park

WHAT’S better than an annual trip to the theme park? Several trips, of course.

If your family is a big fan of rollercoasters, there are some brilliant value annual passes for parks across the UK that offer HUGE savings for repeat trips.

But which one should you go for? Instead of having to research them all yourself, we have gathered the annual pass prices for the most popular theme parks in the UK.

So here’s all the attraction passes you could get, and how many times you’d need to return to your favourite attractions to get your money’s worth.

Merlin Annual Pass

Starting off with probably the most famous annual pass in the UK, the Merlin Annual Pass gets you access to more than 20 attractions.

These include Alton Towers, Thorpe Park and Legoland Windsor, Cadbury World, Windsor Castle, Legoland Discovery Centres and much more.

An essential pass costs from £139 per year and allows members 339 days of access to Merlin’s top attractions.

For £239, you can get a Gold pass which also gets you free parking and 20 per cent off shopping and dining.

The Platinum Pass is then £299 per year, giving you all that plus four free bring a friend passes each year, one free fast track per visit and free Coke Freestyle cup & refills.

Tickets for Alton Towers alone start from £32 per person when booked in advance online, while Warwick Castle tickets cost from £25.38 online, so if you’re planning on doing several Merlin attractions each year there are big savings to be had.

To make the most of the £139 annual pass, you’d need to go to just four or five attractions across the entire year.

For example, if you booked Alton Towers (£32), Warwick Castle (£25.38), Thorpe Park (£32), Cadbury World (£18) and Legoland Windsor (£32) once each across the year, you’d make up the price of the pass.

Alton Towers

Alton Towers is the UK’s largest theme park with several thrill coasters.

There’s a CBeebies Land as well, ideal for younger children with themed rides and live shows.

The theme park also has its own waterpark with a tropical splash area.

You can stay onsite at the main Alton Towers Hotel, the CBeebies Land Hotel, Splash Landings Hotel, themed Woodland Lodges or at Stargazing Pods.

An annual pass costs £64, while day tickets start from £32 per person when booked in advance online,

You’d need to visit just twice across the year to get your money’s worth.

Thorpe Park

Surrey’s Thorpe Park is often considered the UK’s main thrill-seeker theme park.

The theme park itself sits on an island and has a number of record-breaking rides.

For example, you can head on Hyperia, which is the UK’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster, and in the autumn, the theme park is well-known for its Fright Nights.

The Thorpe Park Annual Pass costs £64 per person and allows you access to the park across 189 days over 12 months, as well as access to the Fright Nights.

Thorpe Park one-day tickets start at £32 per person when booked in advance online

Passes are only required for guests over 1.2metres tall.

Again, you’d need to visit just twice across the year to make the pass worthwhile.

Legoland

Legoland Windsor is aimed at families with kids aged between two and 12 years old.

You’ll find miniature worlds made out of bricks and family-friendly coasters, plus plenty of Lego building opportunities.

The Legoland Annual Pass costs £64 per person and allows you access to the park across 236 days, over 12 months. Day tickets start from around £34 when booked online.

Passes are only required for guests 90cm and over, and after two visits you’d have made your money back.

Crealy

Crealy theme park in Devon has a number of different annual passes.

The theme park is the largest in Devon with more than 60 rides and attractions including rollercoasters.

The cheapest is £99 per person, per year – which you can pay in one go or you can pay a £30 deposit, then £6.90 a month on direct debit for an annual pass (costing £112.80 total).

This annual pass gets you unlimited entry to the theme park, a 10 per cent discount across food and drink as well as in the shops and exclusive viewings of Crealy events.

The next level up is the Gold Pass at £120, which gets the same perks but you will get 15 per cent off food and drink, 30 per cent of entry for family or friends and 20 per cent off glamping and camping breaks at the park.

Get a Platinum Pass for £170 and you’ll get 20 per cent off food and drink, 50 per cent off entry for family and friends, 50 per cent off glamping and camping stay and even a free two-night camping break.

One-day tickets for Crealy Theme Park & Resort cost around £24 per person when you book online.

You’d therefore need to visit five times at least across the year to make the pass worthwhile.

Woodlands

Woodlands Theme Park, also in Devon, is home to massive indoor play areas including soft play, water coasters and a toboggan run.

There’s also a number of barns with farm animals in.

The annual pass, costing £110 per person over 1.1 metres and £86 for those under that height, includes unlimited free access to Woodlands Family Theme Park with outdoor rides, indoor soft play, an eight-acre zoo farm, and falconry.

You’ll also get 15 per cent off at the gift shop, 10 per cent off food and drink and 20 per cent off camping stays.

One-day tickets cost £29.75 for adults and kids over 110cm, and £21.95 for kids.

As an adult, you’d need to visit four times across the year to make the pass worthwhile, and the same amount of visits to make the kids pass worthwhile.

Drayton Manor

Drayton Manor in Staffordshire is ideal for families with kids aged four to 12.

The rides are tamer, with a Thomas Land including Thomas the Tank Engine himself and a Viking-themed area with spinning and rocking rides like the Thor Zampa Disco.

Drayton Manor has three different passes.

The cheapest is the Silver Annual Pass, which costs £75 per person (£45 per child aged two to three-years old) or you can pay for annual pass monthly, costing £35 for the first month then £5 a month for 11 months (£90 total).

This pass gets you unlimited visits to the park, 10 per cent off food and drink as well as the shop, free mini golf, 10 per cent off hotel bed and breakfast, 20 tickets for £20 for family and friends and discounts on photos.

The £99 annual pass (£65 per child aged two to three-years old) gets you all of the above, but discounts are 20 per cent on food and drink and the shop.

And last but not least is the ultimate pass costing £249 per person over the age of three (under this age no pass is needed).

With this pass you get all of the above, but also unlimited visits to West Midlands Safari Park and Waterworld, as well as discounts at each of those attractions.

Drayton Manor one-day tickets start at £25.80 for visitors aged 12 and over, and £14 for children aged 2 to 12 when booked online.

You’d need to visit three times across the year to make the annual pass worthwhile (four times for under three-year-olds).

The Big Sheep

The Big Sheep in North Devon has farm experiences as well as rides and live shows.

Season tickets for The Big Sheep cost £50 per person.

You then pay £1 each time you visit if you book online, or £2 at the door.

The pass includes a member’s day where you can bring a guest for free, discounts on events, a 10 per cent discount on food and drink, as well as a 10 per cent discount in the shop.

One-day tickets for the Big Sheep in North Devon start from £14.95 for adults and children over three feet tall when booked online.

You’d need to visit at least four times to make the annual pass worth it.

Gulliver’s World

There are a number of Gulliver’s World theme parks across the UK including Warrington, Matlock Bath, Milton Keynes and near Sheffield.

Each park is slightly different, with themed zones and attractions aimed at kids under the age of 13.

The parks often host events too such as Fright Fiesta for Halloween and the winter Land of Lights lantern festival.

For £99, you can get a 12 month pass allowing unlimited entry to all Gulliver’s Theme Parks (Warrington, Matlock Bath, Milton Keynes & Rother Valley).

You’ll also get entry to Gulliver’s Dinosaur & Farm Park in Milton Keynes, plus discounts on short breaks.

One-day tickets for Gulliver’s World Theme Park Resort cost £28 when booked as an online advance ticket.

You’d need to visit four times across the year to make your money back on the pass.

Flamingo Land

Flamingo Land Resort in North Yorkshire spans across 375 acres and features a zoo as well as rides.

For example, there’s Velocity, the UK’s first motorbike launch coaster.

You can also head to a Peter Rabbit Adventure area, ideal for younger kids.

An annual pass costs £199 to Flamingo Land and gets you unlimited access year round to the theme park and zoo.

Flamingo Land one-day tickets start from £46 per person when booked in advance.

You’d need to visit five times to make your money back on the annual pass.

Pleasure Beach Resort

Pleasure Beach Resort in Blackpool sits right by the seafront and is more than 125 years old.

Inside the park, there are a range of attractions including thrill rollercoasters.

There’s also a Nickelodeon Land, which has themed rides including Wallace and Gromit Thrill-o-matic.

The Platinum Annual Pass at Blackpool Pleasure Beach costs £125 per person and gives you unlimited entry for a full year.

But what makes it even better is that, included in the price, you get free entry to seven theme parks across Europe, including Efteling, Europa Park, Liseberg, PortAventura World, Emerald Park, Tripsdrill and Isla Magica.

All you need to do is show the Pleasure Beach Resort Platinum Pass Card when you arrive.

You are allowed one free entry to each attraction per pass holder, per year.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach one-day tickets start from around £30 to £34 when booked in advance online.

You’d need to visit between four and five times to make your money back on the annual pass.

Paultons

Paultons Park in Hampshire is spread across 140 acres and is home to more than 70 rides and attractions, including the official home of Peppa Pig.

The theme park has a number of different annual passes, but the cheapest is the Essential Pass which costs £172.

With this pass you get unlimited off-peak visits over 12 months.

And at the end of the year, if you renew, it will set you back £153.

The Star Pass costs £225 and gets you unlimited off-peak visits including some weekends (renewal would cost £203.50).

The Premium Pass costs £290 and gets you unlimited access to the park at any time, as well as discounts on food and drink and in the shop (renewal would cost £262).

