The pier has been extensively redeveloped and is widely regarded as one of Britain’s top seaside family attractions, perfect for a day out by the sea
The modernised pier is the perfect escape from the rain(Image: Getty)
When Brits picture a quintessential pier experience, their minds often drift to the likes of Blackpool or Brighton, while overlooking one of the UK’s finest piers.
Yet nestled in the South West, along the Bristol Channel in North Somerset, lies a coastal gem that delivers a pier experience unlike any other.
Weston-super-Mare pulled out all the stops when it decided to elevate its Grand Pier, preserving its heritage while simultaneously raising the bar on the main seafront stretch.
Today it caters to modern families in exactly the way a holiday spot should, boasting an indoor venue packed with excitement, entertainment and all the British seaside essentials.
Originally opening as the Grand Pier in 1904, it has since achieved listed building status, safeguarding a rich history of seaside tourism in Weston.
However, during this period, the pier has evolved from a simple viewing platform to a comprehensive attraction offering hours of amusement.
Sadly for visitors and residents alike, throughout its existence, the pier has been devastated twice by fires, the first in 1930 and subsequently in 2008. It was the 2008 disaster which granted it a completely fresh start and ushered in the reconstruction of the pier as it stands today.
In 2009, North Somerset Council gave the green light to proposals for a new pier to be constructed, with contractors John Sisk and Son chosen to build a new pavilion.
The revamped Grand Pier threw open its doors for the half-term holiday on 23 October 2010, with an official reopening for the tourist season the following July.
While the pier still offers traditional seaside rock, fish and chips and a host of arcade games — including the much-loved 2p machines — there is a great deal more on offer these days.
Fifteen years on, it continues to delight families seeking a fun-filled day out, with activities spread across two floors and stunning views of the surrounding sea.
Top indoor attractions include a house of horrors, glow-in-the-dark go-karts, mini golf, a free fall ride, a sidewinder ride, dodgems and much more besides.
One visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor, writing: “We spent pretty much the whole day there and could easily go again the next day as we didn’t do everything (didn’t make it to soft play for the little ones) even though we did do the ghost train twice!
“Absolutely great day out at a beautiful venue. Wristbands are great value for money, and so much is included. 100% recommend – great destination. We will be back!”
On arrival, guests can pay a £2 entry fee per person at the door, or book tickets in advance to save the hassle of carrying loose change.
The pier’s website features a range of deals, including unlimited ride access or combined entry and ride packages for the whole family, making advance booking both straightforward and cost-effective.
As with any pier, visitors should expect to part with some money once they reach the pavilion, with individual attractions and games each carrying their own separate charges.
There’s no need to head off-site for a bite to eat either, as the Grand Pier has your mealtimes well and truly sorted with its range of cafés and dining options.
From classic fish and chips to sugary doughnuts, ice creams and more, the pier has everything you’d need for a perfect summer’s day or seaside trip.
A recent visitor shared: “Can clearly see a lot of thought and investment has gone into the grand pier. The couple of hours we spent there were enjoyable.
“There’s something and everything for all ages. Even if it’s just sitting out on a nice sunny day enjoying a nice drink. £2 entrance fee doesn’t break the bank.”
Weston-super-Mare is also home to a second pier, though there’s little in the way of entertainment on offer, as it remains derelict. Birnbeck Pier stands as a piece of history and a listed building, currently undergoing restoration work with hopes of reopening sometime in 2027.
Having first welcomed visitors in 1867, the once-stunning structure has lain dormant since 1994. Weston hopes to see it restored to its former glory, breathing fresh life into the seaside town as the only pier in the UK connected to an island.
THE highly anticipated World of PAW Patrol has announced when it will open – and you don’t have to wait long.
The pup-tastic themed-land will open at Chessington World of Adventures with four new rides and a new play attraction on May 3.
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PAW Patrol World will open on May 3, 2026Credit: Chessington World of AdventuresZuma’s Hovercraft Adventure will be the UK’s first ‘Drifter’ rideCredit: Chessington World of Adventures
The new £15million attraction was first announced in April last year and will welcome guests over the early May bank holiday weekend.
It will be be the UK’s first and only PAW Patrol-themed land designed specifically for preschool-age children.
Inside will be new rides and meet and greets with the beloved pups Rubble, Skye, Rocky, Everest and Marshall.
Fans of the show will recognise the new land as it looks like the fictional Adventure Bay.
It’s all centred around Lookout Tower which is also part of ‘Chase’s Mountain Mission’ ride – the attraction’s entry-level rollercoaster for littler kids.
Another of the new rides is Skye’s Helicopter Heroes where riders can climb aboard Skye’s helicopter and take to the skies.
Zuma’s Hovercraft Adventure will be the UK’s first ‘Drifter’ ride – visitors can hop onto their own hovercraft.
