# RideRater - UK Theme Park News

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UK theme park news since 2010. We also provide statistics, awards, rumours and details of new rides and developments at the UK's major theme parks.

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://riderater.co.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Alton Towers: Virtual queuing for Access Pass](https://riderater.co.uk/12879/alton-towers-virtual-queuing-for-access-pass/): Alton Towers has announced that its Ride Access Pass (RAP) system is to be delivered via virtual queuing from later this year. Other parks will follow in 2027.
- [Injuries sustained in Maltby fairground accident](https://riderater.co.uk/12877/injuries-sustained-in-maltby-fairground-accident/): Three people were injured in an accident involving a ride at the Maltby Crags Funfair in South Yorkshire.
- [Merlin Entertainments: UK trading 'challenging'](https://riderater.co.uk/12857/merlin-entertainments-uk-trading-challenging/): Merlin Entertainments has described trading at its UK-based attractions as "challenging", in a trading update issued on Thursday.
- [Merlin expected to refinance £600 million of debt](https://riderater.co.uk/12855/merlin-expected-to-refinance-600-million-of-debt/): Merlin Entertainments is expected to announce a refinancing of more than £600 million of existing debts on Thursday.
- [Chessington closed on Monday due to water outage](https://riderater.co.uk/12849/chessington-closed-on-monday-due-to-water-outage/): Chessington World of Adventures was closed on Monday due to a burst water main which affected the south west London area. The park will reopen on Tuesday.
- [Big Dipper ride remains closed after incident](https://riderater.co.uk/12845/big-dipper-ride-remains-closed-after-incident/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach's Big Dipper rollercoaster remains closed after an incident which saw track damage and the ride stall.
- [Track incident on Pleasure Beach's Big Dipper](https://riderater.co.uk/12836/track-incident-on-pleasure-beachs-big-dipper/): A train on Blackpool Pleasure Beach's Big Dipper rollercoaster came to a stop when the track centre fractured.
- [Intamin acquires Simworx ride designers](https://riderater.co.uk/12828/intamin-acquires-simworx-ride-designers/): Intamin has acquired the media-based attractions designers Simworx.
- [Flamingo Land reports £1.5 million loss](https://riderater.co.uk/12811/flamingo-land-reports-1-5-million-loss/): Flamingo Land has reported a pre-tax loss of £1.5 million for the year to 31 March 2025. It made a £1.2 million profit the previous year.
- [Drayton Manor increased profits in 2025](https://riderater.co.uk/12806/drayton-manor-increased-profits-in-2025/): Drayton Manor increased its pre-tax profits to £1.5 million in the year to 30 September 2025, its latest accounts show.
- [Alton Towers: Project Horizon inches forward](https://riderater.co.uk/12800/alton-towers-project-horizon-inches-forward/): Alton Towers is continuing to move towards construction of the much-delayed Project Horizon rollercoaster. Plans first surfaced in 2022.
- [Lightwater Valley previously in 'wrong direction'](https://riderater.co.uk/12788/lightwater-valley-previously-in-wrong-direction/): The new owners of Lightwater Valley theme park in North Yorkshire have described the 'wrong direction' the park took under previous owners.
- [Merlin Entertainments reports £58m loss](https://riderater.co.uk/12782/merlin-entertainments-reports-58m-loss/): Merlin Entertainments has reported operating losses of £58 million for the year 2025. Global attendance also fell by 2.3 million.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach: Aviktas to open 21 May](https://riderater.co.uk/12780/blackpool-pleasure-beach-aviktas-to-open-21-may/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has confirmed that its new flat ride Aviktas will open on 21 May this year.
- [Loaded Spuds: Menu and prices at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/12773/loaded-spuds-menu-and-prices-at-alton-towers/): Loaded Spuds is a new 2026 takeaway food outlet in the Mutiny Bay area of Alton Towers. Various toppings are available at the new-for-2026 outlet.
- [John Burton leaves Merlin Entertainments](https://riderater.co.uk/12770/john-burton-leaves-merlin-entertainments/): Theme park designer John Burton has announced that he has left Merlin Entertainments after almost 10 years. He followed in the steps of designer John Wardley.
- [Rumba Rapids: Thorpe Park closes water ride](https://riderater.co.uk/12768/rumba-rapids-thorpe-park-closes-water-ride/): Thorpe Park has announced that the Rumba Rapids water ride has been closed permanently. It opened in 1987.
- [Alton Towers car parking charge rises to £13](https://riderater.co.uk/12764/alton-towers-car-parking-charge-rises-to-13/): Alton Towers has increased its daily parking charge to £13 for the 2026 season. It was previously £10.
- [Dreamland's Scenic Railway permanently closed](https://riderater.co.uk/12760/dreamlands-scenic-railway-permanently-closed/): Dreamland Margate has announced the permanent closure of its vintage rollercoaster the Scenic Railway. It first opened in 1920.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach gate price rises to £60](https://riderater.co.uk/12754/blackpool-pleasure-beach-gate-price-rises-to-60/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has increased the 'on-the-day' gate price of its unlimited ride wristbands to £60.
- [Mellors has 'ambitious' Lightwater Valley plans](https://riderater.co.uk/12750/mellors-has-ambitious-lightwater-valley-plans/): Lightwater Valley's new owners the Mellors Group have said they have "ambitious plans" for the North Yorkshire theme park.
- [Alton Towers still progressing Project Horizon](https://riderater.co.uk/12742/alton-towers-still-progressing-project-horizon/): Alton Towers is continuing to progress plans for an indoor rollercoaster, which had been delayed from being built this year.
- [Best New Addition 2025: Toxicator, Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/12736/best-new-addition-2025-toxicator-alton-towers/): Alton Towers' Toxicator flat ride is the winner of RideRater’s Best New Addition award for 2025. The Huss Top Spin opened in March.
- [Mellors Group acquires Lightwater Valley](https://riderater.co.uk/12731/mellors-group-acquires-lightwater-valley/): Nottingham-based Mellors Group has acquired Lightwater Valley from the Brighton Pier Group. The North Yorkshire theme park last changed hands in 2021.
- ['More rides and variety' coming to Pleasurewood](https://riderater.co.uk/12716/more-rides-and-variety-coming-to-pleasurewood/): Pleasurewood Hills' new owners the Stokes family have spoken of intentions to bring "more rides and variety" to the theme park.
- [Merlin Entertainments credit downgraded again](https://riderater.co.uk/12710/merlin-entertainments-credit-downgraded-again/): Merlin Entertainments’ credit rating has been further downgraded amidst analyst conclusions of under-investment and “tired, less relevant” assets.
- [Merlin Annual Pass: 'Essential' version launched](https://riderater.co.uk/12706/merlin-annual-pass-essential-version-launched/): Merlin Entertainments has replaced the Discovery and Silver versions of its annual passes in the UK. An 'Essential' pass has now been launched.
- [Lightwater Valley was on market for £3 million](https://riderater.co.uk/12699/lightwater-valley-was-on-market-for-3-million/): Lightwater Valley theme park was recently offered for sale at a guide price of £3 million, RideRater has learned. The sale was offered earlier in 2025.
- [Pleasurewood Hills sold to Premier Attractions](https://riderater.co.uk/12692/pleasurewood-hills-sold-to-premier-attractions/): Pleasurewood Hills has been sold to UK operator Premier Attractions. Latest accounts show the park lost £340,000 in 2024.
- [Merlin Entertainments sells off Lego Centres](https://riderater.co.uk/12684/merlin-entertainments-sells-off-lego-centres/): Merlin Entertainments has announced that it is to sell off its Lego & Legoland Discovery Centres for £200 million. The first one opened in 2007 in Germany.
- [The perfect storm battering UK theme parks](https://riderater.co.uk/12680/the-perfect-storm-battering-uk-theme-parks/): We take a look at the various factors affecting the UK theme park industry. 2025 has seen park closures and supressed visitor numbers.
- [Merlin reprimanded over annual pass sale](https://riderater.co.uk/5120/merlin-reprimanded-over-annual-pass-sale/): Merlin Entertainments has received a reprimand from the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) following "misleading" marketing of its annual passes.
- [LC12 rollercoaster planning permission approved](https://riderater.co.uk/61/lc12-rollercoaster-planning-permission-approved/): Thorpe Park's planned new rollercoaster, dubbed LC12, has had planning permission approved by Runnymede Council.
- [London Dungeon: Dracula Halloween show coming](https://riderater.co.uk/12669/london-dungeon-dracula-halloween-show-coming/): The London Dungeon is adding a Dracula-themed scene over the 2025 Halloween period. It marks the first time that fiction has been the basis of a scene.
- [Review: Hex, Alton Towers (2025)](https://riderater.co.uk/12664/review-hex-alton-towers-2025/): We review the reopened version of the Hex ride at Alton Towers. It made a comeback in October 2024 after 18 months of closure.
- [Review: Toxicator, Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/12658/review-toxicator-alton-towers/): We review the Toxicator ride at Alton Towers, which is a replacement for Ripsaw after almost a decade.
- [90 years of the Grand National rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/12563/90-years-of-the-grand-national-rollercoaster/): We take a look at Blackpool Pleasure Beach's famous Grand National rollercoaster. It is celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2025.
- [Merlin Entertainments spending 'unsustainable'](https://riderater.co.uk/12647/merlin-entertainments-spending-unsustainable/): Merlin Entertainments has had its credit rating downgraded due to high cash use, S&P Global Ratings have said; also describing investment as unsustainable.
- [Merlin Entertainments halts Sea Life Centre sale](https://riderater.co.uk/12642/merlin-entertainments-halts-sea-life-centre-sale/): Merlin Entertainments has paused the sale of several of its Sea Life Centre attractions, after no acceptable offers were received.
- [Alton Towers: Rita closure enters seventh week](https://riderater.co.uk/12616/alton-towers-rita-closure-enters-seventh-week/): Alton Towers' Rita rollercoaster remains closed for "essential maintenance" more than six weeks after it last operated. It last opened on 3 June 2025.
- [Tacotaria, Thorpe Park: Menu and prices](https://riderater.co.uk/12600/tacotaria-thorpe-park-menu-and-prices/): Tacotaria is a Mexican-inspired food outlet located at Thorpe Park since 2023. We take a glance at the restaurant’s main menu and prices as of July 2025.
- [Coney Beach Pleasure Park to close this year](https://riderater.co.uk/12596/coney-beach-pleasure-park-to-close-this-year/): Welsh amusement park Coney Beach Pleasure Park will close after this season, the Evans family owners have said. It will close in October 2025.
- [Alton Towers boss Sammut to leave park](https://riderater.co.uk/12593/alton-towers-boss-sammut-to-leave-park/): Alton Towers chief Bianca Sammut has announced that she will leave the theme park later this year. She well leave at the end of September 2025.
- [Merlin CEO calls for shared 'special treatment'](https://riderater.co.uk/12588/merlin-ceo-calls-for-shared-special-treatment/): Merlin Entertainments chief executive Fiona Eastwood has called for any "special treatment" given to a new Universal theme park to be shared across the industry.
- [Universal UK: 377ft rollercoaster could be built](https://riderater.co.uk/12575/universal-uk-377ft-rollercoaster-could-be-built/): Planning documents for the proposed Universal theme park near Bedford state that a ride 377 feet tall could be built. The park could open in 2031.
- [Merlin Entertainments reports £492m loss](https://riderater.co.uk/12566/merlin-entertainments-reports-492m-loss/): Merlin Entertainments reported pre-tax losses of £492 million for 2024, in figures released on Thursday. The figure has more than doubled since 2023.
- [Merlin offloads Blackpool attractions cluster](https://riderater.co.uk/12552/merlin-offloads-blackpool-attractions-cluster/): Merlin Entertainments has offloaded the operation of several of its attractions at and around Blackpool Tower. The council will take over on 1 August 2025.
- [Valhalla behind the scenes tour offered for £250](https://riderater.co.uk/12549/valhalla-behind-the-scenes-tour-offered-for-250/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach is offering a behind the scenes tour of the Valhalla water ride this July. It will cost £250 per person.
- [National Fairground Museum opens in Tamworth](https://riderater.co.uk/12543/national-fairground-museum-opens-in-tamworth/): A new collection of vintage fairground rides has opened as the new National Fairground Museum in Tamworth. Admission costs £5, which includes three ride tokens.
- [Sea Life Centres: Takeover offer expected soon](https://riderater.co.uk/12539/sea-life-centres-takeover-offer-expected-soon/): Private equity backer Epiris is expected to table an offer for several of Merlin Entertainments' UK Sea Life Centres.
- [Merlin looking to offload Sea Life Centres](https://riderater.co.uk/12405/merlin-looking-to-offload-sea-life-centres/): Merlin Entertainments is looking to offload many of its Sea Life Centres in the UK, reports suggest. Eight of the centres are understood to be under review.
- [Aviktas: 2026 Pleasure Beach ride name confirmed](https://riderater.co.uk/12533/aviktas-2026-pleasure-beach-ride-name-confirmed/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has confirmed that the name of its new Intamin Gyro Swing ride will be Aviktas. It will open in 2026.
- [Oakwood: Effort underway to 'reopen theme park'](https://riderater.co.uk/12525/oakwood-effort-underway-to-reopen-theme-park/): An anonymous individual is leading an effort to take over the closed Oakwood theme park in South Wales. The park closed in March 2025.
- [Pizza and Pasta, Alton Towers: 2025 prices](https://riderater.co.uk/12519/pizza-and-pasta-alton-towers-2025-prices/): Alton Towers features a Pizza and Pasta restaurant offering an all-you-can eat buffet. We look at the prices and offering for 2025.
- [Review: Chamber of Horrors at Madame Tussauds](https://riderater.co.uk/10252/review-chamber-of-horrors-at-madame-tussauds/): We review the Chamber of Horrors at Madame Tussauds London. The scare attraction has returned after a five-year break and features new scenes.
- [Paultons Park to add inverting rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/12505/paultons-park-to-add-inverting-rollercoaster/): Paultons Park will open its first inverting rollercoaster as part of a new Viking-themed area in 2026. It will be a Gerstlauer Euro-Fighter.
- [Pleasure Beach: £25 non-rider pass launched](https://riderater.co.uk/12502/pleasure-beach-25-non-rider-pass-launched/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has introduced an entry ticket which allows non-riders entry to the park for £25. The option returns for the first time since 2019.
- [Waltzer car detaches at Edinburgh fairground](https://riderater.co.uk/12496/waltzer-car-detaches-at-edinburgh-fairground/): A spinning car carrying three children detached from a waltzer ride at Edinburgh's Galactic Carnival Festival on Saturday.
- [Review: Launch Pad, Blackpool Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/12488/review-launch-pad-blackpool-pleasure-beach/): We review Launch Pad, the rebranded launch tower ride at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. It is a refurbished version of the former Ice Blast and PlayStation ride.
- [Universal UK: Government a commits to new park](https://riderater.co.uk/12476/universal-uk-government-a-commits-to-park/): The UK government has committed to supporting the construction of a Universal Studios theme park in Bedfordshire.
- [Merlin to end three-part business model](https://riderater.co.uk/12469/merlin-to-end-three-part-business-model/): Merlin Entertainments is ending its three-party business model, which saw theme parks, Legoland parks, and smaller attractions operated semi-indendently.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach losses rise to £2.8m](https://riderater.co.uk/12451/blackpool-pleasure-beach-losses-rise-to-2-8m/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has recorded post-tax losses of almost £2.8 million, more than treble that of the previous year.
- [Oak in Chains, Alton Towers: Menu and prices](https://riderater.co.uk/12442/oak-in-chains-alton-towers-menu-and-prices/): Alton Towers has rebranded the Woodcutters restaurant to the Oak in Chains bar & grill for the 2025 season. We take a look at the menu and prices in effect on opening day.
- [Alton Towers: Sewage leak forces area evacuation](https://riderater.co.uk/12432/alton-towers-sewage-leak-forces-area-evacuation/): A sewage leak at Alton Towers forced the closure of the new Toxicator ride and much of the Forbidden Valley area on Saturday.
- [Oakwood theme park closes after 38 years](https://riderater.co.uk/12422/oakwood-theme-park-closes-after-38-years/): Oakwood theme park in South Wales has closed after 38 years of operation, its Spanish owners Aspro Parks said today.
- [Pleasurewood Hills losses treble to £340k](https://riderater.co.uk/12416/pleasurewood-hills-losses-treble-to-340k/): Pleasurewood Hills has sustained post-tax losses of almost £340,000, latest accounts show. The theme park park is owned by France's Looping Group.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach in 'transformation'](https://riderater.co.uk/12414/blackpool-pleasure-beach-in-transformation/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has said that 2025 will be "transformation period", as it announced several rides will be closed this season.
- [Fiona Eastwood becomes Merlin Entertainments CEO](https://riderater.co.uk/12411/fiona-eastwood-becomes-merlin-entertainments-ceo/): Fiona Eastwood has been appointed chief executive of Merlin Entertainments after covering the role on an interim basis since November last year.
- [Pleasure Beach behind the scenes tours return](https://riderater.co.uk/12402/pleasure-beach-behind-the-scenes-tours-return/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has launched a return of behind the scenes tours not seen for several years. They take place mid-March 2025.
- [Merlin Entertainments consulting on redundancies](https://riderater.co.uk/12396/merlin-entertainments-consulting-on-redundancies/): Merlin Entertainments has entered into consultation with employees at UK attractions on proposed redundancies.
- [Toxicator: Alton Towers confirms new ride name](https://riderater.co.uk/12384/toxicator-alton-towers-confirms-new-ride-name/): Alton Towers has confirmed that its new thrill-level Huss flat ride will be called Toxicator. It is expected to open on 15 March 2025.
- [Alton Towers increased guest numbers in 2024](https://riderater.co.uk/12370/alton-towers-increased-guest-numbers-in-2024/): Alton Towers increased guest numbers in 2024, according to the park's divisional director. In an end-of-year message, the park's Bianca Sammut said that the number of people visiting in 2024 had increased year-on-year. "I am proud that we exceeded our ambitious 2024 resort-wide targets – including increased year-on-year guest numbers," Sammut said. In March, Alton
- [Best New Addition 2024: Hyperia, Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/12367/best-new-addition-2024-hyperia-thorpe-park/): The Hyperia rollercoaster is the winner of RideRater's Best New Addition award for 2024. We described its drop as like "freefalling off the end of the earth".
- [Best Park 2024: Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/12362/best-park-2024-thorpe-park/): Thorpe Park is the winner of RideRater's Best Park award for 2024. It is the first time the park has won since 2016.
- [Best Park 2023: Chessington World of Adventures](https://riderater.co.uk/11295/best-park-2023-chessington-world-of-adventures/): Chessington World of Adventures is the winner of RideRater's Best Park award for 2023. The park introduced the new World of Jumanji area in May.
- [Arrests following Birmingham ride accident](https://riderater.co.uk/12352/arrests-following-birmingham-ride-accident/): Two people have been arrested following a fairground ride accident in Birmingham city centre. They are men aged 55 and 21.
- [Alton Towers: Skyride seen testing](https://riderater.co.uk/12358/alton-towers-skyride-seen-testing/): Alton Towers' Skyride cable car has been seen testing following two seasons of closure. It was last open to the public during the 2022 season.
- [Ice Blast to become space-themed Launch Pad](https://riderater.co.uk/12347/ice-blast-to-become-space-themed-launch-pad/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach's Ice Blast tower ride is to be relaunched as the space-themed Launch Pad in 2025. It has been at the park since 1997.
- [Storm Darragh closes Winter Wonderland](https://riderater.co.uk/12342/storm-darragh-closes-winter-wonderland/): Storm Darragh has forced organisers of London's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland to close the seasonal fairground on Saturday. The fair runs until 5 January 2025.
- [Blade: Alton Towers removes veteran ride](https://riderater.co.uk/12335/blade-alton-towers-removes-veteran-ride/): Alton Towers is retiring the Blade swinging ride after 44 years of operation. The Dungeon and Flavio's Fabulous Fandango are also leaving.
- [Merlin CEO Scott O'Neil leaving company](https://riderater.co.uk/12330/merlin-ceo-scott-oneil-leaving-company/): Merlin Entertainments chief executive Scott O'Neil is leaving the company at the end of 2024, it has been announced. He joined in November 2022.
- [Winter Wonderland: Weather forces Sunday closure](https://riderater.co.uk/12328/winter-wonderland-weather-forces-sunday-closure/): Hyde Park Winter Wonderland will be closed on Sunday as severe weather continues to affect the United Kingdom. Storm Bert has caused widespread disruption.
- [Jobs set to go at Merlin Magic Making](https://riderater.co.uk/12325/jobs-set-to-go-at-merlin-magic-making/): Merlin Entertainments is set to restructure its Merlin Magic Making operation at Alton Towers. It is expected to make 30 positions redundant by mid-December.
- [Flambards theme park closes permanently](https://riderater.co.uk/12322/flambards-theme-park-closes-permanently/): Flambards theme park in Cornwall has announced its closure with immediate effect. It opened in 1976
- [Bear Grylls Adventure to close in December](https://riderater.co.uk/12311/bear-grylls-adventure-to-close-in-december/): The Merlin Entertainments-operated Bear Grylls Adventure activity centre will close this December, it has been announced.
- [Savings drive suggests Merlin is behind targets](https://riderater.co.uk/12265/savings-drive-suggests-merlin-is-behind-targets/): We take a look at Merlin Entertainments' recent attempts to reduce its UK operating costs, amidst what is likely to be a disappointing set of sales in 2024.
- [Alton Towers reduces Scarefest ride times](https://riderater.co.uk/12297/alton-towers-reduces-scarefest-ride-times/): Alton Towers has reduced the opening times of some rides and attractions ahead of its annual Halloween-themed Scarefest event.
- [Alton Towers: Hex to reopen on 11 October](https://riderater.co.uk/12295/alton-towers-hex-to-reopen-on-11-october/): Alton Towers has announced that the Hex dark ride will reopen on 11 October, after being closed for almost two seasons. It will open at 12 noon on the day.
- [Chessington: New rollercoaster being planned](https://riderater.co.uk/12286/chessington-new-rollercoaster-being-planned/): Chessington World of Adventures is planning the construction of a new rollercoaster, a public consultation has revealed. Plans will be filed from October 2024.
- [Crooked Spoon, Alton Towers: Menu and prices](https://riderater.co.uk/12268/crooked-spoon-alton-towers-menu-and-prices/): The Crooked Spoon is a restaurant at Alton Towers, located in the Enchanted Village. We take a look at the September 2024 dinner menu and prices.
- [Menus: X-Position Food at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/11954/menus-x-position-food-at-alton-towers/): Alton Towers has added four new food and drink outlets to the X-Sector area of the theme park. Pizza, burgers, fish & chips, and hotdogs are all offered.
- [Thorpe Park car parking charge rises to £12](https://riderater.co.uk/12272/thorpe-park-car-parking-charge-rises-to-12/): The cost of parking at Thorpe Park has increased by £2 to £12, it has been revealed. The 20% rises follows the rise to £10 at the start of this season.
- [Alton Towers: 2025 opening dates cut](https://riderater.co.uk/12260/alton-towers-2025-opening-dates-cut/): Alton Towers appears to have cut the number of its opening days after tickets were put on sale for the 2025 season. It will open on Saturday 15 March 2025.
- [Review: When Theme Parks Go Horribly Wrong](https://riderater.co.uk/12248/review-when-theme-parks-go-horribly-wrong/): We review When Theme Parks Go Horribly Wrong, a one-off Channel 5 documentary which aired on Sunday evening.
- [Compound: Alton Towers announces new scare maze](https://riderater.co.uk/12240/compound-alton-towers-announces-new-scare-maze/): Alton Towers has announced a new scare maze attraction for its 2024 Halloween Scarefest event. Named 'Compound', it is recommended for ages 12+.
- [Thorpe Park clarifies temporary ride closures](https://riderater.co.uk/12237/thorpe-park-clarifies-temporary-ride-closures/): Thorpe Park has given more details of ride and attractions closures taking effect from next month. Rumba Rapids is closed for "winter maintenance".
- [Thorpe Park: Rumba Rapids closing on 9 September](https://riderater.co.uk/12232/thorpe-park-rumba-rapids-closing-on-9-september/): Thorpe Park has revealed that the Rumba Rapids water ride will be closed from 9 September. It is unclear if the Intamin-built ride will reopen in 2025.
- [Review: Pleasure Beach Skegness (2024)](https://riderater.co.uk/12223/review-pleasure-beach-skegness-2024/): We review the Botton family-owned Pleasure Beach in Skegness on a busy August Saturday. The current business has been in existence since 1965.
- [Wicker Man reopens after smoke incident repairs](https://riderater.co.uk/12221/wicker-man-reopens-after-smoke-incident-repairs/): Alton Towers' Wicker Man rollercoaster has reopened three weeks after smoke was seen emanating from its track. It had been closed since 26 July 2024.
- [Oakwood theme park lost £2.3 million in 2023](https://riderater.co.uk/12214/oakwood-theme-park-lost-2-3-million-in-2023/): Oakwood theme park lost almost £2.3 million in the year to 31 October 2023, accounts show. The Welsh attraction made £702,000 profit in 2022.
- [Gyros, Blackpool Pleasure Beach: Menu and prices](https://riderater.co.uk/12211/gyros-blackpool-pleasure-beach-menu-and-prices/): We take a look at the August 2024 menu and prices for the Gyros food outlet at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. It is located in front of the arena.
- [Gyro Swing coming to Blackpool Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/12204/gyro-swing-coming-to-blackpool-pleasure-beach/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has procured an Intamin Gyro Swing flat ride, recently-filed documents suggest. No opening date is currently known.
- [Thorpe Park to have two 9pm closes in August](https://riderater.co.uk/12195/thorpe-park-to-have-two-9pm-closes-in-august/): Thorpe Park will close at 21:00 in two extended openings on 24 and 31 August this year. The park closes at 19:00 across other dates this summer.
- [Wicker Man: Smoke sees rollercoaster closed](https://riderater.co.uk/12190/wicker-man-smoke-sees-rollercoaster-closed/): Alton Towers closed the Wicker Man rollercoaster on Friday morning after smoke was seen emanating from its track. It will remain closed until further notice.
- [Thorpe Park: Passholder Facebook group closing](https://riderater.co.uk/12188/thorpe-park-passholder-facebook-group-closing/): Thorpe Park has announced that it is closing its Annual Pass holder Facebook group after two years. It will close on 26 July 2024.
- [Pleasure Beach Resort: Third hotel being planned](https://riderater.co.uk/12183/pleasure-beach-resort-third-hotel-being-planned/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach owner Amanda Thompson has revealed that a third hotel is being planned for the attraction. It would follow the Big Blue and Boulevard.
- [Alton Towers: Early Ride Time returns for hotels](https://riderater.co.uk/12180/alton-towers-early-ride-time-returns-for-hotels/): Alton Towers has brought back the Early Ride Time offering for hotel guests, several years after it was withdrawn. It last featured in 2019.
- [Flambo's Jambo, Alton Towers: Menu and prices](https://riderater.co.uk/12176/flambos-jambo-alton-towers-menu-and-prices/): We take a look at the July 2024 menu and prices for Flambo's Jambo at Alton Towers. This all-you-can eat buffet restaurant is inside the Splash Landings Hotel.
- [Hyperia: Nine early layouts revealed by Mack](https://riderater.co.uk/12174/hyperia-nine-early-layouts-revealed-by-mack/): Staff from Mack Rides have revealed that nine potential layouts were prepared during planning of the Hyperia rollercoaster.
- [Cape Cod, Thorpe Park: Menu and prices (2024)](https://riderater.co.uk/12167/cape-cod-thorpe-park-menu-and-prices-2024/): We take a glance at the independent Cape Cod fish & chips food outlet at Thorpe Park in Surrey. We have its menu and prices for summer 2024.
- [Review: Hyperia rollercoaster, Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/12132/review-hyperia-rollercoaster-thorpe-park/): We review the new Hyperia rollercoaster at Thorpe Park. At 236 feet, it became the UK's tallest rollercoaster.
- [Opening hours cut at some Merlin attractions](https://riderater.co.uk/12148/opening-hours-cut-at-merlin-attractions/): Some UK attractions operated by Merlin Entertainments have seen their opening hours cut in recent changes. Madame Tussauds London and Alton Towers are affected.
- [Bounce: Oakwood responds to 'inaccuracies'](https://riderater.co.uk/12140/bounce-oakwood-responds-to-inaccuracies/): Oakwood theme park has responded to what it describes as "inaccuracies" relating to an incident on the Bounce ride. Minor injuries were reported on Wednesday.
- [Gold Rush: Drayton Manor ride to open 26 July](https://riderater.co.uk/12137/gold-rush-drayton-manor-ride-to-open-26-july/): Drayton Manor has confirmed that its new Intimin rollercoaster Gold Rush will open on 26 July. It will be a Lift & Launch model rollercoaster.
- [Oakwood: Injuries reported on Bounce drop ride](https://riderater.co.uk/12134/oakwood-injuries-reported-on-bounce-drop-ride/): Minor injuries have been reported after the Bounce drop tower at Oakwood theme park was emergency stopped. The ride has been closed until further notice.
- [Alton Towers Dungeon closes for Scarefest maze](https://riderater.co.uk/12129/alton-towers-dungeon-closes-for-scarefest-maze/): The Alton Towers Dungeon closed this week, as the attraction prepares to be converted into scare maze for the Halloween Scarefest event.
- [Pleasure Beach becomes Blackpool FC sponsor](https://riderater.co.uk/12127/pleasure-beach-becomes-blackpool-fc-sponsor/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has become the principal sponsor of Blackpool Football Club, it has been announced. The park's logo will adorn the 2024-2025 kit.
- [Alton Towers: Hex ride should reopen by autumn](https://riderater.co.uk/12123/alton-towers-hex-ride-should-reopen-by-autumn/): Alton Towers divisional director Bianca Sammut has said that the Hex ride should reopen by this autumn. It has been closed since early in the 2023 season.
- [Universal UK: 'Billions in economic benefit'](https://riderater.co.uk/12119/universal-uk-billions-in-economic-benefit/): The construction of a Universal theme park in Bedfordshire would generate billions of pounds in economic benefits, its proposers have said.
- [Alton Towers: House and garden tour launched](https://riderater.co.uk/12117/alton-towers-house-and-garden-tour-launched/): Alton Towers is launching guided tours of its famous house and gardens this summer. They will cost £10 per person and last about two hours.
