a long day. A relaxed atmosphere, an appetising menu and a very warm welcome. 

The Block House, Newcastle Road, Whitmore, ST5 5BU

When arriving at The Block House you are first drawn to The Sheet Anchor which is a pub situated at the front however The Block House is at the rear of the pub and can be entered via the pub or its own separate entrance. To look at, The Block House is very stylish. Lots of lovely decor both inside and out with a choice of tables or booths and also an outdoor area. 

The menu has everything you would want from a grill based restaurant including succulent burgers and sizzling steaks. 

For starters we chose Popcorn Halloumi with a chilli and pineapple dip, Cheese and Bacon Potato Skins with a cheese, bacon, sour cream and chive dip and a small portion of Smoked Jumbo Chicken Wings with the Block Barbecue sauce. 

The kids menu has a choice of two starters Nachos or Buttermilk Popcorn Chicken. We went for the Popcorn Chicken. 

The portion size of the starters was large. We received three large potato skins, plenty of halloumi and a big portion of wings even though it was 'small'. Everything was nicely presented and unbelievably tasty. A statement of 'The nicest Chicken Wings I've ever tasted' could be heard between mouthfuls.

If you are looking to order a main meal too I would definitely recommend sharing a starter between two people or two starters between three of four people. 

For our mains the boys all chose burgers. The BlockHouse (Two beef patties, cheese, burger sauce, lettuce, beef tomato +seeded brioche bun) and The Mex Burger (Two beef patties, chilli cheese, brisket chilli, fried jalapeños, chipotle sour cream +seeded brioche bun) with the option to upgrade your fries to loaded fries.

The kids 'Build Your Own Burger' is perfect for little ones who can choose exactly what they want on their burger.  First choose your patty Beef or Buttermilk Chicken then add your extras of lettuce, tomato, ketchup, mayo, pickles, cheese, French's Mustard or onion. Served with skin on fries and ketchup. 

I went for the Smoked Chicken Caesar Salad, maple bacon, croutons, Italian cheese and baby gem.

Again the portion sizes were huge and everything was delicious. The boys managed to finish their burgers but I couldn't finish my salad even after a little break half way. 

I do always try to leave room for dessert but I was beaten and so was John however the boys managed to squeeze in an ice cream cone and a Malteaser Cheesecake. I honestly don't know how, but they did and enjoyed every mouthful. 

You always know you have had a delicious meal when someone says "when can we come again?" A return visit is definitely on the cards and I would say if you are local or like us regular visitors to the area then I would definitely pop in to The Block House and give it a try. 

READ THESE NEXT

WHERE TO STAY AT THE ALTON TOWERS RESORT

CHRISTMAS AT TRENTHAM

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

Read More

Mardi Gras At Alton Towers

No comments

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.

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.

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.

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. 

READ THESE NEXT

VIRTUAL QUEUE FOR MANDRILL MAYHEM AT CHESSINGTON WORLD OF ADVENTURES

OUR TOP 5 MERLIN ATTRACTIONS FROM BUYAGIFT

WHERE TO STAY AT THE ALTON TOWERS RESORT

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

Read More

Visiting Disneyland Paris During Halloween Season

No comments

Last Updated - September 2023 

Halloween season is lots of fun and even more special if you are heading to Disneyland Paris. We have always enjoyed visiting Disneyland Paris during Halloween and there are lots of tricks and treats to enjoy at the hotels and the parks to keep you busy. If you are planning a trip this Halloween season then I've gathered some information to make the most of your visit. 

What To Expect During Disneyland Paris Halloween Festival

Disneyland Paris Halloween Festival is back for 2023 and begins on the 1st October right up until 5th November. 

Disneyland Park

From the moment you head in to the park you will be greeted with pumpkins and Halloween decorations as they line the streets with tricks and treats ready to pop up anywhere to give you a spooky surprise.

Main Street is one of our favourite places to take photographs as it is always decorated perfectly for the Halloween season. There will be lots of Mickey pumpkins, ghosts and ghouls ready to be snapped. 

The decorations and music at Disneyland Paris really add to your whole experience and they do it so well.

What Characters Are In Disneyland Paris For Halloween?

Halloween brings out the villains and you will definitely spot a few of your favourites. Halloween season is the only time you can spot some of the villains so you won't want to miss them.

Maleficent will be lurking around Sleeping Beauty's Castle so make sure you check out Fantasyland.

If you fancy seeing Captain Hook head to Adventureland and look out for the Jolly Roger.

Also meet the Mischief Makers - Chip, Dale and Goofy.

Mickey's Halloween Celebration

Disneyland Paris wouldn't be the same without a parade and this Halloween join in with the Mischief Makers as they entertain you during Mickey's Halloween Celebration.

Nightfall With Disney Villains

As the sun sets, Disney Villains bewitch Sleeping Beauty Castle with projections, music and water fountains for a freakishly fun moment.

Hollywood Studios

From 1 October, evil villains and other mischievous characters are invading Studio Theatre for your goosebump-inducing pleasure. A screamingly good time awaits those courageous enough to spend time in the presence of these rebellious rapscallions.

The Tower Of Terror

Welcome to the dusty remnants of the once-glamourous Hollywood Tower Hotel. Going up? Hop inside the service elevator and discover the surprises that lie on the upper floors - we’re sure you’ll fall quickly for this old Hotel’s quirky charms. Oh, and make sure you strap in, you never know what can happen in a rickety old lift.

As well as all the spooky shenanigans you can enjoy all your favourite rides. 

Opening times and ride closures are updated on the Disneyland Paris website under plan your visit so make sure you check that out before your visit so you can plan your days. 

If you found this post useful there are a few ways that you could say thanks and support Playdays and Runways

Have you visited Disneyland Paris during Halloween season? Leave us a comment below and let us know about your visit 

READ THESE NEXT

HOW SCARY IS SCAREFEST AT ALTON TOWERS?

HOCUS POCUS 2 - PERFECT MOVIE FOR HALLOWEEN

BEST FAMILY HALLOWEEN BOARD GAMES

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

Read More