Kids will feel like they’re skidding across the water from Adventure Bay to Seal Island.
There’s also Marshall’s Firetruck Rescue, guests can climb aboard a firetruck and ‘rock and roll’ through the streets of Adventure Bay.
There will be themed playscapes too including Rubble and Rocky’s Play Zone.
At Rubble and Rocky’s playzone, kids can get their hands dirty at the construction zone.
Then children can head to Rocky’s Recycle Yard to crawl and climb through a maze of repurposed parts.
Another will be The Flounder Boat Play where little explorers can help Captain Turbot on a high-seas adventure.
Children will be available to meet their favourite characters in the parkCredit: Chessington World of Adventures
The themed-land will also have a cafe, a picnic space and a shop where visitors can pick up PAW Patrol merch.
Chessington World of Adventure’s Vice President, Nick Bevan said: “We can’t wait for families from across the world to experience the magic of PAW Patrol here at Chessington World of Adventures.”
Chessington already has hotel rooms based on the TV show – each room sleeps up to two adults and three children.
PAW Patrol hotel stays start from £155 for a family of four, including bed and breakfast.
Hotel stays include early ride access into Chessington, a ‘Pup Pass’ Meet and Greet fast track pass, and a Reserve & Ride one-shot pass.
You can book a day ticket to Chessington from £34 – if booked in advance.
WHITE sand beaches, enormous castles, and peaceful canals – no I’m not describing France or Spain or Portugal as you can find all of this in the UK without spending much money.
Sometimes we Brits don’t appreciate what we have on our doorstep, and let’s face it, exploring the country can be costly – but here are some truly bucket list spots that you can see on a budget.
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You can see lots of what the UK has to offer on a budget – like walking along the coastCredit: AlamyThe new coastal path makes exploring paths around the seaside easy to navigateCredit: Alamy
Richard Madden has been exploring the country on foot, by rail, road even boat for his new book Great British Journeys – and has given Sun Travel an insight into his favourite finds.
Richard says: “Obviously travelling on a budget depends where you start from – but walking, whether it’s on the coast or in the countryside is free.”
By foot
He started by saying: “I was brought up around the Lizard Peninsula, and here are some incredible places to walk to, like Kynance Cove.
“In Sussex, my most favourite walk is along Seven Sisters which is spectacular with Cuckmere Haven, where the estuary meets the sea.
On the fastest services, the full length of the journey takes around 1hr38 and one-way tickets can cost as little as £7.70.
Richard says: “That whole line is beautiful with coastal views and castles.
“You don’t even have to do the whole thing – just go on a couple of stops like to Alnmouth, or go further up and you’ll pass Dunstanburgh Castle.”
On the full stretch of the line, passengers will also see the Tyne Bridge, Lindisfarne Castle, the Edinburgh skyline and Firth of Forth.
Further south, another popular route is onboard the Bluebell Line which is just around the corner from National Trust‘s Sheffield Park.
Tickets for adults to board the heritage steam train start from £27 and when you book, check for children’s rates which are just £1 with their ‘kids for a quid’ offer.
The West Highland Line, also dubbed the ‘Hogwarts Express‘ is another incredibly scenic journey.
However if you’re on more of a budget but still want to get the views, hop on a public service line instead.
A ticket from Fort William to Mallaig which crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, typically starts around £9.20.
You can cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct on a train for under £10Credit: Alamy
When exploring the UK – why not check into some of our favourite hotels?
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Margate House, Kent
This stylish boutique hotel is in a seaside townhouse, a short walk from Margate’s coolest bars and restaurants. Decked out with plush velvet sofas, flickering candles and striking independent art, inside feels like a warm welcome home. Rooms are stunning, especially the ones that give you a glimpse of the sea.
The Alan looks extremely grand, built into a beautiful Grade II listed building. Spread across six floors, with 137 rooms, each one looks like a fancy design magazine. From the concrete coffee tables to the pink plastered walls, the industrial-inspired designs perfectly replicate the history of the city.
This historic hotel has welcomed the likes of Charles Dickens and Lillie Langtry through its doors. Rooms have richly-patterned carpets with super soft bed linen and premium toiletries in the bathroom. Go for a superior room for extra goodies including bathrobes and snack boxes.
This Cambridge hotel is in the ideal spot, within walking distance to bars, shops and hotspots like the university colleges and Parker’s Piece. The inside couldn’t be prettier, with huge stained glass windows, grand chandeliers, and rooms with enormous clawfoot bath tubs.
Waterways and canal boating are a fun way to see the countryCredit: Alamy
By Boat
To explore the country, most of us will hop into the car, but Britain is so well connected through its waterways.
Richard is no stranger to canal boating and reveals some of his favourite journeys to do around the country.
