ONE little-known holiday park has scooped up two awards for its accommodation and it’s right next to a UK theme park.
Sundown Adventureland is a popular spot for families with over 30 rides and attractions as well as a huge soft play – and the adjoining holiday village is now award-winning.
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The accommodation in Sundown Adventureland has won two awardsCredit: Sundown AdventurelandThe theme park its next to caters for families with kids 10 years old and underCredit: Sundown Adventureland
Wild Acre Village in Retford won two awards at the recent Hoseasons’ Diamond Awards.
The accommodation came first place in the categories ‘Best in Britain – Holiday Park’ and ‘Relax & Explore – Heart of England – Small Park’.
Winners were chosen using reviews and ratings from Hoseasons’ own customers, who share their views after their visits.
Debs Griffin, director at Sundown Adventureland said: “When we opened the lodges, we knew there would be a demand for staying overnight at Sundown Adventureland.
“But we never could’ve anticipated that three years on, we would be consistently fully booked with so many of our customers returning for repeat visits.
“Offering families a good value, very clean, comfortable and entertaining stay has been central to the success of Wild Acre Village, and our team works extremely hard to ensure every guest has a memorable stay, wants to keep coming back and laps up the magic and exciting nature of Sundown Adventureland.”
While Sundown Adventureland first opened its doors in 1968, Wild Acre Village just three years ago in 2022.
The self-accommodation style village was built after feedback from visitors who said they couldn’t fit all their exploring into one day.
As Sundown Adventureland is catered towards families with children 10 years old and under – the accommodation is too.
There are single cabins which sleep five people with a king-size bed for the adults and triple bunk beds for the kids.
The cabins are catered for families with spacious bedrooms and living areasCredit: Sundown Adventureland
Double cabins can sleep ten people and are ideal for multiple generations holidaying together with interconnecting doors.
Each cabin and lodge has a living and dining area, bathroom and well-equipped kitchen.
There are outdoor patio areas with picnic benches and disposable BBQ stand – some even have hot tubs.
Currently, Wild Acre Village has offers from £299 for a three-night break, which includes free park tickets for guests.
Over at Sundown Adventureland, families can enjoy over 30 rides and attractions that are specially designed for younger children.
One popular attraction is the Crash Landings soft playCredit: Sundown AdventurelandThe Lillipoppet Castle smells of liquorice inside
Inside there’s also a newly extended cafe with hot food, snacks and drinks.
Rides include the Giddy Piggies to the Jolly Pirate Boat Ride to Robin Hood’s Merry Adventure.
The Lillipoppet Castle is a huge, sweet-inspired castle with an ice cream centrepiece, and it even smells of liquorice.
Storybook Village is based on popular fairytales like Humpty Dumpty and the Three Little Pigs.
Across the theme park are eight themed play areas like Shotgun City, a wild west town with a traditional saloon and an animatronic sing-song show.
The theme park even has its own Wild West townCredit: Sundown Adventureland
Here’s the English theme park with world-first rides crowned best in the UK…
ThemeParks-UK.comannounced the winners of this year’s best parks around the country with this one scooping up awards across 10 categories…
The theme park in question is Paultons Park which has over 70 rides and attractions, as well as Peppa Pig World.
Found in Hampshire just outside of the New Forest, the theme park has nine Peppa-themed rides as well as rollercoasters, splash parks and even an animal park.
At the recent UK Theme Park Awards 2025, Paultons Park was crowned Theme Park of the Year beating the likes of Thorpe Park and Legoland.
Not only that, but it also scooped up nine other awards including Best New Attraction for Ghostly Manor.
It also topped the two categories for Best Theme Park for Families and Best Theme Park for Toddlers.
It will be a viking-themed world with the park’s first inverting rollercoaster, called Drakon.
Drakon will be the park’s most thrilling ride with a vertical lift hill and two twists taking riders upside down.
Also in the Viking world will be the Vild Swing that swirls riders 12 metres in the air, two brand new thrill rides, retheming of Cobra – a famous ride at Paultons Park, into a bobsled adventure.