Paultons Park one-day tickets start from £46.75 per person when booked in advance, and kids under 1m are free, so paying visitors would need to go at least four times to make the annual pass worthwhile.

Pleasurewood Hills

Pleasurewood Hills in Lowestoft, Suffolk, is home to more than 35 rides and attractions, as well as live shows.

The park’s main thrill ride is Wipeout, which boasts six inversions.

A Standard Season Pass for unlimited access all season, but with some blackout dates (dates where you cannot attend the park – usually during peak season) costs £79.

Alternatively, you can get a Premium Season Pass, which gets you unlimited visits all season as well as exclusive perks and discounts such as 50 per cent off entry for family and friends and free parking for £99.

One-day tickets for Pleasurewood Hills start from £16.41 per person when booked online.

You’d need to visit at least five times across the year to make the most of the £79 annual pass.

Chessington World of Adventures

Chessington World of Adventures, about 12 miles from central London, is home to more than 40 rides across a number of themed lands.

And next year, the park is set to open a new Minecraft World, which will be the world’s first Minecraft-themed land.

A Chessington Annual Pass allows visitors access to the park across 339 days, costing £64.

Passes are only needed for guests 90cm and over.

Chessington one-day tickets start from £32 online in advance.

Visit the park twice to make your money back on the annual pass.

Lightwater Valley

Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park in North Yorkshire is ideal for families with younger children, with safari-styled areas, pirate-themed rides and classic fairground favourites.

A seasonal pass costs £89 and includes unlimited entry throughout the park’s open days, including special events and Bank Holidays.

One-day tickets for Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park cost between £22.00 and £27.00 when booked online.

You’d need to visit between four and five times across the year to make the pass worth it.

M&D’s

M&D’s Scotland’s Theme Park is Scotland’s largest theme park and is in North Lanarkshire.

The park has more than 40 rides and attractions to explore, including rollercoasters and children’s adventures such as a sky trail and Scotland’s only indoor tropical rainforest.

A season pass to the theme park costs £75 and allows you unlimited access to the park when it is open.

You will also get other offers like discounts on food and drink and a day where you can bring a friend for free.

M&D’s Scotland’s Theme Park offers free entry with ride all day wristbands costing from £20.13.

Visit four times across the year to be quids in.

THE UK’s best theme parks have been announced and coming out on top is a little-known seaside spot.

Pleasurewood Hills in Lowestoft, Suffolk has been named the best theme park in the UK for under one million visitors by the UK Theme Park Awards 2026.

More than 260,000 members of the public voted on the awards that included 36 theme parks.

Pleasurewood Hills is a 59-acre coastal theme park that originally opened back in 1983 and today has more than 35 rides and attractions.

The biggest ride at the park is Wipeout, which stretches nearly 40 metres into the air and has six inversions.

There are also other rides such as Cannonball Express, Marble Madness wild mouse coaster and the Jolly Rodger drop tower.

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The park introduced some new rides for this year, which include a Big Wheel, Starflyer and a spinning coaster.

If you don’t mind getting a little wet, head on the Water Fun Factory log flume as well.

Little kids aren’t left out either as there is a double-decker carousel, miniature railway and a classic theatre.

Tickets cost from £16 per person when bought online in advance and kids under 90cm go free – though it is worth noting that the park closes at the end of October for the season.

One person who visited the park this week, said in a review: “Park has had a massive regeneration, new rides and a general tidy up.

“Place has improved loads and the staff were all super cheerful and polite.”

Another visitor simply said: “Great value for the money.”

Freddy Stokes, Director at Pleasurewood Hills, said: “To have all the hard work that’s gone into Pleasurewood Hills over such a short period of time recognised by people from across our own industry is a massive achievement for the park and the whole team.

“We’ve always believed in what Pleasurewood Hills can be, but to receive an award like this in our first season really shows what can be achieved and, more importantly, where we can take the park from here.”

Paultons Park was named the country’s best theme park for more than one million visitors, on the other hand.

It is the second year in a row the much-loved family theme park has won the award.

And it also scooped up awards for the best new attraction, best large theme park for families, best theme park for toddlers, best Christmas event and best customer service.

Lawrence Mancey, Marketing & Technology Director at Paultons Park and winner of Theme Park Personality of the Year said: “We are thrilled to have been awarded 11 awards at the UK Theme Park Awards, and honoured to have been crowned Theme Park of the Year once again.

“These trophies are a reflection of the hard work of the whole Paultons Park team.

“We couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve achieved over the past year; from the teams who brought Drakon and Valgard to life, to everyone across the park who works so hard to give families and toddlers unforgettable days out in Peppa Pig World and across the park.”

A MAJOR UK airport has now become the first to introduce robotic valet parking – which uses no human interaction at all.

But one catch could see certain travellers excluded from the service.

London Gatwick Airport has officially brought in a new Robotic Parking system, said to be designed with customer comfort in mind.

Officially announced two months ago, passengers have already begun to use the parking service from August, which sees drivers leave their vehicle at a private drop-off garage before heading to the terminal.

The “state-of-the-art” robot then takes over, gently hoisting the car from underneath its wheels and moving it to an access-restricted parking area.

One key difference from traditional airport parking is that customers are able to keep hold of their car keys throughout their trip.

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When a passenger returns from holiday, the system receives an alert that they have landed.

This means that when they arrive at the South Terminal car park, their vehicle should already be ready for collection.

However, there are some limitations, with 5 per cent of vehicle models not compatible with the new technology.

This includes popular models such as a Range Rover Sport Hybrid, Renault Trafic Van, as well as SUVs with roof boxes.

It also costs around £109 for a five-day stay (travellers are unable to use the service for shorter stays) and passengers are currently only able to drop off their vehicles on weekdays between 9am and 5pm.

Located at the South Terminal, passengers can reach the parking lot following the marked signs for Robotic Parking, once within the Long Stay car park entrance barriers.

Gatwick airport also said the area includes 24-hour security patrols, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) at the entrance and exit, perimeter fencing, floodlighting and no public access.

It’s an exciting time for Southern California coaster fans. Universal Studios Hollywood is on the verge of officially opening Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, and Knott’s Berry Farm this summer unveiled the refurbished Montezooma: The Forbidden Fortress. Now Six Flags’ Magic Mountain is getting in on the coaster action.

Coming in 2027 to the Valencia park will be Thrill Glider, a first of its kind thrill ride designed by coaster manufacturer Vekoma exclusively for Magic Mountain.

Magic Mountain in a release describes Thrill Glider as introducing a new coaster category, one that combines a motorbike-like seating arrangement with suspended coaster technologies. Riders will board what the park is referring to “hoverbikes,” essentially bike vehicles designed to simulate a flying sensation by being suspended from the track. Riders will be seated in a prone, face-forward position that will hang from the track above.

Concept art for Thrill Glider, which will boast bike-like vehicles and a sci-fi backstory.

(Six Flags Magic Mountain)

The ride will feature 20 different coaster elements and is slated to last 80 seconds. Speeds will reach 50 mph, and the coaster will boast five inversions that will take guests upside down. The various inversions will include a barrel roll, a zero-g roll and an overbanked stall turn, hinting at a heavily twisted track that will create drifts and swinging. There will be at least 12 moments, Six Flags promises, in which riders will experience airtime lifts.

“It is the latest milestone in Six Flags Magic Mountain’s renaissance and a reflection of the park’s enduring role as an industry innovator,” said Brian Oerding, park president of Six Flags Magic Mountain in a release.

The ride will come with a heavy sci-fi-inspired narrative. The story: The ride is a new technology from a fictional inventor, Rebecca Silva, who will introduce guests in the waiting area to what is described as a “Futurist Pavilion.” Throughout the queue, riders will encounter “holographic presentations and scientific exhibits,” culminating in the discovery of a new energy source, detailed by illuminated blue energy lines, that will power the ride.

The goal, says Six Flags, is to provide an optimistic view of the future, albeit with many sudden dives and weightless moments. The ride will feature multiple launches, reach a height of 107 feet and traverse 3,380 feet of track, which is more than a half mile.

Concept art of Magic Mountain’s new Thrill Glider, which will reach a top height of 104 feet.

(Six Flags Magic Mountain)

A specific opening window has not been detailed, but the ride is currently under construction. It will be located on the former site of the Golden Bear Theatre and will overlook the recently refurbished kiddie area, Looney Tunes Land.

Thrill Glider is arriving at a moment when Six Flags has been garnering national attention. Magic Mountain’s X2 remains shut down while state safety officials continue an investigation involving the attraction.

The ride, first opened in 2002 as X, has been the subject of controversy and at least one high-profile lawsuit stemming from a 22-year-old man’s death. Six Flags bills the ride as “a right of passage for the ultimate daredevil” that goes up to 76 mph. A CNN report recently took a look at other, more recent injuries allegedly stemming from the attraction.

A Which? survey has named the best and worst holiday parks across the UK, and coming in dead last is a brand that was once a go-to resort for families but now only has one resort left in its portfolio

A holiday park that was once part of a chain of 30 sites and now stands as the brand’s last remaining location has been crowned the worst in the UK.

A Which? survey ranking the best and worst holiday parks across the country has placed Pontins firmly at the bottom, with its final remaining site in Weston-Super-Mare in Somerset being given the dubious honour.