He says: “The Shropshire Union Canal is one I’ve done on quite a few occasions.
“That one goes to Cheshire, and you get these fantastic views of the Roman walls, so it’s a particularly good one.
“Another that I’ve done quite a few times is the River Wye, on the border of Wales.
“It’s Wordsworth country and it’s got incredibly beautiful surroundings in that area like Tintern Abbey which go past on the water.
“To make it better, there are lots of pubs along riversides, so you can moor up and go in.”
One very famous waterways spot is the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, where you’ll find the Bingley Five Rise Locks.
Renting a 6-berth narrowboat for a week generally costs between £900 and £1,500.
If you split that between a group of six, it can work out as little as £21pppn – but this varies depending on the season.
Richard also has some top tips for those planning a staycation or day trip around the UK to reduce the costs.
He says: “My key tip is to work it all out beforehand – the further you book in advance, the cheaper things will be.
“Go through your options as well, like how you’ll travel there and if it’s cheaper to take the bus, or if it’s worth going by train than by car.
“You can consider options like camping to keep costs down, but I would say it’s only worth doing that if you enjoy it – don’t if you’re not going to have a good time.
“There are so many different landscapes in the UK and generally, you don’t have to go far to see them.”
Great British Journeys by Richard Madden (National Trust Books, £14.99) is out on April 9.
Richard has travelled across the country finding some gems that you can see on a budgetCredit: Richard Madden
A POPULAR seaside attraction park with links to a much-loved TV series is launching new rides.
Barry Island Pleasure Park in Wales has already launched one new ride and has plans to add more this year.
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Barry Island Pleasure Park in Wales will be getting new rides this yearCredit: AlamyThe theme park already has one new ride which is a Caterpillar Coaster
Visitors with small children can now head on an apple-themed Caterpillar Coaster, which was introduced during February half-term and is ideal for introducing kids to rides.
And the free-to-visit attraction park is planning on adding several more attractions, according to Theme Parks UK.
While the new additions are yet to be announced, the park has teased that its biggest improvement is yet to come and will be introduced before the end of this year, reports Barry and District News.
The park previously revealed that it was adding bumper cars, but this has been delayed by the war in Ukraine with steel prices rising.
Other rides at the park include Aerospace, which is a huge 65metres-tall and reaches speeds of 75miles-per-hour and remains the tallest and fastest ride of its kind in the UK.
There is also a ghost train, carousel, waltzers and even a crazy fun house.
To go on the different attractions, visitors must purchase tokens, which cost around £1 each.
Rides then usually cost between three and four tokens per person.
A recent visitor said: “Barry Island Pleasure Park is a fantastic place for everyone, especially families looking for a fun day out.
“It offers a great mix of excitement, entertainment, and seaside charm.
“The park is filled with colourful rides and attractions that suit all ages, from small children to adults.
“Whether you’re into classic fairground rides, or enjoy the thrill of rollercoasters and other high-energy rides, there’s something for everyone here.”
The owner of the park, Harry Danter, also has plans to create a “Disneyland of Britain”.
The owner of the attraction park has said there are plans for several other ridesCredit: AlamyIncluding the park’s biggest improvement, which is yet to comeCredit: Alamy
Our favourite UK seaside towns
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Sidmouth, Devon Take a trip to Sidmouth on the Jurassic Coast and wander down Jacob’s Ladder to its pretty shingle beach. Make sure to walk along the promenade and check out the independent shops and boutiques. Stay at the four-star Harbour Hotel for sea views and traditional afternoon tea from £135 per room.
Whitby, North Yorkshire With a history of sailors and vampires, a dramatic coastal path, and the very best in pints and scampi, it takes a lot to beat Whitby. Pop in the amusements, eat award-winning fish and chips, and board the all-singing Captain Cook boat tour on the harbour. The Royal Hotel overlooks the harbour with stays from just £68 per room.
Old Hunstanton, Norfolk This town has some of the best beach walks beside striped limestone cliffs, a Victorian lighthouse and 13th century ruins. The beach has golden sands with rolling dunes and colourful beach huts, backed by a pretty pinewood forest. Stay at a beachfront hotel from £100 per room.
Seahouses, Northumberland This is an authentic British seaside break, with fishing boats bobbing on its pretty harbour and fresh catches of the day to enjoy in local restaurants. There’s no flashing arcades here, but there’s a great beach with rockpools, boat trips, and you may even spot a grey seal, too. Treat yourself to a stay at the Bamburgh Castle Inn from £129 per room.
A HUGE new multi-million attraction based on chocolate is opening in Europe.
Maison Cailler, in Broc, Switzerland, is the home to Switzerland’s oldest chocolate brand as well as being a museum.
