UK theme parks range from huge thrill-ride destinations to smaller family parks aimed at younger children. Whether you’re looking for rollercoasters, gentle rides, character attractions or a full family day out, there are options across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Use this guide to compare some of the best theme parks in the UK, with ideas for toddlers, older children, teenagers and thrill-seekers.
Always check the park’s own website for current opening times, ticket prices and ride availability before you travel.
Which Theme Park Suits Your Family?
For toddlers and younger children: look for parks with gentle rides, character attractions, play areas and shorter queues between activities.
For older children and teenagers: larger parks with rollercoasters, water rides and thrill attractions are usually the stronger choice.
For mixed-age families: parks with a balance of thrill rides, family rides, shows and indoor attractions make it easier to keep everyone entertained.
For rainy days: most theme parks are mainly outdoor attractions, so check whether there are indoor rides, shows or covered areas before travelling.
Theme Parks in England
Alton Towers Resort
Staffordshire
The UK’s most famous theme park with over 40 rides, a waterpark, themed hotels and beautiful gardens. Perfect for a full day out or a short break. Britain’s greatest escape — and it genuinely lives up to the name.
Visit Alton Towers in Staffordshire
Thorpe Park
Surrey, South East England
The UK’s most thrilling theme park — built for adrenaline seekers. Massive roller coasters, high-speed rides and seasonal scare events make this the go-to park for teenagers and adults who love a serious thrill.
Visit Thorpe Park in Surrey
Chessington World of Adventures
Surrey, South East England
A brilliant mix of theme park rides, zoo areas and family attractions. A great choice for families who want animals AND rides — all in one place. Younger children especially love the variety here.
Visit Chessington World of Adventures in Surrey
LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
Berkshire, South East England
Purpose-built for families with younger children — LEGO-themed rides, play areas, models, shows and miniature versions of the world’s most famous landmarks. Kids who love LEGO will absolutely love this place.
Visit LEGOLAND in Berkshire
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Lancashire, North West England
One of the UK’s most iconic seaside attractions. Classic roller coasters, traditional amusement park fun and a brilliant atmosphere. Combine with a full Blackpool day out for a genuinely memorable trip to the seaside.
visit Blackpool Pleassure Beach in Lancashire
Drayton Manor Resort
Staffordshire, West Midlands
A great all-round family theme park with rides for all ages, a zoo, and Thomas Land for younger children. One of the Midlands’ most popular family days out and well worth a visit for mixed-age groups.
Visit Drayton Manor in Staffordshire
Flamingo Land Resort
North Yorkshire
A theme park, zoo and holiday resort all rolled into one — Flamingo Land is a fantastic choice for families who want more than just rides. Stay on site and make a full short break of it in beautiful North Yorkshire.
Visit Flamingo Land in North Yorkshire
Paultons Park
Hampshire, South England
A gentler, family-focused park that’s especially brilliant for younger children. Home to Peppa Pig World — which young Peppa fans will absolutely love. Beautiful gardens and a relaxed atmosphere make this a lovely day out.
visit Poultons Park in HampshireTheme Parks in Scotland
M&D’s Scotland’s Theme Park
Motherwell, North Lanarkshire
Scotland’s main theme park destination, with rides, indoor and outdoor attractions and family entertainment. A great option for a theme park-style day out in central Scotland — well located for visitors based in Glasgow or Edinburgh.
visit M & D’s in StrathclydeWales & Northern Ireland
Wales and Northern Ireland have a wide range of brilliant family attractions — adventure parks, activity centres, zoos, coastal days out and heritage sites — though large dedicated theme parks are more limited. Follow the links below to explore what’s available in each area.
Explore North Wales Explore South Wales Explore Northern IrelandTips for a Great Theme Park Day Out
Book tickets in advance online — nearly all UK theme parks offer cheaper tickets when booked online in advance rather than on the door. Some offer significant savings, so it’s always worth checking before you go.
Plan your first few rides — popular attractions can become busier later in the day, so it can help to decide which rides matter most before you arrive.
Check height and age restrictions — most parks have height restrictions on certain rides. Check in advance so you know which rides everyone in your group can go on — especially if you have younger or shorter children.
Bring snacks and a refillable water bottle — food and drink inside theme parks can be expensive. Most parks allow you to bring your own snacks. A refillable water bottle will save you a fortune on a hot day.
Make a short break of it — several parks like Alton Towers, LEGOLAND and Flamingo Land have on-site hotels which means you can arrive the evening before, enjoy Early Ride Time in the morning and make the most of two full days.
More family days out: Waterparks • Zoos & Safari Parks • Museums & Galleries • Historic Sites • Go Ape
Where to stay nearby: Holiday Cottages • Holiday Parks • Hotels