Theme Parks in the UK
Theme parks are among the most popular days out in the UK, offering roller coasters, family rides, themed lands, indoor attractions, water rides and entertainment for all ages.
This guide highlights some of the major theme parks and amusement parks across the UK. Some are best for thrill rides, while others are more suitable for younger children, family days out or seaside fun.
Before travelling, always check the attraction’s own website for current opening times, ride availability and visitor information.
Major Theme Parks in England
Alton Towers Resort
Staffordshire, West Midlands
Alton Towers is one of the UK’s best-known theme parks, with major roller coasters, family rides, gardens, themed hotels and a waterpark. It is a strong choice for visitors planning a full day out or a short break. The resort covers a large site, so it is worth planning your visit before you arrive.
Thorpe Park
Surrey, South East England
Thorpe Park is especially well known for thrill rides and large roller coasters. It also has family attractions and seasonal events, making it popular with older children, teenagers and adults looking for a more adrenaline-focused day out. The park promotes itself around major rides and high-energy experiences.
Chessington World of Adventures
Surrey, South East England
Chessington combines theme park rides with zoo areas and family attractions. It is often a good choice for families who want a mix of rides, animals and themed areas rather than only high-thrill roller coasters.
LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
Berkshire, South East England
LEGOLAND Windsor is designed mainly for families with younger children. It has LEGO-themed rides, play areas, models, shows and family attractions, making it a popular option for children who enjoy creative and themed experiences.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Lancashire, North West England
Blackpool Pleasure Beach is one of the UK’s classic seaside amusement parks, with roller coasters, family rides and traditional amusement park attractions. It works well as part of a wider Blackpool visit, especially for visitors looking for a lively coastal day out.
Drayton Manor Resort
Staffordshire, West Midlands
Drayton Manor offers family rides, thrill rides and themed attractions, including areas aimed at younger children. It is a popular Midlands theme park and can suit mixed-age family groups looking for a manageable day out.
Flamingo Land Resort
North Yorkshire, Yorkshire
Flamingo Land combines theme park rides with a zoo and holiday resort. It can suit families wanting more than rides alone, with animal areas, family attractions and accommodation options on site.
Paultons Park
Hampshire, South East England
Paultons Park is a family-focused theme park and is especially popular with younger children. It includes themed areas, family rides, gardens and attractions designed for a gentler day out than the larger thrill-focused parks.
Theme Parks in Scotland
M&D’s Scotland’s Theme Park
Motherwell, North Lanarkshire
M&D’s is one of Scotland’s main theme park destinations, with rides, attractions, indoor and outdoor activities, food outlets and family entertainment. It is a useful option for visitors looking for a theme park-style day out in central Scotland.
Theme Parks in Wales
Wales previously had Oakwood Theme Park in Pembrokeshire, but it has been reported permanently closed. For Welsh family days out, visitors may be better directed to waterparks, adventure parks, zoos, heritage attractions and activity centres instead.
Theme Parks in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has smaller amusement and family entertainment options rather than many large theme parks. Visitors may also want to explore family attractions, activity centres, zoos, coastal resorts and seasonal events.
More Family Days Out
If you are planning a family trip, you may also be interested in:
Waterparks
Zoos & Safari Parks
Museums & Galleries
Historic Sites
Scenic Rail Trips
Where to Stay