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The redesigned future Parc Cailler is expected to attract over a million visitorsCredit: Urban ProjectThe historic chocolate factory site is being transformed into a 30,000 m² tourist parkCredit: Urban ProjectNew hotels and rides are part of the plans
And it has has revealed plans for a whole load of new experiences to expand the land.
One of the largest additions are the Cocoa Bean Greenhouses, which will have real cocoa trees for guests to learn about the processes of making of chocolate.
A new tasting hall and shop will become the Emporium, while a flying theatre like ride will let guests go on virtual flights throughout Switzerland.
Original parts of the factory dating back to 1898 are also being restored, with plans to open to the public for the first time as “chocolate theatres”.
And the current Atelier du Chocolate workshop is trippling in size to cope with the current demand.
Set to cost CHF400million (£379million), works could start this year with plans to open by 2030.
All of the new additions will turn the experience into a one-hour experience as long as six hours.
It hopes to more than double tourist numbers, from the current 500,000 to 1.2million a year.
Other plans include a new gondola connecting the attraction to the parking area, as well as new hotels.
President of the Gruyère-Chocolat Association behind the attraction, Olivier Quillet, emphasized that it wasn’t a theme park as they “wont have rollercoasters“.
Instead, he said: “We want to showcase the expertise, tradition, and heritage.
“From the moment they enter, visitors will be immersed in chocolate; they can taste it and watch it being crafted by master chocolatiers.”
A GERMAN theme park is being completely transformed by a famous French theme park.
Parc Astérix in northern France, which is inspired by the iconic comic series of the same name, is taking over a destination in Germany.
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Belantis Park in Germany which is being rebrand to Astérix Park Germany will open a new land this yearCredit: AlamyThe first parts of the transformation will open this year with a new land called Idefix’ AdventureCredit: Belantis Park
Currently known as Belantis Park, located near major cities including Dresden and Berlin, the theme park will be completely rebranded by 2031.
And work has already begun with the first new land opening at the theme park this spring.
The new land called Idefix’ Adventure Land will be for families with children and is themed around Idefix the dog from the Astérix universe.
There will be four new attractions and while they are yet to be announced, renders of the land show a small flume-style ride, a drop tower, a wagon ride and a spinning chair ride.
And there are some reports that they will include the ‘Aerobix Flying Machine’, ‘Driving school Frischling’, ‘Idefix’s River Journey’ and ‘Soapbox derby’.
The new land is the first part of the theme park’s transition into the Astérix and Obélix universe, with the park being completely rebranded Astérix Park Germany by 2031.
The next part of the transition – an expansion phase – is set for 2027, which includes a new family rollercoaster that will begin to be built this year.
Once fully complete, the theme park hopes to attract up to 900,000 visitors each year.
In the meantime, the park officially reopens for this year on March 28, however, the new land will not open then.
For those visiting the theme park before the new land opens, they can get a discount on another ticket if they want to return to see the new land.
Filip De Witte, Managing Director of Belantis, said: “At Belantis, we aim to create experiences where the whole family can enjoy thrilling adventures together.
“This year, we’ve lowered our admission prices to make it even easier for families to visit.
The new land will feature four rides and open in springCredit: Belantis ParkFrom the renders of what the land will look like, there will be a log flume includedCredit: Belantis Park
“At the same time, we’re expanding our offerings – from a new season pass and the Belantis app to a brand-new themed area opening later in the season.”
The park also has a new show called ‘Why do spiders spin webs?’ which is both educational and entertaining.
There’s also ‘Pirates on the Loose!’, which has been refreshed to include more music, show-fighting moments and interactions that mean audience members can train as a pirate or even discover a hidden treasure chest.
Existing rides include looping rollercoaster, a bobsled coaster and Fluch des Pharao which is a water ride inside a pyramid.
One recent visitor even noted: “There was hardly any queues when we got there, we went on a Sunday, the only time there was queues was in the evening from about 3-5pm.”
Tickets to the park cost €29 (£25.13) per person.
In other theme park news, here are nine of the best theme parks with something new in 2026 from multi-million lands to epic thrill rides.
THE EASTER school holidays are just around the corner and with the kids off school, you might want to head on a staycation to fill some of their time.
There are loads of seaside towns across the UK, but Sun Travel has picked out some of the cheapest spots across England – all of which are great for family breaks this Easter.
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The UK is home to a number of cheap seaside spots including BlackpoolCredit: Alamy
Blackpool, Lancashire
Blackpool is often thought to be one of the cheapest seaside destinations in the UK, with arcades and a long-stretching beach.
For a one-night break over the Easter holidays, you could stay at The Merlin Hotel for £56 a night for two adults and two children (or £14 per person).
The hotel is in the city centre and is an eight minute walk from Blackpool Central Beach.
You can also head to Blackpool Winter Gardens Theatre just 400 metres away and Coral Island, 500 metres away.
