Thorpe Park

Thorpe Park is one of the most famous theme parks in the United Kingdom. The park has long been a magnet for thrill seekers, adrenaline junkies and those looking for exciting adventures. Located not far from London, the park combines dozens of attractions, themed areas, events and interactive entertainment, creating a space where every guest can find something truly exciting.

What is Thorpe Park?

Thorpe Park can rightly be called the most popular amusement park (UK theme parks) in Britain. The park is located in Surrey, about 20 miles west-southwest of central London.

Thorpe Park was founded in 1979. Today, it has grown from a former gravel quarry into a large-scale resort combining a park, hotel and entertainment. The park is positioned as ‘the UK's Most Thrilling Theme Park’. It offers a variety of adrenaline-fuelled rides, water slides, as well as opportunities for relaxation, entertainment and night-time activities.

A commemorative plaque was also installed in the park in honour of Princess Diana with the inscription ‘Diana, Princess of Wales – Dedicated in fond memory by the Thorpe Park Team’, which was placed in front of the walls in the area of the former Loggers Leap attraction.

What to do at Thorpe Park?

A visit to Thorpe Park is an intense experience. There are extreme roller coasters, atmospheric zones, water recreation, shopping, spectacular shows and special events. The park is known for its focus on thrills, offering guests not only rides but a full-fledged ‘adrenaline universe’. .

Attractions

The park is known for its extreme roller coasters, which are among the tallest, fastest and most innovative in the UK. However, there is a balance between gentle entertainment and absolute adrenaline:

• Hyperia. A record-breaking roller coaster with a height of almost 72 metres and a speed of up to 81 mph.
• Stealth. This launch coaster accelerates visitors from 0 to 80 mph in just a couple of seconds. Those looking for dizzying twists and turns should head to The Swarm, the UK's first wing coaster, where your feet ‘hang in the air,’ creating the effect of free flight and a ghostly vision.
• SAW The Ride. Surprises, a huge drop and a frightening theme await you here.
• For those who prefer something less extreme, there are water slides, family carousels, the Amity Beach beach area and children's activities.

Shops and restaurants

After riding the rides, guests can relax, go shopping and visit Thorpe Park's restaurants. There are both fast food outlets and full-service cafés serving hot meals. In the themed areas, you will find snacks, sweets, drinks and signature restaurants designed in the style of American diners or marine stations.

The park also has a Cadbury Chocolate Lodge brand store dedicated to the products of the famous British chocolate brand Cadbury World. Here, guests can purchase a variety of chocolate products, souvenirs and sweets, making a visit to the park even more enjoyable for chocolate lovers.

Although food and drink prices are above average, there is a wide selection, and the range allows you to grab a quick bite or have a full meal between rides.

Thorpe Park events

The most famous event is Fright Nights, held in October. During this period, the park is open until late in the evening, and the entire area is filled with scream actors, scary mazes, smoke effects, music and themed areas that create the feeling of a real horror film.

In addition to Halloween, there are other activities:

• summer parties;
• night rides;
• seasonal shows;
• holiday events;
• days with live music;
• additional programmes during school holidays;
• some events are offered as part of ‘Short Breaks’, which are special packages that include accommodation, early entry and bonuses.

Where is Thorpe Park located?

Thorpe Park is located in the south-east of England, in the county of Surrey, about 30 kilometres from London. This location makes the park one of the most convenient UK theme parks for tourists. The park stands on the territory of picturesque lakes, which creates a mesmerising atmosphere.

Major motorways pass nearby, and Staines train station is close by, with shuttle buses running from there. The journey takes very little time.

Thorpe Park Map

The layout of the amusement park has been carefully designed so that guests can easily find their way around and move between different areas as quickly as possible. On the official map, you will see that Thorpe Park is divided into themed areas, each with its own style, music, design and even a unique logo for the attractions.

The most popular areas are:

1. The Swarm Island. A futuristic area by the water with a huge inverted track and a post-apocalyptic atmosphere.
2. Coastal Town. It is known for its beach, restaurants and water attractions.
3. Old Town. A place for family entertainment and leisurely walks.
4. Lost City. An area with extreme roller coasters such as Colossus and other fast-rising attractions.