IF you want to make 2026 the year of family-friendly days out from theme parks to aquariums, castles and waxwork museums – take advantage of the Merlin Black Friday Sale.
You can save up to £60 on an annual pass that will allow you entry to around 20 attractions across the country – but the offer ends very soon.
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The Merlin annual pass allows entry into theme parks- like Alton TowersCredit: AlamyFor the little ones, head to Cbeebies Land also in Alton Towers
Until December 21, you can get £60 off a Merlin Essential yearly pass, costing just £79 rather than £139.
With this, you can enter over 20 top attractions for 339 days out of the year.
Some of the attractions include Alton Towers which is perfect for families who love rollercoasters, or those wanting to try out the Bluey ride in its CBeebies Land.
For foodies, in Birmingham there’s Cadbury World families can uncover the story of Cadbury chocolate – and get to taste some too.
Jordan Middleton, Head of Merlin Annual Pass, commented on the sale: “Just in time for the festive season, our Black Friday Magic Sale has great savings of up to £60.
“With offers starting at just £79 – which is equal to just £1.52 per week – Merlin Annual Pass is the gift for those who you have no idea what to buy.”
Other attractions included in the pass are the London Eye and London DungeonCredit: AlamyThere’s also Warwick Castle for history buffsCredit: Alamy
There are two other pass options.
One is the Gold Pass which is also in the Black Friday sale for £199 rather than £239 – a saving of £40.
This has extra benefits including free parking, up to 20 per cent discount on food, drinks and retail, up to 20 per cent off short breaks at themed Resort hotels.
And there’s discounted entry for family and friends and less restricted access to the attractions.
The Platinum annual pass remains at £299 per person per year with all the perks of the Gold Pass, along with guaranteed entry all year round with no restrictions.
Platinum Passholders will also receive free Fastrack Resort Theme Parks and free tickets for family and friends, with no restrictions throughout the year.
All attractions included in the Merlin yearly passes…
Alton Towers Resort
Chessington World of Adventures Resort
Legoland Windsor Resort
London Eye
Thorpe Park
Sea LIFE – London, Birmingham, Manchester, Blackpool, Brighton, Weymouth, Great Yarmouth, Hunstanton, Scarborough, Loch Lomond
Warwick Castle
Madame Tussauds, London
Shrek’s Adventure! London
Legoland Discovery Centre, Birmingham & Manchester
If your dog has missed out on the festive fun so far, there’s still time to book them into Paws in the Park at LEGOLAND Windsor. There’s even the chance for them to give Santa their wish list
Pups can finally enjoy a festive day out at LEGOLAND(Image: LEGOLAND)
If you’re looking for a festive family day out that includes your four-legged friend, then LEGOLAND Windsor is offering a day that dogs will love. On December 21 and 28, the iconic theme park will host Paws in the Park, a special event that allows dogs to accompany their owners to the attraction’s Christmas celebrations.
While most dogs don’t have much interest in LEGO, beyond chewing any stray pieces found on the floor, they’ll no doubt love the festive atmosphere of the park and a new place for walkies. Dogs can sniff their way around the park while owners enjoy over 20 rides, Christmas shows, and the Elf Training Academy.
And if your dog is on the nice list this year, why not treat them to a visit to see Santa himself? After 5pm, Santa’s Grotto in the Christmas Kingdom is open to doggos who are hoping for a visit from Santa Paws this year.
Owners who want to bring their dog to the park will need to pay for a £10 Pet Pass in addition to tickets for any humans visiting, and there are a few rules to follow. Dogs need to be kept on a lead, and you must bring any dog food and snacks with you, although there will be water points throughout the park.
Paws in the Park is part of Christmas at LEGOLAND, the theme park’s festive offering which describes itself as ‘the ultimate Christmas day out’. Until January 4, the park will be decked out in Christmas décor, turning it into a brick-shaped winter wonderland.
A number of rides are still open over Christmas, including The Dragon rollercoaster and the ever-popular LEGO City Driving School. Little kids will especially love the DUPLO Dino Coaster, based on the beloved toddler toys, and the LEGOLAND Express train which takes you on a tour of the park.