- [The Burger Index: Eye watering food price rises](https://riderater.co.uk/12098/the-burger-index-eye-watering-food-price-rises/): We take a look at theme park food price rises in recent years, using the common cheeseburger as a basis for comparison. Data is from 2013 to 2024.
- [Hyperia: Issue closes ride day after debut](https://riderater.co.uk/11936/hyperia-issue-closes-ride-day-after-debut/): Thorpe Park has been forced to temporarily close the new Hyperia rollercoaster the day after its public opening. It opened to the public on 24 May.
- [Hyperia closes again after testing stall](https://riderater.co.uk/12111/hyperia-closes-again-after-testing-stall/): Thorpe Park's troubled Hyperia rollercoaster has been closed again after it stalled in morning testing. It opened to the public on 24 May.
- [Hyperia: Media coverage high after stoppage](https://riderater.co.uk/12105/hyperia-media-coverage-high-after-stoppage/): There was high media coverage of the Hyperia rollercoaster stopping and leaving riders near its summit on Saturday. The park said there were no safety concerns.
- [Mixed results for UK Looping Group theme parks](https://riderater.co.uk/12088/mixed-results-for-uk-looping-group-theme-parks/): Two UK theme parks (Drayton Manor and Pleasurewood Hills) owned by the French company Looping Group have reported mixed results in their latest accounts.
- [Thorpe Park reopens Hyperia after 18 days](https://riderater.co.uk/12085/thorpe-park-reopens-hyperia-after-18-days/): Thorpe Park has reopened the Hyperia rollercoaster after it was closed for 18 days to allow for repairs to be made. Repairs have been carried out to its lift.
- [Thorpe Park: Hyperia to reopen on Wednesday](https://riderater.co.uk/12068/thorpe-park-hyperia-to-reopen-on-wednesday/): Thorpe Park has confirmed that the Hyperia rollercoaster will reopen on Wednesday, after successful testing. It has been closed since 25 May.
- [Hyperia ride expected to reopen next week](https://riderater.co.uk/12015/hyperia-ride-expected-to-reopen-next-week/): The Hyperia rollercoaster is expected to reopen next week, following repairs made to its lift hill. Thorpe Park has not yet confirmed the reopening date.
- [Lambeth: Fair rides closed after four injured](https://riderater.co.uk/12050/lambeth-fair-rides-closed-after-four-injured/): Fairground rides have been closed for the second day of the Lambeth Country Show after four people were injured in an accident.
- [Liberal Democrat leader Davey visits Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/12061/liberal-democrat-leader-davey-visits-thorpe-park/): Politician and Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey visited Thorpe Park on Monday ahead of the UK election. Polling takes place on 4 July.
- [Four hospitalised in Lambeth ride accident](https://riderater.co.uk/12027/four-hospitalised-in-lambeth-ride-accident/): Four people have been taken to hospital following a "failure" of a fairground ride at Lambeth Country Show. Their condition is currently unknown.
- [Flambards theme park removes four thrill rides](https://riderater.co.uk/12017/flambards-theme-park-removes-four-thrill-rides/): Flambards theme park in Cornwall has announced that it is removing four of its established thrill rides. The park cited availability of parts as an issue.
- [Thorpe Park: No date given for Hyperia reopening](https://riderater.co.uk/12011/thorpe-park-no-date-given-for-hyperia-reopening/): Thorpe Park has announced a third extension to the Hyperia rollercoaster's current closure. It has been closed since 25 May, one day after opening.
- [Thorpe Park: Hyperia repairs underway](https://riderater.co.uk/12005/thorpe-park-hyperia-repairs-underway/): Repairs are currently underway to the Hyperia rollercoaster at Thorpe Park, which has been closed for 11 days. The ride's lift hill is being worked on.
- [Hyperia: The launch that no one wanted](https://riderater.co.uk/11984/hyperia-the-launch-that-no-one-wanted/): We take a look at the issues surrounding the troubled launch of Thorpe Park's Hyperia rollercoaster, and how it compares with previous practices elsewhere.
- [Thorpe Park partners with drone detection firm](https://riderater.co.uk/11972/thorpe-park-partners-with-drone-detection-firm/): Thorpe Park has partnered with a specialist in drone detection and management systems, it has been revealed. It follows plea for fans to not fly drones.
- [Hyperia rollercoaster closure extended to 8 June](https://riderater.co.uk/11960/hyperia-rollercoaster-closure-extended-to-8-june/): Thorpe Park has announced that it is unable to confirm a reopening of the Hyperia rollercoaster before 8 June. It has been closed since 25 May.
- [Review: Ghost Train at Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/10880/review-ghost-train-at-thorpe-park/): We review the Ghost Train dark ride at Thorpe Park, the re-worked version of Derren Brown's Ghost Train. Reopened on 26 May 2023, it runs from 12 noon each day.
- [Hyperia rollercoaster opens at Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/11925/hyperia-rollercoaster-opens-at-thorpe-park/): The Hyperia rollercoaster, now the UK's tallest at 236 feet, has opened to the public the first time. It attracted queues of more than four hours.
- [Mexi-Co Kitchen, Chessington: menu and prices](https://riderater.co.uk/11914/mexi-co-kitchen-chessington-menu-and-prices/): Mexi-Co Kitchen is a new eating option for 2024 at Chessington World of Adventures. It replaces Tacotaria, which was open for less than a year.
- [Merlin CEO hints at holding off UK investment](https://riderater.co.uk/11718/merlin-ceo-hints-at-holding-off-uk-investment/): Merlin Entertainments chief executive Scott O'Neil has suggested that capital investment in the UK could be held back. He cited government policy as factors.
- [92% 'supportive' of Universal Bedford theme park](https://riderater.co.uk/11910/92-supportive-of-universal-bedford-theme-park/): 92% of respondents to a survey regarding the proposed Universal theme park in Bedford are supportive of the proposals.
- [Universal UK: Planning submission being prepared](https://riderater.co.uk/11890/universal-uk-planning-submission-being-prepared/): Universal has confirmed that it is preparing a planning application for its proposed new theme park in Bedfordshire. A public consultation ended on 3 May.
- [Hyperia: Thorpe Park in 'don't use drones' plea](https://riderater.co.uk/11771/hyperia-thorpe-park-in-dont-use-drones-plea/): Thorpe Park has requested that enthusiasts awaiting the testing of the Hyperia rollercoaster do not use drones. It will open on 24 May 2024.
- [Alton Towers: 'Top Spin' ride approved](https://riderater.co.uk/11852/alton-towers-top-spin-ride-approved/): Alton Towers has been given planning permission for what is expected to be a Top Spin flat ride. It could be similar to Ripaw, which left in 2015.
- [Alton Towers swan boat sells for over £25,000](https://riderater.co.uk/11807/alton-towers-swan-boat-sells-for-over-25000/): A boat from the former Alton Towers swan ride has sold on eBay for £25,100. At one point bidding reached £50,000, but some bids were removed.
- [Review: Life After Nemesis by John Wardley](https://riderater.co.uk/11783/review-life-after-nemesis-by-john-wardley/): We review the new book from John Wardley, Life After Nemesis. It is the follow-up to his first book from 2013, Creating My Own Nemesis, and is out now.
- [Eastern Express, Alton Towers: Menu and prices](https://riderater.co.uk/11791/eastern-express-alton-towers-menu-and-prices/): We take a look at the 2024 menu and prices for the Eastern Express food outlets at Alton Towers. They are located in Mutiny Bay and Dark Forest.
- [Hyperia begins testing at Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/11773/hyperia-begins-testing-at-thorpe-park/): The Hyperia rollercoaster has begun testing ahead of its opening at Thorpe Park on 24 May. The train successfully completed the circuit on Tuesday.
- [Chessington closing three rides on off-peak days](https://riderater.co.uk/11762/chessington-closing-three-rides-on-off-peak-days/): Chessington World of Adventures is closing the Zufari, Tiger Rock, and Rattlesnake rides for more than 60 off-peak days this year.
- [Life After Nemesis: John Wardley book on the way](https://riderater.co.uk/11755/life-after-nemesis-john-wardley-book-on-the-way/): A second autobiography from theme park creative designer John Wardley is due to be released later this month. It will be called Life After Nemesis.
- [Universal UK: Planners move to engage public](https://riderater.co.uk/11740/universal-uk-planners-move-to-engage-public/): Planners of the potential Universal UK theme park have announced two public engagement events this month. Universal said no final decision had yet been taken.
- [Dynamics: Surge pricing could be a powerful tool](https://riderater.co.uk/11733/dynamics-surge-pricing-could-be-a-powerful-tool/): We take a look at how recent commitments by Merlin Entertainments to vary ticket pricing at its UK theme parks could play out for everyone.
- [Alton Towers opening day tickets off sale](https://riderater.co.uk/11599/alton-towers-opening-day-tickets-off-sale/): Tickets for Alton Towers' opening day on 16 March 2024 have been taken off sale, with capacity expected to have been reached. The park opens until 8 pm.
- [Hyperia: 24 May opening date confirmed](https://riderater.co.uk/11725/hyperia-24-may-opening-date-confirmed/): Thorpe Park has announced that the new Hyperia rollercoaster will open to the public on 24 May. It was have a 1.3-metre height restriction.
- [Winter Wonderland contract extended to 2032](https://riderater.co.uk/11721/winter-wonderland-contract-extended-to-2032/): Events management company IMG has had its contract for Hyde Park Winter Wonderland extended to 2032. It has run the London event since 2015.
- [Merlin Entertainments reports £214 million loss](https://riderater.co.uk/11707/merlin-entertainments-reports-214-million-loss/): Merlin Entertainments has reported pre-tax losses of £214 million in a news release issued on Monday. It was largely due to a fall in value of Legoland parks.
- [Stealth: A profile of a dethroned rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/11277/stealth-a-profile-of-a-dethroned-rollercoaster/): As Stealth prepares to lose its crown of Thorpe Park's tallest - and the UK's fastest - rollercoaster, we take a close look at the ride.
- [The Spice Kitchen menu at Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/11692/the-spice-kitchen-menu-at-thorpe-park/): The Spice Kitchen is a "fresh for 2024" at Thorpe Park, serving Indian curries and sides. We take a look at the 2024 menu.
- [Review: Nemesis Reborn, Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/11666/review-nemesis-reborn-alton-towers/): We review the Nemesis Reborn rollercoaster at Alton Towers. The original 1994-built Nemesis has been largely rebuilt with refreshed imagery for 2024.
- [Mandrill Mayhem: Virtual queue system removed](https://riderater.co.uk/11660/mandrill-mayhem-virtual-queue-system-removed/): Chessington World of Adventures has removed the virtual queuing system from the Mandrill Mayhem rollercoaster.
- [Alton Towers encourages rescheduling of tickets](https://riderater.co.uk/11655/alton-towers-encourages-rescheduling-of-tickets/): Alton Towers has emailed guests attending its 2024 opening weekend, highlighting that they have the option of rescheduling to another date.
- [Les Edwards: Bringing life to the Nemesis alien](https://riderater.co.uk/11647/les-edwards-bringing-life-to-the-nemesis-alien/): We chat to Les Edwards, the artist who was commissioned to paint the Nemesis rollercoaster's iconic alien monster for the original 1994 ride.
- [Hyperia: Front row and single rider queues](https://riderater.co.uk/11639/hyperia-front-row-and-single-rider-queues/): Thorpe Park has confirmed that the forthcoming rollercoaster Hyperia will have both front row and single rider queues. The ride opens spring 2024.
- [Sea Life London in legal warning to Express](https://riderater.co.uk/11636/sea-life-london-in-legal-warning-to-express/): The Sea Life London Aquarium has threatened the Daily Express with legal action after coverage of its penguin display used the word 'captive'.
- [Theme Park Go: An app 'built on a life of love'](https://riderater.co.uk/11627/theme-park-go-an-app-built-on-a-life-of-love/): We talk to the creator of Theme Park Go - a new comprehensive guide to the UK theme park industry. The app is available on iOS and Android now.
- [Alton Towers car parking charge rises to £10](https://riderater.co.uk/11622/alton-towers-car-parking-charge-rises-to-10/): Alton Towers has increased its car parking charge by a record amount, to £10 for the 2024 season. That represents a £3 rise on 2023.
- [Alton Towers Dungeon to close this summer](https://riderater.co.uk/11620/alton-towers-dungeon-to-close-this-summer/): The Alton Towers Dungeon is to close this summer, with its building becoming a new scare attraction for the Halloween Scarefest event. It opened in 2019.
- [Beach Burger: Menu and prices at Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/11612/beach-burger-menu-and-prices-at-pleasure-beach/): The Beach Burger bar is a counter-based outlet at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, offering a selection of food items. We take a look at the 2024 menu and prices.
- [Wok: Menu and prices at Blackpool Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/11607/wok-menu-and-prices-at-blackpool-pleasure-beach/): The Wok is a food outlet at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. It is effectively the former Wok Infusion moved to the FY4 outlet. We take a look at the 2024 menu.
- [Pleasure Beach preparing for 'new attraction'](https://riderater.co.uk/11603/pleasure-beach-preparing-for-new-attraction/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has closed the Grand Prix ride in preparation for a new attraction, the park's owner has said. No further details have been revealed.
- [Hyperia: 1.3-metre height restriction confirmed](https://riderater.co.uk/11586/hyperia-1-3-metre-height-restriction-confirmed/): Thorpe Park has confirmed that the forthcoming Hyperia rollercoaster will have a 1.3-metre height restriction. It will open in Spring 2024.
- [Merlin Entertainments calls for Budget support](https://riderater.co.uk/11593/merlin-entertainments-calls-for-budget-support/): Merlin Entertainments has joined calls from the hospitality industry for UK government support measures in the forthcoming Budget.
- [Merlin Entertainments failed to pay minimum wage](https://riderater.co.uk/11561/merlin-entertainments-failed-to-pay-minimum-wage/): Merlin Entertainments has been named by the UK government as among the businesses failing to pay workers the minimum wage. Workers have since been repaid.
- [Pleasure Beach Resort: Blackpool park rebrands](https://riderater.co.uk/11550/pleasure-beach-resort-blackpool-park-rebrands/): Amusement park Blackpool Pleasure Beach has rebranded to the name of Pleasure Beach Resort. It comes after accounts showed the park's hotels staying in profit.
- [Warwick Castle Hotel to open on 22 July](https://riderater.co.uk/11548/warwick-castle-hotel-to-open-on-22-july/): Warwick Castle is to open a new £16 million hotel in 22 July 2024, it has been announced. Family prices start at £239 on opening night.
- [Chessington: Zafari Grill menu and prices (2024)](https://riderater.co.uk/11543/chessington-zafari-grill-menu-and-prices-2024/): We take a look at the 2024 menu and prices for the Zafari Grill. It is located on the ground floor of the Safari Hotel at Chessington World of Adventures
- [Alton Towers' Project Horizon: What we know](https://riderater.co.uk/11069/alton-towers-project-horizon-what-we-know/): We take a look at Alton Towers' Project Horizon rollercoaster, whose construction will soon begin. An indoor ride, it is expected to open in March 2025.
- [The conundrum of seaside park admission policy](https://riderater.co.uk/11431/the-conundrum-of-seaside-park-admission-policy/): As Blackpool Pleasure Beach faces increasing calls for a change in its admission pricing policy, we take a look at the issue across the UK's seaside parks.
- [Big Easy Boulevard: Sunset Cinema confirmed](https://riderater.co.uk/11534/big-easy-boulevard-sunset-cinema-confirmed/): Thorpe Park has confirmed that its newly-themed Big Easy Boulevard area will retain the existing 4D cinema, under the new name of Sunset Cinema.
- [Oakwood: Treetops cleared after 2022 incident](https://riderater.co.uk/11530/oakwood-treetops-cleared-after-2022-incident/): The Treetops rollercoaster at Oakwood has been cleared of malfunction after a man was thrown from the ride in 2022. The HSE said no fault could be found.
- [Thorpe Park closes Black Mirror Labyrinth](https://riderater.co.uk/11528/thorpe-park-closes-black-mirror-labyrinth/): Thorpe Park has closed the Black Mirror Labyrinth attraction after three seasons. It opened in 2021 after a one-year delay due to COVID-19.
- [Chessington Smokehouse was given hygiene warning](https://riderater.co.uk/11523/chessington-smokehouse-was-given-hygiene-warning/): The Smokehouse BBQ restaurant at Chessington World of Adventures was given a zero food hygiene rating in December 2023, it has emerged.
- [Ride Access Pass changes coming to Merlin parks](https://riderater.co.uk/11510/ride-access-pass-changes-coming-to-merlin-parks/): Merlin Entertainments has will require users of its Ride Access Pass (RAP) to pre-book from 2024. The changes come following 'guest and expert' feedback.
- [Project Ocean: Alton Towers plans new flat ride](https://riderater.co.uk/11502/project-ocean-alton-towers-plans-new-flat-ride/): Alton Towers has submitted a planning application suggestive of a new flat ride in the Forbidden Valley area. It would sit on the former Ripsaw ride's site.
- [Can Universal succeed where the London Resort failed?](https://riderater.co.uk/11499/can-universal-succeed-where-the-london-resort-failed/): In his latest column, Michael Mander takes a closer look at the prospect of a Universal Studios theme park on land south of Bedford.
- [A new creative consultancy journey begins](https://riderater.co.uk/11478/a-new-creative-consultancy-journey-begins/): We discuss Wondertree Creative with its founder, Justin East. He has recently left Merlin Entertainments after almost three decades in creative design.
- [Thorpe Park car parking charge rises to £10](https://riderater.co.uk/11489/thorpe-park-car-parking-charge-rises-to-10/): The cost of car parking at Thorpe Park has increased to £10 for the 2024 season. Last year it was £8 when book advance, which is no longer discounted.
- [Alton Towers After Dark: 8pm closes in March](https://riderater.co.uk/11475/alton-towers-after-dark-8pm-closes-in-march/): Alton Towers has announced that it will open until 20:00 for its first three opening Saturdays in March 2024. All major rides are expected to remain open.
- [Nemesis Reborn: Alton Towers ride begins testing](https://riderater.co.uk/11451/nemesis-reborn-alton-towers-ride-begins-testing/): Alton Towers has begun testing the reconstructed Nemesis Reborn rollercoaster, less than two months ahead of its reopening. It will reopen on 16 March 2024.
- [Flamingo Land profits drop to £4.6 million](https://riderater.co.uk/11463/flamingo-land-profits-drop-to-4-6-million/): Flamingo Land saw pre-tax profits fall by about £8.7 million to £4.6 million in the year to 31 March 2023. It included the period when Sik opened.
- [Alton Towers: Blue Light day cancelled in 2024](https://riderater.co.uk/11439/alton-towers-blue-light-day-cancelled-in-2024/): Alton Towers will not be hosting a Blue Light Card day of discounted entry this year due to "planned extended maintenance". It fully reopens on 16 March 2024.
- [Nemesis Reborn: Alton Towers confirms re-launch](https://riderater.co.uk/11434/nemesis-reborn-alton-towers-confirms-re-launch/): Alton Towers has confirmed that the Nemesis rollercoaster will be re-launched under the Nemesis Reborn name. The ride has been largely re-built.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach: A complete timeline](https://riderater.co.uk/8783/blackpool-pleasure-beach-a-complete-timeline/): As Blackpool Pleasure Beach celebrates its 125th anniversary, RideRater has compiled a comprehensive year-by-year timeline for the park.
- [Pleasure Beach: Holdings company in £287k profit](https://riderater.co.uk/11412/pleasure-beach-holdings-company-in-287k-profit/): The wider holdings company of Blackpool Pleasure Beach owners the Thompson family has reported pre-tax profits of £287,000. Previously it made £10.6m profit.
- [Alton Towers Spa closes after 20 years](https://riderater.co.uk/11392/alton-towers-spa-closes-after-20-years/): Alton Towers Spa has closed after almost 20 years at the Staffordshire resort. The facility formed part of the Alton Towers Hotel and was open all year.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach reports £522k loss](https://riderater.co.uk/11401/blackpool-pleasure-beach-reports-522k-loss/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has reported a £522,000 pre-tax loss in the year to 26 March 2023. The park also said attendances were down 20% during the period.
- [Hyperia: 24 March opening date expected](https://riderater.co.uk/11253/hyperia-24-march-opening-date-expected/): The public opening date for Thorpe Park's Hyperia rollercoaster is expected to be 24 March next year, after the park put tickets on sale.
- [Bray Sea Life Centre in final day of opening](https://riderater.co.uk/11386/bray-sea-life-centre-in-final-day-of-opening/): Bray Sea Life Centre will permanently close on Saturday, after 25 years of operation. All marine creatures are expected to be relocated to other centres.
- [False alarm over Blackpool Tower 'fire'](https://riderater.co.uk/11356/false-alarm-over-blackpool-tower-fire/): A false alarm over a suspected fire at Blackpool Tower caused considerable disruption. It was later confirmed as orange netting flapping in high winds.
- [Photographer of the Year 2023: Jason Bush](https://riderater.co.uk/11346/photographer-of-the-year-2023-jason-bush/): Jason Bush has been named RideRater's Photographer of the Year for 2023, with his capture of the Storm Chaser rollercoaster at Paultons Park.
- [Merlin Entertainments' biggest UK threat to date](https://riderater.co.uk/11312/merlin-entertainments-biggest-uk-threat-to-date/): We take a look at the possible impact on Merlin Entertainments of Universal building a theme park in the UK. Early plans emerged in December 2023.
- [Assessing the safety record of the Tip Top ride](https://riderater.co.uk/2052/assessing-the-safety-record-of-the-tip-top-flat-ride/): The Tip Top flat ride model has been involved in a number of accidents around the British Isles in recent years. As details of another incident emerge, we take a look at a ride with a questionable record of safety. In May this year, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) issued a prohibition notice to
- [ENTER NOW: Photographer of the Year 2023](https://riderater.co.uk/11274/enter-now-photographer-of-the-year-2023/): RideRater's Photographer of the Year 2023 competition is now open to entrants. Get your best UK theme park photograph in before 23 December.
- [Universal UK: Bedfordshire residents contacted](https://riderater.co.uk/11317/universal-uk-bedfordshire-residents-contacted/): Universal has written to local residents in the area of a possible new theme park south of Bedford. The American company confirmed its plans this week.
- [Universal confirms early plans for UK theme park](https://riderater.co.uk/11309/universal-confirms-early-plans-for-uk-theme-park/): Universal Studios has confirmed that it is in the early stages of planning a new theme park in the UK. A 480-acre site in Bedfordshire has been purchased.
- ['Universal Studios Great Britain' mooted](https://riderater.co.uk/11299/universal-studios-great-britain-mooted/): It is being reported that Universal is planning what could be a 500-acre theme park in the UK. 'Universal Great Britain' web domains have also been registered.
- [Live Nation takes control of Dreamland Margate](https://riderater.co.uk/11291/live-nation-takes-control-of-dreamland-margate/): Concert promoters Live Nation have taken control of Dreamland Margate, with a subsidiary taking a 75% stake in its owners. Summer concerts continue in 2024.
- [Best New Addition 2023: Mandrill Mayhem](https://riderater.co.uk/11288/best-new-addition-2023-mandrill-mayhem/): Mandrill Mayhem is the winner of RideRater's Best New Addition award for 2023. The Jumanji-themed ride opened at Chessington World of Adventures in May.
- [The steps to Thorpe Park's 2024 re-brand](https://riderater.co.uk/11281/the-steps-to-thorpe-parks-2024-re-brand/): We chat to the artist tasked with taking Thorpe Park's new logo and developing an array of images and assets for the park's 2024 re-brand.
- [Thorpe Park unveils new logo](https://riderater.co.uk/11264/thorpe-park-unveils-new-logo/): Thorpe Park in Surrey has unveiled its new logo, the first change in 15 years. The former orange and blue 'infinity' design has been replaced.
- [Alton Towers 'Rainy Day Guarantee' broke rules](https://riderater.co.uk/11266/alton-towers-rainy-day-guarantee-broke-rules/): The Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) has ruled that Alton Towers' Rainy Day Guarantee, which offers a free return visit, broke ASA code.
- [Alton Towers: Nemesis to reopen on 16 March 2024](https://riderater.co.uk/11259/alton-towers-nemesis-to-reopen-on-16-march-2024/): Alton Towers will open on 16 March next year, with the Nemesis rollercoaster returning for the first time since November 2022.
- [Adventure Island announces 125-foot drop tower](https://riderater.co.uk/11243/adventure-island-announces-125-foot-drop-tower/): Adventure Island has announced that a 125-foot (38-metre) drop tower ride will open at the park in 2024. Its name has not yet been decided.
- [Calls for 10-day Nottingham Goose Fair to stay](https://riderater.co.uk/11233/calls-for-10-day-nottingham-goose-fair-to-stay/): Organisers are calling on Nottingham City Council to make the city's Goose Fair a 10-day event permanently. 500,000 attended this year's event.
- [Thorpe Park to replace Angry Birds Land](https://riderater.co.uk/11223/thorpe-park-to-replace-angry-birds-land/): Thorpe Park is removing the Angry Birds Land themed area after almost ten years at the park. A new, non-IP area will be launched in 2024.
- [Skegness Pleasure Beach founder Botton dies](https://riderater.co.uk/11217/skegness-pleasure-beach-founder-botton-dies/): Jimmy Botton, the man who founded Skegness Pleasure Beach in its current form, has died at the age of 86. He bought the site in 1965 from Billy Butlin.
- [Retro Squad rides to leave Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/11215/retro-squad-rides-to-leave-alton-towers/): The temporary flat rides known as the Retro Squad are to leave Alton Towers at the end of this season. They were introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [Thorpe Park to re-brand in 2024](https://riderater.co.uk/11210/thorpe-park-to-re-brand-in-2024/): Thorpe Park is expected to rebrand itself in 2024, after several hints were released relating to the park's logo. It has been in place since 2008.
- [Review: The Smiler rollercoaster at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/3589/review-the-smiler-at-alton-towers/): We review The Smiler rollercoaster at Alton Towers. It is the world's first 14-inversion rollercoaster and opened after some delays.
- [Review: Tales from the Towers book](https://riderater.co.uk/3575/review-tales-from-the-towers-book/): We review the new book Tales from the Towers - a comprehensive and informative work on the history of Alton Towers.
- [Review: Legend of the Chained Oak film](https://riderater.co.uk/4206/review-legend-of-the-chained-oak-film/): We review the short horror film the Legend of the Chained Oak, based on the same Staffordshire legend which inspired the Hex ride at Alton Towers.
- [Review: Sky Force at Blackpool Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/4995/review-sky-force-at-blackpool-pleasure-beach/): We review Blackpool Pleasure Beach's new Royal Air Force Red Arrows-theme ride Sky Force.
- [Review: Alton Towers Scarefest 2015](https://riderater.co.uk/5313/review-alton-towers-scarefest-2015/): We review Alton Towers' Halloween Scarefest event, as it makes a return in 2015.
- [Review: Derren Brown's Ghost Train, Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/6115/review-derren-browns-ghost-train-thorpe-park/): We review Derren Brown's Ghost Train, the latest attraction at Thorpe Park.
- [Review: Galactica rollercoaster at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/6189/review-galactica-rollercoaster-at-alton-towers/): We review Galactica, the space-themed virtual reality rollercoaster at Alton Towers.
- [Review: Thorpe Park Fright Nights 2016](https://riderater.co.uk/6299/review-thorpe-park-fright-nights-2016/): Ahead of Halloween, we review Thorpe Park's Fright Nights event, as it celebrates its 15th anniversary.
- [Review: Wicker Man at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/6835/review-wicker-man-at-alton-towers/): We review Alton Towers' new wooden rollercoaster Wicker Man, the first such ride in the UK for 22 years.
- [Review: Icon rollercoaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/7012/review-icon-rollercoaster-at-blackpool-pleasure-beach/): We review Icon, Blackpool Pleasure Beach's brand new launched rollercoaster constructed by Mack Rides.
- [Review: Inside Alton Towers, Channel 4](https://riderater.co.uk/7089/review-inside-alton-towers-channel-4/): We review the Channel 4 documentary Inside Alton Towers, which covers the launch of the park's new wooden rollercoaster Wicker Man.
- [Review: The Alton Towers Dungeon](https://riderater.co.uk/7444/review-the-alton-towers-dungeon/): We review the Alton Towers Dungeon, the Staffordshire theme park's new addition for the 2019 season.
- [Review: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland 2019-2020](https://riderater.co.uk/7876/review-hyde-park-winter-wonderland-2019-2020/): We review this season's giant Winter Wonderland fairground in London's Hyde Park.
- [Review: Inside Legoland, Channel 5](https://riderater.co.uk/8378/review-inside-legoland-channel-5/): We review Inside Legoland: A World of Wonder, a new documentary series from Channel 5.
- [Review: Top Gear at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/8573/review-top-gear-at-alton-towers/): We review the season finale of Top Gear on BBC One, which features a deserted Alton Towers.
- [Review: Alton Towers - A Rollercoaster Year](https://riderater.co.uk/8582/review-alton-towers-a-rollercoaster-year/): We review Channel 4's documentary of the impact of COVID-19 on operations at Alton Towers.
- [Review: Warwick Castle at Christmas 2022](https://riderater.co.uk/10168/review-warwick-castle-at-christmas-2022/): We review Warwick Castle's Christmas 2022 offerings, including the traditional indoor decorations and the outdoor Light Trail, which has returned this year.
- [Review: Sik rollercoaster at Flamingo Land](https://riderater.co.uk/9943/review-sik-rollercoaster-at-flamingo-land/): We review Sik, the new 10-inversion rollercoaster at Flamingo Land.
- [Review: The Guardian at Fantasy Island](https://riderater.co.uk/9869/review-the-guardian-at-fantasy-island/): We review the Guardian ride at Fantasy Island, which is new for 2022.
- [Review: Croc Drop at Chessington World of Adventures](https://riderater.co.uk/9670/review-croc-drop-at-chessington-world-of-adventures/): We review the Croc Drop ride at Chessington World of Adventures one year on from its opening.
- [Review: Black Mirror Labyrinth at Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/9674/review-black-mirror-labyrinth-at-thorpe-park/): We review Thorpe Park's walkthrough maze, the Black Mirror Labyrinth.
- [Review: Ensō at Blackpool Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/9636/review-enso-at-blackpool-pleasure-beach/): We review Ensō, the new spinning-seat addition to Blackpool Pleasure Beach's Icon rollercoaster.