When it comes to activities, you can head to Joyland – one of the oldest theme parks in the UK – and it is completely free to visit.
Rides are then priced separately so you can spend as little or as much as you like.
For example, the Super Snails ride costs £2.50 a turn.
Travel writer, Helen Wright, recently visited and for food suggests heading to Grelly’s, where you’ll be able to grab a hot sausage roll and chips for only £3.60.
Or you could head to Great Yarmouth, with a hotel costing around £86 per nightCredit: Alamy
When it comes to finding somewhere to stay, you could head to Parkdean Resorts Crimdon Dene Holiday Park from April 10 to 13 for £228 for four people (or £19 per person per night).
The holiday park is just a short walk to Crimdon Dene Beach, which offers amazing views of the north east coastline.
There is also a restaurant and bar on site in case you want to grab a bite to eat.
If you head into Hartlepool town, the Museum has free entry as well.
In Hartlepool, you could opt for Parkdean Resorts Crimdon Dene Holiday Park from April 10 to 13 for £228 for four peopleCredit: Alamy
Weston-Super-Mare, Somerset
Found in Somerset, Weston-Super-Mare was a popular 19th-century Victorian seaside resort and is still loved today for its long beach and Grand Pier.
Stay at the Savoy Hotel from £99 a night for four people over the Easter holidays.
If you don’t mind being a little out of Weston-Super-Mare, in the next town along – Brean – you could stay at Unity Beach holiday park for three nights from April 10 to 13 for £189 for a family of four (£15.75 per person per night).
Visiting the Grand Pier will set you back £2 per person and an unlimited all-day ride wristband costs £15 per toddler and £20 per child.
Attractions on the pier include a mirror maze, Helter Skelter and soft play.
There are a number of eating spots on the pier as well where you can grab fish and chips for £12, sausage and chips for £7.50 and a range of kids meals for £6.
Weston-Super-Mare has a number of cheap attractions including the Grand Pier, which will set you back £2 per personCredit: Alamy
Penzance, Cornwall
Despite many thinking Cornwall is one of the more expensive places to head on a staycation, if you are heading to the county then visit Penzance, which is one of the more affordable spots.
For example, you could head to Seaview Holiday Park, costing around £60 a night for a family of four over the Easter holidays.
The accommodation has a kitchenette as well, so you can cut even more costs by cooking for yourself.
And there’s also an outdoor swimmingpool, indoor play area and games room.
The beach is then about a 25-minute walk away.
Sun Hols from £9.50 returns next week
WANT to discover more bargains? Well, Sun Hols from £9.50 is returning with thousands of new breaks ready to book for this spring and summer.
And if you’re a Sun Club member (you can sign up here for £1.99 a month) you get priority access to these new bargain breaks.
The Hols from £9.50 website will be updated with new holidays on Wednesday, April 1.
Those collecting codes from the paper will unlock access to the website on Wednesday morning, but if you’re a Sun Club member, you can unlock those holidays on Tuesday March 31.
This means you can beat the online crowds and take your pick of holidays at a range of award-winning resorts earlier than the rest.
Once you’re signed up to Sun Club, head to the Sun Club offers hub. Then simply click through to the Hols from £9.50 website on Tuesday March 31 to access the holidays early.
And yes – you can book a holiday at a range of Hols from £9.50 resorts from as little as £9.50 per person. Find out more at Hols from £9.50.
If you want to head to Cornwall, but are looking for a cheaper spot than Penzance is a great optionCredit: Alamy
Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear
According to Which?, Whitley Bay’s average room rates cost just £69 -which makes it the second cheapest UK seaside town after Southport (£66).
Over Easter though, prices are obviously a little more expensive – but there are still some affordable options.
For example, a one-night stay at The Windsor Hotel costs £77 for a family of four.
The hotel is on South Parade and within sight of the sea, with the beach just 270 metres away.
That works out at just £14.12 per person, per night.
According to Which?, Whitley Bay’s average room rates cost just £69 -which makes it the second cheapest UK seaside town after Southport (£66)Credit: Alamy
Bognor Regis, West Sussex
Bognor Regis on the south coast of England is known for its award-winning Butlin’s resort.
A three-night break at Butlin’s Bognor Regis from April 10 to 13 costs from £316 – that’s around £26.34 per person per night.
And for that price, you get all the entertainment, the indoor waterpark and fairground rides – but it doesn’t include food.
If you do want to include food, this would cost an extra £186.54 (around £15.55 per person per day) for the family food court dining plan which includes a buffet experience.
In Bognor Regis, you could head to Butlin’s and make the most of their facilitiesCredit: Alamy
Ramsgate, Kent
Ramsgate is well known for having the UK’s only Royal Harbour, as well as sandy beaches and over 450 listed buildings.
And for Easter, there are still some affordable breaks.