You can meet Santa and his elves in LEGO form, before dropping into the grotto to meet Father Christmas himself and give him your Christmas wishes. Visitors get a special LEGO gift to remember their trip.
LEGOLAND’s Christmas attractions also include the Festival of Flurries show, a musical where the audience are encouraged to dance and sing along in a lively yuletide show. As you walk through the park, you may also spot the Nutcracker’s Marching Band, a group playing brass band versions of your favourite Christmas songs.
And of course, there are plenty of opportunities to play with the beloved brick toys, including Build to Give. For every LEGO heart built in the workshop, a LEGO set will be donated.
In addition to LEGOLAND Windsor, there are three European LEGO-themed parks, perhaps the most famous being in Billund, Denmark, the home of LEGO. Recently, LEGOLAND Deutschland in Germany announced they’d be adding a new Harry Potter land to their list of attractions, which will include Wizarding World-themed rides and accommodation. The park plans to release more information on this new land in the next 12 months.
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UNIVERSAL has finally been given the green light to open a theme park in the UK.
The famous film studios has been given planning permission to start building the theme park.
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The UK Universal has been given a special order to allow building works next yearCredit: Cover ImagesThe new theme park expects to be open in Bedford by 2031Credit: Universal
A Special Development Order (SDO) has been granted by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, which allows the theme park to skip local planning procedures.
This means it will allow it to be built in the suggested location near Bedford.
Expected to start works in January 2026, the park could open as soon as 2031.
It will be the first Universal theme park for both the UK and Europe, with current resorts only across the US and Asia.
Local Labour MP Mohammad Yasin praised the “landmark moment,” adding: “The confirmation of planning permission for the Universal Destinations & Experiences Entertainment Resort Complex is transformational and will be felt for decades to come.”
Estimated to cost £6.6billion to build, it could attract as many as eight million visitors a year.
Little is currently known about what kind of themed lands and rides would open at the UK Universal.
Rumours suggest James Bond, Paddington and Lord of the Rings, Minions, Jurassic World, and Back to the Future.
It is unlikely to include Harry Potter due to licensing rules and the nearby Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction in the nearby Leavesden.
Set across 662 acres, there will be four ‘zones’; the Core Zone, Lake Zone, West Gateway Zone and the East Gateway Zone.
The Core Zone is likely to be the entrance area, as well as where the theme park and waterpark will be.
Plans also include a 500-room hotel.
More accommodation and businesshotels will be at the Lake Zone, as well as an entertainment complex ans convention centre.
Then both the West Gateway Zone and the East Gateway Zone will be where guests arrive by train and car, with restaurants and hotels.
This is also like to be where the Entry Plaza area will be, as well as the parking and a 500-room hotel.
The park is expected to stay open all year round, unlike other UK theme parks like Alton Towers and Thorpe Park which only open on select dates like Christmas and New Year.
Not only that but it would have much longer opening hours, suggested to be 7am to 11pm.
It will also have a free-to-visit area where guests won’t need a ticket to enter.
Also included in the theme park plans are a new train station to cope with demand.
The new station would be part of the East West Rail (EWR) line, with train links to Oxford to Cambridge via Milton Keynes and Bedford.
If you’re bored of theme parks with long queues and greasy food, a new ‘luxury’ theme park will be opening in 2026 that promises a much more upmarket experience including “five-star hospitality”
BON – Beauty of Nature theme park is set to combine thrill rides with luxury holiday experiences(Image: VidantaWorld)
A day out at a theme park is hardly what you’d call a luxury experience. While it’s nice to enjoy a day of family-fun, having to queue for 30-second rides and fight the crowds isn’t exactly relaxing.
However, an upmarket resort chain now aims to elevate the average theme park experience. Billed as “the world’s first-ever luxury theme park”, BON (beauty of nature) is set to open in autumn of 2026 for guests of VidantaWorld Nuevo Vallarta in Mexico.
There are ambitious plans for this new theme park, which will eventually have multiple lands including 23 attractions, 25 restaurants, lounges, and shops across the site. It’ll feature both thrill rides and family-friendly options, as well as immersive experiences and playgrounds.