- [Review: One Night in... Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/9397/review-one-night-in-alton-towers/): We review the Alton Towers instalment of Channel 4's One Night In series.
- [Review: Hull Fair 2021](https://riderater.co.uk/9214/review-hull-fair-2021/): We review Hull Fair as it returns to the city in 2021.
- [Review: The London Dungeon](https://riderater.co.uk/3297/review-the-london-dungeon/): Earlier this year, the London Dungeon moved from its classic Tooley Street location to its new home of the County Hall, we take a look inside.
- [Review: Nemesis Sub-Terra at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/1602/review-nemesis-sub-terra-at-alton-towers/): We review the Nemesis Sub-Terra dark ride, which continues the alien backstory of the original Nemesis rollercoaster from 1994.
- [Review: The revamped Nemesis Sub-Terra](https://riderater.co.uk/2137/review-the-revamped-nemesis-sub-terra/): While it was pretty unforgivable for Alton Towers to present a major new ride in such a condition, they have certainly listened and learned from the backlash.
- [Review: Valhalla, Blackpool Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/10704/review-valhalla-blackpool-pleasure-beach/): We review the recently-reopened Valhalla ride at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Closed for "reimagining" in 2019, it now open for so-called "technical rehearsals".
- [Review: The Making of the Haunted House](https://riderater.co.uk/10564/review-the-making-of-the-haunted-house/): We review the new YouTube documentary 'The Making of the Haunted House' based on the Alton Towers ride. It has been produced by Euro Theme Park Archive.
- [Review: Absolute Efficiency theme park book](https://riderater.co.uk/10175/review-absolute-efficiency-theme-park-book/): We review the Absolute Efficiency book, a self-described guide to theme park operational efficiency.
- [Review: Dr Archibald - Master of Time ride](https://riderater.co.uk/10257/review-dr-archibald-master-of-time-ride/): We review the virtual reality ride experience Dr. Archbald: Master of time. It has returned to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland with new VR footage for 2022.
- [Review: Sea Life Hunstanton](https://riderater.co.uk/10529/review-sea-life-hunstanton/): We review the Sea Life Hunstanton Sanctuary and Aquarium Centre, access to which is included in the Merlin Annual Pass. Otters were added in 2022.
- [Review: The Curse at Alton Manor, Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/10537/review-the-curse-at-alton-manor-alton-towers/): We review the Curse at Alton Manor, the newly re-imagined dark ride at Alton Towers. It was originally the Haunted House from 1992, and later became Duel.
- [Review: Twistatron at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/10559/review-twistatron-at-alton-towers/): We review Twistatron - the newest member of Alton Towers 'Retro Squad' of temporary travelling flat rides. It is on the site of the former Enterprise ride.
- [Review: Mardi Gras 2023 at Chessington](https://riderater.co.uk/10885/review-mardi-gras-2023-at-chessington/): We make a brief review of the Mardi Gras event at Chessington World of Adventures in 2023. It runs between 27 May and 25 June.
- [Review: Mandrill Mayhem at Chessington](https://riderater.co.uk/10831/review-mandrill-mayhem-at-chessington/): We review the Mandrill Mayhem rollercoaster, which is new for 2023 at Chessington World of Adventures. It forms part of the new World of Jumanji area.
- [Hyperia: 2024 rollercoaster goes vertical](https://riderater.co.uk/11148/hyperia-2024-rollercoaster-goes-vertical/): Hyperia - Thorpe Park's 2024 rollercoaster - has had the first of its supports installed at the Surrey theme park. It is being built by Mack Rides.
- [Nottingham and Hull: The entwined ancient fairs](https://riderater.co.uk/11140/nottingham-and-hull-the-entwined-ancient-fairs/): Both about a millennia in age, the giant fairs of Nottingham and Hull were officially recognised more than 700 years ago. We take a glance at their histories.
- [Hyperia: Thorpe Park rollercoaster named](https://riderater.co.uk/11124/hyperia-thorpe-park-rollercoaster-named/): Thorpe Park has confirmed that the name of its new rollercoaster will be Hyperia. Opening in spring 2024, it will be the UK's tallest rollercoaster.
- [Review: Mardi Gras 2023 at Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/10901/review-mardi-gras-2023-at-thorpe-park/): We review the Mardi Gras event at Thorpe Park. This festival of dance, music, food and drink runs through to 11 June 2023.
- [Review: The World of Jumanji at Chessington](https://riderater.co.uk/10920/review-the-world-of-jumanji-at-chessington/): We review the new World of Jumanji area, new at Chessington World of Adventures for 2023. It opened to the public on 15 May, and has three new rides.
- [Review: Nottingham Goose Fair (2023)](https://riderater.co.uk/11115/review-nottingham-goose-fair-2023/): We review the historic Nottingham Goose Fair event as it opens for 2023. It as at the city's Forest Recreation Ground until 8 October.
- [Review: The London Dungeon (2023)](https://riderater.co.uk/10939/review-the-london-dungeon-2023/): We review the London Dungeon for the first time in ten years, having last visited when it moved to its current County Hall, South Bank location.
- [Vibes Bar & Kitchen: Thorpe Park evening buffet](https://riderater.co.uk/11097/vibes-bar-kitchen-thorpe-park-evening-buffet/): We take a look at the evening buffet menu for Thorpe Park's Vibes Bar & Kitchen. The buffet is available to hotel guests for £22.50 (adults).
- [Alton Towers: Secret Garden Restaurant menu](https://riderater.co.uk/11062/alton-towers-secret-garden-restaurant-menu/): Located within the Alton Towers Hotel, the Secret Garden Restaurant offers a variety of dishes. We take a look at the menu and prices.
- [IPs: Intellectual properties and UK theme parks](https://riderater.co.uk/11038/ips-intellectual-properties-and-uk-theme-parks/): We take a look at intellectual properties (IPs) at theme parks in the UK. From sponsoring rides to theming areas, IPs can play a huge part in a theme park.
- [Merlin launches new Engineering Academy](https://riderater.co.uk/11054/merlin-launches-new-engineering-academy/): Merlin Entertainments has launched a new apprenticeship programme called the Merlin Engineering Academy. Applications are also open for 2024.
- [Cadbury World: Merlin Pass access begins early](https://riderater.co.uk/11050/cadbury-world-merlin-pass-access-begins-early/): Cadbury World has been added to the Merlin Annual Pass ahead of a previously-announced schedule. Pre-booking for pass-holders is now open.
- [Merlin Annual Pass: Pre-booking hub opens](https://riderater.co.uk/11047/merlin-annual-pass-pre-booking-hub-opens/): The long-waited pre-booking hub for holders of all types of Merlin Annual Passes opened on Monday. It also allows for guests to cancel bookings.
- [Shockwave: Stand-up train to be removed](https://riderater.co.uk/11041/shockwave-stand-up-train-to-be-removed/): The Shockwave rollercoaster at Drayton Manor is to have its stand-up train removed this season. Opened in 1994, it was the first stand-up rollercoaster in Europe.
- [EVs: Theme parks lacking car charging points](https://riderater.co.uk/11033/evs-theme-parks-lacking-car-charging-points/): A study by the RAC has confirmed that the majority of major UK theme parks still do not provide charging facilities for electric vehicles (EVs).
- [Big Dipper celebrating 100th anniversary](https://riderater.co.uk/11026/big-dipper-celebrating-100th-anniversary/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach's classic rollercoaster the Big Dipper is celebrating its 100th anniversary on Wednesday. It opened in 1923 at a cost of £25,000.
- [The Big Dipper: 100 years of coastering](https://riderater.co.uk/10334/the-big-dipper-100-years-of-coastering/): We take an in-depth look at Blackpool Pleasure Beach's famous Big Dipper rollercoaster. It celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2023, having opened in 1923.
- [Chessington: Early access ticket launched](https://riderater.co.uk/11018/chessington-early-access-ticket-launched/): Chessington World of Adventures has launched an early access ticket, which enables an hour's early ride time for £20.
- [How Euro Disney forced Alton Towers' themes](https://riderater.co.uk/11010/how-euro-disney-forced-alton-towers-themes/): We take a look at how Euro Disney had a huge impact on the strategic direction of Alton Towers in the early 1990s.
- [Alton Towers pioneer John Broome dies aged 80](https://riderater.co.uk/11005/alton-towers-pioneer-john-broome-dies-aged-80/): John Broome, the man who established Alton Towers as a modern theme park, has died at the age of 80. He introduced the Corkscrew rollercoaster.
- [Alton Towers: Hex and Skyride closed for season](https://riderater.co.uk/11003/alton-towers-hex-and-skyride-closed-for-season/): Alton Towers has confirmed that the Hex dark ride and Skyride cable car will remain closed for the rest of the 2023 season, after standing closed for months.
- [Oakwood: Megafobia rollercoaster reopens](https://riderater.co.uk/10998/oakwood-megafobia-rollercoaster-reopens/): The Megafobia rollercoaster reopened at Oakwood on Monday following months of re-tracking work. The Gravity Group has reprofiled ride's the first drop.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach: Coasters menu (2023)](https://riderater.co.uk/10993/blackpool-pleasure-beach-coasters-menu-2023/): The menu at the Coasters restaurant at Blackpool Pleasure Beach has recently re-positioned itself to Mexican-inspired offering.
- [Drayton Manor: Intamin Lift & Launch for 2024](https://riderater.co.uk/10988/drayton-manor-intamin-lift-launch-for-2024/): Drayton Manor has confirmed that its 2024 rollercoaster will be a Lift & Launch model ride from manufacturers Intamin.
- [10 years of the Smiler at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/10926/10-years-of-the-smiler-at-alton-towers/): We take a look back at the history of the Smiler rollercoaster at Alton Towers as it celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2023.
- [Chessington: Tacotaria menu and prices](https://riderater.co.uk/10794/tacotaria-menu-and-prices-at-chessington/): A Mexican-inspired food outlet has been launched at Chessington World of Adventures this season - Tacotaria. We take a glance at the main menu and prices here.
- [Thorpe Park: Wilderness Bar & Kitchen menu](https://riderater.co.uk/10916/thorpe-park-wilderness-bar-kitchen-menu/): We take a look at the 2023 menu and prices at the Wilderness Bar & Kitchen at Thorpe Park. The outlet is located under canopies near Cadbury Chocolate Lodge.
- [Nemesis Sub-Terra reopens at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/10872/nemesis-sub-terra-reopens-at-alton-towers/): The Nemesis Sub-Terra dark drop ride has reopened at Alton Towers after eight years of standing closed. The four-tower drop ride is a "research facility".
- [Nemesis Sub-Terra: Alton Towers ride reopening](https://riderater.co.uk/10596/nemesis-sub-terra-alton-towers-ride-reopening/): Alton Towers has confirmed that the Nemesis Sub-Terra dark ride will reopen on 27 May 2023 after being mothballed for nearly eight years, last running in 2015.
- [Galactica: VR removed from Alton Towers rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/7438/galactica-vr-removed-from-alton-towers-rollercoaster/): Alton Towers has confirmed that virtual reality headsets have been removed from the Galactica rollercoaster. Formerly Air, it was re-themed with VR in 2016.
- [Thorpe Park: Ghost Train to open on 26 May](https://riderater.co.uk/10755/thorpe-park-ghost-train-to-open-on-26-may/): Thorpe Park has confirmed that the Ghost Train dark ride is to open on Friday 26 May, after being reconfigured from Derren Brown's Ghost Train this season.
- [Statement: 17/05/2023](https://riderater.co.uk/10859/statement-17-05-2023/): RideRater has been conducting a policy review during the first half of 2023, and we therefore make the following announcement.
- [The World of Jumanji opens at Chessington](https://riderater.co.uk/10809/the-world-of-jumanji-opens-at-chessington/): The World of Jumanji area has opened at Chessington World of Adventures, with access being given to the media on Saturday. It opens to the public on 15 May.
- [Alton Towers Dungeon staggers opening times](https://riderater.co.uk/10839/alton-towers-dungeon-staggers-opening-times/): The Alton Towers Dungeon has moved to a staggered opening model as it looks to increase users. It now opens from 12:30 and runs after the park's official close.
- [The Jumanji Food Supplies Co.: Menu and prices](https://riderater.co.uk/10816/the-jumanji-food-supplies-co-menu-and-prices/): The new World of Jumanji area at Chessington World of Adventures has seen a new food kiosk called the Jumanji Food Supplies Co. open at the park.
- [Dynamic pricing a focus for Merlin chief](https://riderater.co.uk/10804/dynamic-pricing-a-focus-for-merlin-chief/): Merlin Entertainments chief Scott O'Neil has revealed that 'dynamic pricing' is a focus for the company. He spoke of regulating numbers in theme parks.
- [Valhalla: Dark water ride officially reopens](https://riderater.co.uk/10798/valhalla-dark-water-ride-officially-reopens/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach officially reopened the Valhalla dark water ride on Wednesday in the presence of invited media.
- [Burger Kitchen prices revealed at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/2748/burger-kitchen-prices-revealed-at-alton-towers/): Menu prices have been revealed for the Burger Kitchen at Alton Towers, which is Merlin Entertainment's in-house replacement for Burger King starting in 2013.
- [Alton Towers: Coach House Confectionary menu](https://riderater.co.uk/10576/alton-towers-coach-house-confectionary-menu/): Alton Towers has opened a new food outlet in the Gloomy Wood area of the park. We break down the menu offerings and price list of Coach House Confectionary.
- [Alton Towers: Just Chicken menu and prices](https://riderater.co.uk/10729/alton-towers-just-chicken-menu-and-prices/): The latest menu and price list for the Alton Towers restaurant Just Chicken has been released following Aramark taking over catering services at the resort.
- [Loki's Bar: Menu and prices at Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/10738/lokis-bar-menu-and-prices-at-pleasure-beach/): We look at the menu at the newly-reopened Loki's bar and restaurant at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, where rotisserie chicken is the main offering - whole or half.
- [Thorpe Park: Cadbury Chocolate Lodge menu](https://riderater.co.uk/10785/thorpe-park-cadbury-chocolate-lodge-menu/): Cadbury Chocolate Lodge has opened at Thorpe Park for the 2023 season. We take a glance at the menu and prices of the hot chocolate and other treats on offer.
- [Mandrill Mayhem: Virtual queue system confirmed](https://riderater.co.uk/10775/mandrill-mayhem-virtual-queue-system-confirmed/): Chessington World of Adventures has confirmed that the Mandrill Mayhem rollercoaster will use a virtual queueing system when it launches on 15 May.
- [World of Jumanji previews for annual passes](https://riderater.co.uk/10767/world-of-jumanji-previews-for-annual-passes/): Chessington World of Adventures will offer previews of its new World of Jumanji area to Merlin Annual Pass holders. They will take place on 14 May in two timeslots.
- [Monty Lunde: One of the Valhalla magic makers](https://riderater.co.uk/1926/monty-lunde-valhalla-magic-maker/): We talk to Monty Lunde, whose company Technifex is behind many of the spectacular effects in Blackpool Pleasure Beach's the dark water ride Valhalla.
- [HSE to inspect more rides after accidents](https://riderater.co.uk/10735/hse-to-inspect-more-rides-after-accidents/): The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is to embark on a programme of targeted travelling ride inspections after several serious accidents in recent years.
- [Chessington ride engineers call off strikes](https://riderater.co.uk/10733/chessington-ride-engineers-call-off-strikes/): The union representing engineers working at Chessington World of Adventures has have called off strike action following agreements over pay being reached with Merlin Entertainments.
- [How the papers reported the Big One stoppages](https://riderater.co.uk/10719/how-the-papers-reported-the-big-one-stoppages/): The British tabloids have jumped on the opportunity to cover two stoppages that have affected Blackpool Pleasure Beach's Big One rollercoaster this month.
- [Chessington ride engineers to strike over pay](https://riderater.co.uk/10679/chessington-ride-engineers-to-strike-over-pay/): Engineers working at Chessington World of Adventures have voted to go on strike during several periods from 28 April, it has been announced.
- [Nemesis: Observation platform to open next week](https://riderater.co.uk/10697/nemesis-observation-platform-to-open-next-week/): Alton Towers has announced that an observation platform enabling views of the Nemesis rollercoaster being rebuilt will open from Wednesday next week (26 April).
- [Valhalla media day moved to enable improvements](https://riderater.co.uk/10676/valhalla-media-day-moved-to-enable-improvements/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach's recently reopened Valhalla has had its media day pushed back to enable the park to achieve the "best representation" of the ride.
- [Valhalla ride reopens for first time since 2019](https://riderater.co.uk/10661/valhalla-ride-reopens-for-first-time-since-2019/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has reopened the Valhalla dark water ride for the first time since 2019. It has received £4 million of "reimagining" works.
- [Merlin Annual Pass prices rise by £10 and £20](https://riderater.co.uk/10658/merlin-annual-pass-prices-rise-by-10-and-20/): Merlin Entertainments has increased the price of most of its annual passes for the first time since their re-launch two years ago. The Platinum Pass is frozen.
- [Theme park admission prices fall in real terms](https://riderater.co.uk/10643/theme-park-admission-prices-fall-in-real-terms/): UK theme park admission prices are now rising below the rate of inflation, figures for April show. Data was compared year-on-year at 12 major theme parks.
- [Valhalla: 'Technical rehearsals' from 12 April](https://riderater.co.uk/10633/valhalla-technical-rehearsals-from-12-april/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has moved to firm up the date of the reopening of the Valhalla dark water ride to 12 April. It has been closed since 2019 for re-works.
- [Valhalla: Pleasure Beach ride to open 'after 7 April'](https://riderater.co.uk/10541/valhalla-pleasure-beach-ride-to-open-after-7-april/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has announced that the Valhalla water ride will re-open for "technical rehearsals" on a date "after 7 April", after being closed for refurbishment since 2019.
- [Log flume replacing Barry's Big Dipper](https://riderater.co.uk/10607/log-flume-replacing-barrys-big-dipper/): A log flume is being constructed to replace the former Barry's Big Dipper rollercoaster at Curry's Fun Park in Portrush, Northern Ireland.
- [The stunning comeback of Gloomy Wood](https://riderater.co.uk/10598/the-stunning-comeback-of-gloomy-wood/): We take a look at the Gloomy Wood area of Alton Towers, which has been refreshed significantly this year, more than three decades after its debut.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach reports £8.6m profit](https://riderater.co.uk/10593/blackpool-pleasure-beach-reports-8-6m-profit/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach reported "exceptional" pre-tax profits of £8.6 million for the year ending March 2022. The previous period it lost £2.9 million.
- [Twistatron added to Alton Towers' Retro Squad](https://riderater.co.uk/10545/twistatron-added-to-alton-towers-retro-squad/): Alton Towers has added a new flat ride called Twistatron to its Retro Squad line-up of hired attractions. It is the travelling Star Fighter fairground ride.
- [The surprising decision of Mandrill Mayhem](https://riderater.co.uk/10495/the-surprising-decision-of-mandrill-mayhem/): We take a look at the Mandrill Mayhem rollercoaster at Chessington World of Adventures, which breaks new ground for manufacturers Bolliger & Mabillard.
- [SW7 to have capacity of '64 passengers per ride'](https://riderater.co.uk/2233/sw7-to-have-capacity-of-64-passengers-per-ride/): Alton Towers' 2013 rollercoaster will have a capacity of "64 passengers on each ride," according to local newspaper The Sentinel.
- [Barry's Big Dipper leaves Curry's Fun Park](https://riderater.co.uk/10521/barrys-big-dipper-leaves-currys-fun-park/): Barry's Big Dipper rollercoaster has left Curry's Fun Park in Portrush after 20 years of operation. It was the only inverting rollercoaster in Northern Ireland.
- [Chessington: World of Jumanji to open on 15 May](https://riderater.co.uk/10497/chessington-world-of-jumanji-to-open-on-15-may/): Chessington World of Adventures has confirmed that its new World of Jumanji themed area will open to the public on 15 May 2023. It will include Mandrill Mayhem.
- [Extinction: Blackgang Chine to launch new ride](https://riderater.co.uk/10486/extinction-blackgang-chine-to-launch-new-ride/): Blackgang Chine has replaced the Cliffhanger rollecoaster with a 59-foot pendulum swing ride called Extinction. It will be located on the same cliff-edge.
- [Alton Towers indoor rollercoaster plans approved](https://riderater.co.uk/10473/alton-towers-indoor-rollercoaster-plans-approved/): Alton Towers has been granted planning permission for an indoor rollercoaster which will open in 2025. It is currently known only as Project Horizon.
- [Nemesis Reborn: Application for new ride name](https://riderater.co.uk/10471/nemesis-reborn-application-for-new-ride-name/): Alton Towers operator Merlin Entertainments is seeking a trademark for 'Nemesis Reborn', the likely new name for the rebuilt Nemesis rollercoaster.
- [Pass-holders to wait for new Merlin attractions](https://riderater.co.uk/10466/pass-holders-to-wait-for-new-merlin-attractions/): Holders of Merlin Entertainments' annual passes will need to wait for entry to Blackpool Sandcastle and Cadbury World after their recent takeovers.
- [Project Exodus: Old tactics coming to the fore](https://riderater.co.uk/10461/project-exodus-old-tactics-coming-to-the-fore/): We take a look at the decision by Thorpe Park to build the UK's tallest rollercoaster. It will overtake Blackpool's Big One, which held the record for 30 years.
- [Thorpe Park: Mack Rides rollercoaster confirmed](https://riderater.co.uk/10453/thorpe-park-mack-rides-rollercoaster-confirmed/): The manufacturer of Thorpe Park's 236-foot rollercoaster has been confirmed as Germany's Mack Rides. It will be the UK's tallest when it opens in 2024.
- [Ghost Train: Derren Brown and VR themes removed](https://riderater.co.uk/10398/ghost-train-derren-brown-and-vr-themes-removed/): Thorpe Park is re-launching the former Derren Brown's Ghost Train as a virtual reality-free version entitled Ghost Train. It will open in Spring 2023.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach launches new fan club](https://riderater.co.uk/10395/blackpool-pleasure-beach-launches-new-fan-club/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has launched its official fan club, which will host exclusive events at the amusement park. Two events have already been announced.
- [Re-track for Oakwood's Megafobia rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/10350/re-track-for-oakwoods-megafobia-rollercoaster/): Oakwood theme park's Megafobia rollercoaster is to receive track work from the Gravity Group this year. Work is expected to be completed by May.
- [The Curse at Alton Manor: Ride name revealed](https://riderater.co.uk/10339/the-curse-at-alton-manor-ride-name-revealed/): Alton Towers has revealed that the reworked version of the Duel dark ride will be called The Curse at Alton Manor. It is expected to open on 18 March.
- [Alton Towers begins marketing revamped dark ride](https://riderater.co.uk/10337/alton-towers-begins-marketing-revamped-dark-ride/): Alton Towers has begun initial marketing ahead of the reopening of the revamped Duel dark ride. The enclosed ride will be re-launched under a new name in March.
- [Mandrill Mayhem: Ride has 1.2 metre restriction](https://riderater.co.uk/10325/mandrill-mayhem-ride-has-1-2-metre-restriction/): Chessington World of Adventures has announced that its forthcoming rollercoaster, Mandrill Mayhem, will have a 1.2 metre height restriction for riders.
- [Queen makes surprise visit to Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/1644/queen-makes-surprise-visit-to-thorpe-park/): Queen Elizabeth II yesterday made a surprise visit to Thorpe Park as part of her Diamond Jubilee tour.
- [Drayton Manor to open new rollercoaster in 2024](https://riderater.co.uk/10309/drayton-manor-to-open-new-rollercoaster-in-2024/): Drayton Manor is preparing to install a new "family thrill" rollercoaster in 2024, the park's new managing director has said.
- [Colossus: Thorpe Park re-tracking rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/10306/colossus-thorpe-park-re-tracking-rollercoaster/): Thorpe Park has confirmed that it is undertaking staged track replacement work to the Colossus rollercoaster. The park said the ride's trains would be retained.
- [London Dungeon apologises for 'vegan ban'](https://riderater.co.uk/10303/london-dungeon-apologises-for-vegan-ban/): The London Dungeon has apologised for a publicity stunt in which it claimed to have banned vegans during the month of January.
- [Cadbury World: Merlin begins running attraction](https://riderater.co.uk/10296/cadbury-world-merlin-begins-running-attraction/): Merlin Entertainments has completed a deal to takeover the running of the Cadbury World attraction in Birmingham. It will re-open on 25 January 2023.
- [YouTuber of the Year 2022: Pleasure Beach Experience](https://riderater.co.uk/10278/youtuber-of-the-year-2022-pleasure-beach-experience/): After much consideration, the RideRater team have named Pleasure Beach Experience as their YouTuber of the Year 2022.
- [Merlin Entertainments 'careful with price rises'](https://riderater.co.uk/10286/merlin-entertainments-careful-with-price-rises/): Merlin Entertainments has said that it is being "very careful with price increases" following admission costs rising above inflation at some of its attractions.
- [Duel revamp to be 'more like Haunted House'](https://riderater.co.uk/10282/duel-revamp-to-be-more-like-haunted-house/): Alton Towers' ongoing revamp of the Duel dark ride will see it return closer to the original Haunted House design, according to a former senior manager.
- [Duel: Alton Towers ride closes for refurbishment](https://riderater.co.uk/9840/duel-alton-towers-ride-closes-for-refurbishment/): Alton Towers has closed its Duel dark ride for refurbishment ahead of an expected relaunch next season.
- [8 key UK theme park industry moments of 2022](https://riderater.co.uk/10268/8-key-uk-theme-park-industry-moments-of-2022/): As 2022 draws to a close, RideRater takes a look back at some of the key moments the UK theme park industry saw during the year.
- [Christmas Message 2022](https://riderater.co.uk/10248/christmas-message-2022/): We've seen something of a return to normality this year, as we have been gifted the first UK theme park season without COVID-19 restrictions since 2019.
- [Theme park prices rising faster than inflation](https://riderater.co.uk/10184/theme-park-prices-rising-faster-than-inflation/): Some UK theme parks are raising admission prices significantly more than the rate of inflation, figures released today by the government confirm.
- [Mandrill Mayhem: Chessington rollercoaster named](https://riderater.co.uk/10204/mandrill-mayhem-chessington-rollercoaster-named/): Chessington World of Adventures has seemingly revealed that its new shuttle-launched rollercoaster will be called Mandrill Mayhem. It will open in March 2023.
- [Best Park 2022: Flamingo Land wins award](https://riderater.co.uk/10235/best-park-2022-flamingo-land-wins-award/): Flamingo Land is the winner of RideRater's Best Park award for 2022, following a year of exceptional investment and operations at the Yorkshire theme park.
- [Photographer of the Year 2022: Neil Tonge](https://riderater.co.uk/10144/photographer-of-the-year-2022-neil-tonge/): Neil Tonge is RideRater’s Photographer of the Year 2022, with his innovative capture of Icon and the Big One at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
- [Merlin CEO O'Neil greets 'loyal' annual pass holders](https://riderater.co.uk/10158/merlin-ceo-oneil-greets-loyal-annual-pass-holders/): Merlin Entertainments' new chief executive Scott O'Neil has introduced himself to the company's "most loyal" annual pass holders.
- [Best New Addition 2022: Sik at Flamingo Land](https://riderater.co.uk/10140/best-new-addition-2022-sik-at-flamingo-land/): The Sik rollercoaster at Flamingo Land has been awarded RideRater's Best New Addition for 2022.
- [Photographer of the Year 2022: ENTER NOW](https://riderater.co.uk/10065/photographer-of-the-year-2022-enter-now/): We are once again looking to name one of you our Photographer of the Year. ENTER NOW!
- [How a taste of Oktoberfest came to Hyde Park](https://riderater.co.uk/9932/how-a-taste-of-oktoberfest-came-to-hyde-park/): We take a look at how a taste of Germany's Oktoberfest came to West London.
- [Three thrown from Cardiff fairground ride](https://riderater.co.uk/10124/three-thrown-from-cardiff-fairground-ride/): Three people were thrown from a twist-style fairground ride in Cardiff on Saturday, sustaining injuries.
- [Pleasure Beach owner slams staff over Valhalla](https://riderater.co.uk/10119/pleasure-beach-owner-slams-staff-over-valhalla/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach owner Amanda Thompson has criticised staff communication over the delayed Valhalla ride.
- [Nick Varney: 23 years of Merlin highs and lows](https://riderater.co.uk/10103/nick-varney-23-years-of-merlin-highs-and-lows/): We take a look at some of Nick Varney's key moments at Merlin Entertainments.
- [Chessington recovers to pre-pandemic levels](https://riderater.co.uk/10093/chessington-recovers-to-pre-pandemic-levels/): Chessington World of Adventures' visitor numbers have returned to pre-pandemic levels, recently released figures reveal.
- [Theme parks vulnerable to public's 'cutbacks'](https://riderater.co.uk/10085/theme-parks-vulnerable-to-publics-cutbacks/): Theme parks have been found to be among spending the public are most likely to cut back on as inflation remains high.
- [Merlin Entertainments makes US sport veteran CEO](https://riderater.co.uk/10074/merlin-entertainments-makes-us-sport-veteran-ceo/): Merlin Entertainments has appointed Scott M O’Neil, a veteran businessman of US sport, as its chief executive.
- [Paultons Park seeks opinion on thrill rides](https://riderater.co.uk/10072/paultons-park-seeks-opinion-on-thrill-rides/): Paultons Park is undertaking market research into potential new additions, including thrill rides.
- [Nemesis: A modern miracle of engineering](https://riderater.co.uk/10048/nemesis-a-modern-miracle-of-engineering/): We take a look at Alton Towers' iconic Nemesis rollercoaster, as it prepares to close for re-works during 2023.
- [Merlin moves to align legacy membership passes](https://riderater.co.uk/10063/merlin-moves-to-align-legacy-membership-passes/): Merlin Entertainments is aligning its legacy Standard and Premium memberships with current Silver and Gold products.
- [Alton Towers plans 2025 indoor rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/10013/alton-towers-plans-2025-indoor-rollercoaster/): Alton Towers has submitted a planning application for a £12.5 million indoor rollercoaster.
- [Thorpe Park: 2024 rollercoaster to go ahead](https://riderater.co.uk/10011/thorpe-park-2024-rollercoaster-to-go-ahead/): Thorpe Park's proposed rollercoaster for 2024 will go ahead after the UK government declined to intervene.
