World of Jumanji: Chessington confirms new area

Mandrill Mayhem, Chessington World of Adventures

Chessington World of Adventures has confirmed that its new area for 2023 will be based around the Jumanji film franchise.

The World of Jumanji will feature a new boomerang-style rollercoaster as its centrepiece when it opens in March next year.

The area is being billed as the “world’s first Jumanji-themed land”, and represents a total investment of £17 million.

The new rollercoaster will have a 1.4-metre height restriction for riders – the highest typical limit – although it has previously been described as being of a “family-thrill” design.

Widely expected to be constructed by Switzerland’s Bolliger & Mabillard, the ride will spiral around a 55-foot (17-metre) jaguar-themed structure before the train falls back into a reverse cycle.

Earlier this year, Chessington operators Merlin Entertainments signed a deal with Sony Pictures to bring Jumanji-themed attractions to its theme parks in both Europe and North America.

The fantasy franchise was launched in 1995 as a Robin Williams film, but has been re-booted in recent years in films starring Dwayne Johnson.

Chessington divisional director Tim Harrison-Jones said: “What could be more exciting than bringing the global hit Jumanji film franchise to life within the single largest development Chessington has ever seen?”