Guests of VidantaWorld Nuevo Vallarta, a resort featuring a 5-star hotel, golf course, and direct beach access, already have access to select attractions within the theme park. The park recently opened Cirque du Soleil LUDÕ, a spectacular water-based show that takes place in a custom-built theater costing $ 200 million (£ 148 million) for an immersive dinner experience. The theatre is surrounded by a wrap-around aquarium for a 360-degree undersea experience.
Two of the theme park’s seven planned lands are also open for guests to preview. There’s Wonder Bay, which includes a lake show and seasonal celebrations. Until January 11, a Christmas theme is in effect, featuring decorations, live performances, and festive meet-and-greets.
Adventure Valley is also open, featuring the serene Carousel of Colors and the family-friendly Time Quest. There’s also Tempest Towers, a ride that takes you to new heights before plunging you down, and Kids Cove playground with plenty for them to explore. Some of the park’s shops and restaurants are also open, offering visitors a glimpse of what the park will be like.
Once fully open, visitors will be able to enjoy rides such as the Tecuani Beast, set to be Latin America’s only double-launch coaster. This will have top speeds of 65mph and more airtime than any other rollercoaster in the region. Another attraction will be the floral-themed Floresta Drop, which will be a family-friendly ride.
There will also be a variety of eateries offering an elevated experience compared to the typical theme park fare. This includes authentic Mexican cuisine offerings, sushi restaurants, and American-style grills.
The park will also feature numerous surprises around every corner, including costumed entertainers, light shows, fireworks, and much more. The company VidantaWorld, who already have two beach resorts in Mexico and a mega yacht, want to create a “multi-generational” experience, with something for all ages.
The news comes as a popular European theme park is set to get a new world based on the Harry Potter series. LEGOLAND Deutschland in Germany confirmed the creation of a new Wizarding World based on J.K. Rowling’s popular franchise. Details will be released in the next 12 months and are set to include Harry Potter themed accommodation.
Disneyland Paris is also set to get a brand new attraction, and has confirmed that the World of Frozen, based on the Frozen movies, will open on March 29, 2026. The area is set to include a brand new ride, character meet and greets, new shows, and exclusive food and drink.
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A WORLD famous destination, often referred to as the unofficial eighth Wonder of the World, could be getting a new theme park.
The Ontario government has launched a new Destination Niagara Strategy which is a multi-billion dollar plan to transform Canada‘s top tourist spots into even better destinations.
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Niagara Falls could be getting a new theme park, as work begins on a new five-star hotelCredit: suppliedThe hotel will feature a spa. theatre and museumCredit: supplied
As part of the strategy, Niagara Falls could become the ‘Las Vegas of the North’ with the possible creation of a new theme park.
Other plans include redeveloping the Ontario Power Generating Station into a new tourist destination.
A huge wheel ride that visitors can see the falls from is also part of the project – and could be similar to the London Eye with views of the River Thames.
The Niagara Parks Marina will be updated, with plans of opening a restaurant, shop and outdoor patio area.
Work is already being carried out to convert the historic Toronto Power Generating Station in a five-star hotel – a first in the area.
The hotel is on the banks of the upper Niagara River and will have a craft brewery, museum, a spa, art gallery and a theatre.
In addition to this, there could be “multiple world-class casinos”, as well as “entertainment and top-tier dining options”.
Niagara’s casinos already attract over five million people and generate around €500million (£373million) every year.
The report states that it would “create new, world-class attractions, boost local arts and culture and improve the region’s transportation network.”
It hopes to welcome as many as 25million visitors a year, and double the region’s tourism.
It could even create $3billion (£2.3billion) for Ontario’s GDP.
Premier Doug Ford said: “Niagara is home to the world-famous Niagara Falls, one of the most iconic tourism destinations on earth, along with a host of world-class restaurants, wineries, hotels, cultural events and so much more.
“Our Destination Niagara Strategy will unlock the region’s full potential, supporting workers and creating new opportunities for tourists and families from Ontario and around the world to come and experience the best that the region has to offer.”
Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West said: “This transformative investment in Niagara as a world-class, four-season tourism destination is another example of how our government is protecting Ontario.