- [Chessington planning indoor waterpark](https://riderater.co.uk/10008/chessington-planning-indoor-waterpark/): Chessington World of Adventures is preparing to present proposals for a new indoor waterpark at its Surrey site.
- [Avoiding the theme park struggles of the past](https://riderater.co.uk/9997/avoiding-the-theme-park-struggles-of-the-past/): We take a look at the possible factors influencing past and future theme park closures in the UK.
- [Madame Tussauds: King Charles waxwork vandalised](https://riderater.co.uk/9990/madame-tussauds-king-charles-waxwork-vandalised/): A waxwork of King Charles III has been vandalised by climate change protestors at London's Madame Tussauds.
- [Oakwood: Man's injuries 'not life-threatening'](https://riderater.co.uk/9988/oakwood-mans-injuries-not-life-threatening/): A man injured when he fell from the Treetops rollercoaster at Oakwood theme park has non-life-threatening injuries.
- [Oakwood theme park closes early after accident](https://riderater.co.uk/9976/oakwood-theme-park-closes-early-after-accident/): Oakwood theme park has closed early following an accident on the Treetops rollercoaster on Sunday.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach season to start later](https://riderater.co.uk/9970/blackpool-pleasure-beach-season-to-start-later/): Blackpool Pleasure beach has confirmed that it will open on 18 March next year, more than a month later than usual.
- [Merlin Discovery Pass: Dates further expanded](https://riderater.co.uk/9966/merlin-discovery-pass-dates-further-expanded/): Merlin Entertainments has increased the number of accessible days to holders its Discovery Pass from 208 to 211.
- ['No sensible offers' for Carters Steam Fair](https://riderater.co.uk/9956/no-sensible-offers-for-carters-steam-fair/): The owners of the vintage Carters Steam Fair have said that they are still looking for sensible offers for the attraction.
- [Hull Fair: 'Record 100,000 crowd' on Saturday](https://riderater.co.uk/9936/hull-fair-record-100000-crowd-on-saturday/): A record 100,000 people were estimated to have visited Hull Fair on Saturday, organisers said.
- [Drayton Manor confirms Apocalypse closure](https://riderater.co.uk/9927/drayton-manor-confirms-apocalypse-closure/): Drayton Manor has confirmed that the Apocalypse drop tower will be leaving the park at the end of this month.
- [Government to decide on Thorpe Park rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/9925/government-to-decide-on-thorpe-park-rollercoaster/): The UK government will decide the fate of Thorpe Park's proposed 2024 rollercoaster after the local council moved to approve plans.
- [Enterprise ride removed from Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/9914/enterprise-ride-removed-from-alton-towers/): Enterprise, one of the longest-serving rides at Alton Towers, has been removed from the theme park after 38 years.
- [Thorpe Park ride heading for government review](https://riderater.co.uk/9907/thorpe-park-ride-heading-for-government-review/): Runnymede Borough Council says it intends to refer plans for a new rollercoaster at Thorpe Park to the UK government for review.
- [Project Horizon: Alton Towers seeks council views](https://riderater.co.uk/9895/project-horizon-alton-towers-seeks-council-views/): Alton Towers has filed an environmental screening query with local authorities, as it looks to progress a new indoor attraction.
- [Project Horizon: Alton Towers consults on 'attraction'](https://riderater.co.uk/9887/project-horizon-alton-towers-consults-on-attraction/): Alton Towers held a public consultation on Friday where it outlined more details on a proposed 'indoor attraction'.
- [Nemesis: Alton Towers confirms re-track closure](https://riderater.co.uk/9882/nemesis-alton-towers-confirms-re-track-closure/): Alton Towers has confirmed that its Nemesis rollercoaster will close for re-tracking work at the end of this season.
- [Theme parks to close to mark Queen's funeral](https://riderater.co.uk/9860/theme-parks-to-close-to-mark-queens-funeral/): Major UK theme parks will close on Monday, 19 September to mark the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.
- [Council supports Thorpe Park over new rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/9863/council-supports-thorpe-park-over-new-rollercoaster/): Runnymede Borough Council (RBC) has written a supportive letter to the Environment Agency (EA) over Thorpe Park's proposed new rollercoaster.
- [When the Queen visited Legoland Windsor](https://riderater.co.uk/9851/when-the-queen-visited-legoland-windsor/): We take a look back on when the Queen visited Legoland Windsor.
- [The Ultimate: Rough, ready and rogue](https://riderater.co.uk/9797/the-ultimate-rough-ready-and-rogue/): As Lightwater Valley confirms the Ultimate has been decommissioned, we take a look back at the unique rollercoaster.
- [Alton Towers preparing new 'indoor attraction'](https://riderater.co.uk/9821/alton-towers-preparing-new-indoor-attraction/): Alton Towers has invited local residents to a public exhibition on proposals for a new 'indoor attraction'.
- [EA maintains objections to Thorpe Park rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/9828/ea-maintains-objections-to-thorpe-park-rollercoaster/): The Environment Agency (EA) has maintained its objections to the proposed 2024 rollercoaster at Thorpe Park.
- [Merlin Entertainments to operate Blackpool's Sandcastle](https://riderater.co.uk/9818/merlin-entertainments-to-operate-blackpools-sandcastle/): Merlin Entertainments has been awarded an operational contract to run Blackpool's Sandcastle Waterpark from September.
- [Legoland Windsor planning 'duelling coaster'](https://riderater.co.uk/9813/legoland-windsor-planning-duelling-coaster/): Legoland Windsor has submitted a planning query for a "duelling" junior shuttle-style rollercoaster.
- [Things to look out for in Thorpe Park announcement](https://riderater.co.uk/9304/things-to-look-out-for-in-thorpe-park-announcement/): Later this week, Thorpe Park will unveil details of its proposed next major rollercoaster. We set out a few things to look out for.
- [Lightwater Valley: Ultimate rollercoaster 'decommissioned'](https://riderater.co.uk/9795/lightwater-valley-ultimate-rollercoaster-decommissioned/): Lightwater Valley is advising visitors that the Ultimate rollercoaster has been "decommissioned" with no plans to re-open the ride.
- [Mystery over new Pleasure Beach wheel trademark](https://riderater.co.uk/9790/mystery-over-new-pleasure-beach-wheel-trademark/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach owners have registered a trademark under the name of Head Above the Clouds', it has emerged.
- [World of Jumanji: Chessington confirms new area](https://riderater.co.uk/9781/world-of-jumanji-chessington-confirms-new-area/): Chessington World of Adventures has confirmed that its new area for 2023 will be based around the Jumanji film franchise.
- [Valhalla delays 'due to technical and logistical issues'](https://riderater.co.uk/9768/valhalla-delays-due-to-technical-and-logistical-issues/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach owner Amanda Thompson has attributed delays with the re-opening of the Valhalla ride to "technical and logistical issues".
- [Fire at Legoland Windsor hotel](https://riderater.co.uk/9757/fire-at-legoland-windsor-hotel/): The exterior of the Legoland Windsor hotel caught fire on Sunday, forcing its closure.
- [How cracks in a rollercoaster are safely managed](https://riderater.co.uk/9737/how-cracks-in-a-rollercoaster-are-safely-managed/): We take a look at the issue of cracking in a rollercoaster, and how this is safely managed over its life.
- [Robbie Williams claims Blackpool Pleasure Beach offer](https://riderater.co.uk/8843/robbie-williams-claims-blackpool-pleasure-beach-offer/): Singer Robbie Williams has claimed that he was approached to buy Blackpool Pleasure Beach by its owners.
- [Nemesis rollercoaster to be restored](https://riderater.co.uk/9530/nemesis-rollercoaster-to-be-restored/): The Nemesis rollercoaster at Alton Towers is to have major restoration work including widespread track replacement.
- [Nemesis rollercoaster track replacement approved](https://riderater.co.uk/9610/nemesis-rollercoaster-track-replacement-approved/): Alton Towers' Nemesis rollercoaster will receive widespread track replacement after local authorities approved plans.
- [Merlin takes action over 'no-show' pre-bookings](https://riderater.co.uk/9731/merlin-takes-action-over-no-show-pre-bookings/): Holders of the Merlin Annual Pass who do not show up for pre-booked admission will potentially face penalties under a new system.
- [Theme parks prepare for UK heatwave](https://riderater.co.uk/9729/theme-parks-prepare-for-uk-heatwave/): Theme parks across the UK are preparing for a heatwave which could see temperatures reach 40°C (104°F).
- [Major objection to new Thorpe Park rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/9722/major-objection-to-new-thorpe-park-rollercoaster/): The Environment Agency has raised major objections to plans for a new rollercoaster at Thorpe Park.
- [Call for four-day bank holiday to be permanent](https://riderater.co.uk/9716/call-for-four-day-bank-holiday-to-be-permanent/): Adventure Island owner Philip Miller has added his voice to calls for a four-day bank holiday weekend to be made permanent.
- [Merlin Entertainments CEO Nick Varney to retire](https://riderater.co.uk/9650/merlin-entertainments-ceo-nick-varney-to-retire/): Merlin Entertainments chief executive officer Nick Varney has announced that he will retire in 12 months.
- [Merlin Entertainments looking to 'augment' queue lines](https://riderater.co.uk/9712/merlin-entertainments-looking-to-augment-queue-lines/): Merlin Entertainments is looking to add elements of augmented reality to queue lines at its attractions.
- [Sik: New Flamingo Land ride to open on 2 July](https://riderater.co.uk/9696/sik-new-flamingo-land-ride-to-open-on-2-july/): Flamingo Land's new 10-inversion rollercoaster Sik is set to open to the public on 2 July.
- [Apocalypse 'leaving Drayton Manor this season'](https://riderater.co.uk/9685/apocalypse-leaving-drayton-manor-this-season/): The Apocalypse drop tower will be leaving Drayton manor this season, reports say.
- [Fantasy Island: Free Odyssey rides for jubilee](https://riderater.co.uk/9664/fantasy-island-free-odyssey-rides-for-jubilee/): Fantasy Island will offer free rides on its Odyssey rollercoaster on 2 June to celebrate the Queen's platinum jubilee.
- [Carters Steam Fair to end touring this year](https://riderater.co.uk/9660/carters-steam-fair-to-end-touring-this-year/): The vintage travelling Carters Steam Fair will tour for the last time in 2022, its owners have announced.
- [Merlin turning to annual pass to aid recovery](https://riderater.co.uk/9642/merlin-turning-to-annual-pass-to-aid-recovery/): We take a look at how Merlin Entertainment's strategy towards its annual passes has been changing.
- [Starting out on the theme park career ladder](https://riderater.co.uk/9626/starting-out-on-the-theme-park-career-ladder/): We discuss the subject of Visitor Attraction and Resort Management with one of its students, Billy Rutherford.
- [Government blamed as theme park prices rise](https://riderater.co.uk/9621/government-blamed-as-theme-park-prices-rise/): The British government has been blamed for rises in theme park prices as coronavirus-related support came to an end on Friday.
- [The Ultimate to be relocated to Luna Park](https://riderater.co.uk/9617/the-ultimate-to-be-relocated-to-luna-park/): The Ultimate rollercoaster is to be relocated to the Luna Park fairground on Scarborough's promenade.
- [London Resort application withdrawn](https://riderater.co.uk/9615/london-resort-application-withdrawn/): Planners behind the proposed London Resort have withdrawn plans for the theme park complex.
- [Nottingham Goose fair returning in 2022](https://riderater.co.uk/9607/nottingham-goose-fair-returning-in-2022/): Nottingham Goose Fair is returning this year with an extended 10-day event following a two-year COVID-19 hiatus.
- [Could this be the end for the London Resort?](https://riderater.co.uk/9587/could-this-be-the-end-for-the-london-resort/): We take a look at what could be the final stages of life for the London Resort concept.
- [Alton Towers opening day sells out](https://riderater.co.uk/9584/alton-towers-opening-day-sells-out/): Alton Towers' opening day has sold out, with no further tickets available for Saturday's season opener.
- [Merlin Entertainments signs Jumanji deal](https://riderater.co.uk/9581/merlin-entertainments-signs-jumanji-deal/): Merlin Entertainments has signed an agreement with Sony Pictures Entertainment to exclusively launch Jumanji-themed attractions internationally.
- [Drayton Manor confirms new Vikings area](https://riderater.co.uk/9578/drayton-manor-confirms-new-vikings-area/): Drayton Manor has confirmed the addition of a new Nordic-themed area called Vikings this season.
- [Thorpe Park submits £18m rollercoaster plans](https://riderater.co.uk/9564/thorpe-park-submits-18m-rollercoaster-plans/): Thorpe Park has submitted a planning application for what would be the UK's tallest rollercoaster.
- [Enso: Pleasure Beach reveals access prices](https://riderater.co.uk/9560/enso-pleasure-beach-reveals-access-prices/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has revealed that it will charge up to £25 to access the spinning-seat-modified version of the Icon rollercoaster.
- [Seaside parks open UK theme park season](https://riderater.co.uk/9554/seaside-parks-open-uk-theme-park-season/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach and Adventure Island have re-opened, signalling the start of the 2022 UK theme park season.
- [Lightwater Valley rebrands as family park](https://riderater.co.uk/9548/lightwater-valley-rebrands-as-family-park/): Lightwater Valley has formalised its transition to a young family theme park, unveiling a new logo and tagline.
- [Merlin Entertainments to run Cadbury World](https://riderater.co.uk/9545/merlin-entertainments-to-run-cadbury-world/): Merlin Entertainments has completed a deal to take over the running of the Cadbury World attraction in Birmingham.
- [Merlin calls for withdrawal of London Resort plans](https://riderater.co.uk/9543/merlin-calls-for-withdrawal-of-london-resort-plans/): Merlin Entertainments has called for the withdrawal of a planning application for the proposed London Resort.
- [Inversion: Flamingo Land to open ride this summer](https://riderater.co.uk/9537/inversion-flamingo-land-to-open-ride-this-summer/): Flamingo Land has confirmed that it will open its new 10-inversion rollercoaster this summer.
- [Flamingo Land: 'Inversion' rollercoaster plans emerge](https://riderater.co.uk/7507/flamingo-land-inversion-rollercoaster-plans-emerge/): Flamingo Land has submitted a planning application for its forthcoming 10-inversion Intamin rollercoaster, referred to as 'Inversion'.
- [Chessington gets approval for Jumanji area](https://riderater.co.uk/9534/chessington-gets-approval-for-jumanji-area/): Chessington World of Adventures has been granted planning permission for what is expected to be a Jumanji-themed area and rollercoaster.
- [Lightwater Valley 'ahead of expectations'](https://riderater.co.uk/9522/lightwater-valley-ahead-of-expectations/): Lightwater Valley owner the Brighton Pier Group (BPG) has said that the theme park continues to trade "ahead of expectations".
- [Ultimate rollercoaster remains mothballed](https://riderater.co.uk/9514/ultimate-rollercoaster-remains-mothballed/): Lightwater Valley's Ultimate rollercoaster is to remain non-operational during 2022, the park has confirmed.
- [Alton Towers admission rises to £62](https://riderater.co.uk/9450/alton-towers-admission-rises-to-62/): On-the-day admission to Alton Towers has increased by almost 7%, to £62 for the 2022 season.
- [Invasion: Drayton Manor teases 2022 addition](https://riderater.co.uk/9442/invasion-drayton-manor-teases-2022-addition/): Drayton Manor has released a teaser video clip and web page for a new addition in 2022 dubbed Invasion.
- [Merlin Entertainments extends park leases](https://riderater.co.uk/9439/merlin-entertainments-extends-park-leases/): Merlin Entertainments has agreed to extend the leases on two of its UK theme parks in exchange for £33 million.
- [Photographer of the Year 2021: Marcus Delo](https://riderater.co.uk/9430/photographer-of-the-year-2021-marcus-delo/): Marcus Delo is RideRater's Photographer of the Year 2021, with his long-exposure shot of Funk'n'Fly at Alton Towers.
- [Best Park 2021: Adventure Island wins award](https://riderater.co.uk/9391/best-park-2021-adventure-island-wins-award/): Adventure Island has been named as Best Park 2021 by RideRater, entering our Hall of Fame.
- [YouTuber of the Year 2021: Slothy Vlogs](https://riderater.co.uk/9420/youtuber-of-the-year-2021-slothy-vlogs/): Slothy Vlogs has been named YouTuber of the Year 2021 by RideRater's readers and followers.
- [YouTuber of the Year 2021: Vote now](https://riderater.co.uk/9381/youtuber-of-the-year-2021-vote-now/): The nominations for RideRater's YouTuber of the Year 2021 award have been finalised and voting is now open.
- [YouTuber of the Year 2021: Final vote](https://riderater.co.uk/9410/youtuber-of-the-year-2021-final-vote/): Slothy Vlogs and Theme Park Worldwide are the finalists in the run-off vote for RideRater's YouTuber of the Year 2021 award.
- [Christmas Message 2020](https://riderater.co.uk/8666/christmas-message-2020/): This year's Christmas Message from the RideRater team.
- [Thorpe Park researching 'carnival' event](https://riderater.co.uk/9402/thorpe-park-researching-carnival-event/): Thorpe Park is conducting market research into a future carnival-style event at the attraction.
- [Thorpe Park looking to 'stay relevant'](https://riderater.co.uk/9387/thorpe-park-looking-to-stay-relevant/): Thorpe Park's has said that it is looking to remain "relevant and competitive" with its proposed new rollercoaster.
- [Best New Addition 2021: Tornado Springs](https://riderater.co.uk/9377/best-new-addition-2021-tornado-springs/): The Tornado Springs themed area at Paultons Park has won RideRater's Best New Addition Award for 2021.
- [Thorpe Park unveils rollercoaster visuals](https://riderater.co.uk/9363/thorpe-park-unveils-rollercoaster-visuals/): Thorpe Park has unveiled concept images depicting its proposed major new rollercoaster.
- [Thorpe Park planning 236-foot rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/9310/thorpe-park-planning-236-foot-rollercoaster/): Thorpe Park has unveiled proposals for a 236-foot (72-metre) rollercoaster in a consultation event held on Thursday.
- [Merlin Entertainments looking to acquire theme parks](https://riderater.co.uk/9321/merlin-entertainments-looking-to-acquire-theme-parks/): Merlin Entertainments has indicated that it plans to expand its portfolio of theme parks through the acquisition of existing attractions.
- [Photographer of the Year 2021: Enter now](https://riderater.co.uk/9313/photographer-of-the-year-2021-enter-now/): Be in with a chance of being RideRater's Photographer of the Year for 2021.
- [Thorpe Park planning new rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/9296/thorpe-park-planning-new-rollercoaster/): Thorpe Park will begin a public consultation into proposals for a major new rollercoaster next week.
- [Winter Wonderland returns to Hyde Park](https://riderater.co.uk/9293/winter-wonderland-returns-to-hyde-park/): The Winter Wonderland funfair has returned to London's Hyde Park following a one-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [Ensō: Icon rollercoaster to get spinning seats](https://riderater.co.uk/9290/enso-icon-rollercoaster-to-get-spinning-seats/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has confirmed that the Icon rollercoaster will be partially fitted with spinning seats.
- [Southport Pleasureland rollercoaster approved](https://riderater.co.uk/9287/southport-pleasureland-rollercoaster-approved/): Plans for a new vertical drop 35-metre (115-foot) rollercoaster at Southport Pleasureland have been approved.
- [Coaster Bot launches 2021 Vote Coasters poll](https://riderater.co.uk/9266/coaster-bot-launches-2021-vote-coasters-poll/): Theme park fansite Coaster Bot has launched its annual opinion poll to gauge the world's favourite rollercoasters.
- [The history of Alton Towers' ruins](https://riderater.co.uk/9002/the-history-of-alton-towers-ruins/): Possibly more iconic than any of its rollercoasters, the ruins at Alton Towers remain a centrepiece for the Staffordshire theme park.
- [The saddening decline of the chained oak tree](https://riderater.co.uk/4743/the-saddening-decline-of-the-chained-oak-tree/): The old chained oak tree which lies close to Alton Towers - and is synonymous with local legend - has seen better days.
- [London Resort asked for regular updates](https://riderater.co.uk/9251/london-resort-asked-for-regular-updates/): The government Examining Authority (ExA) has asked for regular updates on the repeatedly-delayed London Resort project.
- [Ensō: Pleasure Beach teases Icon changes](https://riderater.co.uk/9260/enso-pleasure-beach-teases-icon-changes/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has indicated that it will be making changes to the Icon rollercoaster in 2022.
- [London Resort: Councils 'concerned' by progress](https://riderater.co.uk/9247/london-resort-councils-concerned-by-progress/): Councils have expressed concern that "insufficient progress" is being made by the proposed London Resort theme park.
- [Rain an Achilles heel of Alton Towers' Thirteen](https://riderater.co.uk/9235/rain-an-achilles-heel-of-alton-towers-thirteen/): We take a look into Alton Towers' recent decision not to operate Thirteen in the rain.
- [Pandemonium leaving Drayton Manor](https://riderater.co.uk/9228/pandemonium-leaving-drayton-manor/): The Pandemonium flat ride is leaving Drayton Manor after 18 seasons of operation, as it closes for the last time on Sunday.
- [Innovation the cornerstone of Attraction Expo](https://riderater.co.uk/9207/innovation-the-cornerstone-of-attraction-expo/): We preview the Family Attraction Expo, which is returning to Birmingham's NEC this November.
- [Merlin Entertainments lost £426m in 2020](https://riderater.co.uk/9202/merlin-entertainments-lost-426m-in-2020/): Merlin Entertainments has reported a £426 million operating loss in 2020 following a two-thirds drop in visitors due to COVID-19.
- [Fundraiser launched for Fudstock-injured woman](https://riderater.co.uk/9198/fundraiser-launched-for-fudstock-injured-woman/): A fundraising campaign has been launched for a woman critically injured on a fairground ride at the Fudstock festival in Barrow.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach launches Freak Nights](https://riderater.co.uk/9189/blackpool-pleasure-beach-launches-freak-nights/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach is introducing a new Halloween-themed event called 'Journey to Hell Freak Nights' this October.
- [Merlin Discovery Pass dates expanded](https://riderater.co.uk/9192/merlin-discovery-pass-dates-expanded/): Merlin Entertainments has extended the range of dates available to holders of its entry-level 'Discovery' annual pass.
- [Merlin re-launching park-specific annual passes](https://riderater.co.uk/9180/merlin-re-launching-park-specific-annual-passes/): Merlin Entertainments is re-launching its theme park-specific annual passes after a period of withdrawal.
- [London Resort 'hanging over' local business](https://riderater.co.uk/9175/london-resort-hanging-over-local-business/): A businessman whose company is threatened with relocation has spoken of his opposition to the London Resort proposals in Kent.
- [Fudstock accident: Woman's condition improves](https://riderater.co.uk/9172/fudstock-accident-womans-condition-improves/): A 20-year-old woman's condition has improved after she was was critically injured in a fairground ride accident at the Fudstock festival.
- [Merlin Passes and Memberships back on sale](https://riderater.co.uk/9170/merlin-passes-and-memberships-back-on-sale/): Merlin Entertainments has put its Gold and Platinum annual passes back on sale to new customers after more than six months.
- [One critical after Barrow fairground ride accident](https://riderater.co.uk/9142/woman-critical-after-barrow-ride-accident/): One person is in a critical condition following a fairground ride accident at Cavendish Park in Barrow.
- [Is the walk-on amusement park format under threat?](https://riderater.co.uk/9132/is-the-walk-on-amusement-park-format-under-threat/): We consider the future of the free, walk-on admission model of the UK amusement park.
- [Family Attraction Expo returning for 2021](https://riderater.co.uk/9129/family-attraction-expo-returning-for-2021/): The Family Attraction Expo is returning to Birmingham's NEC this year after a COVID-19-enforced hiatus.
- [Landmark Adventure Park rollercoaster derails](https://riderater.co.uk/9126/landmark-adventure-park-rollercoaster-derails/): A rollercoaster partially derailed at the Landmark Forest Adventure Park in Scotland on Thursday, causing minor injuries.
- [£20 pass-holder charge for Alton Towers fireworks](https://riderater.co.uk/9123/20-pass-holder-charge-for-alton-towers-fireworks/): Alton Towers is charging annual and season pass-holders £20 for mandatory pre-booking for this autumn's fireworks event.
- [Chessington submits new rollercoaster plans](https://riderater.co.uk/9106/chessington-submits-new-rollercoaster-plans/): Chessington World of Adventures has submitted the planning application for its proposed new rollercoaster.
- [Winter Wonderland returns with pre-booking](https://riderater.co.uk/9103/winter-wonderland-returns-with-pre-booking/): The Hyde Park Winter Wonderland funfair will return this November, but pre-booking will required for admission.
- [Southport Pleasureland plans new rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/9094/southport-pleasureland-plans-new-rollercoaster/): Southport Pleasureland has submitted a planning application for a new vertical drop 35-metre (115-foot) rollercoaster.
- [Injuries on Carrickfergus fairground ride](https://riderater.co.uk/9077/injuries-on-carrickfergus-fairground-ride/): An incident involving a swinging chair ride at the Planet Fun fairground in Carrickfergus, County Antrim, has hospitalised six people.
- [Lightwater Valley owners to look at Ultimate](https://riderater.co.uk/9058/lightwater-valley-owners-to-look-at-ultimate/): The chief executive of Lightwater Valley's new owners has told RideRater that the company will look at various options relating to the Ultimate rollercoaster.
- [Lightwater Valley sold to Brighton Pier Group](https://riderater.co.uk/9049/lightwater-valley-sold-to-brighton-pier-group/): Lightwater Valley has been aquired by the Brighton Pier Group (BPG) in a deal worth up to £5 million.
- [East England theme parks during COVID-19](https://riderater.co.uk/9040/east-england-theme-parks-during-covid-19/): During a warm June weekend, we visited Adventure Island, Pleasurewood Hills and Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach.
- [Merlin Entertainments challenges Resort plans](https://riderater.co.uk/9027/merlin-entertainments-challenges-london-resort-plans/): Merlin Entertainments has moved to challenge the consultation process over the proposed London Resort theme park in Kent.
- [Chessington rollercoaster to be 'family thrill'](https://riderater.co.uk/8977/chessington-rollercoaster-to-be-family-thrill/): The project team behind Chessington World of Adventures' proposed new rollercoaster have said that the ride will have a 'family thrill' nature.
- [Chessington planning new rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/8970/chessington-planning-new-rollercoaster/): Chessington World of Adventures has launched a consultation on plans for a new rollercoaster in an Amazon-themed area of the park.
- [Winter Wonderland considering paid admission](https://riderater.co.uk/8966/winter-wonderland-considering-paid-admission/): Organisers of Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland event are undertaking customer research over pre-paid admission charges.
- [What was the point of Galactica?](https://riderater.co.uk/8099/what-was-the-point-of-galactica/): We take a look at the re-working of Alton Towers' Air rollercoaster into the space-themed Galactica.
- [Theme parks reopen in England](https://riderater.co.uk/8957/theme-parks-reopen-in-england/): Theme parks in England have reopened following the latest easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
- [Retro Squad: Marketing Alton Towers' new rides](https://riderater.co.uk/8942/retro-squad-marketing-alton-towers-new-rides/): We take a look at the surprising launch of the fairground rides being added to Alton Towers this season.
- [COVID-19 vaccines to be offered at theme parks](https://riderater.co.uk/8938/covid-19-vaccines-to-be-offered-at-theme-parks/): COVID-19 vaccines will be administered at theme parks in England after their expected reopening date of 12 April.
- [Alton Towers adds temporary fairground rides](https://riderater.co.uk/8885/alton-towers-adds-temporary-fairground-rides/): Alton Towers will host several fairground rides on a temporary basis this season, in an attempt to increase rides-per-guest numbers.
- [Drayton Manor: £1m fine following death](https://riderater.co.uk/8922/drayton-manor-1m-fine-following-death/): The legal entity that formerly operated Drayton Manor has been issued a £1 million fine following a child's death in 2017.
- [Preserving Britain's oldest rollercoasters](https://riderater.co.uk/8906/preserving-britains-oldest-rollercoasters/): We take a look at how theme park rides can become listed buildings, helping to ensure their preservation.
- [Merlin pass pre-booking site crashes at launch](https://riderater.co.uk/8893/merlin-pass-pre-booking-site-crashes-at-launch/): The pre-booking website for holders of Merlin Annual Passes temporarily crashed at launch this afternoon.
- [Survey shows strong support for virtual queueing](https://riderater.co.uk/8834/survey-shows-strong-support-for-virtual-queuing/): A survey of over 1,000 theme park visitors in the United States has indicated support of about 85% for virtual queueing.
- [Questions for Merlin over annual passes](https://riderater.co.uk/8826/questions-for-merlin-over-annual-passes/): We take a look at the possible reasons behind Merlin Entertainments' decision to take some of its annual pass off sale.
- [Fantasy Island to get Spinning Racer rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/8823/fantasy-island-to-get-spinning-racer-rollercoaster/): Fantasy Island will host the travelling Spinning Racer rollercoaster this season.
- [Eliminating theme park queues: A waiting game](https://riderater.co.uk/8807/eliminating-theme-park-queues-a-waiting-game/): In his latest column, Michael Mander discusses queuing at theme parks, and what the future might bring.
- [Theme parks could reopen on 12 April](https://riderater.co.uk/8804/theme-parks-could-reopen-on-12-april/): The UK government has announced that outdoor attractions including theme parks in England could re-open as soon as 12 April.
- [Virtual queuing expected at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/8797/virtual-queuing-expected-at-alton-towers/): A system of virtual queuing is expected to be launched at Alton Towers this year.
- [Editorial: The erosion of UK thrillseeker offerings](https://riderater.co.uk/8778/editorial-the-erosion-of-uk-thrillseeker-offerings/): Our latest editorial looks at the decline of the UK thrillseeker offerings by theme parks.
- [Lightwater Valley confirms shift to 'younger families'](https://riderater.co.uk/8766/lightwater-valley-confirms-shift-to-younger-families/): Lightwater Valley has confirmed its strategic shift to focusing on the "young family" market.
- [125 years of Blackpool Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/8731/125-years-of-blackpool-pleasure-beach/): 2021 marks the 125th anniversary of Blackpool Pleasure Beach. We take a look back at the park's multi-generation history.
- [Lightwater Valley: Raptor Attack and others removed](https://riderater.co.uk/8722/lightwater-valley-raptor-attack-and-others-removed/): Lightwater Valley has removed Raptor Attack and other thrill rides, as the park continues its shift toward the family market.
