Thorpe Park Admission Ticket

Thinking about spending a day at Thorpe Park? This popular theme park just outside London promises a day packed with thrills, family fun, and plenty of adrenaline. As someone who’s seen many parks and countless reviews, I’ll share a balanced picture of what you can expect, highlighting both the highlights and the hurdles.

What we love about Thorpe Park is its convenient location—just 20 miles from central London, making it accessible for day-trippers. Plus, the variety of rides caters to all ages, offering both family-friendly attractions and high-octane rollercoasters. A big plus is the option to upgrade with Fastrack, which can help you skip long lines—definitely worth considering if you want to maximize ride time.

One potential drawback is the crowd factor. Several reviews mention how busy it can get, leading to long lines and wait times, sometimes stretching over two hours for a ride. If you’re not a fan of crowds or you’re traveling during peak times, this might impact your experience. Still, if you’re prepared for the hustle, there’s plenty of fun to be had.

This experience suits those looking for a full day of excitement, especially if you’re a thrill-seeker or traveling with a group that enjoys rollercoasters and lively entertainment. Families with children over 6 will find plenty to do, but parents of very young kids might feel a bit limited, as some rides have height restrictions.

Key Points

• Location: Easily accessible from London, just 20 miles away
• Ride Variety: Over 30 rides for all ages and thrill levels
• Crowds: Can get very busy, with long wait times reported
• Extra Costs: Fastrack upgrades available; parking, food, and accommodation are not included
• Best For: Thrill-lovers, families with kids over 6, and those seeking a full day of fun
• Booking: Usually booked 5 days in advance; tickets are mobile-friendly

What’s Inside the Ticket: What You Can Expect

Your ticket grants you entry into the park, opening at 10:00 AM during the season from July to August, with hours extending until 5:00 PM. The ticket price of around $43.89 per person offers decent value, especially if you plan your visit well and avoid peak times—though, as some reviews highlight, overcrowding can sometimes make the experience frustrating.

Once inside, you’ll find more than 30 rides and attractions, each promising a different kind of excitement. From family-friendly rides to some of the UK’s most intense rollercoasters, there’s something for all. The park is described as an “island like no other,” with themed attractions and live events, making it a lively place to spend a day.

Fastrack upgrades are available, which many visitors find worthwhile if they want to beat the queues. This extra cost can significantly cut down on waiting times, which is especially helpful given how busy the park can get during peak seasons.

The Park’s Highlights & Attractions

Thorpe Park’s proximity to London makes it a popular choice for a day trip. You’re not committing to a multi-day stay—just a day of thrills, if you like that kind of adventure. The park often hosts seasonal events like Mardi Gras, Carnival, Oktoberfest, and Fright Nights, adding themed entertainment, food, and special rides during specific times of the year. If you’re visiting during these periods, expect a more festive atmosphere.

The rides are diverse, and the reviews reflect that. Several visitors mention their favorites, like The Swarm, Nemesis Inferno, and Stealth, describing them as “sensational” and “exhilarating.” One reviewer admitted that The Swarm turned out to be a favorite after initial dread, highlighting how rides can surprise you.

However, a common theme among less enthusiastic reviews is overcrowding—queues often stretch 90 minutes or more, with some visitors waiting hours for a brief ride. One review even called it “unbelievable” how long waits can get, especially when rides are temporarily closed for maintenance, like Hyperia, which is scheduled for a brief closure in September 2024.

The Experience: What You Need to Know

Expect long lines especially during peak season (July and August) and weekends. Several reviews mention that ticketing can sometimes cause delays, such as one traveler who noted their ticket wasn’t recognized at entry, leading to some inconvenience. However, staff generally seem helpful in resolving issues, like issuing barcoded tickets on-site.

If you’re planning to visit during the busy months, consider whether Fastrack upgrades are worth the extra expense—these can significantly reduce wait times and make the day more enjoyable. Many reviews suggest that some rides look a tad aged or in need of refurbishment, which might affect your perception of safety and comfort.

Food options are plentiful, with many guests noting they enjoyed the variety, especially after long waits in line. But the condition of some areas like the food courts, particularly the KFC, was criticized as “miserable” by a reviewer, so your experience may vary.

Accessibility and physical fitness are important considerations; the park recommends a moderate level of physical activity, which is typical for a day filled with walking and riding.