“This critical support for our regional tourism strategy will not only attract more visitors from coast to coast across North America, but from around the globe.”
In the future, the destination could see even more new attractions and visitor experiences – though details are limited.
Little details have been released about the theme park, but there will be more casinosCredit: suppliedBack in August, a new Niagara Takes Flight experience openedCredit: Jam Press/Niagara Parks
More money will be invested in cultural events too and improving transport options in the region.
Also in the years ahead, there could be a new Niagara River Line attraction, which would be an electric tram through Queen Victoria Park.
Visitors would board capsules that would be suspended, allowing them to see Niagara Falls from a new angle.
Back in August, a new Niagara Takes Flight experience opened.
The $25million (£18.7million) flying theatre experience allows visitors to go on a journey along the Niagara River corridor, soaring across 34.8 miles of parkland including Lake Ontario and the edge of Lake Erie.
A recent visitor said: “This was the most fun we had at Niagara Falls!
“This simulation makes you feel as if you are really experiencing this adventure!”
In other theme park news, these are all the UK rides and attractions that we lost in 2025 and the exciting ones coming in 2026.
FROM family-favourite theme parks to popular junior coasters – there have been some sad attraction closures in 2025.
But not all is lost as there are some terrific, and of course thrilling additions coming next year from world firsts based on beloved cartoon characters to rides that will be 138-foot tall.
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Some theme parks and rides closed for good this yearCredit: AlamyBut others are planning huge new additions to their parksCredit: Unknown
Starting with the closures, there have been some big losses in 2025 from favourite attractions to whole parks…
The news was announced through a Facebook post thanking visitors for their support over the last two decades.
In a few hours the post had gained more than 1k reactions and over 500 comments.
One said: “Oh sad times. We loved spending days up there in the summer. My childrenloved the ridesand we have so many good memories. Wishing you all the best in the future.”
Some of the most popular attractions included theGo Gatorcoaster, theSnakeride, Orbiters, trampolines, and the classicCrazy Golf.
It was home to a swinging pirate ship, flume, rollercoasters and mini black taxi carts.
Earlier this year, there had been rumours for plans for a reopening it this year – these however have been scrapped.
In May 2025, hopes were reignited to reopen the park after a new leisure company called Richens Leisure Projects (RLP) stepped in to not only save the attraction but also make it bigger through a £250million project.
Those hopes were short-lived as the entire project was scrapped a few weeks later. And owners Aspro Parks, revealed they had no intentions of selling the site.
Alton Towers waved goodbye to Postman Pat’s Parcel Post rideCredit: Alamy
Found in its CBeebies Land, the ride had first opened in 2014 as part of the land’s launch – so it’s safe to say it has been a classic for any visitors with young children for years.
It closed to make way for a new ride coming in 2026, the new Bluey-themed junior rollercoaster.
Small rides like Alpine Rallye were closed at the popular amusement park in BlackpoolCredit: Unknown
Smaller Rides at Blackpool Pleasure Beach
In February 2025, Blackpool Pleasure Beach announced the closure of five of its rides.
It said on its website: “We’ve made the decision to close some of our smaller, less popular rides during the 2025 season: Eddie Stobart Convoy, Alpine Rallye, Thompson Carousel, Gallopers and Red Arrows Skyforce.”
The decision to close some of the smaller rides at the park however, is to make way for new ones – or to redesign them.
For example in 2024, the park’s ride Ice Blast closed and will soon open as Launch Pad.
It said: “Launch Pad promises to be more thrilling, immersive and dynamic than ever before as riders shoot to the clouds at high speed.
“We’re confident that once you’ve ridden it you’ll agree that its temporary downtime was worth the wait.”
The highly-anticipated World of Frozen will open in MarchCredit: Disney
Now for the more exciting news – what’s coming up in 2026 from whole new theme park lands and worlds to one-of-a-kind rides.
World of Frozen, Disneyland Paris
You might have heard that a movie-inspired land is coming to Disneyland Paris, and it’s all based around the hit film, Frozen.
It will open on March 29, 2026 with a new attraction called Frozen Ever After where visitors will bob through the North mountain to Elsa’s Ice Palace.