- [Virginia Reel: The rollercoaster that time forgot](https://riderater.co.uk/5662/virginia-reel-the-rollercoaster-that-time-forgot/): The Virginia Reel was one of the most exciting and untempered rollercoasters to have graced the world's amusement parks. We take a look back at the ride.
- [The Ropers: A timeline of war with Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/1268/the-ropers-a-timeline-of-war-with-alton-towers/): For more than 30 years, Stephen and Suzanne Roper have been at loggerheads with Britain's most popular theme park over its apparent impact on their daily lives.
- [Alton Towers to host 10k and half-marathon](https://riderater.co.uk/8700/alton-towers-to-host-10k-and-half-marathons/): Alton Towers will be the site of a 10 km and half-marathon running event this November.
- [YouTuber of the Year 2020: The Results](https://riderater.co.uk/8689/youtuber-of-the-year-2020-the-results/): We announce the winner of our YouTuber of the Year 2020 award.
- [Photographer of the Year 2020: The Results](https://riderater.co.uk/8670/photographer-of-the-year-2020-the-results/): The results of RideRater's Photographer of the Year 2020 competition are in.
- ['Very limited' damage from Drayton Manor fire](https://riderater.co.uk/8661/very-limited-damage-from-drayton-manor-fire/): Drayton Manor has said that a fire that broke out at the park last night has caused "very limited damage".
- [Croc Drop: Chessington ride name approved](https://riderater.co.uk/8652/croc-drop-chessington-ride-name-approved/): Chessington World of Adventures has secured approval for the naming of its forthcoming drop tower ride Croc Drop.
- [Merlin launches new Gold and Platinum passes](https://riderater.co.uk/8636/merlin-launches-new-gold-and-platinum-passes/): Merlin Entertainments has released a further two new annual passes for its UK attractions.
- [Walt Disney's Lincolnshire connection](https://riderater.co.uk/8631/walt-disneys-lincolnshire-connection/): We take a look at the links between Walt Disney and a quiet corner of Lincolnshire.
- [Lightwater Valley fined £350,000 over accident](https://riderater.co.uk/8627/lightwater-valley-fined-350000-over-accident/): Lightwater Valley has been ordered to pay £350,000 in fines and costs following an accident which saw a boy fall from a rollercoaster.
- [Photographer of the Year 2020: Enter now](https://riderater.co.uk/8617/photographer-of-the-year-2020-enter-now/): We are once again looking to name one of you our Photographer of the Year.
- [Best Park 2020: Alton Towers wins award](https://riderater.co.uk/8620/best-park-2020-alton-towers-wins-award/): Alton Towers has been named RideRater's Best Park for 2020.
- [Adventure Island reopening in December](https://riderater.co.uk/8614/adventure-island-reopening-in-december/): Adventure Island has announced that it will re-open for the first two weekends in December.
- [Best New Addition 2020: Garden Lights Walk](https://riderater.co.uk/8608/best-new-addition-2020-garden-lights-walk/): Garden Lights Walk: Whispering Souls, the new walk-through attraction at Alton Towers' Scarefest event, has won RideRater's Best new Addition award for 2020.
- [Merlin Discovery Pass: New product launched](https://riderater.co.uk/8590/merlin-discovery-pass-new-product-launched/): Merlin Entertainments has launched the first of its new annual passes which replace the former standard and premium products.
- [Crocs opposes new Chessington drop ride name](https://riderater.co.uk/8602/crocs-opposes-new-chessington-drop-ride-name/): American footwear manufacturer Crocs is opposing the naming of a forthcoming drop ride at Chessington World of Adventures.
- [COVID-19: Theme parks set to close again](https://riderater.co.uk/8560/covid-19-theme-parks-set-to-close-again/): Theme parks will be forced to close from Thursday after the British government announced a second COVID-19 lockdown in England.
- [COVID-19: Blackpool Pleasure Beach in 'Tier 3'](https://riderater.co.uk/8548/covid-19-blackpool-pleasure-beach-in-tier-3/): Lancashire has been placed in the government's 'very high' level of COVID-19 restrictions, affecting Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
- [Merlin theme parks confirm 2021 season dates](https://riderater.co.uk/8545/merlin-theme-parks-confirm-2021-season-dates/): Alton Towers and Thorpe Park have confirmed their 2021 season commencement dates and have placed tickets on sale.
- [Theme park annual passes under the cosh](https://riderater.co.uk/8538/theme-park-annual-passes-under-the-cosh/): We take a look at why annual and season passes appear to have have become something of a burden to theme parks in 2020.
- [Alton Towers: 44,000 sign disability awareness petition](https://riderater.co.uk/8532/alton-towers-44000-sign-disability-awareness-petition/): 44,000 people have signed a petition for Alton Towers staff to receive disability awareness training following a reported incident at the park.
- [The rise - and fall - of drop towers](https://riderater.co.uk/8518/the-rise-and-fall-of-drop-towers/): In his latest column, Michael Mander explores two approaches to introducing successful drop tower rides at theme parks.
- [Merlin Annual Passes removed from sale](https://riderater.co.uk/8478/merlin-annual-passes-removed-from-sale/): Merlin Entertainments has removed its annual passes from sale, as it looks set to announce new alternatives.
- [Merlin looks to 'revise and update' annual pass](https://riderater.co.uk/8473/merlin-looks-to-revise-and-update-annual-pass/): Merlin Entertainments has begun market research on the prospect of "revising and updating" its annual passes in the UK.
- [Alton Towers weekend passholder tickets sell out](https://riderater.co.uk/8443/alton-towers-weekend-passholder-tickets-sell-out/): Pre-bookable weekend tickets for holders of annual and season passes at Alton Towers have all been claimed.
- [Oktoberfest: What UK theme parks are doing](https://riderater.co.uk/8438/oktoberfest-what-uk-theme-parks-are-doing/): We take a glance at the UK theme park industry's Oktoberfest-themed offerings this year.
- [Why are so many Merlin food outlets closed?](https://riderater.co.uk/8420/why-are-so-many-merlin-food-outlets-closed/): We take a look at some of the potential reasons why closed food outlets are a regular feature at Merlin Entertainments' theme parks.
- [Fright Nights: £25 annual pass-holder charge](https://riderater.co.uk/8414/fright-nights-25-annual-pass-holder-charge/): Thorpe Park is charging up to £25 for holders of its season passes and the standard Merlin annual pass.
- [COVID-19: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland cancelled](https://riderater.co.uk/8411/covid-19-hyde-park-winter-wonderland-cancelled/): This year's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland event has been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, organisers have announced.
- [Theme parks in damage limitation mode](https://riderater.co.uk/8404/theme-parks-in-damage-limitation-mode/): We take a look at how theme parks are attempting to recoup their losses following more than three months of enforced enclosure.
- [Chained Oak nominated for Tree of the Year](https://riderater.co.uk/8400/chained-oak-nominated-for-tree-of-the-year/): The Chained Oak tree in Staffordshire, which influenced the Hex ride at Alton Towers, has been nominated for Tree of the Year 2020.
- [Nottingham Goose Fair cancelled due to COVID-19](https://riderater.co.uk/8395/nottingham-goose-fair-cancelled-due-to-covid-19/): Nottingham Goose Fair has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the city's council has announced.
- [Winter Wonderland planning to go ahead](https://riderater.co.uk/8391/winter-wonderland-planning-to-go-ahead/): Planners of Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland have told RideRater that they are planning on running the event as originally scheduled.
- [Alton Towers water supply hit by thunderstorms](https://riderater.co.uk/8384/alton-towers-water-supply-hit-by-thunderstorms/): Overnight thunderstorms in Staffordshire have caused Alton Towers' water supply to be cut off.
- [Theme parks and face masks: New laws on way](https://riderater.co.uk/8359/theme-parks-and-face-masks-new-laws-on-way/): New laws regarding face coverings affecting theme parks will come into effect in England from Saturday.
- [Maintenance worker injured at Flamingo Land](https://riderater.co.uk/8362/maintenance-worker-injured-at-flamingo-land/): A maintenance worker has been hospitalised for leg injuries whilst working on a rollercoaster at Flamingo Land.
- [Drayton Manor sold to Looping Group](https://riderater.co.uk/8346/drayton-manor-sold-to-looping-group/): Drayton Manor has been sold to Pleasurewood Hills operators Looping Group, it has been announced.
- [Drayton Manor going into administration](https://riderater.co.uk/8332/drayton-manor-going-into-administration/): Drayton Manor has filed notice of its intent to appoint administrators.
- [London Resort consultation: 7 things we learned](https://riderater.co.uk/8325/london-resort-consultation-7-things-we-learned/): We take a look at the things we learned from the first public consultation forum on the London Resort.
- [VAT cut: Theme parks not passing on savings](https://riderater.co.uk/8319/vat-cut-merlin-parks-not-passing-on-savings/): British theme parks are not passing on the government's reduction in VAT in their admission charges.
- [Alton Towers Oktoberfest event extended](https://riderater.co.uk/8315/alton-towers-oktoberfest-event-extended/): Alton Towers has extended the duration of its Oktoberfest-themed event this autumn, with 8:30pm weekend park closes also confirmed.
- [Thorpe Park reduces Fright Nights closes to 9pm](https://riderater.co.uk/8312/thorpe-park-reduces-fright-nights-closes-to-9pm/): Thorpe Park has reduced the closing time of its Halloween season Fright Nights events by one hour, to 9pm.
- [Thorpe Park stabbing: Man leaves hospital](https://riderater.co.uk/8310/thorpe-park-stabbing-man-leaves-hospital/): A man seriously injured in a knife attack at Thorpe Park on Saturday has been discharged from hospital.
- [Thorpe Park's challenges after blade assault](https://riderater.co.uk/8298/thorpe-parks-challenges-after-blade-assault/): We take a look at some of the issues around yesterday's blade assault at Thorpe Park.
- [Police deal with incident at Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/8275/police-deal-with-incident-at-thorpe-park/): Guests were held inside Thorpe Park on Saturday evening as police responded to a serious incident.
- [Fire destroys Blackpool Central Pier ride](https://riderater.co.uk/8265/fire-destroys-blackpool-central-pier-ride/): A fire has destroyed a waltzer ride on Blackpool's Central Pier in the early hours of Friday morning.
- [The London Resort: What's going on?](https://riderater.co.uk/8247/the-london-resort-whats-going-on/): Michael Mander provides the full story of the London Resort and its many twists and turns.
- [Government cuts VAT on tourist attractions](https://riderater.co.uk/8243/government-cuts-vat-on-tourist-attractions/): The Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced that value-added tax (VAT) on tourist attractions will be cut from 20% to 5% for six months.
- [Lightwater Valley to reopen on 18 July](https://riderater.co.uk/8225/lightwater-valley-to-reopen-on-18-july/): Lightwater Valley has announced that it will reopen on 18 July, but with several thrill rides remaining closed.
- [English theme parks cleared to reopen on 4 July](https://riderater.co.uk/8199/english-theme-parks-cleared-to-reopen-on-4-july/): Theme parks in England will be permitted to open from 4 July, the UK government has confirmed.
- [Four seriously hurt in Alton Towers Smiler crash](https://riderater.co.uk/4871/four-seriously-hurt-in-alton-towers-smiler-crash/): Four people have been seriously injured following a collision between two trains on the Smiler rollercoaster at Alton Towers.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach extends 2020 season](https://riderater.co.uk/8193/blackpool-pleasure-beach-extends-2020-season/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach will extend its season into weekends up to 13 December amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [Valhalla: 20 years of fire and ice](https://riderater.co.uk/8182/valhalla-20-years-of-fire-and-ice/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach's famous dark water ride Valhalla has turned 20. We take a look at its history and potential future.
- [London Resort: 7 themed areas named](https://riderater.co.uk/8171/london-resort-7-themed-areas-named/): Seven themed areas have been announced for the proposed London Resort theme park, ahead of public unveiling of plans.
- [Merlin 'expects to reopen' theme parks on 4 July](https://riderater.co.uk/8159/merlin-expects-to-reopen-theme-parks-on-4-july/): Merlin Entertainments has said that it expects to reopen its UK theme parks on 4 July.
- [Alton Towers and Warwick Castle to open grounds](https://riderater.co.uk/8156/alton-towers-and-warwick-castle-to-open-grounds/): Alton Towers and Warwick Castle will reopen their respective gardens and grounds to the public from this Saturday.
- [2010s: Theme park moments of the decade](https://riderater.co.uk/7859/2010s-theme-park-moments-of-the-decade/): We take a look back at some of the most memorable moments of the UK theme park industry's past decade.
- [How do Merlin’s reopening plans compare to Asia?](https://riderater.co.uk/8141/how-do-merlins-reopening-plans-compare-to-asia/): Michael Mander examines how Asian theme parks have reopened after COVID-19 peaks, and asks what lessons the UK can learn.
- [COVID-19: Merlin outlines plans to reopen parks](https://riderater.co.uk/8136/covid-19-merlin-outlines-plans-to-reopen-parks/): Merlin Entertainments has outlined how its UK theme parks will reopen when it is allowed to by the government.
- [Lightwater Valley to be prosecuted after fall](https://riderater.co.uk/8128/lightwater-valley-to-be-prosecuted-after-fall/): Lightwater Valley is to be prosecuted after a boy fell from the Twister rollercoaster last year.
- [Hull Fair cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic](https://riderater.co.uk/8121/hull-fair-cancelled-due-to-covid-19-pandemic/): Hull Fair will not go ahead in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, the city's council has confirmed.
- [Coaster Bot raises money for NHS charities](https://riderater.co.uk/8105/coaster-bot-raises-money-for-nhs-charities/): Theme park YouTube channel Coaster Bot has raised more than £2,000 for National Health Service charities in an 8-hour live broadcast.
- [Picsolve: Photo provider enters administration](https://riderater.co.uk/8096/picsolve-photo-provider-enters-administration/): Picsolve, the company behind many of the on-ride souvenir photographs at UK theme parks has entered administration amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [Coronavirus 'may influence future ride design'](https://riderater.co.uk/8091/coronavirus-may-influence-future-ride-design/): A former director of Merlin Entertainments has said that theme parks may need to consider coronavirus in the design of future rides.
- [Are IP attractions here to stay in the UK?](https://riderater.co.uk/8076/are-ip-attractions-here-to-stay-in-the-uk/): In the first of his regular columns with RideRater, attractions writer Michael Mander looks at the future of intellectual property (IP) attractions in the UK.
- [Paultons Park 'waiting to welcome guests back'](https://riderater.co.uk/8060/paultons-park-waiting-to-welcome-guests-back/): Paultons Park has said it will be "ready and waiting" to welcome guests back as soon as the government allows it to do so.
- [Michael Mander joins RideRater for column](https://riderater.co.uk/8000/michael-mander-joins-riderater-for-column/): Michael Mander has joined RideRater as a columnist, and will provide feature and analysis pieces going forward.
- [Alton must tread carefully to avoid PR disaster](https://riderater.co.uk/4912/alton-must-tread-carefully-to-avoid-pr-disaster-2/): Guest writer Michael Mander suggests that Alton Towers may be best re-launching The Smiler rollercoaster following an accident this week.
- [Editorial: Prepare for no theme parks in 2020](https://riderater.co.uk/8006/editorial-prepare-for-no-theme-parks-in-2020/): Our Editor offers his views on how the COVID-19 situation is likely to have a crippling effect on UK theme parks in 2020.
- [M&D's theme park enters administration](https://riderater.co.uk/8012/mds-theme-park-enters-administration/): Scotland's last remaining major theme park M&Ds has entered administration with the loss of 165 jobs.
- [Tornado Springs opening delayed until 2021](https://riderater.co.uk/7997/tornado-springs-opening-delayed-until-2021/): Paultons Park has announced that it is delaying the opening of its new 1950s American-themed area until 2021.
- [Covid-19: Alton Towers and Pleasure Beach close](https://riderater.co.uk/7985/covid-19-alton-towers-and-pleasure-beach-close/): Alton Towers and Blackpool Pleasure Beach have become the latest theme parks to announce their closures due to the coronavirus outbreak.
- [Coronavirus: Drayton Manor to remain closed](https://riderater.co.uk/7977/coronavirus-drayton-manor-to-remain-closed/): Drayton Manor has become the first major UK theme park to announce that it will not open due to the coronavirus pandemic.
- [Coronavirus: Merlin theme parks planning to open](https://riderater.co.uk/7968/coronavirus-merlin-theme-parks-planning-to-open/): UK theme parks operated by Merlin Entertainments are planning to open as normal this month.
- [Coronavirus: UK theme parks 'may be closed'](https://riderater.co.uk/7961/coronavirus-uk-theme-parks-may-be-closed/): UK theme parks may be forced to close as the government prepares to ban gatherings of more than 500 people in response to the coronavirus outbreak.
- [Lightwater Valley returns to profit](https://riderater.co.uk/7946/lightwater-valley-returns-to-profit-2/): Lightwater Valley returned to profit in its first full year of trading under new owners Livingstone Leisure.
- [Alton Towers: Oktoberfest for 40th anniversary](https://riderater.co.uk/7932/alton-towers-oktoberfest-for-40th-anniversary/): Alton Towers will host Oktoberfest-themed weekends as part of its 40th anniversary celebrations this year.
- [Lightwater Valley: Twister rollercoaster leaving](https://riderater.co.uk/7922/lightwater-valley-twister-rollercoaster-leaving/): Lightwater Valley is to remove the Twister rollercoaster ahead of its 2020 season, RideRater understands.
- [Bid to make Scottish fairgrounds easier to hold](https://riderater.co.uk/7907/bid-to-make-scottish-fairgrounds-easier-to-hold/): A bill is being proposed to the Scottish Parliament which, if enacted, would reduce barriers to travelling funfairs.
- [Blackpool Central complex given go-ahead](https://riderater.co.uk/7915/blackpool-central-complex-given-go-ahead/): A £300 million entertainment complex in Blackpool has been given the go-ahead by the local authorities.
- [Fantasy Island to add new ride 'Turbulence'](https://riderater.co.uk/7901/fantasy-island-to-add-new-ride-turbulence/): Fantasy Island will add a new spinning flat ride called Turbulence for the 2020 season.
- [Drayton Manor dismantling G Force rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/7897/drayton-manor-dismantling-g-force-rollercoaster/): Drayton Manor is dismantling the G Force rollercoaster, which has stood closed since 2018.
- [How can you become a ride designer?](https://riderater.co.uk/4503/how-can-you-become-a-ride-designer/): We take a look at how you might be able to become intricately involved with theme park rides.
- [Christmas Message 2019](https://riderater.co.uk/7851/christmas-message-2019/): The traditional Christmas Message from RideRater.
- [Photographer of the Year 2019: Caleb Gill](https://riderater.co.uk/7844/photographer-of-the-year-2019-caleb-gill/): Caleb Gill is RideRater’s Photographer of the Year 2019, with his crystal clear capture of the Wicker Man structure at Alton Towers.
- [Valhalla ride to remain closed during 2020](https://riderater.co.uk/7841/valhalla-ride-to-remain-closed-during-2020/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has announced that the Valhalla water ride will be closed for refurbishment during the 2020 season.
- [Varney interview among most complained moments](https://riderater.co.uk/7834/varney-interview-among-most-complained-moments/): A news interview with Merlin Entertainments’ Nick Varney was one of the most complained about television moments of the past decade.
- [Water rides: 'Risk of future deaths' without action](https://riderater.co.uk/7825/further-water-ride-death-risk-without-action/): Several British theme parks have been requested to make safety improvements to their water rides following a death at Drayton Manor.
- [Photographer of the Year 2019: Entries open](https://riderater.co.uk/7812/photographer-of-the-year-2019-entries-open/): As another busy theme park season draws to a close in 2019, we are looking to name one of you our Photographer of the Year.
- [YouTuber of the Year 2019: Coaster Bot](https://riderater.co.uk/7804/youtuber-of-the-year-2019-coaster-bot/): Coaster Bot has been voted by RideRater's followers as their YouTuber of the Year 2019.
- [Best New Addition 2019: Axis wins award](https://riderater.co.uk/7779/best-new-addition-2019-axis-wins-award/): The Axis frisbee ride at Adventure Island has won RideRater's 'Best New Addition' award for 2019.
- [YouTuber of the Year 2019: Finalists announced](https://riderater.co.uk/7796/youtuber-of-the-year-2019-finalists-announced/): Voting is now open between the two finalists in RideRater's YouTuber of the Year Award 2019.
- [YouTuber of the Year 2019: Voting open](https://riderater.co.uk/7759/youtuber-of-the-year-2019-voting-open/): Voting is now open in the 2019 RideRater YouTuber of the Year Award.
- [Valhalla: Sustainability 'essential for ride's future'](https://riderater.co.uk/7788/valhalla-sustainability-essential-for-ride/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach managing director Amanda Thompson has said that sustainability is essential for the future of the Valhalla water ride.
- [Best Park 2019: Blackpool Pleasure Beach wins award](https://riderater.co.uk/7784/best-park-2019-blackpool-pleasure-beach-wins-award/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach is the winner of RideRater's Best Park Award for 2019.
- [UK theme parks urged to conduct CCTV training](https://riderater.co.uk/7773/uk-theme-parks-urged-to-conduct-cctv-training/): A coroner is writing to all UK theme parks asking them to conduct CCTV training after a girl was ruled to have died accidentally at Drayton Manor.
- [Vlogger of the Year 2018: Voting open](https://riderater.co.uk/7161/vlogger-of-the-year-2018-voting-open/): Voting in Ride Rater's inaugural Vlogger of the Year award is now open. VOTE NOW!
- [Vlogger of the Year 2018: Finalists announced](https://riderater.co.uk/7215/vlogger-of-the-year-2018-finalists-announced/): Slothy Vlogs and Theme Park Worldwide are the two finalists of Ride Rater's inaugural Vlogger of the Year award. Vote for the winner now!
- [Family Attraction Expo 'brilliant place' for enthusiasts](https://riderater.co.uk/7749/family-attraction-expo-brilliant-place-for-enthusiasts/): The Family Attraction Expo has been described as a "brilliant place" for theme park enthusiasts to attend, as it gears up for its fifth event.
- [Hull Fair: Woman seriously injured in ride fall](https://riderater.co.uk/7735/hull-fair-woman-seriously-injured-in-ride-fall/): A woman has been seriously injured after falling from a ride at Hull Fair on Monday evening.
- [Alton Towers: Blade ride seen removed](https://riderater.co.uk/7728/alton-towers-blade-ride-seen-removed/): The Blade pirate ship-style ride has been seen removed from Alton Towers, amid confusion over its future.
- [Sweet factory to be built on Pleasure Island site](https://riderater.co.uk/7461/sweet-factory-to-be-built-on-pleasure-island-site/): Europe's largest sweet factory is to be built on the site of the former Pleasure Island theme park in Cleethorpes.
- [Family Attraction Expo heading into 5th year](https://riderater.co.uk/7714/family-attraction-expo-heading-into-5th-year/): The Family Attraction Expo returns to Birmingham's NEC this November, for its fifth event.
- [Scarefest 2019: Terror of the Towers returns](https://riderater.co.uk/7709/scarefest-2019-terror-of-the-towers-returns/): The Terror of the Towers scare maze is to return to Alton Towers' Halloween Scarefest event this year.
- [Chessington: New ride replacing Rameses Revenge](https://riderater.co.uk/7702/chessington-new-ride-replacing-rameses-revenge/): The Rameses Revenge ride is leaving Chessington World of Adventures this season, after more than 24 years of operation.
- [Morwenna Angove: Alton Towers' mysterious marketer](https://riderater.co.uk/7690/morwenna-angove-alton-towers-mysterious-marketer/): We take a look back at Morwenna Angove's time as marketing director at Alton Towers, and her infamous launch of the Thirteen rollercoaster.
- [Super Break collapse affects theme park bookings](https://riderater.co.uk/7684/super-break-collapse-affects-theme-park-bookings/): Consumers who have booked theme park admission through the Super Break organisation have been advised that their vouchers cannot be accepted.
- [Fantasy Island: Three years under Mellors](https://riderater.co.uk/7483/fantasy-island-three-years-under-mellors/): We take a look at the changes new owners Mellors have made to Fantasy Island.
- [UK Theme Park Hall of Fame launched](https://riderater.co.uk/7671/uk-theme-park-hall-of-fame-launched/): A new website honouring key people and rides from the UK theme park industry has been launched.
- [Merlin Entertainments set to be taken private](https://riderater.co.uk/7659/merlin-entertainments-set-to-be-taken-private/): Merlin Entertainments is set to be taken into private ownership after a £5.9 billion buyout offer was made by a consortium.
- [Wicker Man 'unavailable due to maintenance'](https://riderater.co.uk/7654/wicker-man-unavailable-due-to-maintenance/): Alton Towers has closed its Wicker Man rollercoaster for what the park describes as 'maintenance'.
- [Flamingo Land's statement of intent with Inversion](https://riderater.co.uk/7596/flamingo-lands-statement-of-intent-with-inversion/): We explore the realisation that Flamingo Land is adding a world-class rollercoaster to its lineup.
- [Three theme park charity cycle trek for Coaster Bot](https://riderater.co.uk/7635/three-theme-park-charity-cycle-trek-for-coaster-bot/): Team members from the fan website Coaster Bot are undertaking a charity fundraiser which will see them cycle to three theme parks in one day.
- [Lightwater Valley: Injured boy leaves hospital](https://riderater.co.uk/7592/lightwater-valley-injured-boy-leaves-hospital/): A seven-year-old boy who was injured when he fell from the Twister rollercoaster at Lightwater Valley has been discharged from hospital.
- [Flamingo Land: Inversion 'to open for 2020 season'](https://riderater.co.uk/7518/flamingo-land-inversion-to-open-in-2020/): Flamingo Land expects to open its 10-inversion rollercoaster - dubbed 'Inversion' - for the start of the 2020 season.
- [Lightwater Valley: Boy 'improving' after accident](https://riderater.co.uk/7512/lightwater-valley-boy-improving-after-accident/): A seven-year-old boy who fell from the Twister rollercoaster at Lightwater Valley has been described as 'improving' by police.
- [Lightwater Valley accident: Boy now 'critical'](https://riderater.co.uk/7493/lightwater-valley-accident-boy-now-critical/): A boy who fell from a rollercoaster at Lightwater Valley is now described as being in a "critical" condition.
- [Lightwater Valley: Boy 'falls from rollercoaster'](https://riderater.co.uk/7489/lightwater-valley-boy-falls-from-rollercoaster/): A seven-year-old boy was taken to hospital after falling from a Lightwater Valley rollercoaster, according to eyewitnesses.
- [How the papers covered the Shockwave stoppage](https://riderater.co.uk/7476/how-the-papers-covered-the-shockwave-stoppage/): We take a look at some of the most bizarre coverage of Drayton Manor's Shockwave rollercoaster's lift hill stoppage.
- [The smells and aromas of theme parks](https://riderater.co.uk/7465/the-smells-and-aromas-of-theme-parks/): We talk to the managing director of AromaPrime, one of the leaders in 'theme park smells'.
- [Beast ride leaving Fantasy Island](https://riderater.co.uk/7457/beast-ride-leaving-fantasy-island/): Fantasy Island has announced that the Beast flat ride will be leaving the Lincolnshire amusement park after 18 years.
- [M&Ds theme park fined £65,000 over Tsunami crash](https://riderater.co.uk/7429/mds-theme-park-fined-65000-over-tsunami-crash/): Scottish theme park M&Ds has been fined £65,000 after a rollercoaster crash in June 2016.
- [Flamingo Land to add 10-inversion rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/7392/flamingo-land-to-add-10-inversion-rollercoaster/): Flamingo Land is to add a 10-inversion Intamin rollercoaster similar to that of Colossus at Thorpe Park, Ride Rater understands.
- [Theme parks' dilemma: The British weather](https://riderater.co.uk/7415/theme-parks-dilemma-the-british-weather/): We take a look at how the British weather can be a winless battle for UK theme parks in the first quarter of the year.
- [Theme parks reach capacity in mild weather](https://riderater.co.uk/7407/theme-parks-reach-capacity-in-mild-weather/): Theme parks reported reaching full capacity on Saturday after sunshine and unseasonably mild weather hit the UK.
- [Thorpe Park confirms Loggers Leap closure](https://riderater.co.uk/7379/thorpe-park-confirms-loggers-leap-closure/): Thorpe Park has confirmed the permanent closure of the Loggers Leap flume ride.
- [Alton Towers Dungeon: Boat ride confirmed](https://riderater.co.uk/7301/alton-towers-dungeon-boat-ride-confirmed/): The Alton Towers Dungeon experience will be around 45 minutes in length and feature a "hideously scary" boat ride.
- [Editorial: The Alton Towers Dungeon is an opportunity](https://riderater.co.uk/7316/editorial-the-alton-towers-dungeon-is-an-opportunity/): Could the Alton Towers Dungeon prove to be a surprising catalyst for greater offerings at the park?
- [Adventure Island boss on rides, Southend and Brexit](https://riderater.co.uk/7354/adventure-island-boss-on-rides-southend-and-brexit/): We speak to Adventure Island owner Philip Miller about rollercoasters, Brexit and council battles.
- [Paultons Park announces Tornado Springs area for 2020](https://riderater.co.uk/7344/paultons-park-announces-tornado-springs-area-for-2020/): Paultons Park has announced details of a new themed area for 2020, to be called Tornado Springs.
- [2019 UK theme park season to begin](https://riderater.co.uk/7336/2019-uk-theme-park-season-to-begin/): The 2019 UK theme park season begins on Saturday, with Blackpool Pleasure Beach and Adventure Island opening for the first time this year.
- [Alton Towers Dungeon admission price is £7.50](https://riderater.co.uk/7283/alton-towers-dungeon-admission-price-is-7-50/): Admission to the new Alton Towers Dungeon will cost £7.50 on top of theme park admission, it has been confirmed.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach reports £3 million loss](https://riderater.co.uk/7279/blackpool-pleasure-beach-reports-3-million-loss/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has reported a pre-tax loss of £3 million for the year to 25 March 2018.