Scoring a woeful 61% rating, Which? readers awarded the brand just two stars across customer service, accommodation quality, cleanliness, and food and drink. And despite being one of the most affordable options in the rankings, averaging £38 per person per night, it still only scraped two stars for value for money.

The dismal scores are a world away from Pontins’ glory days, when it was renowned for lively family getaways featuring its famous Bluecoats entertainers — a launching pad for the careers of Shane Ritchie and Bobby Davro. The brand was rescued from the brink of collapse 15 years ago when it was snapped up by Britannia Hotels, a chain Which? has repeatedly labelled the UK’s worst hotel chain.

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Its sole surviving site, Sandy Bay Holiday Village, is adults-only and appears to be actively distancing itself from the Pontins name, with no mention of the brand anywhere on its website. The park boasts a heated indoor pool, games room, live shows, and daily activities.

The park has received mixed reviews on Google, currently sitting at 3.6 stars out of five. One recent reviewer said: “The location is great, beach right in front of the resort, Weston only a 10 min open bus journey away”, also praising the accommodation for its cleanliness and upgraded room options.

Yet less favourable reviews tell a different story, with guests claiming “the rooms were filthy. We didn’t even have matching curtains!” and “dirty, smelly, run down! They may have changed their name, but they haven’t changed their shame.”

Prior to the closures, Pontins regularly made headlines as disgruntled customers reported grimy accommodation and poor facilities. In the now-closed Pontins Southport, guests complained of people smoking drugs and drunk parents roaming the park. A mum who visited the Brean Sands report alleged her children were left in tears after finding rubbish and dirt all over their room.

Another family, who visited Pontins Prestatyn in Wales dubbed it a “holiday from hell”. They claimed the room was yellowing from stains, the pool and restaurants were shut, and they “couldn’t even see out of the windows” due to grime.

At the opposite end of the rankings, Potters Resorts topped the table with its all-inclusive resorts in Norfolk and Essex, while Hoburne Holidays secured second place. Hoburne operates parks throughout the south and south west of the UK, including sites in the Cotswolds, Dorset, and Somerset.

Which? said: “This fifth-generation family business’s seven locations (in the south of England ) are all ideally situated, from a clifftop in coastal Dorset to a woodland retreat in the New Forest.”

It added: “There’s no tray jostling in sterile canteens either. Restaurants, like the lantern-adorned Pier House, with its sea-view terrace, source local, seasonal ingredients such as Brixham trout – earning the brand five stars for its food and drink. Activities make the most of each park’s unique surroundings, whether it’s guided bat walks or instructor-led kayaking on the wetlands of its Cotswolds site.”

The UK’s best and worst holiday parks

(Name of resort, overall customer score)

1. Potters Resorts – 83%
2. Hoburne Holidays – 81%
3. Darwin Escapes – 80%
4. Landal Parks – 80%
5. Waterside Holiday Group – 80%
6. Shorefield Holidays – 76%
7. Away Resorts – 75%
8. Bluestone Wales – 75%
9. Park Leisure UK – 75%
10. Highland Holidays – 74%
11. Lyons Holiday Parks – 74%
12. Largo Leisure – 73%
13. Park Holidays UK – 73%
14. Warner Coastal Villages – 73%
15. Forest Holidays – 72%
16. John Fowler Holidays – 72%
17. Center Parcs – 69%
18. Haven Holidays – 68%
19. Parkdean Resorts – 68%
20. Butlin’s – 63%
21. Pontins – 61%

Based on a survey of 2,221 Which? Connect panel members and general public conducted in February and March 2026.

Potters Resort has been crowned the UK’s best holiday park by Which? readers – and the all-inclusive family favourite has a location just over an hour from Cambridge

Britain’s best holiday park is an all-inclusive gem that costs a little more but offers a lot.

There are plent of excellent holiday parks across the UK, from the cheap and cheerful Butlin’s and Park Dean, to the more upmarket Center Parcs and Bluestone. However, they have all missed out on being named the best in the UK.

Potters Resort has topped the Which? holiday park rankings, with its Norfolk and Essex sites winning a customer score of 83%.

Stays start from £88 per person per night, which is higher than most comparable holiday parks, yet guests have still awarded the resort 4/5 for value. It is worth noting that Potters is the only holiday park in Britain to offer a truly all-inclusive experience, with four meals a day included alongside a wide selection of drinks – from wines and beers to G&Ts.

The resort keeps guests busy throughout the day with a packed programme of activities. Whether you fancy a go on the rally karts, a session in virtual reality, a spin at the silent disco or a splash in the water at Five Lakes, there is something to suit every taste and age group. Wellness enthusiasts are also well catered for, with Pilates, yoga, Nordic walking and birdwatching all part of the package at no extra cost.

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Come the evening, the entertainment steps up a gear. Resident show Musical Icons takes to the stage nightly, performing tributes to iconic acts spanning the Motown era, Carole King, ABBA, the Bee Gees and beyond, with a showstopping Bohemian Rhapsody finale rounding off proceedings.

“After opening its doors in the 1920s, family-run Potters claims to be the first-ever holiday park, and its all-inclusive model still sets it apart. The nightly rate at its two parks – in Essex and Norfolk – may be higher than rivals, but you stay in suites or bungalow-style accommodation (there isn’t a caravan in sight) and all food and drink (which is excellent) is thrown in. It was the only park to clinch the full five stars for its entertainment and activities (also included), which range from birdwatching to go-karting.

“Guests loved that they could soak in the spa and play all the rounds of pitch ‘n’ putt without worrying about their final bill spiralling out of control. ‘Great entertainment, all staff helpful and polite, good food and plenty of it,’ one happy customer remarked. Forget everything you think you know about holiday parks, as Potters’ attentive service and first-class facilities will wow you – with no sneaky extra charges later on.”

The Mirror’s Mikey Smith paid a visit to Potters with his family and had a brilliant time.

“Imagine the good old British ‘holiday camp’ atmosphere – family fun by the sea, with nightly entertainment and everything you need on-site – but brought bang up to date, with comfortable rooms and high quality amenities. And then imagine it borrowed a few ideas from luxury cruise ships. Then you’re getting somewhere near what Potters is,” Mikey wrote.

“For many, the phrase ‘all-inclusive resort’ conjures images of lukewarm buffets, piled high with chips and pizza slices, perhaps the occasional chicken nugget and long benches of weird-looking salad. Not so at Potters. Each lunchtime and evening menu offers three or four restaurant-quality starter and main options. During my stay I had a buttery, flaky Sea Bass fillet, some deliciously crispy deep fried Halloumi and a perfectly cooked chicken breast with mushroom and thyme sauce.

“None of them would trouble a Michelin star – but they’d give any of the foodie pubs near me a solid run for their money. And that’s before we come to the carvery, which is served every evening with a different roast meat.”

You can read his full review here.

Mike Scott, managing director of Potters, said: “To be named the UK’s Best Holiday Parks and Resorts by Which? readers is a fantastic achievement. To have topped the list in three consecutive surveys since 2022 is something we’re immensely proud of, especially among so many well-known UK break providers. Recognition from Which? means so much because it reflects the honest opinions and experiences of guests. It tells people what it’s really like to stay with us and makes this achievement all the more special.

“As a family-owned business, we can’t compete with the household names on marketing budgets, and we don’t try to. Instead, we focus on giving every guest an exceptional experience. Our breaks are fully inclusive, so we’re not constantly trying to upsell or charge guests for every little extra. It means our guests can simply relax and have fun, while our team can focus entirely on looking after them and making their stay memorable.

“This recognition reinforces what we’ve always believed: Potters Resorts offers the best breaks in the UK. And, of course, a huge thank you must go to our amazing team and our lovely guests, who together have made Potters such a special place.”

The UK’s best and worst holiday parks

(Name of resort, overall customer score)

1. Potters Resorts – 83%
2. Hoburne Holidays – 81%
3. Darwin Escapes – 80%
4. Landal Parks – 80%
5. Waterside Holiday Group – 80%
6. Shorefield Holidays – 76%
7. Away Resorts – 75%
8. Bluestone Wales – 75%
9. Park Leisure UK – 75%
10. Highland Holidays – 74%
11. Lyons Holiday Parks – 74%
12. Largo Leisure – 73%
13. Park Holidays UK – 73%
14. Warner Coastal Villages – 73%
15. Forest Holidays – 72%
16. John Fowler Holidays – 72%
17. Center Parcs – 69%
18. Haven Holidays – 68%
19. Parkdean Resorts – 68%
20. Butlin’s – 63%
21. Pontins – 61%

The rankings are drawn from a survey of 2,221 Which? Connect panel members and members of the general public, conducted in February and March 2026.

The holiday park chain is one of the most popular in the UK, offering a vast array of activities and family fun, but there’s one common issue in reviews that has seen it criticised, especially by parents

One of the UK’s most popular holiday park chains has been hit by a low score in a national ranking, with visitors particularly irked about one thing in particular.

Center Parcs has six holiday villages across the UK, and in a recent Which? survey, it was the most-visited holiday park on the list, especially popular for short breaks in its car-free forest locations.