Of course Elsa and Ana will be around the land as will Olaf and even the troll, Mossi.
There will also be a new restaurant called Nordic Crowns Tavern, the Arendelle Boutique shop and the Fjord View Shop.
The World of Frozen is part of the newly reimagined second park,DisneyAdventure World.
Read on to find out more about the World of Frozen from Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski, who went for a behind the scenes look in November.
A Viking realm will launch at Paultons Park with a thrilling new ride
Realm of the Vikings, Paultons Park
Family-friendly theme park, Paultons Park has revealed plans for a new £12million attraction set to open in May 2026.
The park be park which will be named Valgard – Realm of the Vikings, will be a viking-themed world with Paultons Park’s first inverting rollercoaster.
Called Drakon, it’s set to become the park’s most thrilling ride with a vertical lift hill and two twists that will take riders upside down.
There will also be Vild Swing that swirls riders 12 metres in the air, two brand new thrill rides, retheming of Cobra – a famous ride at Paultons Park, into a bobsled adventure.
The ride will be renamed Raven to complement the Viking village experience.
The new immersive land will delight children who are a fan of the PAW Patrol pups.
There will be four new rides across the land including a brand new ‘my first rollercoaster’ for the littlest of visitors.
There will also be photo opportunities and themed bedrooms for the ‘ultimate sleepover’ first opened in 2025.
Devon’s Crealy Theme Park & Resort will open a new ride as it celebrates milestone anniversaryCredit: Crealy Theme Park & Resort
Pirates’ Plummet, Crealy Theme Park & Resort
Crealy Theme Park & Resort is celebrating its 25 years since the opening of Devon‘s first rollercaoster with a new addition next year.
The rollercoaster called Pirates’ Plummet is a family thrill ride and will open in 2026.
Few details have been released on the ride so far, but there will be no doubt more updates in the New Year.
We went behind the scenes of the upcoming Frozen land at Disneyland Paris…
Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowskiwent for an exclusive look at the World of Frozen earlier this year…
“A SNOW-capped mountain towers behind an ancient clock tower, its frosty peak protruding a whopping 36-metres into a cloudy sky.
“At its foot, a wooden-rimmed postbox is waiting to receive a bundle of postcards, Arendelle’s first ever mail, while a magnificent snowflake-shaped fountain sparkles in the centre of the street.”
“I was taking an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the much-hyped area of thetheme park,scheduledto open on March 29next year with a bundle of new rides and activities based entirely on the animation blockbuster.
“Visitor postcards sent home from the fictional kingdom of Arendelle, over which Frozen characters Elsa and Ana rule, are just one small part of what makes this land so special.
“The immersion goes beyond what’s been seen at any Disney park so far, from the ornate-framed paintings of characters to the ultra-modern technology that places Disney fans actually in the story.
“The clock tower, complete with mini Ana and Elsa figurines, sparks into song every 15 minutes and flickering lanterns dangle from pastel-coloured buildings.
“There’ll be a whopping 13 other dining venues in Arendelle alone, including food stalls serving sticky cinnamon rolls and the grand Regal View, World of Frozen’s character-dining venue.
This spot is impressive enough without the meet-and-greets. Disney Princesses have been painted into fresco-like murals across the walls and curved chandeliers dangle from the ceiling.
“And of course, no trip to Arandelle would be complete without a visit to the kingdom’s impeccably dressed Elsa and Ana.
“And the duo won’t just appear on the street; they will dramatically sail across the lake via a huge wooden vessel, preparing to greet their fans at the “Royal Encounter” in the castle.
“A lifesized and hyper-realistic Olaf will make an appearance, too. But unlike every other character at Disneyland Paris, Frozen’s star snowman has been built using clever robotics that allow the character to talk and even waddle away on his stumpy snow feet.
“The highlight will most definitely be the lands boat ride, Frozen Ever After, which will carry riders through the snowy forest towards the Valley of the Trolls and Elsa’s sparkling Ice Palace.
“Animatronics promise to bring scenes to life as riders approach Arendelle Bay which will be showered in snowflake-shaped fireworks.”