- [Merlin Annual Pass: Monthly Membership returns](https://riderater.co.uk/7250/merlin-annual-pass-monthly-membership-returns/): The Merlin Annual Pass is once again being offered to customers via a direct debit option known as 'Monthly Membership'. A similar scheme was launched in the summer of 2013, but was withdrawn to new customers in February the following year for unspecified reasons. The new monthly memberships feature a one-off joining fee followed by
- [Fantasy Island to add Ice Mountain rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/7272/fantasy-island-to-add-ice-mountain-rollercoaster/): Fantasy Island operators Mellors have announced that they will be bringing their Ice Mountain rollercoaster concept to the park this year.
- [Pleasurewood Hills owner buys West Midland Safari Park](https://riderater.co.uk/7269/pleasurewood-hills-owner-buys-west-midland-safari-park/): The West Midland Safari Park has been bought by Pleasurewood Hills owner Groupe Looping.
- [Christmas Message 2018](https://riderater.co.uk/7262/christmas-message-2018/): As the year draws to a close, we would like very much as ever to express our gratitude for your support.
- [Photographer of the Year 2018: Becky Spencer-Smith](https://riderater.co.uk/7243/photographer-of-the-year-2018-becky-spencer-smith/): Becky Spencer-Smith is Ride Rater's Photographer of the Year 2018, with her stunning slow-exposure shot of The Swarm at Thorpe Park. Once again we received a large amount of quality entries, but our team could select only one winner. Congratulations to Becky, who now enters our Hall of Fame alongside our past winners of the
- [Photographer of the Year 2018: Entries open](https://riderater.co.uk/7171/photographer-of-the-year-2018-entries-open/): Entries to our Photographer of the Year 2018 competition are now open. Submit your best effort now!
- [Vlogger of the Year 2018: Theme Park Worldwide](https://riderater.co.uk/7228/vlogger-of-the-year-2018-theme-park-worldwide/): Theme Park Worldwide have been voted as Ride Rater Vlogger of the Year 2018, following a poll of our readers.
- [Best Park 2018: Blackpool Pleasure Beach wins award](https://riderater.co.uk/7206/best-park-2018-blackpool-pleasure-beach-wins-award/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has won Ride Rater's Best Park award for 2018, following a year of high-quality investment and operations.
- [Best New Addition 2018: Wicker Man wins award](https://riderater.co.uk/7197/best-new-addition-2018-wicker-man-wins-award/): Alton Towers' wooden rollercoaster Wicker Man is the winner of Ride Rater's Best New Addition award for 2018.
- [UK theme park season ends](https://riderater.co.uk/7188/uk-theme-park-season-ends/): The main theme park season in the United Kingdom has drawn to a close, following a year of major rollercoaster investments.
- [Teacup ride 'detaches and hits crowd' at Leeds Castle](https://riderater.co.uk/7180/teacup-ride-detaches-and-hits-crowd-at-leeds-castle/): Three girls were injured when a teacup-style fairground ride carriage detached and hit a crowd at a fairground at Leeds Castle, Kent.
- [Alton Towers Dungeon: Additional charge confirmed](https://riderater.co.uk/7175/alton-towers-dungeon-additional-charge-confirmed/): The Alton Towers Dungeon will attract an additional cost of admission on top of park entry when it opens next season, it has been confirmed.
- [Stray guest causes safety incident on Oblivion](https://riderater.co.uk/1758/trespasser-causes-oblivion-emergency-stop/): A guest at Alton Towers caused a major safety incident when he entered the underground section of the Oblivion rollercoaster on Tuesday. Eyewitness accounts reported a man as climbing over the safety fences and emerging on a ledge where the ride track enters the ground (see picture below). Unverified reports have claimed that he waded
- [Final remnants of Pleasure Island on sale this weekend](https://riderater.co.uk/7152/final-remnants-of-pleasure-island-on-sale-this-weekend/): A second auction is being held at the former Pleasure Island theme park this weekend, as owners look to sell off the final remnants of the park.
- [Alton Towers Dungeon: Attraction confirmed for 2019](https://riderater.co.uk/7148/alton-towers-dungeon-attraction-confirmed-for-2019/): Alton Towers has confirmed that it is adding a Dungeon attraction as a new addition for its 2019 season.
- [Drayton Manor: G Force closed for rest of season](https://riderater.co.uk/7142/drayton-manor-g-force-closed-for-rest-of-season/): Drayton Manor has closed the G Force rollercoaster for the rest of the theme park's season due to maintenance issues.
- [Vlogger of the Year 2018: Nominees announced](https://riderater.co.uk/7138/vlogger-of-the-year-2018-nominees-announced/): You have decided the 12 nominees for our inaugural Vlogger of the Year award. Voting will follow in November.
- [Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary closing down in October](https://riderater.co.uk/7134/scottish-sea-life-sanctuary-closing-down-in-october/): The Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary in Oban is to close after 39 years, operator Merlin Entertainments has announced.
- [NEC Birmingham gearing up for Family Attraction Expo](https://riderater.co.uk/7119/nec-birmingham-gearing-up-for-family-attraction-expo/): The National Exhibition Centre is gearing up for the Family Attraction Exposition on 7 and 8 November this year.
- [Alton Towers: Sub-Terra building back for Scarefest](https://riderater.co.uk/7107/alton-towers-sub-terra-building-back-for-scarefest/): Alton Towers will bring the Nemesis Sub-Terra ride's building back into use as a new scare maze at this year's Scarefest Halloween event.
- [Galactica ride running without virtual reality element](https://riderater.co.uk/7097/galactica-ride-running-without-virtual-reality-element/): Alton Towers has been operating its Galactica rollercoaster without virtual reality headsets in recent days, two-and-half years after it was added to the ride.
- [Pleasure Island: Second auction to be held at park](https://riderater.co.uk/7083/pleasure-island-second-auction-to-be-held-at-park/): A second auction is to be held at the former Pleasure Island theme park this autumn, as more items look to be sold off.
- [Nick Varney: Brexit 'is good' for Merlin Entertainments](https://riderater.co.uk/7077/nick-varney-brexit-is-good-for-merlin-entertainments/): Merlin Entertainments chief executive Nick Varney has said that the UK leaving the European Union is potentially "good" for the company.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach car parking charge hits £18](https://riderater.co.uk/7065/blackpool-pleasure-beach-car-parking-charge-hits-18/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach's variable parking charge for its main car park hit £18 this weekend, which is understood to be a new record.
- [Thorpe Park car parking charge rises to £8](https://riderater.co.uk/7060/thorpe-park-car-parking-charge-rises-to-8/): Thorpe Park has increased its daily car parking charge to £8 ahead of the theme park's busiest periods of the year.
- [Blackpool Wild Mouse car being auctioned for charity](https://riderater.co.uk/7054/blackpool-wild-mouse-car-being-auctioned-for-charity/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach is auctioning off a ride car from its former Wild Mouse rollercoaster, with proceeds being given to charity.
- [Woman injured on Nottingham fairground ride](https://riderater.co.uk/7050/woman-injured-on-nottingham-fairground-ride/): A woman was hospitalised on Sunday evening following a fairground ride accident in Nottingham city centre.
- [Alton Towers plans Dungeon attraction within park](https://riderater.co.uk/7038/alton-towers-plans-dungeon-attraction-within-park/): Alton Towers operator Merlin Entertainments is expected to add one of its Dungeon walk-through attractions to the Staffordshire theme park.
- [Merlin Entertainments share price falls by 20%](https://riderater.co.uk/6640/merlin-entertainments-share-prices-falls-by-20/): Shares in Merlin Entertainments closed down 19.9% today, after the company released a trading update showing near-stagnation in revenue.
- [London Resort team 'incapable of delivering' theme park](https://riderater.co.uk/6984/london-resort-team-incapable-of-delivering-theme-park/): The company behind the proposed London Resort theme park in Kent has been described as appearing "incapable of delivering" the project.
- [Chessington World of Adventures unveils Tiger Rock](https://riderater.co.uk/6950/chessington-world-of-adventures-unveils-tiger-rock/): Chessington World of Adventures has unveiled Tiger Rock, which is a reworking of the former Dragon Falls flume ride.
- [Pleasure Island carousel 'is sold' despite bid 'error'](https://riderater.co.uk/6822/pleasure-island-carousel-is-sold-despite-bid-error/): Pleasure Island's 1904-build carousel ride "is sold" according to auctioneers, despite the winning bidder reportedly claiming to have bid £180,000 in error.
- [Wicker Man: Weather delays opening of rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/6831/wicker-man-weather-delays-opening-of-rollercoaster/): Alton Towers has been forced to delay the public opening of its new rollercoaster Wicker Man, as sub-zero temperatures swept across the UK.
- [Wicker Man: Alton Towers opens ride to the public](https://riderater.co.uk/6874/wicker-man-alton-towers-opens-ride-to-the-public/): Alton Towers has opened its new Wicker Man rollercoaster to the public for the first time, following three days of delays due to cold temperatures.
- [Vekoma taken over by Japan's Sansei Technologies](https://riderater.co.uk/6887/vekoma-taken-over-by-japans-sansei-technologies/): Dutch ride manufacturer Vekoma has been taken over by Japanese counterpart Sansei Technologies.
- [Alton Towers refused reduction in business rates](https://riderater.co.uk/6895/alton-towers-refused-reduction-in-business-rates/): Alton Towers operator Merlin Entertainments has lost a claim to reduce business rates following the 2015 Smiler accident.
- [Icon: Pleasure Beach rollercoaster to open on 25 May](https://riderater.co.uk/6901/icon-pleasure-beach-rollercoaster-to-open-on-25-may/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has announced that its new launched rollercoaster Icon will open on 25 May.
- [SW8: 'Wicker Man theme' for Alton Towers ride](https://riderater.co.uk/6624/sw8-wicker-man-theme-for-alton-towers-ride/): Alton Towers is expected to theme its forthcoming wooden rollercoaster on a 'Wicker Man' concept, following a trademark application.
- [Could Merlin Entertainments be broken up?](https://riderater.co.uk/6814/could-merlin-entertainments-be-broken-up/): We take a look at the prospect of Merlin Entertainments' separate divisions - theme parks and midways - being broken up.
- [Icon opening 'likely to be Spring Bank Holiday'](https://riderater.co.uk/6809/icon-opening-likely-to-be-spring-bank-holiday/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach managing director Amanda Thompson has said that the new Icon rollercoaster's opening date is likely to be late May.
- [Merlin Entertainments shares rise after 2017 results](https://riderater.co.uk/6801/merlin-entertainments-shares-rise-after-2017-results/): Shares in theme park operator Merlin Entertainments closed up more than 9% following publication of the company's 2017 preliminary financial results.
- [Thorpe Park re-themes X ride to The Walking Dead](https://riderater.co.uk/6791/thorpe-park-re-themes-x-ride-to-the-walking-dead/): Thorpe Park is re-theming the enclosed X rollercoaster into The Walking Dead: The Ride.
- [Alton Towers partially reverses operational cuts](https://riderater.co.uk/6784/alton-towers-partially-reverses-operational-cuts/): Alton Towers has partially scaled back operational cuts revealed earlier this week, following a strong public backlash.
- [Alton Towers reduces ride availability in savings drive](https://riderater.co.uk/6776/alton-towers-reduces-ride-availability-in-savings-drive/): Alton Towers will operate rides, attractions and food outlets on reduced availability as part of cost savings in 2018.
- [Alton Towers: John Wardley 'thrilled' with wood ride](https://riderater.co.uk/6760/alton-towers-john-wardley-thrilled-with-wood-ride/): John Wardley, the man behind some of Alton Towers' most famous rides, has said he is "thrilled" the park is finally getting a wooden rollercoaster.
- [Wicker Man: Much of fire 'actually an illusion'](https://riderater.co.uk/6746/wicker-man-much-of-fire-actually-an-illusion/): Alton Towers has confirmed that "much of" the fire effects on the forthcoming Wicker Man rollercoaster will be illusions.
- [Wicker Man: Alton Towers confirms new rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/6732/wicker-man-alton-towers-confirms-new-rollercoaster/): Alton Towers has confirmed that its forthcoming new rollercoaster will be called Wicker Man.
- [Alton Towers to unveil SW8 rollercoaster details](https://riderater.co.uk/6723/alton-towers-to-unveil-sw8-rollercoaster-details/): Alton Towers is expected to unveil the name and more details regarding its wooden rollercoaster SW8 on Monday.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach: Wild Mouse removed](https://riderater.co.uk/6712/blackpool-pleasure-beach-wild-mouse-removed/): The Wild Mouse wooden rollercoaster has been removed from Blackpool Pleasure Beach after 60 years.
- [Best Park 2017: Fantasy Island wins award](https://riderater.co.uk/6691/best-park-2017-fantasy-island-wins-award/): Fantasy Island is the winner of Ride Rater’s Best Park Award for 2017, following a season of continued improvements under the Mellors Group.
- [Best New Addition 2017: Rise of the Demon wins](https://riderater.co.uk/6685/best-new-addition-2017-rise-of-the-demon-wins/): Derren Brown’s Ghost Train: Rise of the Demon is the winner of Ride Rater’s Best New Addition Award for 2017, following a significant overhaul.
- [Christmas Message 2017](https://riderater.co.uk/6673/christmas-message-2017/): We would like wish all of our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
- [Merlin Annual Passes reduced by £20 in January sale](https://riderater.co.uk/6678/merlin-annual-passes-reduced-by-20-in-january-sale/): Merlin Entertainments will discount its annual pass renewals by £20 in its forthcoming January sale.
- [Jamie Kingston: Photographer of the Year 2017](https://riderater.co.uk/6665/jamie-kingston-photographer-of-the-year-2017/): Jamie Kingston is Ride Rater’s Photographer of the Year 2017, with his great capture of the Royal Air Force Red Arrows over Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
- [Ride Rater Photographer of the Year 2017](https://riderater.co.uk/6652/ride-rater-photographer-of-the-year-2017/): As another busy theme park season ends in 2017, we are once more looking to name one of you our Photographer of the Year.
- [Merlin cuts theme park days from annual pass](https://riderater.co.uk/6646/merlin-cuts-theme-park-days-from-annual-pass/): Merlin Entertainments has announced that its ‘standard’ Annual Pass will no longer allow entry to its UK theme parks during weekends in peak summer weekends.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach records £314,000 loss](https://riderater.co.uk/6634/blackpool-pleasure-beach-records-314000-loss/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach recorded after-tax losses of £314,000 for the year ending 26 March 2017, accounts show.
- [Editorial: Merlin finally facing reality over wood rides](https://riderater.co.uk/6612/editorial-merlin-finally-facing-reality-over-wood-rides/): It was not too long ago that Merlin Entertainments dismissed the idea of adding wooden rollercoasters to its theme parks. What's changed?
- [SW8 'very different' to other Alton Towers rides](https://riderater.co.uk/6599/sw8-very-different-to-other-alton-towers-rides/): The manager of Alton Towers has described the forthcoming SW8 rollercoaster as being "very different" to the park's other offerings.
- [Enquiries over Paignton ride panel fall](https://riderater.co.uk/6594/enquiries-over-paignton-ride-panel-fall/): Local authorities and the Health and Safety Executive have begun enquiries into how a lighting panel fell from a twister-style ride while it was in motion.
- [Pleasureland 'doesn't have' Knightmare rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/6587/pleasureland-doesnt-have-knightmare-rollercoaster/): Southport Pleasureland has denied having the former Knightmare rollercoaster, despite reports of its presence at the site.
- [KMG flat ride models closed following US death](https://riderater.co.uk/6575/kmg-flat-ride-models-closed-following-us-death/): Dutch ride manufacturer KMG has ordered the closure of two of its flat ride models following a fatal accident in the United States.
- [London Resort to proceed despite Paramount split](https://riderater.co.uk/6567/london-resort-to-proceed-despite-paramount-split/): Final plans for a multi-billion pound theme park resort in Kent will be submitted early next year, despite investors and Paramount severing ties.
- [Lightwater Valley sold to Livingstone Leisure](https://riderater.co.uk/6562/lightwater-valley-sold-to-livingstone-leisure/): Lightwater Valley has been sold to attractions operator Livingstone Leisure, for an undisclosed amount.
- [Alton Towers visitor numbers 'increased in 2016'](https://riderater.co.uk/6553/alton-towers-visitor-numbers-increased-in-2016/): Alton Towers saw a slight rise in visitor numbers during the 2016 season, according to estimates by the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA).
- [Drayton Manor reopening after fatality](https://riderater.co.uk/6540/drayton-manor-reopening-after-fatality/): Drayton Manor is to reopen on Saturday, four days after an 11-year-old girl died after falling from a water ride at the theme park.
- [Merlin Entertainments parks reopen rapids rides](https://riderater.co.uk/6535/merlin-entertainments-parks-reopen-rapids-rides/): Alton Towers, Thorpe Park and Legoland Windsor have today reopened their rapids rides following the death of a girl on a similar attraction at Drayton Manor.
- [Drayton Manor remains closed on Thursday](https://riderater.co.uk/6530/drayton-manor-remains-closed-on-thursday/): Drayton Manor will stay closed for a second day on Thursday, while the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigates the death of an 11-year-old girl.
- [Merlin parks close rapids after Drayton Manor death](https://riderater.co.uk/6522/merlin-parks-close-rapids-after-drayton-manor-death/): Thorpe Park and Alton Towers have closed their rapids rides after an 11-year-old girl was killed at Drayton Manor yesterday.
- [Girl killed on Drayton Manor ride named](https://riderater.co.uk/6518/girl-killed-on-drayton-manor-ride-named/): The 11-year-old girl who was killed on Drayton Manor's Splash Canyon water ride has been named as Evha Jannath.
- [Girl dies in Drayton Manor rapids ride accident](https://riderater.co.uk/6503/girl-dies-in-drayton-manor-rapids-ride-accident/): An 11-year-old girl has died following an accident involving Drayton Manor’s Splash Canyon water rapids ride.
- [Slammer ride leaving Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/6499/slammer-ride-leaving-thorpe-park/): Thorpe Park's Slammer ride is being removed from the theme park, owners have confirmed.
- [Slammer: Thorpe Park ride closed throughout 2017](https://riderater.co.uk/6491/slammer-thorpe-park-ride-closed-throughout-2017/): Thorpe Park's Slammer ride will not operate in 2017, the theme park has confirmed.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach rides receive listed status](https://riderater.co.uk/6486/blackpool-pleasure-beach-rides-receive-listed-status/): Five of Blackpool Pleasure Beach's historic rides have received Grade II listed status, encouraging their preservation.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach names new ride Icon](https://riderater.co.uk/6476/blackpool-pleasure-beach-names-new-ride-icon/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has revealed the name of its forthcoming double-launching rollercoaster, Icon.
- [London Paramount: Will it happen?](https://riderater.co.uk/6466/london-paramount-will-it-happen/): We take a look at whether or not the London Paramount project is anything more than a pipe dream.
- [London Paramount: Developers plan 2022 opening](https://riderater.co.uk/6457/london-paramount-developers-plan-2022-opening/): The long-delayed London Paramount theme park proposed for Kent is now planned to open in 2022, develops say.
- [M&Ds removes Tsunami rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/6454/mds-removes-tsunami-rollercoaster/): M&Ds theme park has removed the Tsunami rollercoaster, nine months after an accident which injured 10 people.
- [10 injured as M&D's Tsunami rollercoaster derails](https://riderater.co.uk/6062/10-injured-as-mds-tsunami-rollercoaster-derails/): 10 people have been injured after the Tsunami rollercoaster at Scotland's M&D's theme park derailed.
- [Thorpe Park revamps Derren Brown's Ghost Train](https://riderater.co.uk/6441/thorpe-park-revamps-derren-browns-ghost-train/): Thorpe Park is to relaunch its Derren Brown's Ghost Train ride this year, describing a new experience as "deeper, darker and more intense".
- [Alton Towers to reopen Hex ride](https://riderater.co.uk/6437/alton-towers-to-reopen-hex-ride/): Alton Towers will reopen its Hex dark ride this season, after mothballing it during 2016.
- [Alton Towers moves opening time to 10:30](https://riderater.co.uk/6428/alton-towers-moves-opening-time-to-1030/): Alton Towers has moved its daily opening time back by 30 minutes, with the park now fully opening at 10:30 each day.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach records small loss](https://riderater.co.uk/6423/blackpool-pleasure-beach-records-small-loss/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach recorded a loss of £2,000 after tax for the year ending 22 March 2016, accounts show.
- [Merlin Annual Pass discounted in January sale](https://riderater.co.uk/6406/merlin-annual-pass-discounted-in-january-sale/): The Merlin Annual Pass has once again been placed in sale in the New Year.
- [2016: The year in review](https://riderater.co.uk/6387/2016-the-year-in-review/): We take a look back at some of the most memorable events that took place in 2016.
- [Christmas Message 2016](https://riderater.co.uk/6382/christmas-message-2016/): Our annual Christmas message to our valued readers.
- [Tom Renouf: Photographer of the Year 2016](https://riderater.co.uk/6363/photographer-of-the-year-2016/): Tom Renouf is Ride Rater's Photographer of the Year 2016, with his stunning capture of Saw - The Ride at Thorpe Park.
- [Best New Addition 2016: Galactica wins award](https://riderater.co.uk/6359/best-new-addition-2016-galactica-wins-award/): Alton Towers' reworking of the Air rollercoaster into Galactica has won Ride Rater's Best New Addition 2016 award.
- [Best Park 2016: Thorpe Park wins award](https://riderater.co.uk/6355/best-park-2016-thorpe-park-wins-award/): Thorpe Park has won Ride Rater's Best Park 2016 Award, following a successful 2016 season.
- [Chessington plans 45 accommodation lodges](https://riderater.co.uk/6349/chessington-plans-45-accommodation-lodges/): Chessington World of Adventures has submitted proposals for 45 lodges as part of an an increased accommodation offering.
- [Thorpe Park 2017: Logger's Leap to remain closed](https://riderater.co.uk/6344/thorpe-park-2017-loggers-leap-to-remain-closed/): Thorpe Park has confirmed that its Logger's Leap water ride will remain closed for a further season during 2017.
- [Alton Towers expects '60 to 70' redundancies](https://riderater.co.uk/6340/alton-towers-expects-60-to-70-redundancies/): Alton Towers expects to make "60 to 70" redundancies as part of further cost-saving measures following the end of the 2016 season.
- [Lightwater Valley records £148,000 loss in 2015](https://riderater.co.uk/6335/lightwater-valley-records-148000-loss-in-2015/): Lightwater Valley made a loss of £148,000 during the 2015 season, company accounts show.
- ['£25 million 10-year plan' for Fantasy Island](https://riderater.co.uk/6329/25-million-10-year-plan-for-fantasy-island/): The new owners of Fantasy Island amusement park have spoken of a £25 million investment as part of a 10-year plan.
- [Ride Rater Photographer of the Year 2016](https://riderater.co.uk/6326/ride-rater-photographer-of-the-year-2016/): As another theme park season ends in 2016, we are once again looking to name one of you our Photographer of the Year.
- [2016 UK theme park season ends](https://riderater.co.uk/6319/2016-uk-theme-park-season-ends/): The UK's theme park season has ended, with most major attractions now closing until 2017.
- [Pleasure Island theme park closes down](https://riderater.co.uk/6308/pleasure-island-theme-park-closes-down/): Pleasure Island theme park in Cleethorpes has closed down after more than 23 years of operation.
- [Council criticised over Pleasure Island closure](https://riderater.co.uk/6294/council-criticised-over-pleasure-island-closure/): The owner of the closing Pleasure Island theme park has accused the local council of a lack of support for tourism in Cleethorpes.
- [London attractions 'suppressing' Merlin profits](https://riderater.co.uk/6285/london-attractions-suppressing-merlin-profits/): Merlin Entertainments has said the performance of its London attractions is "suppressing" company performance.
- [Pleasure Beach announces Mack rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/6280/pleasure-beach-announces-mack-rollercoaster/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has confirmed details of a new double-launching rollercoaster opening in 2018, following earlier leaks.
- [Alton Towers Smiler employee 'under pressure'](https://riderater.co.uk/6271/alton-towers-smiler-employee-under-pressure/): A ride consultant has described an environment of "pressure" relating to ride downtime at Alton Towers as being a relevant factor in the Smiler accident.
- [Alton Towers fined record £5m over Smiler crash](https://riderater.co.uk/6261/alton-towers-fined-record-5m-over-smiler-crash/): Alton Towers operator Merlin Entertainments has been fined a record £5 million for the Smiler rollercoaster accident last year.
- [Smiler operated above wind speed limit pre-crash](https://riderater.co.uk/6247/smiler-operated-above-wind-speed-limit-pre-crash/): Alton Towers personnel operated the Smiler rollercoaster in wind speeds exceeding manufacturer's instructions the day the ride crashed last year.
- [Pleasure Island theme park to close down](https://riderater.co.uk/6239/pleasure-island-theme-park-to-close-down/): Pleasure Island theme park in Cleethorpes is to close down at the end of this season, owners have announced.
- [Ayr fairground ride accident injures five](https://riderater.co.uk/6229/ayr-fairground-ride-accident-injures-five/): Five children have been injured when a fairground ride seat reportedly detached at a fairground in Ayr.
- ["Awful day for my autistic son at Drayton Manor"](https://riderater.co.uk/6222/awful-day-for-my-autistic-son-at-drayton-manor/): Jane Jones shares the experience her autistic son had following confusion over pricing and fast pass access at Drayton Manor.
- [Planning permission given for Alton Towers SW8](https://riderater.co.uk/6215/planning-permission-given-for-alton-towers-sw8/): Planning permission has been granted for Alton Towers' wooden rollercoaster, which is due to open in 2018.
- [Madame Tussauds moving away from waxworks](https://riderater.co.uk/6209/madame-tussauds-moving-away-from-waxworks/): Waxwork museum Madame Tussauds has revealed that it shifting its focus away from the celebrity figures.
- [489 injuries reported at theme parks last year](https://riderater.co.uk/6200/489-injuries-reported-at-theme-parks-last-year/): 489 injuries were reported at theme parks and fairgrounds during a 12-month period spanning 2014 and 2015, it has emerged.
- ['Man falls from seat' on Lightwater Valley ride](https://riderater.co.uk/6177/man-falls-from-seat-on-lightwater-valley-ride/): A man reportedly fell from his seat when a restraint 'came up' on the Black Pearl ride at Lightwater Valley.
- [Editorial: Sun newspaper smearing Paultons Park](https://riderater.co.uk/6169/editorial-sun-newspaper-smearing-paultons-park/): Our Editor writes: "The Sun newspaper is attempting to smear Paultons Park with its latest 'investigation' alleging cocaine use at the theme park."
- [UK theme park reprimanded over hygiene issues](https://riderater.co.uk/6161/uk-theme-park-reprimanded-over-hygiene-issues/): A British theme park was reprimanded earlier this year for issues relating to public health risks, it has emerged.
- [Chessington to close Bubbleworks ride](https://riderater.co.uk/6149/chessington-to-close-bubbleworks-ride/): Chessington World of Adventures has announced that the Bubbleworks dark ride will close on 6 September.
- [Inspector banned after M&D's Tsunami crash](https://riderater.co.uk/6139/safety-inspector-of-mds-tsunami-ride-banned/): A safety inspector who signed off M&D's Tsunami rollercoaster 16 days before it derailed has been banned from undertaking further work.
- [M&D's reopens rides following Tsunami accident](https://riderater.co.uk/6153/mds-reopens-rides-following-tsunami-accident/): M&D's theme park has fully reopened a month after the Tsunami rollercoaster derailed and injured 10 people.
- [M&D's crash: The accident we nearly missed](https://riderater.co.uk/6089/mds-crash-the-accident-we-nearly-missed/): The derailing of M&D's Tsunami rollercoaster is one of the most significant ride accidents ever to have occurred in the UK, but it was nearly missed.
- [Merlin boss says EU exit vote will help UK tourism](https://riderater.co.uk/6092/merlin-boss-says-eu-exit-vote-will-help-uk-tourism/): Merlin Entertainments chief executive Nick Varney has said that the United Kingdom's vote to leave the European Union could help the British tourism industry.
- [M&D's ride 'will not be scrapped' after crash](https://riderater.co.uk/6085/mds-ride-will-not-be-scrapped-after-crash/): The owners of M&D's theme park have said that the Tsunami rollercoaster will not be scrapped following an accident which injured nine people.
- [M&D's ride crash victims 'in serious condition'](https://riderater.co.uk/6080/mds-ride-crash-victims-in-serious-condition/): Two boys who were injured in a rollercoaster derailment at M&D's theme park are described by police as being in a serious medical condition.
- [Pleasure Beach intruders activate rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/6057/pleasure-beach-intruders-activate-rollercoaster/): Two intruders into Blackpool Pleasure Beach were able to activate and ride the Blue Flyer rollercoaster in the early hours of Friday morning, it has emerged.
- [Date set for Alton Towers Smiler crash sentencing](https://riderater.co.uk/6050/date-set-for-alton-towers-smiler-crash-sentencing/): Alton Towers operator Merlin Entertainments will be sentenced in September for last year's Smiler accident, which injured 16 people.
- [Dreamland Margate introduces free admission](https://riderater.co.uk/6044/dreamland-margate-introduces-free-admission/): Dreamland Margate has removed its entry fee, switching to a wristband and pay-per-ride system of charging.
- [Boy 'thrown' from Caterham Carnival ghost train](https://riderater.co.uk/6038/boy-thrown-from-caterham-carnival-ghost-train/): A 14-year-old boy has suffered leg injuries when he was allegedly thrown from a ghost train ride at a fairground in Caterham, Surrey.
- [SW8: Alton Towers' not so Secret Weapon](https://riderater.co.uk/6026/sw8-alton-towers-not-so-secret-weapon/): We look at how Alton Towers forthcoming SW8 rollercoaster could prove to be the biggest non-secret of all.
- [Alton Towers plans wooden rollercoaster for 2018](https://riderater.co.uk/6003/alton-towers-plans-wooden-rollercoaster-for-2018/): Alton Towers has submitted a planning application for a wooden rollercoaster, scheduled to open in 2018. Currently dubbed SW8, Ride Rater understands that the ride will be build by American manufacturers Great Coasters International (GCI). Documents submitted to Staffordshire Moorlands Council state that the timber ride will have a maximum height of around 33 feet
- [Dreamland Margate enters administration](https://riderater.co.uk/5984/dreamland-margate-enters-administration/): Dreamland Margate has been placed into administration less than a year after it re-opened.
- [Alton Towers 'saw 25% attendance drop' in 2015](https://riderater.co.uk/5974/alton-towers-saw-25-attendance-drop-in-2015/): Alton Towers saw a 25% fall in visitor numbers in 2015, according to the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA).