You could head to Dog and Duck Holiday Park for three nights from April 10 to 13 for £234 for four people (or £19.50 per person per night).
You’d stay in a static caravan with an open plan lounge and kitchen area.
The holiday park has a pub onsite where you can grab a pizza for as little as £12, as well as an outdoor play area.
Ramsgate is also home the UK’s largest Wetherspoons as well, where you can grab a pint of Ruddles ale for just £1.99.
Or grab a pint of Worthington’s Creamflow ale for £1.99.
Ramsgate is well known for having the UK’s only Royal Harbour, as well as sandy beaches and over 450 listed buildingsCredit: Alamy
Paignton, Devon
When it comes to finding a place to stay in Paignton, you won’t be short for choice.
The bustling seaside town has a great mix of campsites, holiday parks, hotels and B&Bs.
For example you could stay at Devon Hills Holiday Park in a caravan with a hot tub for three nights from April 10-13 for £199 for four people (or £16.59 per person per night).
The holiday park features an 18metre pool, gym, sauna and steam room and play area.
And if you are wanting a bite to eat, there is an onsite cafe too where you can grab two pizzas, fries and garlic bread for £29.95.
The beach is a bit further away (three miles), but once there you’ll be in the bustling resort town of Paignton with red sand beaches and a pier full of different attractions including penny slot machines.
Paignton in Devon has a bustling town centre and a vast choice of hotels, holiday parks and B&BsCredit: Alamy
Clacton-on-Sea, Essex
Over in Essex, you could head to Clacton-on-Sea, which is full of souvenir shops and ice cream spots.
You could stay at Haven’s Orchards Holiday Village for £129 for three nights for a family of four – that’s just £10.75 per person, per night.
This is for a break between April 10 and 13, and includes access to the restaurants, takeaways and arcades but not to the swimming pools, activities and entertainment venues.
In Clacton-on-Sea, you can head to the pier which has a variety of amusement arcades and rides, such as a Helter Skelter costing just £1 a turn.
And if you are looking for a cheap spot for lunch Flags Cafe has a variety of dishes including curry, vegan options and cakes or a toastie and drink for a fiver.
Or head to Haven’s Orchards Holiday Village in Clacton-on-Sea for £129 for three nights for a family of four – that’s just £10.75 per person, per nightCredit: Alamy
GET ready to rock ’n’ roll – there are more thrills and spills at our favourite theme parks.
The new season has launched and families are guaranteed exhilarating new rides, amazing attractions and sensational shows.
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Rubble the dog at PAW Patrol Land in Chessington World Of AdventuresCredit: Chessington World of Adventures
Disneyland Paris’s World Of Frozen is making headlines but other favourite kids’ TV characters are being celebrated with coasters, heart-stopping swing rides and even a new historical theme park.
Trisha Harbord picks top parks with something new for 2026, at home and abroad.
A replica of the show’s Lookout Tower will form part of Chase’s Mountain Mission coaster.
And families can join a rescue mission while flying high on Skye’s Helicopter Heroes.
Other rides include Zuma’s hovercraft, which will slide, drift and skid, and Marshall’s rolling and rocking fire truck.
There will be pup meet-and-greets and themed play areas, along with PAW Patrol rooms at the park’s hotel.
GO: New season started on Friday. Tickets from £37. B&B for a family of four from £155. See chessington.com.
PAULTONS PARK
A THRILLING rollercoaster and swing ride are the highlights of Paultons Park’s new £12million themed world.
Valgard: Realm Of The Vikings features Drakon, the park’s first inverted coaster, which has a vertical lift hill and two twists taking riders upside down.
A viking in Valgard at PaultonsCredit: Supplied
It will intertwine with the coaster known as Cobra, reborn as Raven, which is an exciting bobsled adventure.
Nearby stands the massive Vild Swing — the first wild swing of its kind in the UK — which will swirl riders 40ft in the air.
Valgard, opening at the Hampshire park on May 16, will also have a Feasting Hall restaurant and Viking-inspired playground.
There will now be more than 80 rides and attractions in six themed worlds, including Peppa Pig World.
GO: New season starts Wednesday. Tickets from £46.75. Those under one metre go free. See paultonspark.co.uk.
Bluey and her sister Bingo, dressed as mischievous grannies Janet and Rita, take families on an adventure through the TV characters’ back yard.
It’s Bluey The Ride at Alton TowersCredit: Supplied
Fans can also meet the lovable pup at showtime and the CBeebies Land Hotel has Bluey-themed rooms — as well as Hey Duggee themed ones, which are new for 2026.
The Staffordshire park celebrated Bluey’s arrival by creating a giant portrait on the lawn.
It’s made from 11,000 cans of beans because they feature in the TV Grannies episode.
Alton Towers Resort has more than 40 rides and attractions, including thrilling roller coasters and a waterpark.