The Review Buzz: What Visitors Say

The majority of reviews are positive, praising the park for offering great value for money and fun-filled rides. Several travelers highlighted their favorite rides, with comments like, “The Swarm, Nemesis Inferno, and Stealth” being personal highlights. Others appreciated the friendly staff and how some rides surprised them.

But negatives are also loud and clear. Overcrowding and long waits dominate many negative reviews. Comments like “we waited hours and didn’t even get on rides” or “too crowded” underscore that quality experience can be compromised if you’re unprepared or visiting during peak times.

Some reviews pointed out maintenance issues or rides that looked outdated, which can affect overall safety and enjoyment. Also, a few travelers faced booking issues or delays when trying to reschedule or get refunds, so be sure to read the cancellation policy carefully.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Book in advance: The best days tend to be weekdays outside of school holidays when crowds are smaller.
• Consider Fastrack: If you’re visiting during busy periods, this upgrade can be a game-changer.
• Arrive early: To maximize your time on rides, getting there right at opening can help beat some of the crowds.
• Prepare for long waits: Queue times can be lengthy; plan your day around the most popular rides.
• Bring snacks and water: Food options are available, but lines can be long, so packing some essentials is wise.
• Check for closures: Ride maintenance like Hyperia is scheduled periodically, so review the website for updates.

Who Should Consider This Ticket?

Thrill-seekers will find plenty of adrenaline-pumping rides to satisfy their craving. Families with children over 6 will also enjoy many attractions, but parents with very young kids might need to be selective since some rides are height-restricted. If you’re someone who hates waiting in lines or dislikes crowded spaces, this might be less enjoyable unless you opt for Fastrack.

Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate that at about $43.89, the ticket offers decent value for a full day of entertainment, provided you’re okay with potential crowds and long waits. For those wanting a relaxing experience with minimal hassle, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

Thorpe Park offers a solid, adrenaline-filled day out just outside London. Its diverse rides and seasonal events make it an appealing destination for thrill-seekers and families alike. The convenient location, combined with affordable pricing and easy mobile ticketing, makes it accessible for a quick escape from the city.

However, potential visitors should be prepared for crowds and long waits, especially during peak season. If you can plan ahead, book Fastrack, and manage expectations, you’ll likely have a memorable, exhilarating day. Keep in mind that some rides may look a little tired, and queues can test your patience, but for many, the thrill factor outweighs these minor inconveniences.

This ticket is best suited for those who prioritize rides and fun over a quiet, relaxed day. If you love rollercoasters and lively atmospheres, and you’re okay with crowds, you’ll find plenty of value here. But if you prefer a more relaxed pace or travel with very young children, you might want to consider other options or visit during less busy times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this ticket valid for one full day?
Yes, your ticket grants entry for a full day, with opening hours typically from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the season.

Can I upgrade my ticket to Fastrack?
Yes, Fastrack upgrades are available and can help you skip long lines for a more efficient day.

Are food and parking included in the ticket price?
No, food, beverages, and parking are not included. You’ll need to pay separately for those.

How far is Thorpe Park from London?
It’s approximately 20 miles (32 km) from central London, making it a feasible day-trip destination.

What is the best time of year to visit?
While the park is open from early July to late August and during certain seasonal events, visiting during weekdays outside peak holiday periods can reduce crowding.

Are there rides suitable for young children?
Many rides cater to children over 6, but some reviews mention limited options for very young kids. Check height restrictions before visiting.

What happens in case of ride maintenance or closures?
Scheduled maintenance occurs periodically, and some rides like Hyperia may be closed temporarily. Always check the park’s website for updates.

What should I do if I experience a problem at the park?
Staff are generally helpful; for issues like ticket recognition, they can issue barcoded tickets on-site. For other concerns, approach park staff.

Can I buy tickets on the day of visiting?
While same-day tickets are often available, booking in advance is recommended to secure the best prices and avoid sold-out days.

Is the park accessible for people with limited mobility?
The tour information notes that nearby public transportation and a moderate physical fitness level are recommended, but specific accessibility details aren’t provided here. It’s best to contact the park directly for clarity.

If you’re after a full day of rollercoaster thrills and lively entertainment, Thorpe Park’s ticket can be a good pick, especially if you plan ahead and manage expectations around crowds. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way toward making your day smooth and memorable.