- [No opening date for Thorpe Park Ghost Train](https://riderater.co.uk/5971/no-opening-date-for-thorpe-park-ghost-train/): Thorpe Park has said that its latest ride - Derren Brown's Ghost Train - will now not open before the end of May. Originally scheduled to open on 6 May, the ride does now not have a fixed opening date, with the park citing "creative" reasons for the further delays. The park's website read: "The
- [Paultons Park opens £9m Lost Kingdom area](https://riderater.co.uk/5954/paultons-park-opens-9m-lost-kingdom-area/): Paultons Park has today opened its new £9 million dinosaur-themed Lost Kingdom area.
- [Pleasure Beach plans Mack rollercoaster for 2018](https://riderater.co.uk/5934/pleasure-beach-plans-mack-rollercoaster-for-2018/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach will open a launched rollercoaster from German manufacturers Mack Rides in 2018, Ride Rater understands.
- [How rollercoaster rejection inspires weight loss](https://riderater.co.uk/5920/how-rollercoaster-rejection-inspires-weight-loss/): Why do the widely-reported 'walks of shame' from rides so often serve as the ultimate inspiration for people to lose weight?
- [Galactica stoppage: How the media responded](https://riderater.co.uk/5911/galactica-stoppage-how-the-media-responded/): Monday's stoppage of Alton Towers' Galactica ride was predictably sensationalised by the press. We take a look at some of their best quotes and headlines.
- [Will Alton Towers recover from the Smiler crash?](https://riderater.co.uk/5897/will-alton-towers-recover-from-the-smiler-crash/): 11 months after the Smiler accident, Alton Towers continues to suffer from severely reduced visitor numbers - but for how much longer?
- [Thorpe Park delays Ghost Train opening date](https://riderater.co.uk/5891/thorpe-park-delays-ghost-train-opening-date/): Thorpe Park has announced that the opening of its new ride - Derren Brown's Ghost Train - will be delayed.
- [Alton Towers plans depict SW8 ride layout](https://riderater.co.uk/5855/alton-towers-plans-depict-sw8-ride-layout/): Alton Towers has submitted planning documents to Staffordshire Moorlands Council that appear to reveal the layout of its next major ride.
- [Alton Towers pleads guilty to Smiler charges](https://riderater.co.uk/5842/alton-towers-pleads-guilty-to-smiler-charges/): Alton Towers operator Merlin Entertainments has pleaded guilty to charges following the Smiler rollercoaster crash last year.
- [An app that counts the rides you've been on](https://riderater.co.uk/5835/an-app-that-counts-the-rides-youve-been-on/): A mobile phone application has been launched that could have a certain appeal to theme park enthusiasts. Are you one of these theme park fans that likes to count up how many rides they get on during a day's trip? Auto Ride Count can automatically recognise the rides that you go on and add them
- ["Towers Loving Care does nothing for me"](https://riderater.co.uk/5829/towers-loving-care-does-nothing-for-me/): Reader Stuart McNeal offers his thoughts on his first visit to Alton Towers in 2016.
- [Ripsaw ride to be incorporated into Hex](https://riderater.co.uk/5774/ripsaw-ride-to-be-incorporated-into-hex/): Alton Towers is incorporating its former Ripsaw flat ride into the Hex experience, it has emerged.
- [Storms prevent east coast theme parks opening](https://riderater.co.uk/5814/storms-prevent-east-coast-theme-parks-opening/): Stormy weather on Easter Monday prevented several east coast theme parks from opening.
- [New book covers theme park design](https://riderater.co.uk/5803/new-book-covers-theme-park-design/): A new book is being released next week which covers theme park design and "the art of themed entertainment".
- [Smiler ride reopens nine months after crash](https://riderater.co.uk/5794/smiler-ride-reopens-nine-months-after-crash/): The Smiler rollercoaster at Alton Towers has reopened to the public nine months after an accident which seriously injured five people.
- [Alton Towers marks ex-Flume site as SW8 location](https://riderater.co.uk/5779/alton-towers-marks-ex-flume-site-as-sw8-location/): Alton Towers has positioned SW8 signage at the site of the former Flume ride, describing a "ground-breaking new ride development".
- [Alton Towers confirms ride mothballing](https://riderater.co.uk/5743/alton-towers-confirms-ride-mothballing/): Alton Towers has confirmed that five of its rides and attractions will remain closed when the theme park begins its 2016 season on 19 March.
- ['Good prospect' of tourism VAT cut](https://riderater.co.uk/5755/good-prospect-of-tourism-vat-cut/): Representatives from a campaign to cut VAT on tourist attractions have spoken of a "good prospect" of the British government making a reduction.
- [Air designer Wardley praises Galactica changes](https://riderater.co.uk/5737/air-designer-wardley-praises-galactica-changes/): The original concept designer of Alton Towers’ Air rollercoaster has praised the changes made to the ride ahead of its re-launch as Galactica.
- [The rapid acceleration of theme park prices](https://riderater.co.uk/5721/the-rapid-acceleration-of-theme-park-prices/): The cost of admission to the UK’s major theme parks has once again risen considerably above the national rate of inflation. We take a look at the numbers.
- [Editorial: Towers Loving Care is tidying the tat](https://riderater.co.uk/5716/editorial-towers-loving-care-is-tidying-the-tat/): Our editor offers some thoughts on the Towers Loving Care programme of repainting and refurbishment taking place at Alton Towers.
- [Fantasy Island purchased by Mellors Group](https://riderater.co.uk/5707/fantasy-island-purchased-by-mellors-group/): Fantasy Island in Lincolnshire has been purchased by events management company Mellors Group.
- [Thorpe Park names Ghost Train opening date](https://riderater.co.uk/5693/thorpe-park-names-ghost-train-opening-date/): Thorpe Park has announced that its new attraction - Derren Brown's Ghost Train - will open on 6 May.
- [Alton Towers admission price rises to £51.60](https://riderater.co.uk/5696/alton-towers-admission-price-rises-to-51-60/): The cost of admission to Alton Towers has risen to £51.60 when paying on the day of arrival.
- [Alton Towers names Smiler reopening date](https://riderater.co.uk/5690/alton-towers-names-smiler-reopening-date/): Alton Towers has confirmed that it will reopen the Smiler rollercoaster on 19 March, the first day of the park's 2016 season.
- [Alton Towers retires Flume water ride](https://riderater.co.uk/5679/alton-towers-retires-flume-water-ride/): Alton Towers has retired the Flume water ride after 35 years of operation, the park has confirmed.
- [Alton Towers dismantles Ripsaw ride](https://riderater.co.uk/5550/alton-towers-dismantles-ripsaw-ride/): Alton Towers has dismantled its Ripsaw ride, after reports that it would not feature in the park’s 2016 lineup.
- [Alton Towers operator charged over Smiler crash](https://riderater.co.uk/5665/alton-towers-operator-charged-over-smiler-crash/): Alton Towers operator Merlin Entertainments has been charged over the Smiler rollercoaster accident which seriously injured five people last year.
- [Merlin Membership monthly scheme cancelled](https://riderater.co.uk/5649/merlin-membership-monthly-scheme-cancelled/): Merlin Entertainments has cancelled the monthly direct debit version of its annual pass, the short-lived Merlin Membership scheme.
- [The extended family of Blackpool Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/5632/the-extended-family-of-blackpool-pleasure-beach/): We speak to ride operator Nigel Buchanan, who has has just returned to Blackpool Pleasure Beach for a second season at a park he describes as one big family.
- [Drayton Manor accounts show £255,000 loss](https://riderater.co.uk/5627/drayton-manor-accounts-show-255000-loss/): Drayton Manor made a pre-tax loss of £255,000 in the year to 28 February 2015, accounts show.
- [Lightwater Valley returns to profit](https://riderater.co.uk/5613/lightwater-valley-returns-to-profit/): Lightwater Valley returned to profit in the year ending 31 January 2015, following several years of consecutive losses.
- [Flamingo Land records £2.2 million profit](https://riderater.co.uk/5604/flamingo-land-records-2-2-million-profit/): Flamingo Land recorded a £2.2 million pre-tax profit for the year ending 31 March 2015, accounts show.
- [Thorpe Park unveils Derren Brown’s Ghost Train](https://riderater.co.uk/5596/thorpe-park-unveils-derren-browns-ghost-train/): Thorpe Park has revealed the title of its forthcoming indoor attraction as Derren Brown’s Ghost Train.
- [Alton Towers to relaunch Air ride as Galactica](https://riderater.co.uk/5589/alton-towers-to-relaunch-air-ride-as-galactica/): Alton Towers has confirmed that the Air rollercoaster is to be relaunched with virtual reality technology, under the name of Galactica.
- [Alton Towers 'committed and heavily investing'](https://riderater.co.uk/5566/alton-towers-committed-and-heavily-investing/): Alton Towers has said that it is 'strongly committed' and 'heavily investing' following announcements of operational cuts for the 2016 season.
- ["Reduced openings a nail in Merlin's coffin"](https://riderater.co.uk/5542/reduced-openings-a-nail-in-merlins-coffin/): Regular reader Laura Mitchell writes of her displeasure with the latest operational cuts to Merlin Entertainments UK theme parks.
- [Christmas Message 2015](https://riderater.co.uk/5531/christmas-message-2015/): As always at this time of the year, we would like to take a moment to reflect on the year that has passed.
- [7-rollercoaster theme park plan for south Wales](https://riderater.co.uk/5544/7-rollercoaster-theme-park-plan-for-south-wales/): A theme park home to seven rollercoasters is being planned in the town of Llanelli in south west Wales.
- [Christmas Message 2014](https://riderater.co.uk/4441/christmas-message-2014/): A Christmas message from the Ride Rater Editor-in-Chief.
- [Alton Towers cuts 26 days from 2016 season](https://riderater.co.uk/5516/alton-towers-cuts-26-days-from-2016-season/): Alton Towers has cut 26 days from its 2016 operating calendar, following a year of heavy visitor losses caused by the Smiler accident.
- [Merlin to discount annual passes by 30% in sale](https://riderater.co.uk/5521/merlin-to-discount-annual-passes-by-30-in-sale/): Merlin Entertainments will reduce the price of its annual passes by around 30% during a sale running between 1 January and 15 February next year.
- [Park of the Year 2015: Blackpool Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/5506/park-of-the-year-2015-blackpool-pleasure-beach/): We are pleased to announce that Blackpool Pleasure Beach has been awarded Ride Rater's Park of the Year award for the second year running.
- [Ride Rater Photographer of the Year 2015](https://riderater.co.uk/5412/ride-rater-photographer-of-the-year-2015/): Ride Rater launches its third annual Photographer of the Year competition, inviting images from UK theme parks in 2015.
- [Elliott Morgan: Photographer of the Year 2015](https://riderater.co.uk/5495/elliott-morgan-photographer-of-the-year-2015/): Elliott Morgan has been named as Ride Rater’s Photographer of the Year 2015, for his imaginative capturing of Thorpe Park's Colossus rollercoaster.
- [Quiz of 2015 - were you paying attention?](https://riderater.co.uk/5488/quiz-of-2015-were-you-paying-attention/): How much do you remember from an eventful 2015 UK theme park season?
- [Pleasureland Southport expansion proposed](https://riderater.co.uk/5475/pleasureland-southport-expansion-proposed/): A plan for the expansion of Southport Pleasureland has been put to local authorities in the Merseyside town.
- ['Huge' 2017 project for Blackpool Pleasure Beach](https://riderater.co.uk/5468/huge-2017-project-for-blackpool-pleasure-beach/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach is planning a new ride for 2017, described as a "huge project" by the park's deputy managing director Nick Thompson.
- [Fantasy Island being marketed for sale](https://riderater.co.uk/5462/fantasy-island-being-marketed-for-sale/): Administrators at Fantasy Island have placed the amusement park and its adjacent market and caravan sites up for sale.
- [Dreamland Margate seeks £2.9m debt resolution](https://riderater.co.uk/5455/dreamland-margate-seeks-2-9m-debt-resolution/): Dreamland Margate is seeking a resolution regarding the repayment of its £2.9 million debts.
- [Legoland Windsor wins haunted house appeal](https://riderater.co.uk/5447/legoland-windsor-wins-haunted-house-appeal/): Legoland Windsor has won an appeal over the local authority's refusal to grant planning permission for a haunted house attraction.
- [Alton Towers cites 'human error' in Smiler crash](https://riderater.co.uk/5435/alton-towers-cites-human-error-in-smiler-crash/): Alton Towers has determined that "human error" was to blame for the Smiler rollercoaster crash which seriously injured five people earlier this year.
- [Alton Towers 'will mothball rides in 2016'](https://riderater.co.uk/5425/alton-towers-will-mothball-rides-in-2016/): Alton Towers will mothball six rides and attractions during the 2016 season, the TowersStreet website is reporting.
- [Christian Stokes: Photographer of the Year 2014](https://riderater.co.uk/4426/christian-stokes-photographer-of-the-year-2014/): Christian Stokes has been named as Ride Rater's Photographer of the Year 2014.
- [Editorial: Thorpe's new ride must be the next Hex](https://riderater.co.uk/5398/editorial-thorpes-new-ride-must-be-the-next-hex/): As Thorpe Park begins to step up the marketing activity for its new enclosed attraction, it is critical that the end product matches the hype.
- [Thorpe Park closes Logger's Leap ride during 2016](https://riderater.co.uk/5385/thorpe-park-closes-loggers-leap-ride-during-2016/): Thorpe Park has said that the Logger's Leap flume ride will remain closed throughout the 2016 season due to maintenance.
- [Gulliver's World contests ride spinal injury blame](https://riderater.co.uk/5374/gullivers-world-contests-ride-spinal-injury-blame/): Gulliver's World theme park in Warrington is contesting a legal challenge over injuries an 12-year-old girl allegedly sustained on the Antelope rollercoaster.
- [190 redundancies proposed at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/5367/190-redundancies-proposed-at-alton-towers/): 190 salaried jobs are at risk at Alton Towers after the park announced a redundancy consultation period as part of a restructuring programme.
- [2015 UK theme park season draws to a close](https://riderater.co.uk/5347/2015-uk-theme-park-season-draws-to-a-close/): The main theme park season in the UK has ended for the year, with most rides now closed until 2016.
- ["Simply more cost-cutting from Merlin"](https://riderater.co.uk/5360/simply-more-cost-cutting-from-merlin/): Reader Laura Mitchell writes to voice her disapproval of the cuts to the opening calendars of some Merlin Entertainments UK theme parks.
- [Thorpe Park and Derren Brown in three-year plan](https://riderater.co.uk/5350/thorpe-park-and-derren-brown-in-three-year-plan/): Illusionist Derren Brown's involvement with Thorpe Park over a new ride has been a three-year collaboration, he says.
- [Midweek closures at Merlin theme parks in 2016](https://riderater.co.uk/5338/midweek-closures-at-merlin-theme-parks-in-2016/): Chessington World of Adventures and Thorpe Park will be closed during a number of off-peak weekdays in 2016.
- ["The danger of too many IPs at a theme park"](https://riderater.co.uk/5308/the-danger-of-too-many-ips-at-a-theme-park/): Reader Michael Bradford offers his thoughts on the recent trend of Thorpe Park introducing IP and actor-based attractions for short terms.
- [Smiler ride remains under HSE prohibition notice](https://riderater.co.uk/5295/smiler-ride-remains-under-hse-prohibition-notice/): The Smiler rollercoaster at Alton Towers remains under a prohibition notice more than four months since it crashed.
- ["Good move by Thorpe Park on Katie Hopkins"](https://riderater.co.uk/5288/good-move-by-thorpe-park-on-katie-hopkins/): Reader Steve Morse offers his thoughts on Thorpe Park's decision to depict Katie Hopkins at its Halloween Fright Nights.
- [Katie Hopkins depicted in Thorpe Park maze](https://riderater.co.uk/5280/katie-hopkins-depicted-in-thorpe-park-maze/): TV star Katie Hopkins is to be depicted in a Thorpe Park scare maze attraction during its Frights Nights events.
- [Second Smiler crash victim has leg amputated](https://riderater.co.uk/5058/second-smiler-crash-victim-has-leg-amputated/): A second person seriously injured on the Smiler rollercoaster at Alton Towers has had their leg amputated.
- [Saw rollercoaster reopens at Thorpe Park](https://riderater.co.uk/5105/saw-rollercoaster-reopens-at-thorpe-park/): Thorpe Park has reopened its 'Saw - The Ride' rollercoaster, which had remained closed since the Smiler crash at Alton Towers last month.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach plans 2018 'big project'](https://riderater.co.uk/5273/blackpool-pleasure-beach-plans-2018-big-project/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach is planning a "big project" for 2018, the park's managing director Amanda Thompson has said.
- [Smiler investigation "pretty much concluded"](https://riderater.co.uk/5247/smiler-investigation-pretty-much-concluded/): An internal investigation into the Smiler rollercoaster accident at Alton Towers has been "pretty much concluded", CEO Nick Varney has said.
- [Editorial: Alton Towers' early closes make sense](https://riderater.co.uk/5242/editorial-alton-towers-early-closes-make-sense/): Merlin Entertainments and Alton Towers are continuing to make the right calls when it comes to damage limitation following the Smiler crash.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach's Valhalla wins award](https://riderater.co.uk/5232/blackpool-pleasure-beachs-valhalla-wins-award/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach's ride Valhalla has been named Best Water Ride by US publication Amusement Today.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach returns to profit](https://riderater.co.uk/5211/blackpool-pleasure-beach-returns-to-profit/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has returned to profit following a number of years of loss-making, accounts show.
- [Smiler ride still under HSE prohibition notice](https://riderater.co.uk/5224/smiler-ride-still-under-hse-prohibition-notice/): Alton Towers' Smiler rollercoaster remains under a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) prohibition notice preventing its use.
- [Smiler tests being conducted with manufacturer](https://riderater.co.uk/5214/smiler-tests-being-conducted-with-manufacturer/): Recent testing of Alton Towers' Smiler rollercoaster is being conducted in conjunction with the ride's manufacturers, the park has said.
- [Smiler crash 'caused by safety lock override'](https://riderater.co.uk/5195/smiler-crash-caused-by-safety-lock-override/): The accident on Alton Towers' Smiler rollercoaster was caused by an engineer overriding a 'safety lock', it has been claimed.
- [Bolt falls from Blackpool Big One rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/5190/bolt-falls-from-blackpool-big-one-rollercoaster/): A bolt recently fell from the structure of Blackpool Pleasure Beach's Big One rollercoaster, it has emerged.
- [The progress of Fantasy Island in administration](https://riderater.co.uk/5179/the-progress-of-fantasy-island-in-administration/): We take a look at how Fantasy Island is being run, one year after the park went into administration.
- [Fantasy Island to remain in administration](https://riderater.co.uk/5170/fantasy-island-to-remain-in-administration/): Fantasy Island will remain in administration until at least February 2016, despite profitable operation in the past year.
- [Smiler under design review following collision](https://riderater.co.uk/5136/smiler-under-design-review-following-collision/): The Smiler rollercoaster is undergoing a design review following the collision which seriously injured five people last month.
- [Merlin Entertainments far from dead in the water](https://riderater.co.uk/5157/merlin-entertainments-far-from-dead-in-the-water/): We take a look at some of the business decisions Merlin Entertainments is making in the wake of reduced guest numbers at its theme parks.
- [Lightwater Valley ride activated during checks](https://riderater.co.uk/5127/lightwater-valley-ride-activated-during-checks/): Lightwater Valley has dismissed a ride operator who activated a rollercoaster while it was being checked by another employee.
- [Editorial: The gamble of reopening the Smiler](https://riderater.co.uk/5140/editorial-the-gamble-of-reopening-the-smiler/): Our editor talks of the risks associated with reopening the Smiler, even when the ride has been determined as being safe.
- [Revamp reported for Alton Towers Scarefest](https://riderater.co.uk/5123/revamp-reported-for-alton-towers-scarefest/): Alton Towers is to undertake a major revamp of its Halloween Scarefest event this year, it has been reported.
- [How 'Health and Safety' is often unfairly slated](https://riderater.co.uk/3111/how-health-and-safety-is-often-unfairly-slated/): Of all the phrases banded around by the tabloid newspapers - and in turn inaccurately recycled by the public - "health and safety gone mad" is among the most enduring.
- [£9 minimum wage - good for the park industry?](https://riderater.co.uk/5110/9-minimum-wage-good-for-the-park-industry/): We take a look at how the newly-announced £9 per hour minimum wage might affect the UK theme park industry.
- [The Daily Mirror's obsession with Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/5079/the-daily-mirrors-obsession-with-alton-towers/): We analyse the Daily Mirror's current obsession with Alton Towers in the wake of the Smiler accident.
- [Spinball 'walking pace' collision at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/5082/spinball-walking-pace-collision-at-alton-towers/): A "walking pace" collision occurred on the Sonic Spinball rollercoaster at Alton Towers on Tuesday, it has emerged.
- [How to become a Halloween scare maze actor](https://riderater.co.uk/5044/how-to-become-a-halloween-scare-maze-actor/): We speak to Sam Bott of Unlocked Vision - a company that works with theme parks to develop increasingly popular Halloween scare attractions.
- [Why has Rage stayed open while Saw has closed?](https://riderater.co.uk/5034/why-has-rage-stayed-open-while-saw-has-closed/): We offer analysis on the different decisions of UK theme parks on whether to continue to operate rollercoasters similar to The Smiler at Alton Towers.
- [Dreamland Margate reopens after 10 years](https://riderater.co.uk/5030/dreamland-margate-reopens-after-10-years/): Dreamland Margate has reopened under the banner of a "re-imagined" historical theme park after 10 years.
- [Alton Towers reopens rides following accident](https://riderater.co.uk/5022/alton-towers-reopens-rides-following-accident/): Alton Towers has reopened some of its rides that were closed as a result of the accident on The Smiler rollercoaster.
- [Alton Towers crash 999 call delay 'unforgivable'](https://riderater.co.uk/5011/alton-towers-crash-999-call-delay-unforgivable/): One of those injured on Alton Towers' Smiler ride has described the delay in contacting the emergency services as "unforgivable".
- [Alton Towers crash victim has leg amputated](https://riderater.co.uk/4983/alton-towers-crash-victim-has-leg-amputated/): One of the seriously injured people on board the Smiler ride at Alton Towers when it crashed has had their leg amputated, it has emerged.
- [16,000 sign petition after Nick Varney interview](https://riderater.co.uk/4977/16000-sign-petition-after-nick-varney-interview/): A petition calling for the sacking of a Sky News journalist who interviewed Merlin Entertainments CEO has attracted more than 16,000 signatures.
- [Rita launch cable snaps during operation](https://riderater.co.uk/1987/rita-launch-cable-snaps-during-operation/): The launch cable on Alton Towers' Rita rollercoaster snapped during normal ride operation this morning.
- ["What will happen to The Smiler now?"](https://riderater.co.uk/4972/what-will-happen-to-the-smiler-now/): Reader Peter Andrews offers thoughts and questions about what will happen to The Smiler ride at Alton Towers after its accident.
- [Alton Towers to reopen on Monday after crash](https://riderater.co.uk/4966/alton-towers-to-reopen-on-monday-after-crash/): Alton Towers will reopen on Monday, five days after two trains on the Smiler rollercoaster collided.
- [Questioning aspects of BBC's Smiler coverage](https://riderater.co.uk/4959/questioning-aspects-of-bbcs-smiler-coverage/): We raise that question of whether or not the BBC has perhaps slightly overindulged in its coverage of the Smiler accident at Alton Towers.
- [Pleasure Island owner defends Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/4947/pleasure-island-owner-defends-alton-towers/): Pleasure Island owner Melanie Wood has moved to defend Alton Towers following the rollercoaster crash that occurred there on Tuesday.
- [How the media reported the Smiler accident](https://riderater.co.uk/4932/how-the-media-reported-the-smiler-accident/): We take a look at some of the most memorable and unverified statements made in the wake of Tuesday’s accident on the Smiler at Alton Towers.
- [Alton Towers 999 call came 11 minutes after crash](https://riderater.co.uk/4903/alton-towers-999-call-came-11-minutes-after-crash/): Alton Towers took 11 minutes to contact the emergency services after Tuesday's crash on The Smiler rollercoaster, it has emerged.
- [Legal action 'anticipated' following Smiler crash](https://riderater.co.uk/4934/legal-action-anticipated-following-smiler-crash/): Solicitors acting for the family of one of of the guests injured at Alton Towers on Tuesday have said that claims for damages is "anticipated".
- ["Alton Towers loses its huge reputation"](https://riderater.co.uk/4930/alton-towers-loses-its-huge-reputation/): Laura Mitchell writes: "I don't believe Alton Towers should rush to be open as soon as possible."
- [HSE removes Alton Towers' Smiler trains for tests](https://riderater.co.uk/4923/hse-removes-alton-towers-smiler-trains-for-tests/): The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has removed the two trains involved in Tuesday's crash on The Smiler ride at Alton Towers.
- [Editorial: Flawed systems at work on The Smiler](https://riderater.co.uk/4907/the-failings-behind-the-smiler-rollercoaster-accident/): Our Editor suggests that human factors are likely to have been a significant player in Tuesday's Smiler accident at Alton Towers.
- [Alton Towers remains closed following accident](https://riderater.co.uk/4888/alton-towers-remains-closed-following-accident/): Alton Towers will remain closed for a second day on Thursday, as investigations continue following a ride crash which seriously inured four people.
- [Fairground ride owner fined for speed breach](https://riderater.co.uk/4859/fairground-ride-owner-fined-for-speed-breach/): A fairground operator has been fined for exceeding a Twister-type ride's recommended speed limit by 50%, causing injury.
- [Two injured in Liverpool funfair ride accident](https://riderater.co.uk/4851/two-injured-in-liverpool-funfair-ride-accident/): Two children have been injured following an accident involving a Twister-type flat ride at a Liverpool funfair.
- [Two injured by falling ride part at Flamingo Land](https://riderater.co.uk/4844/two-injured-by-falling-ride-part-at-flamingo-land/): Two people have been injured when a loose part fell from the Hero rollercoaster at Flamingo Land.
- [Wardley 'not giving up' on wooden rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/3519/wardley-not-giving-up-on-wooden-rollercoaster/): Veteran rollercoaster designer John Wardley has said that despite retirement he is "not giving up" on the idea of bringing a wooden rollercoaster to Alton Towers.
- [Alton Towers seeks permission for wooden ride](https://riderater.co.uk/4809/alton-towers-seeks-permission-for-wooden-ride/): Alton Towers is seeking planning permission for an unspecified wooden ride, a new application shows.
- [Editorial: Merlin's wood gamble worth taking](https://riderater.co.uk/4820/editorial-merlins-wood-gamble-worth-taking/): Why Merlin Entertainments' apparent decision to invest in a wooden rollercoaster is a sound one, albeit a little late.
- [Alton Towers to convert Air shop into restaurant](https://riderater.co.uk/4805/alton-towers-to-convert-air-shop-into-restaurant/): The shop for the Air rollercoaster at Alton Towers is to be converted into a restaurant under new plans.
- [Pleasure Beach season pass valid at Spain parks](https://riderater.co.uk/4763/pleasure-beach-season-pass-valid-for-spanish-parks/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has teamed up with two Spanish theme parks to allow one-off admission for its season pass holders.
- [Easter Sunday police presence at Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/4738/easter-sunday-police-presence-at-alton-towers/): A considerable police presence and increased security is in place at Alton Towers during Easter Sunday.
- [Thorpe Park Celebrity maze: What people say](https://riderater.co.uk/4733/thorpe-park-celebrity-maze-what-people-say/): We take a look at what the media - and the public - are saying about Thorpe Park's new I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! maze attraction.
- [Dreamland moving closer to becoming a reality](https://riderater.co.uk/4720/dreamland-moving-ever-closer-to-becoming-a-reality/): Dreamland Margate is moving ever closer to becoming a reality and will open this summer. Our correspondent Peter Andrews reports from a recent preview event.
- [Thompson 'sticking by' Pleasure Beach charge](https://riderater.co.uk/4712/thompson-sticking-by-pleasure-beach-charge/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach owner Amanda Thompson has said that she is "sticking by" the £6 charge for admission to the park.
- [What we learned from Wardley and Varney Q&A](https://riderater.co.uk/4698/what-we-learned-from-wardley-and-varney-qa/): During the recent celebrations for the Nemesis rollercoaster's 21st anniversary, John Wardley and Nick Varney took questions from theme park enthusiasts.
- [Pleasureland Southport targets Knightmare ride](https://riderater.co.uk/4690/pleasureland-southport-targets-knightmare-ride/): Pleasureland Southport is understood to be targeting the Knightmare rollercoaster as an addition to the amusement park.
- [Alton Towers ends selected single rider queuing](https://riderater.co.uk/4663/alton-towers-ends-selected-single-rider-queuing/): Alton Towers has removed the single rider queues from the Nemesis, Nemesis Sub-Terra and Rita rides.
- [Alton Towers expands delayed ride opening policy](https://riderater.co.uk/4670/alton-towers-expands-delayed-ride-opening-policy/): Alton Towers has expanded its delayed ride opening times policy in certain areas.
- [Alton Towers 'reconsiders' Blade mothballing](https://riderater.co.uk/4651/alton-towers-reconsiders-blade-mothballing/): Alton Towers has "reconsidered" the decision to mothball the Blade flat ride, which will now continue to operate.
- [Alton Towers plans Gerstlauer rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/1411/alton-towers-plans-gerstlauer-rollercoaster/): Alton Towers has submitted a planning application for a Gerstlauer rollercoaster which will be the elusive Secret Weapon Seven (SW7) project. The ride will have a maximum height of approximately 22 metres (73 feet) above ground and will be located on the site of the former Black Hole ride in the X Sector area of the
- [How theme park car parking charges compare](https://riderater.co.uk/4638/how-theme-park-car-parking-charges-compare/): Having to pay for parking on top of admission is one of the theme park guest's biggest gripes, but by how much do the charges vary?
- ["Merlin VIP pass good start faded into memory"](https://riderater.co.uk/4534/merlin-vip-pass-good-start-faded-into-memory/): An anonymous holder of Merlin Entertainments new VIP Annual Pass gives their account of the first six months of the product.
- [Alton Towers mothballs Blade swinging ride](https://riderater.co.uk/4628/alton-towers-mothballs-blade-swinging-ride/): Alton Towers has mothballed its swinging ship ride The Blade after 35 years of operation.