Which? said: “You like that you know what you’re getting, from the acres of forest trails to the swimming pool in a heated glass dome – a subtropical paradise even in the soggiest of British summers. It also earned praise for appealing to all ages, whether that’s with the treetop aerial adventure or the thermal spa (with a volcanic steam room and an igloo-inspired ice cave).”

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The parks were also praised for their accommodation, with higher grades including facilities such as hot tubs, saunas, and games rooms, making it a solid “family favourite” according to Which?. But customers were particularly unhappy with one thing.

“However, it’s extraordinarily expensive, at more than twice the price of budget rival Haven. Activities cost even more on top, and you need to secure your preferred slots weeks in advance. The two-star rating for value for money is the joint lowest in our survey. You could save a fortune by choosing a better-rated rival,” the Which? survey noted.

In most aspects, Center Parcs performed well. It was awarded four stars for activities, entertainment and facilities, as well as quality of accommodation and cleanliness. It achieved three stars for customer service and food and drink. But its place in the rankings, fifth from the bottom, came due to its value for money score at just two stars. It was the third most expensive of all the holiday parks surveyed.

It’s not the first time the chain has been criticised for its high prices. In a viral social media post, one fed-up mum showed the difference in prices between a school holiday and September dates at the parks, commenting: “If anyone’s unsure when their kids return to school after the holidays, Center Parcs have this handy tool.” A four-night break in August was priced at £1,049, while the same holiday a week later, post-school holidays, was £529.

Even positive reviews of the parks often mention the price. One recent review of Center Parcs Woburn Forest said: “Amazing place to holiday. Personally, I felt the prices of things on-site were a little high, and that was even going outside of term-time; however, you cannot fault the fun and wonder of being at these parks.”

Another was more blunt: “Badly overpriced, we only paid £799 for a family of 4 and it still felt like a rip off. You get a good room, yes, but it’s nothing you can’t get at a hotel in the countryside for half the price. Every single other activity charged extra (except swimming which is decent but you can get a similar quality just slightly more warm out at Butlin’s for 1/10th of the price).”

Center Parcs has been contacted for comment.

The UK’s best and worst holiday parks

(Name of resort, overall customer score)

1. Potters Resorts – 83%
2. Hoburne Holidays – 81%
3. Darwin Escapes – 80%
4. Landal Parks – 80%
5. Waterside Holiday Group – 80%
6. Shorefield Holidays – 76%
7. Away Resorts – 75%
8. Bluestone Wales – 75%
9. Park Leisure UK – 75%
10. Highland Holidays – 74%
11. Lyons Holiday Parks – 74%
12. Largo Leisure – 73%
13. Park Holidays UK – 73%
14. Warner Coastal Villages – 73%
15. Forest Holidays – 72%
16. John Fowler Holidays – 72%
17. Center Parcs – 69%
18. Haven Holidays – 68%
19. Parkdean Resorts – 68%
20. Butlin’s – 63%
21. Pontins – 61%

Based on a survey of 2,221 Which? Connect panel members and general public conducted in February and March 2026.

Billionaire comedy duo Trey Parker and Matt Stone are unveiling a new name for “South Park” ahead of the show’s 29th season: “South America.”

The satirical series’ name change follows President Trump’s renaming of Lake Ontario to Lake America amid the escalating U.S.-Canada trade war. Last week, tech behemoths Apple and Google honored Trump’s executive order and renamed the Great Lake on their maps for U.S. users.

Parker and Stone made the announcement on social media on Tuesday, writing, “Inspired by the bravery and patriotism of Apple and Google, we are changing the name of South Park to SOUTH AMERICA. We especially want to thank our parent company Paramount — a Skydance Capitulation.”

The duo also jabbed at their parent company and its new owner, Skydance Media, for what media critics have characterized as caving to the Trump administration’s Federal Communications Commission. The “capitulation” involved controversial corporate and programming adjustments as well as agreeing to a $16-million settlement over a lawsuit brought by Trump involving a “60 Minutes” segment to get Paramount’s $8-billion merger with Skydance approved.

Last year, following a particularly incendiary episode of the show — in which a parody of Trump has an X-rated fling with Satan, and the president is portrayed as having an animated micropenis — the White House issued a statement to Variety slamming the series.

“The Left’s hypocrisy truly has no end — for years they have come after ‘South Park’ for what they labeled as ‘offense’ [sic] content, but suddenly they are praising the show,” White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers said in a statement to the outlet. “Just like the creators of ‘South Park,’ the Left has no authentic or original content, which is why their popularity continues to hit record lows.”

Last week, “South Park,” won an Emmy Award for outstanding animated program. And last summer, Parker and Stone reached a five-year, $1.5-billion deal with Paramount to secure exclusive global streaming rights on Paramount+, making the series one of television’s most valuable shows and its creators two of the highest-paid comedy writers in the biz.

The 29th season of “South America” premieres Sept. 16 at 10 p.m. on Comedy Central.

1

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1. Palm Canyon Drive. (Christopher Reynolds / Los Angeles Times) 2. A metal sculpture of a serpent by artist Richard Breceda. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

This lonely San Diego County desert town, about 50 miles from the nearest Starbucks, deserves the attention of anyone who really wants peace and quiet. It’s home to perhaps 4,000 year-round residents, star-struck by night, startling at dawn, surrounded by the largest state park in California, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Dark skies, aimless days and spring wildflowers draw many people. But fall visitors can hike the park’s Borrego Palm Canyon Trail (3 miles round trip) or the narrow canyon known as The Slot. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep and dozens of metal artworks by sculptor Ricardo Breceda scattered around town, especially the 350-foot-long sea serpent (along Borrego Springs Road), which has become a community mascot.

Check out: The town’s biggest party of the year, Borrego Days, is coming Oct. 17-18. And its seasonal Farmers Market returns to Christmas Circle Community Park on Nov. 6.

Distance: A 4-hour drive from L.A. (154 miles from L.A. City Hall, via Google Maps).

Ukrainian crews operating Australian-supplied M1A1 Abrams tanks say the battlefield has become so saturated with Russian drones that their tanks cannot currently be used in combat, but they reject the idea that main battle tanks have become forever obsolete.

Since receiving these tanks last year, the crews, serving with Ukraine’s 425th Separate Assault Regiment “Skala,” have used the Abrams in two combat operations in the fight for Pokrovsk, a key Ukrainian logistics hub and part of a defensive belt of towns in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region. They recounted their experiences to Hromadske, an independent media channel in Ukraine.

Чому «Скеля» їхала на Abrams у Покровськ / hromadske

Fighting around Pokrovsk

The first major deployment described by the crews took place in December of last year, when Abrams tanks were used to support assault groups entering Pokrovsk.

The crewmember with the callsign Kent described moving into the city behind a mine-clearing tank and ahead of two infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) carrying assault troops, during a mission that was deliberately aggressive.

“Since a tank is a priority target — my task was to draw their attention, while our infantry dismounted and moved in successfully.”

The Abrams was also assigned three target points to engage along the route.

“We went right in there, poured it on, and drove back out,” he recalled.

A video showing the 425th Separate Assault Regiment in action in August 2025, soon after receiving the Abrams:

Танки Abrams в 425 ОШП “Скала” [Серпень 2025]

The second operation, on March 31, involved an attempt to enter and hold an industrial area near Pokrovsk to help block Russian movement toward Hryshyne, a contested village in the district.

The operation was prepared for more than two weeks. Ukrainian forces conducted reconnaissance flights, examined difficult sections of the planned routes, and provided crews with extensive video and imagery.

“They knew every meter of the route,” another of the unit’s commanders, with the callsign Kubik, said.

Weather was considered essential. The Ukrainians waited for fog and rain, hoping to limit the effectiveness of Russian drones.

“Without the right weather we wouldn’t have been able to pull off operations like that,” Kubik said.

The operation nevertheless resulted in the destruction of four out of five armored vehicles, some of which are seen in the video embedded below.

The commander acknowledged that the Russian side may have had advance knowledge of the operation.

“I can’t rule out the possibility that the enemy knew our plan,” he said.

His Abrams was not immediately destroyed. According to the crew, it completed its task and the assault troops dismounted before the weather changed.

“Once the fog lifted, they started working on it with an FPV drone,” the commander said.

Why use tanks at all?

The losses prompted criticism from Ukrainian military commentators, particularly after footage of the destroyed vehicles was published.

However, the crews defend the decision to use armored vehicles for the missions. According to the men of the Skala interviewed, the alternative was often to send infantry over several miles on foot while carrying weapons, ammunition, water, and other supplies.

“That takes more time,” Kubik explained. “And the enemy isn’t standing still — the enemy is moving toward them.”

The argument that infantry could simply move more stealthily on foot also has limitations.

“Every day the Mavic drones are flying, the fixed-wing drones are flying,” he said. “No fog, guys are visible.”

Combined witu IFVs, the Abrams can provide the ability to rapidly move troops while simultaneously delivering heavy direct fire against enemy positions and offering substantial protection to its crew.

The crews argue that this capability remains worthwhile even when the tank itself may eventually be lost.

One commander was asked whether deploying a roughly $5-million tank makes sense if a single sortie can result in its destruction.

“Yes, of course it makes sense to deploy it,” he replied.

“First and foremost — it saves the lives of the crew inside it.”

