7 great theme parks near London
7 great theme parks to explore this summer
Whether you are young or old, this list of our top London theme parks has something for everyone
Caroline McConnico
For Younger Audiences
Legoland Windsor Resort
A trip to Legoland Windsor Resort is sure to be a wholesome day of family fun. The theme park offers whimsical attractions like “The Flight of the Sky Lion”, the UK’s first flying theatre ride and “The Magical Forest”, where LEGO creatures come magically to life. You can also book an overnight stay at one of the park’s three LEGO-themed hotels to craft the perfect LEGO sleepover experience. The park is primarily for children ages 2-12 with children under 90cm free. Be sure to book your tickets online beforehand to save up to 50% off the gate price.
Paultons Park
Step into Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park and you will feel as if you stepped right into the preschool pig’s television program. This immersive world has over nine rides and many interactive characters inspired by the children’s show. Paultons Park is also home to Little Africa, a section of the park where guests can see all sorts of animals from the continent, including the biggest and smallest rodents. The park is mainly designed for kids under 14 and tickets can only be purchased online ahead of time.
Shrek’s Adventure
Another kid-friendly theme park is Shrek’s Adventure, located just next to the London Eye. This 70-minute interactive walkthrough experience allows guests to explore the world of Shrek with 10 fairytale themed live shows and a magical 4D flying bus experience. Live actors even play some of your favorite Shrek characters like Princess Fiona and Donkey. The park is generally recommended for ages 3-12 with adult tickets costing £32 and children £26 plus £2 extra for Shrek ears. One thing to note is filming is prohibited during the main tour in order to preserve the park’s magic.
For Older Audiences
Thorpe Park
You’ll find the ultimate spot for thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies at Thorpe Park. As one of the leading theme parks in the world, this park offers attractions like “Saw”, the world’s first horror-movie-themed ride, the “Black Mirror” experience, where guests must escape a twisted maze, and Stealth, the fastest rollercoaster in the UK. Because of the intensity of the rides, Thorpe Park is geared towards older kids and adults. If you want to extend your visit, you can stay overnight in the Thorpe Shark Hotel and skip the lines until 11am.
MORE FAB FOODIE CONTENT
Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter
Calling all Potterheads! At Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter, you can check out props and original costumes as well as see iconic locations including the Great Hall of Hogwarts, Diagon Alley, and Platform 9 ¾. You can also learn how the movies were made and the use of animatronics and special effects throughout the filming process. Though the tickets are on the more pricey side, there’s enough to see to make you stay three or four hours. You can also purchase add-ons to your tour including getting fitted for your very own wand. The tour is primarily geared to older kids and adults because of some of the darker material in the books and movies.
Fun for the Whole Family
Babylon Park
Looking for an experience that is literally out of this world? Babylon Park is the place for you! Just a 10-minute walk from Camden Town Station, Babylon Park is London’s first underground theme park and indoor rollercoaster attraction site. Among the top attractions are giant UFOs, waving aliens, bumper cars, and plenty of arcade games, making the park suitable for a wide range of ages, from children to adults. Although park entry is free, coins must be purchased to access rides and other attractions (a rollercoaster is 48 coins or £5). Be aware of height restrictions on certain rides.
Chessington World of Adventures Resort
Last but not least is Chessington World of Adventures Resort with attractions like “Zoo & Sea Life” and the “World of Jumanji”. The park has over 40 rides, including the Vampire rollercoaster and Gruffalo River Ride Adventure. Guests can also stay overnight in one of the themed hotels or “Explorer Glamping” sites which offers luxury tents. The park is suitable for all age groups with rides for toddlers, teens, and adults. Purchase tickets in advance for the best prices.