- [Ultimate designer tested ride "held on by rope"](https://riderater.co.uk/2225/ultimate-designer-tested-ride-held-on-by-rope/): The designer of The Ultimate rollercoaster at Lightwater Valley has revealed that he tested the ride before restraints were fitted, being strapped in with rope.
- [Alton Towers changes 'Early Ride Time' offerings](https://riderater.co.uk/4620/alton-towers-changes-early-ride-time-offerings/): Alton Towers has adjusted the line-up of rides and attractions available during its 'Early Ride Time' (ERT) period.
- [Thorpe Park entry rises to £59.99 on 'peak' days](https://riderater.co.uk/4611/thorpe-park-entry-rises-to-59-99-on-peak-days/): On-the-day admission prices to Thorpe park have increased by 20% to £59.99 for 'peak' days in 2015.
- [Merlin Entertainments profits rise by 35%](https://riderater.co.uk/4607/merlin-entertainments-profits-rise-by-35/): Merlin Entertainments has recorded a 34.6% rise in pre-tax profits during its first full year of public ownership.
- [A park five times more popular than Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/4592/a-park-five-times-more-popular-than-alton-towers/): The director behind the proposed London Paramount resort in Kent tells us that he hopes it will attract around 15 million visitors per year.
- [Lightwater Valley plans 3D dinosaur simulator](https://riderater.co.uk/4588/lightwater-valley-plans-3d-dinosaur-simulator/): Lightwater Valley is to open a dinosaur-themed 3D simulation ride, it has emerged.
- [Paultons Park to open suspended coaster in 2016](https://riderater.co.uk/4568/paultons-park-to-open-suspended-coaster-in-2016/): Paultons Park is to open a suspended rollercoaster for its 2016 season, the CoasterForce website has revealed.
- [Alpine rollercoaster coming to the UK](https://riderater.co.uk/4565/alpine-rollercoaster-coming-to-the-uk/): An alpine rollercoaster at an unspecified location in the UK is heading towards the final stages of planning, organisers say.
- [Drayton Manor outlines 10-year vision](https://riderater.co.uk/4543/drayton-manor-outlines-10-year-vision/): Drayton manor has outlined details of its plans for development in the next ten years, as part of a recent planning application.
- [Chessington fined £150,000 over 2012 girl fall](https://riderater.co.uk/4539/chessington-fined-150000-over-2012-girl-fall/): Chessington World of Adventures has been fined £150,000 following an accident in 2012.
- [Chessington admits failings following girl fall](https://riderater.co.uk/4515/chessington-admits-guilt-following-girl-fall/): Chessington World of Adventures has admitted safety failings following an accident in 2012 which saw a girl suffer severe injuries. The incident took place in the elevated queue line for the Tomb Blaster dark ride, where four-year-old Jessica Blake fell through fence panelling. Guildford Crown Court heard that water dripping from a roof had rotted
- [2014 Trivia: Quiz of the year's news](https://riderater.co.uk/4523/2014-trivia-quiz-of-the-years-news/): Try our quiz of 2014's news and find out how much you were paying attention to the events of last year.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach Holdings trims losses](https://riderater.co.uk/4479/blackpool-pleasure-beach-holdings-reduces-losses/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach (Holdings) has recorded a loss of £400,000 in the financial year to 23 March 2014.
- [Is Merlin tiring of its annual pass holders?](https://riderater.co.uk/4468/is-merlin-tiring-of-its-annual-pass-holders/): Merlin Entertainments continues to apply the squeeze to its annual pass holders - we take a look at some of the possible explanations.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach: Park of the Year 2014](https://riderater.co.uk/4465/blackpool-pleasure-beach-park-of-the-year-2014/): We are delighted to announce that Blackpool Pleasure Beach has been selected as Ride Rater's Theme Park of the Year 2014.
- [Merlin limits annual pass attraction access](https://riderater.co.uk/4450/merlin-limits-annual-pass-attraction-access/): Merlin Entertainments has limited the accessibility of its London attractions to its annual pass holders.
- [Scenic Railway damaged by high winds](https://riderater.co.uk/4458/scenic-railway-damaged-by-high-winds/): Dreamland Margate's Scenic Railway rollercoaster was damaged by high winds during the early hours of yesterday morning.
- [Flamingo Land boosting existing infrastructure](https://riderater.co.uk/4434/flamingo-land-boosting-existing-infrastructure/): Flamingo Land has said that 2015 will be a year of investment into its existing infrastructure.
- [Man speaks of Fantasy Island staff 'assault'](https://riderater.co.uk/4389/man-speaks-of-fantasy-island-staff-assault/): A man has spoken of an alleged assault on him and his son by staff at Fantasy Island amusement park in Lincolnshire.
- [Chained Oak film to be available free online](https://riderater.co.uk/4416/chained-oak-film-to-be-available-free-online/): The film based around the Legend of the Chained Oak is to be available free online from 1 December.
- [Fantasy Island will open for 2015 season](https://riderater.co.uk/4198/fantasy-island-will-open-for-2015-season/): Fantasy Island has confirmed that it will open for the 2015 season, despite the amusement park entering administration earlier this month.
- [2014 theme park season ends](https://riderater.co.uk/4401/2014-theme-park-season-ends/): The 2014 season has ended for the major British theme parks, with most now closed until February or March of next year.
- [Ride Rater Photographer of the Year 2014](https://riderater.co.uk/4397/ride-rater-photographer-of-the-year-2014/): As a another theme park season draws to a close, we are looking to name one of you our Photographer of the Year 2014. Submit your entry before 1 December!
- [Paramount London park plans go on display](https://riderater.co.uk/4369/paramount-london-park-plans-go-on-display/): Plans have been unveiled for Paramount London, the American film studio's proposed new theme park for Kent.
- [Manchester Bonfire fairground ride collapses](https://riderater.co.uk/4379/manchester-bonfire-fairground-ride-collapses/): A fairground ride at Heaton Park in Manchester collapsed during Bonfire Night celebrations, injuring three people.
- [Pleasure Island had "mixed bag" season in 2014](https://riderater.co.uk/4376/pleasure-island-had-mixed-bag-season-in-2014/): Pleasure Island has a "mixed bag" of a season in 2014 according to its owner Melanie Wood.
- [Man charged over Alton Towers knife attack](https://riderater.co.uk/4373/man-charged-over-alton-towers-knife-attack/): A man from Leek has been charged by police following the stabbing of an Alton Towers worker within the park's car park.
- [Fantasy Island debts revealed at £49 million](https://riderater.co.uk/4354/fantasy-island-debts-revealed-at-49-million/): Fantasy Island has debts of almost £49 million, documents filed with the High Court show.
- [Thorpe Park submits plans for 2016 attraction](https://riderater.co.uk/4343/thorpe-park-submits-plans-for-2016-attraction/): Thorpe Park has submitted a planning application for an indoor attraction scheduled to open for the 2016 season.
- [Editorial: VAT cut campaign becoming desperate](https://riderater.co.uk/4326/editorial-vat-cut-campaign-becoming-desperate/): The campaign to cut VAT on tourist attractions and hotel rooms is becoming desperate as its window of opportunity nears closure.
- [Blackpool names Red Arrows flat ride Sky Force](https://riderater.co.uk/4309/blackpool-names-red-arrows-flat-ride-sky-force/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach has unveiled the name of its new Royal Air Force Red Arrows-themed ride as Sky Force.
- [Blackpool to open Red Arrows-themed flat ride](https://riderater.co.uk/4290/blackpool-to-open-red-arrows-themed-flat-ride/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach will open a Red Arrows-themed flat ride in 2015.
- [Flamingo Land plans expansion in Scarborough](https://riderater.co.uk/4304/flamingo-land-plans-expansion-in-scarborough/): Flamingo Land is planning to expand its business by opening a small theme park on Scarborough seafront.
- [Merlin: A year on from public ownership](https://riderater.co.uk/4297/merlin-entertainments-a-year-of-public-ownership/): We take a look at how a year of public ownership has had an effect on Merlin Entertainments' UK theme parks.
- [Editorial: Lightwater Valley's unique selling points](https://riderater.co.uk/4283/editorial-lightwater-valleys-unique-selling-points/): Lightwater Valley's unique selling points are the things that keep the park in business, and attract so many people from Teesside and Tyne & Weir.
- [Chair-o-plane carousel ride 'collapses'](https://riderater.co.uk/4279/chair-o-plane-carousel-ride-collapses/): A chair-o-plane carousel ride collapsed at a funfair in Somerset last month, it has emerged.
- [Why do UK parks lag behind others in the world?](https://riderater.co.uk/4268/why-do-uk-parks-lag-behind-others-in-the-world/): When it comes to theme parks - specifically the 'theme' bit - the UK staggers behind the rest of the world. But why is this?
- [Merlin Annual Pass offered at £119 in new sale](https://riderater.co.uk/4265/merlin-annual-pass-offered-at-119-in-new-sale/): Merlin Entertainments is offering its standard annual pass at a discounted price of £119 in a surprise sale.
- [Chessington prosecuted over 2012 girl fall](https://riderater.co.uk/4259/chessington-prosecuted-over-2012-girl-fall/): Chessington World of Adventures is to be prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) following a girl falling and being serious injured in 2012.
- ["Is being turned away from rides that harsh?"](https://riderater.co.uk/4252/is-being-turned-away-from-rides-that-harsh/): Dan Woolford writes: "Is being turned away from rides for reasons of physical disability as harsh as it first seems?"
- [How the media reported on the Ultimate deer hit](https://riderater.co.uk/4246/how-the-media-reported-on-the-ultimate-deer-hit/): We take a look at how the media reported the striking of a deer by Lightwater Valley's Ultimate rollercoaster at the weekend.
- [Deer struck by Ultimate rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/4244/deer-struck-by-ultimate-rollercoaster/): A deer was "killed instantly" when a train from Lightwater Valley's Ultimate rollercoaster hit a deer over the weekend.
- ["Would a woodie not see an investment return?"](https://riderater.co.uk/4239/would-a-woodie-not-see-an-investment-return/): Peter Andrews writes: "Would a wooden coaster not see a return on investment, as Merlin Entertainments claim?"
- ['2,000 safety defects' identified at Chessington](https://riderater.co.uk/4230/2000-safety-defects-identified-at-chessington/): A surveyor that identified '2,000 safety defects' at Chessington World of Adventures in 2012 failed in a bid to prevent the park opening 2013, it has emerged.
- [Carnival of Screams maze leaves Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/4222/carnival-of-screams-maze-leaves-alton-towers/): The Carnival of Screams scare maze has left Alton Towers' lineup of Halloween attractions, it has been announced.
- [Alton Towers launches food discount vouchers](https://riderater.co.uk/4203/alton-towers-launches-food-discount-vouchers/): Alton Towers has launched a number of discount vouchers for its fast food restaurants, following recent price increases.
- [Ride Rater Photographer of the Year 2013](https://riderater.co.uk/3727/ride-rater-photographer-of-the-year-2013/): As a busy theme park season draws to a close, we are looking to name one of you our Photographer of the Year 2013.
- [Alton Towers gate entry price rises to £49.20](https://riderater.co.uk/4119/alton-towers-gate-entry-price-rises-to-49-20/): Alton Towers has increased its gate admission price by £1.20 to £49.20 this summer, a rise of 2.5%.
- [Girl ejected from Twist ride at bonfire fairground](https://riderater.co.uk/2339/girl-ejected-from-twist-ride-at-fair/): A nine-year-old girl was ejected from a Twist flat ride at a bonfire fairground in Northamptonshire, it has emerged.
- [Operator ran Twister at '50% above speed limit'](https://riderater.co.uk/4169/operator-ran-twister-at-50-above-speed-limit/): A fairground ride operator has been accused of operating a Twister ride at 50% above its maximum recommended speed limit.
- [Whirlwind flat ride to leave Lightwater Valley](https://riderater.co.uk/4188/whirlwind-flat-ride-to-leave-lightwater-valley/): The Whirlwind flat ride is to leave Lightwater Valley, following its placing on the market by the theme park.
- [Alton Towers Enchanted Village to open April 2015](https://riderater.co.uk/4180/alton-towers-enchanted-village-to-open-april-2015/): Alton Towers' new resort accommodation - the Enchanted Village - will open on 18 April 2015, it has been confirmed.
- [Welsh rides condemned for electrocution risk](https://riderater.co.uk/4165/welsh-rides-condemned-for-electrocution-risk/): Two fairground rides based in Wales were condemned by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) earlier this year for presenting a risk of electrocution.
- [Asylum maze removed from Thorpe Park event](https://riderater.co.uk/4160/asylum-maze-removed-from-thorpe-park-event/): A scare maze which attracted controversy last year due to its mental health theme has been removed from Thorpe Park's line-up of Halloween attractions.
- [Family left on Adventure Island Big Wheel at close](https://riderater.co.uk/4139/family-left-on-adventure-island-big-wheel-at-close/): A family has claimed that they were left stranded on Adventure Island's Big Wheel ride when the park was closing for the night.
- [Fantasy Island goes into administration](https://riderater.co.uk/4130/fantasy-island-goes-into-administration/): Fantasy Island amusement park in Lincolnshire has gone into administration following a period of "financial difficulty".
- [What is the future for independent theme parks?](https://riderater.co.uk/4134/what-is-the-future-for-independent-theme-parks/): We take a look at what might be the future of the UK's smaller parks in a decade's time - and what seem to be the causes.
- [40% 'not interested' in healthy theme park food](https://riderater.co.uk/4126/40-not-interested-in-healthy-theme-park-food/): 40% of people visiting UK theme parks are not interested in healthy food options, a poll for this website suggests.
- [16 injured in T in the Park ride accident](https://riderater.co.uk/4110/16-injured-in-t-in-the-park-ride-accident/): 16 people were treated for minor injuries when a Star Flyer chair swing ride operating at the T in the Park festival "stopped suddenly".
- [Government policy "does my head in" - Varney](https://riderater.co.uk/4107/government-policy-does-my-head-in-varney/): Merlin Entertainments chief executive Nick Varney has again criticised the British government's policies on tourism.
- [Cleethorpes beach rides were condemned by HSE](https://riderater.co.uk/4091/cleethorpes-beach-rides-were-condemned-by-hse/): Amusement rides at Mack's Amusements on Cleethorpes beach were condemned by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) earlier this year, it has emerged.
- [Ride builder and assessors fined after accident](https://riderater.co.uk/4096/ride-builder-and-assessors-fined-after-accident/): A ride manufacturer, its director and two assessors have been fined after a "catalogue of errors" led to a teenager suffering life-threatening injuries.
- [Child sustains whiplash after ride restraint error](https://riderater.co.uk/4084/child-sustains-whiplash-after-ride-restraint-error/): It has emerged that a child has sustained whiplash after he was allegedly fastened into a fairground ride with his head incorrectly positioned.
- [Private backers offload 100 million Merlin shares](https://riderater.co.uk/4080/private-backers-offload-100-million-merlin-shares/): Private equity backers Blackstone Group and CVC Capital Partners are offloading 100 million shares in Merlin Entertainments.
- [Merlin to launch VIP annual pass following delay](https://riderater.co.uk/4077/merlin-to-launch-vip-annual-pass-following-delay/): Merlin Entertainments will launch its VIP Annual Pass next week following a delays since the product was announced earlier this year. The £500 cards will go on sale at 6pm on 18 June, and will be available to purchase by telephone only. Reasons for the delay in launching the product - originally scheduled for March
- [Chessington records 15% visitor rise in 2013](https://riderater.co.uk/4073/chessington-records-15-visitor-rise-in-2013/): Chessington World of Adventures recorded a visitor increase of 15% during the 2013 season, recent figures show.
- [Abbey Park ride operator fined after accident](https://riderater.co.uk/4066/abbey-park-ride-operator-fined-after-accident/): A funfair ride operator has been fined following a ride collapse which seriously injured two boys in 2012.
- [Footage shows Billy Bates Funfair ride collapse](https://riderater.co.uk/2009/billy-bates-funfair-ride-carriage-severed-in-motion/): Amateur footage has emerged of the Billy Bates Funfair ride collapsing and injuring two teenage boys.
- [Thorpe Park submits plans for permanent hotel](https://riderater.co.uk/4063/thorpe-park-submits-plans-for-permanent-hotel/): Thorpe Park has submitted a planning application for a permanent hotel building, which it hopes will replace temporary accommodation.
- [Thorpe Park shifts towards family market](https://riderater.co.uk/4049/thorpe-park-shifts-towards-family-market/): Thorpe Park is this season changing its marketing strategy, placing a greater emphasis on attracting families.
- [What next for Chessington World of Adventures?](https://riderater.co.uk/4054/what-next-for-chessington-world-of-adventures/): We ask what is next for Chessington World of Adventures, now that Thorpe Park has begun to target the family market it traditionally held.
- [Editorial: How Merlin's Annual Pass is damaging](https://riderater.co.uk/4042/editorial-how-merlins-annual-pass-is-damaging/): The Merlin Annual Pass has the unfortunate effect of stifling the rest of the UK tourist industry, our editor writes.
- [Coney Island operators fined after child fall](https://riderater.co.uk/4035/coney-island-operators-fined-after-child-fall/): Operators of Coney Beach amusement park have been fined after a two-year-old boy fell through a gap in ride perimeter fencing.
- [Legoland plans 'Haunted House' drop ride](https://riderater.co.uk/4027/legoland-plans-haunted-house-drop-ride/): Legoland Windsor has submitted a planning application for a 'Haunted House' themed enclosed drop ride.
- [Five-star rating for Alton Towers restaurant](https://riderater.co.uk/4019/five-star-rating-for-alton-towers-restaurant/): The Woodcutters Bar & Restaurant at Alton Towers has been awarded a five-star rating by the Food Standards Agency (FSA).
- [Merlin Annual Pass discounted by 25% in sale](https://riderater.co.uk/4023/merlin-annual-pass-discounted-by-25-in-sale/): Merlin Entertainments has reduced the price of its standard annual pass by 25% during the month of May.
- [Alton Towers Enchanted Village gets go-ahead](https://riderater.co.uk/4016/alton-towers-enchanted-village-gets-go-ahead/): Plans for new accommodation at Alton Towers - which will be known as the Enchanted Village - have been given the go-ahead.
- ["Why I've visited only one UK park this year"](https://riderater.co.uk/4011/why-ive-visited-only-one-uk-park-this-year/): Peter Andrews writes: "For me, as a thrill seeker, there is simply nothing new being offered by any of the major parks within the UK."
- [Merlin Membership re-launch date still unknown](https://riderater.co.uk/4006/merlin-membership-re-launch-date-still-unknown/): Merlin Entertainments has still not set a re-launch date for its pay-monthly annual pass option, the Merlin Membership.
- [Fairground operator rejects ride danger claims](https://riderater.co.uk/4003/fairground-operator-rejects-ride-danger-claims/): A fairground operator has denied that a ride restraint system has functioned in a dangerous manner, following claims a child was partially choked.
- [Woman falls from Worthing fairground ride](https://riderater.co.uk/3997/woman-falls-from-worthing-fairground-ride/): An 18-year-old woman has been injured after falling from a fairground ride in Worthing, West Sussex.
- [Theme parks to be placed on the stock market](https://riderater.co.uk/3995/theme-parks-to-be-placed-on-the-stock-market/): Alton Towers and Thorpe Park are to be placed on the stock market by their owner, businessman Nick Leslau.
- [Oakwood set to launch Sleepy Hollow attractions](https://riderater.co.uk/3981/oakwood-set-to-launch-sleepy-hollow-attractions/): Oakwood theme park is expected to launch new attractions based on the Legend of Sleepy Hollow short story later this year.
- [Adventure Island introduces male shirt rule](https://riderater.co.uk/3978/adventure-island-introduces-male-shirt-rule/): Adventure Island has introduced a rule ordering males to wear shirts during the summer period.
- [Thorpe Park to get air link to Paris and Berlin](https://riderater.co.uk/3974/thorpe-park-to-get-air-link-to-paris-and-berlin/): Merlin Entertainments is to commission exclusive return flights to Thorpe Park from Paris and Berlin beginning this summer.
- [Nemesis: 20 years of a world class rollercoaster](https://riderater.co.uk/3966/nemesis-20-years-of-a-world-class-rollercoaster/): It was built to redefine Britain's most successful theme park. 20 years on, the Nemesis rollercoaster continues to set the standard at Alton Towers.
- [Alton Towers plans 'tree house' accommodation](https://riderater.co.uk/3962/alton-towers-plans-tree-house-accommodation/): Alton Towers has submitted a planning application for 'tree house' accommodation within a new 'enchanted village' at the theme park.
- [Alton Towers confirms 2014 opening times](https://riderater.co.uk/3959/alton-towers-confirms-2014-opening-times/): Alton Towers will open between 10am and 5pm for the majority of the 2014 season, including most weekends outside the summer.
- [Chained Oak film completed on £500 budget](https://riderater.co.uk/3955/chained-oak-film-completed-on-500-budget/): A film based on the same local legend that inspired the Hex dark ride at Alton Towers has been produced on a £500 budget.
- ['No plans' for concert at Alton Towers in 2014](https://riderater.co.uk/3951/no-plans-for-concert-at-alton-towers-in-2014/): Alton Towers has said that is has "no plans" for a live music concert during 2014, as had been the the case during recent summers.
- [Merlin boss criticises universal minimum wage](https://riderater.co.uk/3946/merlin-boss-criticises-universal-minimum-wage/): Merlin Entertainments chief executive Nick Varney has criticised the UK minimum wage for being a universal figure applied across the country.
- [Merlin sells 70,000 annual passes in January sale](https://riderater.co.uk/3942/merlin-sells-70000-annual-passes-in-january-sale/): Merlin Entertainments sold 70,000 of its annual passes during its recent New Year sale, it has emerged.
- [Lightwater Valley losses increase near-tenfold](https://riderater.co.uk/3939/lightwater-valley-losses-increase-near-tenfold/): Lightwater Valley has recorded a near-tenfold increase in pre-tax losses, the theme park's latest accounts show.
- [Chessington confirms hotel opening for 3 August](https://riderater.co.uk/3933/chessington-confirms-hotel-opening-for-3-august/): Chessington World Adventures has named 3 August as the opening date for its new 'Azteca Hotel'.
- [Legoland cancels Muslim-hired day after 'threats'](https://riderater.co.uk/3925/legoland-cancels-muslim-hired-day-after-threats/): Legoland Windsor has cancelled a private booking from a Muslin organisation, citing threatening messages from "a small but vociferous group".
- [Merlin set to announce 13% rise in profits](https://riderater.co.uk/3922/merlin-set-to-announce-13-rise-in-profits/): Merlin Entertainments is set to announce a 13% rise in profits on Thursday, City of London analysts understand.
- [Merlin Membership 'unavailable until Spring'](https://riderater.co.uk/3916/merlin-membership-unavailable-until-spring/): Merlin Entertainments has temporarily withdrawn its monthly-installment annual pass - Merlin Membership - for unspecified reasons.
- [Legoland rejects religious discrimination claims](https://riderater.co.uk/3910/legoland-rejects-religious-discrimination-claims/): Legoland Windsor has rejected accusations that it is discriminating against non-Muslims after an Islamic group hired the park for the day.
- [Merlin changes annual pass drink capsule offer](https://riderater.co.uk/3908/merlin-changes-annual-pass-drink-capsule-offer/): Merlin Annual Pass holders will no longer have the option of purchasing an unlimited free drinks capsule in 2014.
- ["Modern Pleasure Beach superior to tacky 80s"](https://riderater.co.uk/3900/modern-pleasure-beach-superior-to-tacky-80s/): Peter Andrews writes: "The modern Blackpool Pleasure Beach is far superior to the dirty and tacky park of the 1980s."
- [Submission flat ride leaves Alton Towers](https://riderater.co.uk/3894/submission-flat-ride-leaves-alton-towers/): The Submission flat ride will not return to Alton Towers' lineup of attractions for the 2014 season.
- [Oakwood visitor numbers rose by 40% in 2013](https://riderater.co.uk/3890/oakwood-visitor-numbers-rose-by-40-in-2013/): Oakwood theme park in south Wales recorded a 40% increase in visitor numbers during its 2013 season. The visitor attraction is also looking to expand its workforce by 35% this year. Spokesman Dominic Jones was quoted as saying that the park plans on opening a number of new attractions this year. Oakwood begins its 2014
- ["Chessington has fallen into a state of neglect"](https://riderater.co.uk/3884/chessington-has-fallen-into-a-state-of-neglect/): John Ellison writes: "It's a shame to see what is a great family park fall into this state of neglect."
- [Drayton Manor to install Air Race flat ride](https://riderater.co.uk/3876/drayton-manor-to-install-air-race-flat-ride/): Drayton Manor has confirmed that it is to install an Air Race flat ride from Italian manufacturers Zamperla.
- [Merlin plans new London visitor attraction](https://riderater.co.uk/3867/merlin-plans-new-london-visitor-attraction/): Merlin Entertainments has submitted a planning application for a new visitor attraction in the County Hall building in London.
- [Editorial: Smoking bans mean nothing unenforced](https://riderater.co.uk/3862/editorial-smoking-bans-mean-nothing-unenforced/): A number of theme parks have now taken the populist approach of becoming 'smoke free', although the reality is somewhat different.
- [Way cleared for Paramount theme park in Kent](https://riderater.co.uk/3856/way-cleared-for-paramount-theme-park-in-kent/): A government decision over the use of land in Kent has cleared the way for the construction of a new Paramount theme park.
- [Plans for Paramount-licenced theme park in Kent](https://riderater.co.uk/2200/plans-tabled-for-paramount-licenced-theme-park-in-kent/): Plans have been tabled for the construction of a £2 billion Paramount Pictures theme park in the Thames Estuary area of north Kent. The consortium behind the proposals has said that if given the go-ahead, the 872-acre park could open in less than six years time with the creation of 27,000 jobs. It would feature Europe's largest indoor water park and
- [Flamingo Wild Mouse acquired by Pleasurewood](https://riderater.co.uk/3846/flamingo-wild-mouse-ride-heading-for-pleasurewood/): Pleasurewood Hills has purchased Flamingo Land's former Wild Mouse rollercoaster, according to a fan website.
- [Chessington postpones Dragon Falls re-theme](https://riderater.co.uk/3841/chessington-postpones-dragon-falls-re-theme/): Chessington World of Adventures has postponed the re-theming of its Dragon Falls log flume ride until a "future season".
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach records £1.5m loss](https://riderater.co.uk/3839/blackpool-pleasure-beach-records-1-5m-loss/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach made a loss of £1.5 million during the financial year to April 2013, company accounts show.
- ["2013 - the year a rollercoaster fell apart"](https://riderater.co.uk/3834/2013-the-year-a-rollercoaster-fell-apart/): Sam Personage writes: "2013 will forever be remembered as the year a roller-coaster fell apart before our very eyes."
- ["It's time for the parks to up their game"](https://riderater.co.uk/3471/its-time-for-the-parks-to-up-their-game/): Michael Mander gives his views to Ride Rater.
- ["Not about the guest experience any more"](https://riderater.co.uk/3703/not-about-the-guest-experience-any-more/): Laura Mitchel gives her view to Ride Rater.
- [Blackpool Pleasure Beach records £500,000 loss](https://riderater.co.uk/2517/blackpool-pleasure-beach-records-500000-loss/): Blackpool Pleasure Beach made a bottom-line loss of £524,000 for the financial year ending April 2012.

## Pages

- [UK Theme Parks Map](https://riderater.co.uk/uk-theme-parks-map/): Our UK theme parks map includes the theme parks that are most aligned with RideRater's thrill-based scope. All four corners of the UK are represented.
- [About](https://riderater.co.uk/about/): Here you can read about what RideRater is, and how we operate. Our primary purpose is to deliver unbiased news coverage of the UK's theme parks and fairgrounds.
- [UK Funfair Calendar](https://riderater.co.uk/uk-funfair-calendar/): The United Kingdom has a number of travelling fairs that are held around similar dates each year across the country. Here we list some established events.
- [New Rides](https://riderater.co.uk/new-rides/): Here we list the major new rides and attractions planned for the UK's theme and amusement parks. Opening dates may not yet be confirmed by the parks themselves.
- [Rumours](https://riderater.co.uk/rumours/): With our posted rumours, we provide a selection of unconfirmed reports from UK theme parks. They are unconfirmed, but we endeavour that most materialise.
- [UK Ride and Park Statistics](https://riderater.co.uk/uk-ride-and-park-statistics/): We provide UK Top 5 rankings of various statistical categories of rides and theme parks. Categories include the biggest parks and tallest rollercoasters.
- [Hall of Fame](https://riderater.co.uk/hall-of-fame/): In RideRater's Hall of Fame, we honour the best theme parks and best new additions of each season. Photographer of the Year winners are also featured.
- [UK Top 50 Rides](https://riderater.co.uk/uk-top-50-rides/): RideRater's Top 50 theme and amusement park rides in the UK. Only permanent rides are included and the list is based on both experience and reliability.
- [Contribute](https://riderater.co.uk/contribute/): RideRater welcomes any budding journalist or photographer to contribute to our content. Simply get in touch if you have something you wish to share.
- [Links](https://riderater.co.uk/links/): A selection of theme and amusement park-related links for you to explore. If you have a theme park website and you'd like to link back to RideRater, get in touch.
- [Contact](https://riderater.co.uk/contact/): Use this form to contact RideRater with comments, questions, requests, or your news items. We are usually able to respond to queries within 48 hours.
- [Press](https://riderater.co.uk/press/): For press releases, public relations or other media queries, RideRater can be contacted via our contact form. Note that we honour all time-bound embargos.
- [Credits](https://riderater.co.uk/credits/): Here we extend our thanks to the following past and present contributors to RideRater. Since our inception in 2010, we have been helped by various individuals.
- [HOME](https://riderater.co.uk/home/)

## Categories

- [News](https://riderater.co.uk/topics/news/): Our trademark factual, neutral and unbiased reporting of new developments within the UK theme park industry.
- [Features](https://riderater.co.uk/topics/features/): Feature articles include assessment, analysis and interviews by the RideRater team.
- [Reviews](https://riderater.co.uk/topics/reviews/): Our impartial reviews of rides and attractions, featuring our famous star ratings.
- [Announcements](https://riderater.co.uk/topics/announcements/): Announcements from RideRater.