GO: Now open, with After Dark extended openings today and on March 27 and 28. Tickets from £32. See altontowers.com.
FUTUROSCOPE
A MAJOR new immersive experience that this park based on the marvels of science and nature will allow visitors to walk among the flora and fauna of the world.
After investing nearly 300million euros in new attractions, Futuroscope has again used amazing technology to create The Greenhouse Of Worlds, a colourful visual experience.
You wander through a massive dome to discover a professor’s collection of plants from all around the globe, which you can touch and smell as they are projected around you.
Also new at the French park, just north of Poitiers, is T.Rex — where a laser projection of images takes you back 67million years to get close to the legendary monster.
The park has also partnered with EDF to open an energy theatre with workshops and activities next month.
GO: Tickets from around £40. B&B and two-day tickets for a family of four from £250. See futuroscope.com.
KYNREN
AWARD-WINNING live-action night experience Kynren is becoming the UK’s first historic show park.
There will be no roller coasters at Kynren — The Storied Lands.
Instead, it will offer immersive live performances and large-scale shows depicting historical periods and legends.
Set within County Durham’s Kynren Park, it combines storytelling with cinematic music and breathtaking stunts.
The first phase, opening on July 18, features five attractions, including The Lost Feather, with 250 birds filling the sky above you.
Medieval knights charge into combat on horseback, a vast lake is turned into a stage, Vikings clash while fires rage, and a maze is full of surprise characters.
The night show Kynren — An Epic Tale of England continues on Saturday nights from July 18 to September 12.
GO: Tickets on sale next month. Night show tickets are £30 for adults and £20 for children. See kynren.com.
The Frozen Ever After boat ride, closed for super technology changes, has reopened at Epcot — with the famous sisters looking even more life-like as they appear to the soundtrack of the hit movie song, Let It Go.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has had a makeover and opens at Magic Kingdom this spring, along with Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin.
In the summer, Hollywood Studios launches two new live shows, where you will be able to dance along with Mickey and Minnie, while Animal Kingdom welcomes two new creatures to play with — Bluey and Bingo.
GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the Disney All-Star Movies Resort, including seven-day park tickets and flights from Heathrow to Tampa on September 2, costs from £1,250 per person. Check out virginatlantic.com.
Aviktas, a 138ft gyro swing — the UK’s tallest — opens at the town’s Pleasure Beach this summer as the attraction celebrates its 130th birthday.
Aviktas, the 138ft gyro swing at the Pleasure Beach in BlackpoolCredit: Supplied
The ride can seat 40 people at a time on a spinning circle at the end of a pendulum, which then swings to arc 120 degrees over Blackpool’s seafront.
It’s not for the faint-hearted, but there should be some great views from up there.
Aviktas joins other thrill rides including ten roller coasters, such as the Big One, which drops 235ft, and ICON, where you can feel the G-force of an F1 driver.
There’s also Nickelodeon rides for younger children, featuring favourite characters, plus water rides and shows.
NEW space adventure Lego Galaxy has blasted off, featuring the indoor Galacticoaster, with speeds of up to 40mph, and spectacular lighting and sound effects.
Rookie cadets are briefed by a moving, talking Lego engineer before designing their own digital spacecrafts, linked to the ride-by wristbands.
Legoland’s new GalacticoasterCredit: Supplied
With up to 625 ride combinations, the coaster navigates twists, turns and dynamic launches.
Throughout Lego Galaxy — also open in Legoland California — there’s brick-building opportunities and galactic-themed food.
The park in Winter Haven has more than 60 rides, shows and attractions.
GO: Seven nights’ B&B at the Legoland Florida Hotel, including flights from Gatwick and two-day park tickets, is from £1,065 per person. See travelplanners.co.uk.
LIGHTWATER VALLEY
YOU’LL get an idea about this new ride from its name, Spinning Racer.
The roller coaster opens at the park, near Ripon in North Yorkshire, for the start of the new season on March 28.
Climb aboard and speed up to 45mph on the colourful track as the carriages whirl, twist and turn.
Lightwater, in 175 acres of countryside, prides itself on being a family-friendly park and has more than 35 rides and attractions including a swinging pirate ship, beautifully decorated chair swings, waterslides and an express train.
Easter events, including meet-and-greets with Ebor the resident dragon, are also planned, from the opening day.
GO: Tickets from £22, children under 90cm free. Special offer for opening weekend from £17. See lightwatervalley.co.uk.
THORPE PARK
THE legendary home of big-thrill rides, Thorpe Park is unveiling its very first recharge zone, The Launch Pad.
The dedicated space, in the heart of the Surrey theme park, is designed for guests to relax, refuel and rest before their next adrenalin hit.
Set on the site’s former Amity Beach, the new zone will be a vibrant space where you can take a breath before diving back into the action.