BEING spat on by a walrus, shaking my backside with a chipmunk and having Peter Pan declare me an “honorary Lost Boy” isn’t usually how I spend my days.
But all of it happened to me, and more, when I visited Walt Disney World in Florida for the first time.
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The Sun’s Jack Hardwick surveys Disney’s iconic Cinderella CastleCredit: suppliedJack with Toy Story character Buzz LightyearCredit: suppliedJack with Mickey MouseCredit: supplied
Prior to this, I’d only made it to Disneyland Paris when I was a child, despite a lot of begging to my parents.
But I’m happy to report it was worth the wait.
And new attractions are being added to the park continuously, so even if you have been before, no two visits are the same.
Last month saw the launch of 4D animated show Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, just weeks before Zootopia 2 started its run at cinemas.
Based in the Tree Of Life Theatre — under the roots of the 145ft tree at the centre of Animal Kingdom — the ten-minute show features wind, water and sudden seat movements as you watch the 3D short film.
Created by the same animators behind the popular 2016 movie Zootopia, it features beloved characters Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, as well as new critters from the sequel.
Explaining the ride, Executive Creative Director of Walt Disney Imagineering, Chris Beatty, told me: “At its core, the show is Animal Kingdom based. This park is so unique, it’s very clear on what it’s trying to say and be.
“Nature and the interconnectedness of all things. That’s what it’s all about. Together we are stronger.”
But the magic is far more than this new show. It was like time had never passed since my first visit to Disney’s Paris resort, as I fully allowed my inner-child to take hold.
Mickey-shaped waffles for breakfast? Tick. Mickey-shaped ice cream sandwich? Tick. Coming back to your room to find the belongings you discarded haphazardly in a rush laid out neatly in the shape of Mickey? Tick.
While Disney is, at its heart, a theme park packed with rides for thrill-seekers of all ages, for me the magic is, and will always be, found in the characters.
As we wandered through Frontierland — Magic Kingdom’s Wild West-themed area — we bumped into Toy Story’s Jessie, who was running about in between the buildings and playfully engaging in hide and seek with some children — never once breaking character mode.
Mary Poppins and chimney sweep Bert were also dancing down Main Street, USA, as families checked out the shops and snacked on Mickey-shaped sweet treats.
During my family visits to Paris as a child, I was obsessed with collecting autographs from each character.
And prior to my trip to Florida, I feared this wholesome trend might have fallen by the wayside in favour of selfies on phones. But I couldn’t have been more wrong.
Jack with Donald DuckCredit: suppliedJack in Mickey headgearCredit: suppliedZootropolis’ Judy Hopps and Nick WildeCredit: Amy Smith, Photographer
Kids still line up, pen and autograph book in hand, to meet their idols in an age-old Disney tradition.
In fact, as we enjoyed a character dining experience at Magic Kingdom’s Crystal Palace with Winnie the Pooh and friends, I didn’t see a single child ask for a selfie.
Instead, they gazed longingly at their cartoon friends as they held out their arms for a hug or an autograph book to sign.
I have zero shame in admitting that I queued up to meet Mickey Mouse at the Town Square Theater at the entrance to the Magic Kingdom, as well as patiently waiting in line to recreate a childhood image of me hugging Pluto, 25 years later.
Then, over in the Animal Kingdom theme park, I spotted Pocahontas casually posing for photos with excited fans, and Donald Duck hosting a meet and greet with his own admirers.
With standard queue times of around an hour, the attraction takes immersive rides to a new level.
Its seriously intense drops and tricks make it feel like you are flying on the back of a native mountain banshee (a dragon-esque creature) across the breathtaking landscape of Pandora, from the James Cameron-directed box office blockbusters.
While I loved the first film, released in 2009, I can’t say I’m a huge Avatar fan, having seen the second film, 2022’s The Way Of Water, only once.
But I challenge anyone not to be blown away by the ride and want to have a go on it again — whether they have seen the movies or not.
In fact, planning your rides and navigating the parks is simple thanks to the very useful Disney app.
Most jaw-dropping
It gives you up-to-date queue times for the main rides, a live map of your location and directions on how to get to your next attraction, as well as wait times for character interactions.
