The Top Theme Parks in the UK

1. Alton Towers Resort (Staffordshire)

Best for: Thrillseekers, families, themed experiences

Alton Towers is the UK’s flagship theme park and for good reason: it blends world-class coasters with immersive theming and a stunning historical setting. The park sits on the grounds of a former estate, weaving attractions between forests, gardens, and hidden valleys.

Why it’s a must-visit

• Home to legendary coasters like Nemesis, The Smiler, Oblivion, and Wicker Man

• Beautiful landscaped gardens perfect for a break between thrills

• Strong family offerings including CBeebies Land

• On-site hotels and a waterpark turn it into a full resort experience

If you visit only one UK theme park, make it Alton Towers.

2. Thorpe Park (Surrey, near London)

Best for: Extreme thrills, teenagers, day trips from London

Thorpe Park is the UK’s adrenaline capital. Almost every headline attraction is fast, tall, or designed to terrify—in the best possible way.

Don’t miss

• Stealth – One of Europe’s fastest coasters

• The Swarm – A brilliantly themed wing coaster

• SAW: The Ride – Horror theming done surprisingly well

• Hyperia (new for 2024) – The UK’s tallest and fastest coaster

If your ideal day is screaming your lungs out, this is your park.

3. LEGOLAND Windsor (Berkshire)

Best for: Families with young children

LEGOLAND Windsor is the most popular children’s theme park in the UK, and it’s easy to see why. Colourful theming, interactive rides, and a location overlooking the River Thames make it magical for families.

Highlights

• Miniland, featuring famous world landmarks recreated in brick form

• Gentle coasters and boat rides designed for younger guests

• A huge LEGO Mythica area with cutting-edge attractions like Flight of the Sky Lion

If you’re traveling with kids under 12, this is the #1 choice.

4. Blackpool Pleasure Beach (North West England)

Best for: Classic thrills, nostalgic seaside fun

Blackpool Pleasure Beach is a British icon: a historic amusement park packed with wooden coasters, unique rides, and energetic seaside charm.

What makes it special

• The Big One – Once the tallest coaster in the world

• Icon – A smooth, modern multi-launch coaster

• A rare collection of vintage wooden coasters, including the beloved Grand National

It’s chaotic, quirky, and full of character—very different from the UK’s resort-style parks.

5. Chessington World of Adventures (Surrey)

Best for: Families, animal lovers, themed lands

Chessington blends a zoo, a theme park, and immersive worlds into one destination. Recent investments have elevated the park’s theming and storytelling significantly.

Top experiences

• Mandrill Mayhem – The UK’s first winged family shuttle coaster

• Beautiful themed areas like World of Jumanji

• Plenty of animal encounters and safari-style experiences

Perfect for families who want a mix of rides and wildlife.

Honourable Mentions

Paultons Park / Peppa Pig World

A beautifully maintained family park, especially ideal for toddlers and Peppa Pig fans.

Drayton Manor

Loved for its Thomas Land children’s area and the newer Vikings area.

So… Which UK Theme Park Should You Visit?

It depends on who you’re travelling with and what kind of experience you want:

• For the best all-round experience: Alton Towers

• For pure thrills: Thorpe Park

• For families with young kids: LEGOLAND Windsor or Paultons Park

• For classic coaster culture: Blackpool Pleasure Beach

• For themed family adventures: Chessington World of Adventures