A tank under attack by drones

The Ukrainian crews repeatedly highlighted the Abrams’ accuracy and survivability.

“What are the biggest advantages of the Abrams?”, Kent was asked.

“Accuracy.”

Its biggest disadvantage, he said, is equally obvious on a modern battlefield: “It’s very tall — and very large — so it’s hard to conceal.”

A video showing a U.S.-supplied Abrams under attack from Russian FPV drones:

Kent described surviving an engagement in which his tank was struck repeatedly while on the move.

“More than 20 drones hit me,” he said of one operation into Pokrovsk.

He attributed the Abrams’ survival to the combination of its armor and additional anti-drone protection fitted to the vehicle.

“All of it together is effective,” he said.

He pointed to fairly basic modifications including rubber strips and a foldable wire cage mounted on the turret, as additional layers of protection against drone attacks.

“A drone doesn’t hit the actual penetrating element directly — it just can’t reach it,” he explained. “It hits the rubber, and then the blast wave travels from there.”

Even with their tanks festooned with explosive reactive armor (ERA) bricks, the crews acknowledge that such protection has limits.

Kent also noted that the Abrams was still missing the ‘hedgehog’-type protective coverings that have been seen on Russian tanks.

“They also protect very well. An effective thing,” he said.

For now, the drone threat has led the regiment to keep its Abrams out of combat, as we will return to later.

The Abrams as a machine

The crews’ assessment of the Abrams included praise for its mobility, roomy interior, gun, and fire-control system.

Kubik said he had personally driven an Abrams to 50 miles per hour cross-country.

“The engine is an absolute beast,” he added.

The tank can also rapidly perform a pivot turn, which the crews consider particularly useful when maneuvering in confined spaces. Despite its prodiguous weight, it only rarely becomes bogged down after the kind of very heavy snow-melt that effects all vehicles on the battlefield.

Its disadvantages include its demanding maintenance requirements. The running gear was described as particularly sensitive, with crews inspecting, lubricating, and replacing components after every sortie.

Fuel consumption is another major burden. The crew cited roughly 400 to 700 liters (106 to 185 gallons) per 100 kilometers (62 miles) depending on terrain and operating conditions.

“On asphalt it burns about 400 liters,” one said. In boggy terrain, consumption can reach “700 liters or more.”

The Abrams thirsty gas turbine engine and extreme logistical demands have always been a criticism of the platform.

The crews said the vehicle’s ability to operate on different fuels is useful, although diesel provides the best engine-hour performance in their experience. Prior to delivery, the gas turbine engines of the tanks were reconfigured to use diesel fuel instead of the standard JP-8 aviation kerosene, according to earlier reports.

They also praised the Abrams’ protected ammunition storage and crew space compared with Soviet-designed tanks.

The version operated by the Ukrainians is an M1A1 rather than the latest Abrams configuration, with less sophisticated electronics than newer variants. It also lacks the classified armor found on its U.S. Army counterpart.

“For me — as a tanker — this configuration, what we have right now, is more than enough,” Kubik said. “The sight is absolutely excellent. The gun is also great.”

Waiting for a solution to the drone problem

The interview ultimately presents a more complicated picture than either the declaration that tanks are obsolete on the Ukrainian battlefield.

At the time of writing, at least 25 Abrams have been confirmed visually to have been destroyed, damaged, or abandoned in Ukrainian service. This is from a total of 31 provided by the United States and 49 from Australia.

“For now, we’re not using them further — there’s no way to,” Kubik said. “The enemy has developed their drone component very heavily, and for now we don’t have the means to counter that.”

While tanks remain exceptionally powerful direct-fire and protected mobility platforms, the proliferation of inexpensive uncrewed aircraft has made operating them increasingly difficult.

M1A1 AIM Abrams tanks of the 425th Assault Regiment 🇺🇦.
The reinforced upper glacis and turret roofs are clearly visible. pic.twitter.com/Sn9h8OWZ9P

— 𝔗𝔥𝔢 𝕯𝔢𝔞𝔡 𝕯𝔦𝔰𝔱𝔯𝔦𝔠𝔱 🦩🇬🇪🇺🇦🇺🇲🇬🇷 (@TheDeadDistrict) June 21, 2026

“If someone had told me, as a tanker, back in 2022: ‘Take this — we’re giving you an Abrams, we’ll give you time to train and you’ll fight in it,’” Kubik said, “I would never have climbed out of it.”

“I’d only be saying: ‘Bring me shells. I’ll drive non-stop wherever needed, arrive and work.’”

As it stands, reconnaissance drones can find the Abrams, FPV drones can attack it, and persistent surveillance makes concealment difficult. Experience has shown that without more effective counter-drone capabilities, even a heavily protected tank can eventually be overwhelmed.

But Kubik believes that will change.

“The day will come when one of our bright minds figures out some excellent solution against drones — and we’ll start using them again.”

Asked whether the era of tanks is over, his answer was unequivocal.

“It’s not over … They’re just waiting it out for now, biding their time. Writing off tanks — in my opinion — is still too early.”

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com

This is Galaxy Robot Park, a 16,500-square-meter venue that’s opened near Seoul in South Korea . The company behind the park says their aim is to bring artificial intelligence and robotics into the world of entertainment. The question is, can robots keep people coming back?

FANS are getting a sneak peak inside the new Harry Potter theme park at Warner Bros. World.

Potterheads will be able to immerse themselves into the world of Hogwarts within three magical lands.

In a teaser video, Warner Bros. has revealed what awaits fans in its upcoming Harry Potter theme park in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

The caption read: “It’s official! Hogwarts Castle, Diagon Alley and the Forbidden Forest are coming to @wbworldyasisland, Abu Dhabi. BackToHogwarts.”

For fans of the series, it’s believed that Mr Weasley’s car – the Ford Anglia – will form part of the new attraction.

Reports suggest that the ride will simulate scenes from the franchise when it soars over the English countryside.

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It could follow the Hogwarts Express steam train, battle the Whomping Willow and face the giant spiders in the Forbidden Forest.

Previous reports suggest it will have its own Diagon Alley and Hogwarts castle.

According to Gulf News, the project is estimated to cost somewhere between $545 million and $816 million (£600million).

The Yas Island Theme Park first announced that it was adding a Harry Potter-themed land in 2022 and it’s expected to open in 2029.

The Harry Potter development will be the first of its kind in the Middle East.

The Harry Potter land will be entirely indoors so it can be used throughout the year – even in the summertime when temperatures soar above 45C.

With it being indoors, visitors can expect some immersive-looking scenery from the world of Harry Potter.

The land is part of the Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi which is the world’s second largest indoor theme park which has a total of 29 rides.

Currently it has six themed lands such as Bedrock where visitors can explore the Flintstones Bedrock River Adventure.

Gotham City is home to Batman and the Joker attractions, Metropolis has DC characters, Cartoon Junction has rides inspired by Tom and Jerry and Scooby Doo.

Other themed areas include Dynamite Gulch and Warner Bros. Plaza.

WASHINGTON — A new National Park Service report backs President Trump’s proposed arch, despite what it says are adverse effects to the sightline between a host of landmarks in Washington, including the Washington Monument and Lincoln and Jefferson memorials.

The report released Friday says the 250-foot-tall arch is likely to disrupt the historically significant layout of dozens of sites near its planned location adjacent to Memorial Bridge.

Many of Washington’s monuments, buildings and sites have been carefully planned over decades to reflect significant moments in the nation’s history and to evoke symbolism through sightlines that connect them to other sites. The arch will disturb the sightline between more landmarks than anticipated, the report said.

But the Park Service report says “the same characteristics that make Memorial Circle sensitive from a preservation perspective are also the characteristics that make it the historically appropriate location for the undertaking.”

The project’s effects cannot be “fully avoided without either relocating the Arch away from the historically identified site or eliminating the principal commemorative feature, both of which would fail to meet the undertaking’s purpose and need,” the report said.

“For this reason, alternative locations outside Memorial Circle are not reasonable avoidance alternatives,” the report said.

The 133-page report by the Park Service supports Trump’s plans for the controversial arch and could play an important role in bolstering the administration’s case in its fight against a legal challenge filed by three veterans and a group of historians.

The proposed towering arch, which last month received initial approval from a key federal commission, would impact the “integrity” of dozens of historic properties because it would change “character-defining visual and spatial relationships” between them.

One of the most obvious elements the report cited is that the arch would break alignment between the Lincoln Memorial, Memorial Bridge and Arlington House that was formerly Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee’s home. That alignment was “intended to physically and symbolically unite North and South through a coordinated monumental composition extending across the Potomac River,” the report said.

The Lincoln Memorial Arlington House connection was one of dozens of historic sites and structures listed as being impacted directly by the proposed structure. It added that the National Mall, the U.S. Capitol, Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, Georgetown Historic District, Old Naval Observatory, Key Bridge, National Cathedral and other sites also would be affected.

Nicolas Sansone, an attorney with Public Citizen Litigation Group representing the plaintiffs, said the report again “confirms what we’ve been saying all along: the project will have an enormous impact and transform that National Mall.”

The report underscores the legal challengers’ claim that a project of this size and importance “is a decision for Congress to make” and should not be rushed through by executive decree, Sansone said.

Daly writes for the Associated Press.

A HISTORIC ride at one of the UK’s top theme parks is set to reopen.