The park also has recreation areas, parking, restaurant streets, food outlets, photo shops, first aid stations, and places to charge gadgets. The map shows routes that are convenient for planning your day.

For guests arriving by caravan or staying at a hotel, there are separate entrances and navigation signs. The park also offers maps for people who experience fear or anxiety. They help you choose the most comfortable route.

How to get to Thorpe Park?

There are several ways to get to Thorpe Park: by train, bus, car or via convenient routes from London. The journey takes a short time, and the transport network is well connected to the park.

By train

The most popular and fastest way to get to Thorpe Park. The nearest station is called Staines Railway Station. It is a large station with regular direct trains from central London, including Waterloo. The journey takes approximately 30-35 minutes, making it convenient and inexpensive for tourists choosing UK theme parks as part of a day trip.

Upon arrival at the station, guests will find the Thorpe Park Shuttle bus. It runs approximately every 15 minutes during the season, taking visitors directly to the entrance of the amusement park. You can get a discount on the shuttle by showing your tickets or combined travel passes.

By underground

Although there is no direct underground line to Thorpe Park, many tourists combine their trip from London via underground stations that are connected to railway lines. The most convenient way is to take the underground to Waterloo, Clapham Junction or Paddington. From there, it is easy to change to a train towards Staines. This method is chosen by travellers who value precise departure times and a stable schedule.

By bus

You can also get to Thorpe Park Resort by regional buses that connect the park with neighbouring towns. There are no direct routes from London, but you can travel to Staines, Chertsey or Kingston and then change to a local bus to the park.

By car

Travelling by car is ideal for those who want flexibility, want to bring a caravan, stay at a local hotel or plan night-time events such as Fright Nights. The park is close to the M25 and M3 motorways, so it is easy to find a short route using a satnav.

The car park at Thorpe Park is very large and divided into several sections. It is paid parking, but the cost is affordable for families and groups of friends. There are convenient paths, signs and traffic patterns leading from the car park, so it is impossible to get lost here.

On the way, you can enjoy the nature of Surrey. Lakes, green fields and cosy villages appear before your eyes. The park is easy to find thanks to clear navigation and recognisable signs with the Thorpe Park logo.

Visitor Information

The Visitor Information section helps you plan your trip to Thorpe Park in advance, avoid unexpected costs and know exactly what to expect when you arrive. All the key information is summarised below.

Opening Hours

Thorpe Park's opening hours vary throughout the year, so it's worth checking the current schedule before your visit. As a rule, the park opens in early spring. It is also open during the peak summer season and during themed events.

Tickets

There are several types of tickets available for Thorpe Park:

• one-day;
• multi-day;
• family;
• seasonal;
• Fast Track passes for priority access.

It is cheaper to buy tickets online, as prices are usually lower than at the entrance. There may be special offers for schoolchildren, students and large groups. The park also offers combined tickets that include accommodation or access to separate VIP areas.

Accommodation at Thorpe Park

For those staying for several days, full accommodation is available at Thorpe Park. The Thorpe Shark Cabins themed hotel operates on the premises. There are also guest houses, apartments and classic hotels of various categories near the park, suitable for families, groups or budget travellers.

Parking

The car park is located next to the main entrance, and navigation signs allow you to quickly find a free space. The cost is fixed and paid separately from tickets. Thorpe Shark Cabins hotel guests have their own parking area.

Contact details and postcode

The park's postcode is KT16 8PN.

It works with Google Maps and other GPS services.

For inquiries, there is a hotline, email, and official social media pages, where you can also find out about the weather.

Conclusion

Thorpe Park is the perfect place for those looking for an adrenaline rush, wanting to feel fear, experience height and speed, and combine relaxation and entertainment. This UK theme park resort combines extreme roller coasters, family entertainment, night-time events and cosy accommodation. If you are planning a trip to London and want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Thorpe Park could be a great option for a holiday full of excitement, great reviews and memorable photos.

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