Theme parks

Hands in the air … and … screeeeeeam! Thrill seekers need look no further. From roller coasters only for the very bravest, to treetop rope swings, England has it. Perfect for kids and big kids too. For those of a less daring bent, a tram ride through history or a model world may suffice.

1. Thorpe Park

You want to go faster? Really? Well, OK, if you’re sure … Thorpe Park's Stealth is a ride that gives a new meaning to the word speed. The whole thing is over in a matter of 14 seconds, reaching speeds of 80mph. You’re still not feeling queasy? Well there’s always the Colussus. It goes upside down – count-em – 10 times.

2. Diggerland

If there’s someone in your family for whom driving a dumper truck would be The Best Thing In The World, try Diggerland. Children (and adults) can drive, ride and race on diggers to their heart’s content. All four sites (in Devon, Durham, Kent and West Yorkshire) are closed for the winter.

3. Go Ape

Not for the faint-spirited, Go Ape provides a treetop adventure trail of wobbly bridges, zip lines and rope jumps. Flying down the zip wire to land in wood chip at the end of each stage of the course you’ll get an adrenaline high. Now scream. 

4. Blackpool Pleasure Beach

For the ultimate in high-flying, adrenaline-pumping fun, look no further than Blackpool Pleasure Beach. It's the perfect pick for year-round family fun right on the shores of the world-famous seaside spot. Feeling brave? Jump aboard The Big One, England's tallest and fastest rollercoaster, and reach spine-tingling speeds of over 85mph. 

5. Alton Towers

A legendary destination for thrill seekers. The names of the rides alone are enough to turn your legs to jelly: The Blade, Nemesis, Oblivion, Rita, Ripsaw, Submission and new kid on the block TH13TEEN. Alton Towers opens for February half term then from late March.  

6. BeWilderwood

This is a muddy one. Play on marsh walks and in magical treehouses in the land of Thorny Crocklebogs and Boggles. This 50-acre adventure park in Norwich is great for families. Keep in touch after your visit by signing up for the e-newsletter – The Twiggle Times. 

7. Chessington World of Adventures and Zoo

How to do everything on offer at Chessington in a day is a conundrum. Before you even step onto your first ride there’s a whole zoo to visit. Get soaking wet on the Rameses Revenge in the Forbidden Kingdom, or spin until you’re more than dizzy on the Dragon’s Fury in the Land of the Dragons.

8. Lightwater Valley

The signature ride at Lightwater Valley is The Ultimate, Europe’s longest roller coaster. For six minutes you’ll climb and drop, twist and turn, stomach in mouth. Not every ride is so extreme – for the little ones: a mini Ferris Wheel, magic shows, and spinning teacups.

9. Legoland Windsor

Putting together 55 million bricks must have taken some doing. Nowhere is the joy of Lego more apparent. The park is aimed at 3-12 year-olds, but there is much for adults to marvel at too, especially in Miniland. The largest model is the Canary Wharf Tower, made of 200,000 Lego bricks.

10. Drayton Manor Theme Park

A real day out for all the family. With a zoo, theme park and Thomas Land Drayton Manor certainly packs a punch. Can you handle Shockwave? Voted the best stand up rollercoaster.