Blackpool‘s Pleasure Beach Resort has confirmed that its River Caves ride will reopen after a period of “reimagination”.

The classic water ride first opened in 1905 and is much-loved by families visiting the theme park.

Amanda Jean Thompson OBE, the managing director of Pleasure Beach Resort said: “Hopefully the River Caves will be reopening next year.

“One of the reasons why we had to close when we closed, is because we were hemorrhaging so much water from the ride.

“First of all we’ve got to find where all the leaks are.

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“That’s what we are working on right now.”

She then added details about how the ride will change, commenting: “What I can tell you is what will remain – the Egyptian scene will remain but it and the Angkor Wat scene, which is so integral to Aviktas will remain, but rethemed and redone.

“There will be new scenes of new travels and all different areas of where my grandparents travelled to and my parents travelled to.

“The River Caves are basically the story of where my grandparents travelled to in the close period of the park.

“I think the Blue Grotto may stay because I particularly like that area.”

She joked: “The rest will be new and remains top secret for now, because I keep changing my mind.”

“Will definitely be in the Far East for one section and Latin America for another section.”

“The boats are being done now, and one is currently being redesigned now – we are making them smaller and much more comfortable.”

It comes after visits photographed staff working on the ride the week including refitting wheels before the rides final drop.

River Caves closed back in early 2024 due to technical complications.

Since, little details have been shared about whether the ride would reopen and when.

She also confirmed there’s a new ice show in the making as well.

A POPULAR UK theme park will reopen today after being forced to close due to flooding.

The owners issued a statement on social media yesterday stating that it needed to shut to ensure the “safety of its customers”.

Drayton Manor Resort has now said it will open as usual today between 10.30am and 6pm – although it has warned not all of its rides may be open depending on conditions.

Today, Dayton Manor said on social media: “We’re open today and operating as normal.”

It continued: “As always, ride availability can be affected by weather or operational requirements, so we recommend checking our ride availability page before visiting for the latest updates.”

Yesterday, the theme park was closed due to heavy downpours and thunderstorms caused flooding in the area.

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Floods swamped Birmingham and the West Midlands on Wednesday night.

Locals reported their cars having been stranded and homes were inundated with flood water.

A statement on the theme park’s Facebook said on Thursday: “Due to adverse weather and flooding, Drayton Manor Resort will be closed today.

“We know many of you were looking forward to visiting, and we’re very sorry for the disappointment and inconvenience this causes.

“There’s no need to contact us at this stage. We’ll be in touch with affected guests shortly with information on how to rearrange your visit for another date.

“Thank you for your patience and understanding while we make alternative arrangements. We look forward to welcoming you to Drayton Manor soon.”

Drayton Manor, located in Tamworth in Staffordshire, is considered to be the best-value park in the country.

It has over 50 rides and attractions, and is home to Europe’s only Thomas the Tank Engine Land and a 15-acre zoo.

In 2024, Drayton Manor opened its new Wild West themed world called Frontier Falls.

It opened in July 2024 with a new rollercoaster called Gold Rush where visitors are whisked away in a runaway mining cart.

It’s the first rollercoaster in the UK to feature a backward launch into an outdoor gravity track.

The roller coaster has a two-minute ride time, with Drayton Manor claiming it to be the longest track length for a family coaster in the country.

JUST a few hours away from the UK is one country that’s quickly becoming the go-to destination for theme parks.

There are already over 30 across the country and three new ones have been given the go-ahead.

The country in question is France where it has just been announced that three new theme parks will be built at the cost of €6bn (£5.13bn).

Little has been revealed about them so far, but one will be manga-themed and is inspired by the popular Japanese franchise Dragon Ball Z.

French President Emmanuel Macron said that the development would be “extraordinary” and would create a “new global destination,” adding: Nothing like this has been seen since Disneyland Paris.”

Construction of the new parks could take years, so in the meantime, here are some of the best ones across France for you to enjoy.

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Puy Du Fou

Unlike most theme parks, Puy Du Fou doesn’t actually have any rides – but don’t rule it out.

It’s the second most visited theme park in France and takes visitors through history with live shows and re-enactments.

Visitors can also stroll through immersive villages taking them back in time and see romantic evening shows across a lake.

The theme park has six hotels and even a campsite with cosy family lodges. Tickets to the park start from £40.

Parc Asterix

Parc Astérix is a theme park in Plailly based on the famous comic book series Astérix the Gaul, with over 50 attractions across six themed worlds like the Roman Empire, Greece and the Vikings.

The biggest ride is called Toutatis which is a multi-launch coaster at 167 feet tall and a top speed of 66.5mph.

The Egypt Zone reopened in April this year after a revamp with a water raft ride called The Descent of the Nile and The Flight of Ibis, where visitors swoop over the water garden.

In 2028, the park will open a new British-themed land called Londinium. Tickets here start from £36.

Futuroscope

Futuroscope is as the name suggests a futuristic theme park that this year was named 15th on Blooloop’s best theme parks in Europe.

It has over 40 attractions at the park, three shows and three on-site hotels – it also has an immersive indoor waterpark which opened in 2024.

One of the best ones is Tornado Chasers where visitors can ride into a tornado on a rotating platform, with the world’s largest indoor LED screen.

It’s suitable for toddlers too who can sit on little electric cars and enjoy a small floating log ride and Waterworks play area. Tickets start from £31.

Disneyland Paris

Of course, Disneyland Paris needs a mention being one of the most popular theme parks in Europe.

The biggest and most famous rollercoaster is Big Thunder Mountain in Frontierland.

Of course this year marked the opening of Disney’s newest land, the World of Frozen with a boat ride through Arendelle, meet-and-greets with Olaf, Elsa and Ana as well as a live show.

This is part of the newly transformed Disney Adventure World home to worlds inspired by Marvel and Pixar.

And no visit is complete without seeing the spectacular fireworks and Cascade of Lights show. Tickets to both parks start from £82.

Festyland

Just outside of Caen is Festyland which has 30 rides from high thrills to ones all the family can enjoy.

A new rollercoaster called Valkyrie opened in April – it takes riders “to the heart of Norse mythology” with top speeds of 40mph.

There’s also a drop tower, swinging ship and spinning disk ride – family-friendly attractions at the theme park include carousels, a play area and little race cars.

Tickets start from £21.43.

Vulcania

Vulcania is a unique theme park where volcanoes are the heart, or core, of it all.

There are rollercoasters like Namazu which stands at 52.5 feet tall, covers 584 metres of track and reaches speeds of 42.8mph.

Other rides, like the Abyss Explore, are where visitors can explore underwater volcanoes – others reveal what they look like from above.

The evening light show is not to be missed, and make sure to pop into the planetarium as it’s the biggest in the country. Tickets start from £24.

Terra Botanica

A theme park all about plants might sound odd, but it makes for a great day out.

Terra Botanica is surrounded by greenery and has around 500,000 plants from around the world.

It doesn’t have any classic rollercoaster rides, but it does have treetop trails suspended high up in the air, boat and miniature train rides.

One ride allows visitors to explore the park from a bird’s eye view pedalling in a carriage shaped like a walnut shell.

Inside there are 4D adventures which make visitors feel like they’re in a jeep as they enter a dinosaur reserve.

Tickets start from £18.

A MAJOR UK theme park has been forced to close all day “due to adverse weather and flooding”.

Owners of the park have apologised for any disappointment caused by the decision, telling visitors “your safety comes first”.

Drayton Manor Resort will remain shut all day today after heavy downpours and thunderstorms caused significant flooding in the area.

Floods have swamped Birmingham and the West Midlands overnight, with locals reporting cars being “stranded” in flood water and homes being left inundated with water.

More rain is forecast to hit Birmingham and other cities throughout today, with a Met Office yellow warning for thunderstorms continuing into the evening.

Customers have been advised not to contact staff at Drayton Manor at this stage, saying they would contact visitors at a later date to rearrange visits.

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A statement on the theme park’s Facebook said: “Due to adverse weather and flooding, Drayton Manor Resort will be closed today.

“We know many of you were looking forward to visiting, and we’re very sorry for the disappointment and inconvenience this causes.

“There’s no need to contact us at this stage. We’ll be in touch with affected guests shortly with information on how to rearrange your visit for another date.

“Thank you for your patience and understanding while we make alternative arrangements. We look forward to welcoming you to Drayton Manor soon.”

Drayton Manor, located in Tamworth in Staffordshire, is considered to be the fourth-largest theme park in the country.

With over 50 rides and attractions, Drayton is home to Europe’s only Thomas the Tank Engine Land and a 15-acre zoo.

Bosses have not yet confirmed whether the park will reopen to visitors tomorrow or throughout the Bank Holiday weekend.

When you’re a Hollywood icon, everyone in town has a story about you. But with Dolly Parton, so do visitors of a 160-acre Tennessee theme park.

I waited for what felt like my entire life to see Dollywood. As a theme park journalist, it was the absolute summit of my professional bucket list — always close yet somehow out of reach. Pigeon Forge, Tenn., like many regional gems, thrives from its proximity to nearby towns but is a haul and a half to get to from Los Angeles. (Consider it no coincidence that Delta Airlines canceled our flight there on two separate occasions.)

