Alton Towers has closed its Duel dark ride for refurbishment ahead of an expected relaunch next season.
It is understood that it will reopen in March 2023 under a new name, but will remain ghost-themed.
The work represents a six-month major project by park operators Merlin Entertainments’ in-house ‘Magic Making’ design department.
Tuesday marked the final day of operation for the ride, which was itself born from refurbishment of the former Haunted House attraction, which opened in 1992.
After ten years of operation the original ride was re-launched in 2003 as Duel – The Haunted House Strikes Back, and saw laser shooters added.
The original Haunted House transit system was devised by Mack Rides and is expected to be retained.
Following Tuesday’s closure, a sign was placed outside the ride’s house façade reading “property repossessed”, while the doorway was theatrically boarded over.
Duel’s closure leaves the Gloomy Wood area of Alton Towers without an operating ride.