And there’s plenty of that, with the Big Six coasters to experience — led by Hyperia, the UK’s tallest, fastest, most weightless coaster.
Standing 236ft tall, it can reach up to 81mph.
Add to that Stealth, The Swarm, SAW — The Ride, Nemesis Inferno and Colossus, and you’ve got a thrilling half dozen.
GO: The season starts on March 27. Tickets from £32pp, see thorpepark.com.
2026 is shaping up to be an amazing year for theme park fans with a huge number of new rides and attractions set to launch in the coming months, from thrill rides to family-friendly lands
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Pirates’ Plummet at Crealy is among the much-anticipated rides for 2026(Image: Crealy )
There is plenty for UK theme park fans to look forward to in the year ahead.
Many are preparing to reopen their doors for the spring season in the next couple of weeks, while some are launching new rides and even entirely new lands. From thrill rides to attractions based on kids’ shows, there are plenty of upcoming openings to get in the calendar.
Here’s a roundup of some of the UK’s biggest and most popular theme parks and what new attractions visitors can expect in 2026.
Paultons Park
Paultons Park is adding an entirely new themed land to its map. Valgard: Realm of the Vikings opens May 16, just in time for half term. It will include three Viking-themed rides: Drakon, the park’s first inverting rollercoaster with a dramatic vertical lift, Vild Swing, which will swing riders 39ft into the air, and Raven, a bobsled ride previously known as the Cobra coaster, which has been redesigned to match the theme.
The new land will also feature a Viking-themed playground and dining hall for a truly immersive experience. Theme park fans can book Paultons Park tickets online for the opening day.
Paultons Park is perhaps best known as home to Peppa Pig World, and its new land is aimed more at older kids and adults, adding new thrill rides to the park. However, if you are bringing little ones, be sure to stop by Peppa Pig World to meet the family’s newest member, Evie.
Chessington
Chessington’s new World of PAW Patrol will be here on the double, although no official opening date has been set. So far, the park has confirmed it’ll open in spring 2026 and will feature four rides. Chase’s Mountain Mission, a rollercoaster suitable for young kids, Skye’s Helicopter Heroes, which will take kids on a high-flying mission, and Marshall’s Firetruck Rescue, where kids can take a ride on a shiny red truck.
Zuma’s Hovercraft Adventure will be a ‘drifter’ ride, which promises to be the first of its kind in the UK. There will also be Rubble and Rocky’s Playzone, where kids can “climb, slide and explore”. Meet and greets will be available with the pups, and fans can even book a sleepover in one of the PAW Patrol-themed rooms at Chessington’s Azteca hotel. These colourful rooms sleep up to five and include themed bunk beds for the kids.
Alton Towers
Bluey the Ride: Here Come The Grannies! opens to Alton Towers’ guests on March 28, just in time for Easter. It’s the world’s first Bluey roller coaster and will be suitable for little fans of the show. Teaser images for the ride show Bluey and Bingo dressed as the iconic grannies Janet and Rita, and the ride is set in the Heelers’ back garden. More Bluey rooms are also being added to the CBeebies Land hotel and you can book online for spring dates and beyond.
Thrill ride fans can also enjoy the Toxicator, which opened last March. This neon-green coaster throws riders in the air and spins them around at high speed, creating an adrenaline-pumping experience.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
In spring 2026, Blackpool Pleasure Beach will be opening a new £8.72 million gyro swing ride named Aviktas. At 138ft, it will be the tallest of its kind in the UK. While the exact opening date has not yet been confirmed, theme park enthusiasts can buy VIP tickets for the launch event, ensuring they are among the first to try the new ride.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach also celebrates its 130-year anniversary in 2026. In March, visitors can get half-price tickets if they book online in advance, with eTickets costing £30. Or if you’re going as a family, you can get four tickets for £100, giving you access to all the park’s rides for the day.
Crealy
Crealy will offer two new rides in 2026, and one might be familiar to theme park enthusiasts. Spring will see the arrival of Pirates’ Plummet, an 80ft tall drop tower which will be the South West’s tallest ride. It used to be situated in Paultons Park, where it was called Magma, and is now being rebuilt at the Devon theme park.
In the summer, Rotor, an inverting air race ride, will be open. The ride will spin punters around and upside-down for a thrilling experience. No date is confirmed for either ride’s opening yet, but you can book short breaks or tickets on the Crealy website.
Pleasurewood Hills
Pleasurewood Hills was sold to new owners last year, and there are plans for four new rides to revamp the family-friendly Suffolk park. According to BBC reports, the new rides would include Star Flyer (a 30-metre-tall thrill ride), Spinning Coaster, Apple Coaster, and the Big Wheel. Planning approval for the new rides is expected in April, with no date announced as to when they’d open if approved.
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