My friends and I wore Dolly and Mickey Mouse T-shirts for the occasion.

(Carlye Wisel)

After a failed attempt in 2025, my crew of friends rallied to at long last make the successful pilgrimage to the country crooner’s compound earlier this spring. Once we checked into our Lincoln Logs rental cabin and reality hit that we’d actually made it — cowboy boots on the ground! — we realized all four of us were unusually clueless about what came next.

As Disney obsessives, my friends and I know theme parks, but had no barometer for what to expect from … a celebrity-themed one. Would it feel worn-down and somewhat sad? Would they smell the coastal elite media bias on us? Was the cinnamon bread actually that good?!

Of course, it was all perfect. Gloriously lush, vast and yet somehow deeply quaint, it was jarringly unexpected in the best of ways.

The 12,000-pound Dollywood Eagle is the mascot for the park’s winged roller-coaster, the Wild Eagle.

(Amy Harris / Invision / AP)

Mornings at Dollywood were spent wandering the now-relocated bald eagle sanctuary and crafting village, afternoons were spent riding black bears, coasters and log flumes. We watched candle-dipping artisans at work with wide eyes, heard the screaming whistle of the authentic steam locomotive train, and perused each room of the Dolly Parton Experience museum with glee. By the second day, one friend was walking arm-in-arm toward the cinnamon bread grist mill with its cashier. There was a palpable kindness that emanated throughout, as though every employee was working in her honor, whether performing in a show alongside her blood relatives or selling bedazzled tank tops.

The glorious cinnamon bread at Dollywood.

(Carlye Wisel)

Standing in front of the Grist Mill, a.k.a., the home of the cinnamon bread.

(Carlye Wisel)

And then there were the rides. As for enduring monuments, Elvis fanatics have Graceland, Beatles obsessives have Abbey Road, but Dolly? Dolly acolytes have a wooden-steel coaster so intense it can pop your boob right out of your bra. (In retrospect, my friend’s incident was a perfectly unintended homage to the busty star.)

With funnel cakes in the shape of her beloved butterfly and fashion exhibits with eye-popping heels and wigs, Dolly Parton’s theme park has history, entertainment, reverence. She was inviting us into her figurative and literal home — the tour bus she resided in for over a decade, with an overzealous guide to boot. In fact, most employees couldn’t wait to talk about Dolly, and neither could we. To be here is to be close to Dolly Parton, but to work here seems almost spiritual.

The Lightning Rod roller coaster is intense.

(Carlye Wisel)

At some point between the blacksmithery heat, second loaf of cinnamon bread and feeling my soul leave my body aboard a haunted coal mine coaster, it hit me that this simply will never happen again. The splintering of mass media, the confluence of a cultural icon whose priorities are so admirable — the zeitgeist will simply never again support someone so pure of heart. Who else could pull off an eponymous theme park without it feeling brazenly self-serving?

After all, Dollywood isn’t just a pile of rides in the Great Smoky Mountains. Rooted in authenticity, service and philanthropy, they’re honoring Appalachian culture by forging iron and blowing glass in their Craftsman’s Valley, while inviting you in to do the same. The Imagination Playhouse, a live musical staging of children’s books, promotes her literacy initiative and its work gifting hundreds of millions of free books. Even the property’s most expensive hotel room is a low-key fundraiser for the Dollywood Foundation. In the era of budget cuts, corporate consolidations and layoffs, it feels like a respite from the fiscally overwhelming sides of America’s other theme parks these days, but that’s always been its objective. Dolly’s original investment in Silver Dollar City, the park’s predecessor, was purely to give back to the community and support jobs in the area.

Dollywood’s Palace Theater has hosted iconic shows through the decades.

(Amy Harris / Invision / AP)

Until her death Tuesday at age 80, Dolly was the closest thing we had to a modern day Walt Disney mixed with Mr. Rogers’ kindness and Miss Piggy’s flair. A true Renaissance woman who pulled herself out of a state of poverty that for many seems unimaginable (until, of course, you overstay your welcome ogling the exhibit of her two-room Tennessee Mountain childhood home, which I obviously have).

Dolly Parton was a living testament to what’s important in life: treating others the way you want to be treated, while also looking hot as hell. How unbelievable it is to have been alive at the same time as such a remarkable woman, and to have a place we can forever visit to celebrate her.

All I can do after the end to such a historic run is to urge you: Don’t wait as long as I did to experience Dollywood’s magic firsthand. Make the pilgrimage. Go there and see it yourself, in her honor.

And maybe, just maybe, wear a more supportive bra on Lightning Rod.

Fans gathered at Dollywood after she died at the age of 80.

(Melissa Sue Gerrits / Getty Images)

IT’S not often you’ll find a sprawling holiday park with a lake in the middle- but you can on the Isle of Wight.

The Lakes Rookley holiday park is a short distance from some of the Isle of Wight‘s prettiest beaches, making it the ideal family break away from home.

Unlock the hols by signing up to Sun Club – for £1.99 per month or £12 per year

Even better, the holiday park is available to book as part of The Sun’s Holidays from £9.50, meaning you can bag yourself a seriously affordable stay to check out all the new upgrades.

At the park, there are plenty of things for families to do including having a dip in the indoor heated swimming pool.

If the weather is nice, there is also an outdoor pool.

Other daytime activities to try out are watersports – thanks to the lake in the middle of the park guests can have a go at kayaking or paddleboarding.

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Though, if you want to keep the kids dry then there is also a huge Adventure Playground.

There’s an activity centre too, where you can drop into messy craft sessions, pottery painting, slime workshops and even archery.

When it comes to grabbing a bite to eat, you can head to The Lakeside Bar and Eatery which even has a veranda that overlooks the lake.

Settle in for the evening at the Spinnakers Entertainment Lounge, where there are live family shows to enjoy.

There are a number of different accommodation options at the park including The Lakehouse, which is exclusive to the park and sleeps up to four people.

Alternatively, you could stay in a comfort caravan sleeping up to six people, with a lounge and kitchen area as well as sea views.

Fancy a dip in your own hot tub? Then make sure to book either a Luxury Caravan sleeping up to six people or an Island Cottage sleeping up to six people also.

One recent visitor said: “The park is just stunning, sat outside the restaurant overlooking the lake, sun shining and cocktail in hand you feel like you’re abroad!

“Stayed in a cottage, very sweet accommodation like a home away from home.”

While there is plenty to do at the park itself, there are also some great spots to visit in the local area.

For example, you could visit Carisbrooke Castle in Newport, which was used to imprison Charles I during the English Civil War.

Or, a 20-minute drive from the park, head to the beach and explore Sandown Pier – home to mini golf and lots of arcade machines.

For something a little different, 10 minutes down the road you will find The Garlic Farm, which is free to visit.

You will get a full garlic-themed experience, including a playground, restaurant and shop.

The easiest way to get to The Lakes Rookley holiday park is by hopping on the ferry, which the park has even partner with to get guests discounts.

You can get the Wightlink ferry from either Portsmouth or Lymington, the Red Funnel from Southampton or the Hover Travel from Portsmouth.

Depending on the ferry port you then come into, it takes between half an hour and 40 minutes to drive to the holiday park.

LAST night the world was hit by the tragic news that western icon Dolly Parton has died aged 80 after a short battle with cancer.

While fans around the world mourn the 9 to 5 singer, bookings for the star’s theme park, Dollywood, have surged.

The theme park’s website went down yesterday after people rushed to the site shortly after the news of her death broke.

Dollywood spans 165 acres in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, boasts more than 50 rides, including rollercoasters like Big Bear Mountain and Mystery Mine.

There’s also Dollywood’s Splash Country – an outdoor waterpark.

Originally set to open on August 18 but now set to fully open on August 30, there will even be a new rollercoaster called NightFlight Expedition.

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The $50million (£36.7million) ride incorporates four thrilling experiences in one, with an indoor coaster section that takes riders over the Smokies at night, then there is a whitewater rafting excursion where riders head up and over a mountain ridge before plunging down into a lake.

The theme park also hosts events throughout the year including Run Dollywood, Dollywood’s Harvest Festival and Neon Lights at Splash Country.

Coming up, the theme park will host a new nighttime event called Harvey’s Boo Bash on October 16, 23 and 30.

The event is hosted by the park’s pumpkin character called Harvey.

There will be Great Pumpkin LumiNights too, every evening between September 14 and October 31.

Across a wider 10-year plan costing $500million (£336.7million), there are plans to add three new resorts which will make the park have five resorts overall.

There are also plans for a ‘unique experience’ that the park previously teased could be camping ‘Dolly style’.

By 2050, the destination aims to have all five resorts open, each with 300 hotel rooms and the outdoor resort as well.

The park which opened in 1986 has a 20-minute ride on the Dollywood Express steam train as well.

You can also stay at the park too, at either Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa or the HeartSong Lodge & Resort.

Day tickets to the theme park cost as little as $29.99 (£22) per person.

And if you do visit the theme park it is also worth exploring wider East Tennessee, as it was recently named one of the 14 “best places to go in the US in 2026” according to Conde Nast Traveller.

Imogen says she had already complained that the accommodation had not been properly cleaned

A mum claims she fled a ‘nightmare’ holiday park after her children found loose prescription tablets in the bedroom of her caravan. Imogen’s children, aged six and seven, allegedly found the medication inside a low bedside cupboard at Littlesea Holiday Park, near Weymouth, Dorset.

The 30-year-old said the youngsters opened the cupboard themselves before screaming for her. Pictures taken inside the caravan appear to show several loose white tablets, including a large capsule-shaped pill bearing the imprint “XR 1000”.

Imogen immediately removed the tablets, photographed them and handed them to staff at the park reception. She said: “Finding those tablets made my blood run entirely cold. If either of my children had mistaken those white pills for sweets and swallowed them, it could have caused a catastrophic medical emergency.

“As a mother, knowing how close my babies came to being poisoned is a living nightmare.”

The “XR 1000” marking is used on some 1,000mg extended-release metformin products. UK medicines guidance says a large metformin overdose can cause lactic acidosis, a medical emergency requiring hospital treatment.

Imogen said she had already complained through the Haven app about dead insects, cobwebs, a dirty fridge, debris on the floor and marks across the cupboards. A cleaner was subsequently sent back to the accommodation. Imogen also reported a broken kitchen kickboard, bin lid, curtain rail and gate. She said one maintenance worker attended on the Friday but was unable to repair the gate, before another employee returned and fixed it the following day.

The mum said her son also developed a rash on his neck during the holiday. She said: “Beyond the drugs, the accommodation was neglected and thoroughly filthy upon arrival.

“We had to waste our precious holiday time waiting around because they had to send a cleaner back to the caravan. The hygiene standards were so appalling that my son broke out in a physical skin rash on his neck.”

Imogen said she initially received an apology when she handed the tablets to reception. She claims she heard nothing further about the medication until speaking to a manager the next day.

She claims that when she asked for the discovery to be formally recorded as a health and safety incident, the manager replied: “I won’t be doing that as I don’t need to.”

Imogen said she felt “cornered” into accepting an offer of a 50 per cent refund during the discussion. She said she later wrote to Haven rejecting the suggestion that the complaint had been resolved.

The mum left the park at approximately 4.15pm on Sunday, 16 August, earlier than planned.

She said: “I fled the park to protect my family’s health. I have completely lost all faith in Haven Holidays.”

Mateusz Dolata, general manager of Littlesea, subsequently apologised to Imogen in an email He wrote: “A prescription tablet should never have been left in a holiday home and I am truly sorry for this.”

Mr Dolata said the tablets were disposed of appropriately and the incident was later logged on the company’s system so it could be investigated. He said Imogen accepted a 50 per cent refund worth £320 and remained at the park until Sunday evening.

Mr Dolata said Friday had been exceptionally hot and cleaning teams had been working in “very challenging conditions”. He added that this may explain the missed check but was “not an excuse”.

He said the matter had been followed up with the relevant employee and would be used to reinforce the importance of checking every part of the company’s holiday homes. Mr Dolata added: “I am genuinely sorry for the distress and worry caused and I completely appreciate why finding medication in your accommodation would have been particularly upsetting as a parent.”

Haven has been approached for further comment.

THREE fab theme parks, three unique experiences – which one will you pick?

From magical fairy-tale worlds to high-octane thrills and waterpark adventures, there’s something for every family.

Efteling, The Netherlands

Lifestyle Editor Catherine Bennion-Pedley and her family fell for fairy-tale fun in Kaatsheuvel.

As we whizz past trolls swinging from trees and down to the sparkling rainforest floor, the kids are completely spellbound.

From this ride, Droomvlucht, we head back into daylight to find fairies twirling around the lawn, bubbles filling the air.

Efteling is the very definition of enchanting. From musical toadstools to talking bins that suck up litter through their mouths, we find ourselves staring in awe at all the quaint details.

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The Fairytale Forest brings much-loved stories to life through animatronics, and Poppy, seven, and Raffy, five, are delighted by a donkey that poos out gold coins when you pop in 50 cents.

But there are plenty of wilder attractions, too – wooden coaster Joris En De Draak feels way faster than 47mph as it swerves around corners, and Baron 1898 drops you into freefall for almost 40 metres.

Baby Switch cards mean husband Andy and I don’t need to queue twice for rides the kids are too short for, either.

Our best foodie finds in the park are the soft-serve ice creams, which cost less than £2, and hotdogs drenched in truffle mayo with parmesan and rocket, £5.50.

But it’s the Polles Keuken eatery that is unmissable, with its musical stove and huge pancakes – my favourite is stuffed with apple slices and topped with whipped goat’s cheese, candied walnuts and rocket, £15.

Opened last year, Efteling Grand Hotel is home to gorgeous art-deco interiors and luxurious bedrooms that are the antithesis of the bright and brash themed rooms at some parks.

Chocolate coins are hidden in the coffee drawer, superb Zenology toiletries are in the bathroom and there’s a sweet elf night light built into the wardrobe.

We also get early access to some rides and use of the sauna, steam room and pretty pool with its blue and white checkerboard tiles and impressive water chandelier – although it’s not a place for swimming lengths!

Brasserie 7, with its cascading faux-flower displays, serves up quality breakfasts with fizz, as well as a delicious, albeit pricey, dinner.

The greatest thing, however, are the miming piccolos, bell boys and girls dressed in cute purple uniforms, who have us giggling through mealtimes with their comedy antics.

As the rain hits on our last day, we drop by the on-site theatre to catch illusion show Magicaluna, which is packed with stunning tricks.

It sums up the Efteling experience in its final line: “You’re never too old to wonder.” Yep, this park is magic.

Stays for up to six at Efteling Grand Hotel cost from £496 B&B, including two-day park access (Efteling.com).

Futuroscope, France

Acting Senior Designer Sasha Cunningham and her son enjoyed robot rides, tech storytelling and making a splash in Poitiers.

Strapped into the hand of a giant robotic arm with my eight-year-old son, we are thrust into the air, twisting, flipping and turning.

The robot’s movements synchronise with the pumping music and flashing lights on this Dance With Robots ride.

And as soon as we’re released, a beaming Oscar announces we have to do it again!

Made up of Futuroscope Xperiences and Aquascope water park, the resort is home to more than 40 attractions housed in geometric buildings.

We hop on a rollercoaster to Mars and even get swept into the eye of a tornado on a 5D adventure.

Brightly coloured playgrounds and beanbag chill-out zones line the paths, while the Futuropolis zone lets smaller ones operate their own rides.

After a morning of adrenalin rushes, we kick back in Europe’s largest 360-degree circular theatre for nature documentary Antarctica, listening to Benedict Cumberbatch’s narration on our headphones.

But it’s the Key To Dreams show that closes the park that’s our favourite, with its spectacular projections, lasers and 3D water effects.

Oscar’s mouth drops open once again as his bright-blue burger, £14, spirals down the rollercoaster tracks covering the ceiling and lands at our table.

We’re dining at Space Loop restaurant – advance booking is essential – where my pork mignon, £14.50, also arrives amazingly intact and we dive into meringue tart, £7, and candy-floss-topped sorbet, £3.50, for pud.

Just over the road is Hôtel Ecolodgee and our lakeside lodge.

Come morning, a basket with pastries, yoghurts, breads and juice is delivered to our door, and we arrive at neighbouring Aquascope for 9am to beat the crowds.

Each of the eight large indoor slides has its own theme – from sudden drops and light shows to the mega-twisty Spiral.

One of the most fun is Alien, where we’re flushed down a chute in a double ring, racing against another pair.

We also meet octopus Kraki, the star of Europe’s first aquatic cinema, before floating down a glowing lazy river.

Looking for a theme park that’s out of this world? This is it.

Stays for four at Hôtel Ecolodgee with two-day access to Futuroscope plus Aquascope tickets cost from £431 (Futuroscope.com).

Paultons Park, England

Our pick on home soil gets better each year, says Lifestyle Editor Catherine Bennion-Pedley.

This place is consistently voted the UK’s fave theme park for good reason, and fun new zone Valgard: Realm Of The Vikings opened in May.

Climbing vertically up 75ft to then plunge down a 95-degree drop and be whizzed upside down makes Drakon the standout.

And while smart people pack budget-friendly picnics, the Feasting Hall does serve scrumptious chicken burgers, £11.95.

The best thing about Paultons is that an average-height seven year old can go on all the rides, and only a couple rule five year olds out.

We adore flying through the air on Flight Of The Pterosaur, hurtling backwards on Velociraptor and racing down Buffalo Falls in inflatable boats.

There’s also Peppa Pig World and a mini zoo with lemurs and flamingoes.

Close by is thatched gastropub The Potter’s Heron. Recently given a serious glow-up, it’s deceivingly huge and has a lively bar.

Bedrooms are decked out in rich colours and prints, bathrooms have rainfall showers and Bramley toiletries, and a Roberts Radio, coffee machine and home-made treats complete the package.

At dinner, highlights are a prawn and crayfish cocktail with paprika and lime mayo, £9.95, and signature pistachio soufflé, £8.95.

The kids’ chicken roulade stuffed with ham and gruyère, £7, is also a hit.

The next day, the Full English sets us up nicely for exploring the New Forest before our easy drive home.

Paultons Park day tickets cost from £43 per person over a metre tall (Paultonspark.co.uk). Family rooms at The Potter’s Heron cost from £199 per night (Pottersheronampfield.com).