It was through the app that I was able to orchestrate a meet with the main mouse himself, Mickey, with just a 15-minute wait time.
Jack with Pluto in 2000Credit: suppliedJack now with PlutoCredit: supplied
Once inside, I was pleasantly surprised to discover the staff — or cast members, as Disney calls them — are more than happy to record videos or take pictures on your phone, despite the official shots also being available.
And for those worried about being slapped with a huge phone data bill like me, fear not.
All the Disney parks are equipped with free wifi, including on the complimentary shuttle buses between hotels and parks.
If you were in any doubt that Disney doesn’t do things by halves, check out one of the many nightly firework shows.
Surprisingly, the one at Epcot was the most jaw-dropping of my trip — clearly the area feels it has to go the extra mile as, unlike Magic Kingdom, it doesn’t have the Cinderella Castle to attract visitors.
Its extravaganza, called Luminous: The Symphony Of Us, boasts fireworks, music, lasers and dancing fountains.
A top tip I discovered is that if you’ve already seen the Magic Kingdom fireworks and find yourself in the park at 9pm, ride queues fall dramatically.
I spotted Pirates Of The Caribbean and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure drop from a usual wait time of 50-plus minutes to just five minutes — as did meeting Mickey Mouse at the Town Hall.
At Hollywood Studios, the Fantasmic Show, set on a lake at the top of Hollywood Boulevard and featuring characters and fireworks, was the ideal ending to my Disney adventure.
Walt Disney once said: “We are not trying to entertain the critics. I’ll take my chance with the public.”
But consider this critic highly entertained.
GO: WALT DISNEY WORLD
GETTING THERE: Norse Atlantic flies from Gatwick to Orlando from £244 return.
See flynorse.com. STAYING THERE: A two-week getaway to the Disney All-Star Sports Resort is from £835.75pp based on two adults and two kids sharing, and for arrival on August 17, 2026.
Includes 15 per cent off per room and 25 per cent off 14-day tickets, as well as add-ons Memory Maker and Park Hopper.
Customers can also add flights to save £500 per booking if they book by February 26.
ARE you dreaming of a white Christmas? Well, maybe you should be dreaming of a wet Christmas . . . and by wet, I mean a thrilling flume like no other in the UK.
OK, a waterpark doesn’t sound that festive – but for my family a visit to Splash Landings was the surprise standout of our Santa Sleepover at Alton Towers.
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I took my kids to Alton Towers’ Santa Sleepover – with Arctic themed rooms and even a trip to the waterparkCredit: SuppliedThe boys and their dad enjoyed wildly spinning barrels on Marauder’s MayhemCredit: Supplied
Yes, the Staffordshire theme park has everything for a cool yule, but nothing topped a ride on Master Blaster – at 682ft, Britain’s longest water coaster.
My gang – sons Wilf, eight, Jasper, six, and dad Simon – agreed this was the best waterslide we’d been on.
And there’s so much to pack in, from lazy rivers and play areas to the steaming Bubbly Wubbly outdoor pool.
But of course we were there for some Santa magic, and we got a sackful.
We’d arrived promptly on the first day as we knew a Santa Sleepover comes with a busy schedule and the festive wow factor kicked in immediately, with dozens of twinkling Christmas trees on the entrance plaza.
All of CBeebies Land is open and the boys loved the Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure and In The Night Garden Magical Boat Ride.
A theme park in December is not going to be warm and you’ll be outdoors a lot, so dress appropriately.
But not all attractions are open-air, including Andy’s Adventures Dinosaur Dig immersive dinosaur show and Justin’s Pie-O-Matic Factory play area. You’ll also find ample places to stop for lunch, and the coffee corner offers warming drinks.
Soon, it was our turn to queue for Father Christmas in his charming North Pole wooden grotto. Every family will get their own special time with a friendly Santa who chatted to our shy children then gave us a little present each.
Next up was pirate-themed Mutiny Bay, where the boys and their dad enjoyed wildly spinning barrels on Marauder’s Mayhem and Heave Ho! – a rocking and twisting ship.
And don’t miss Alton Towers’ own SeaLife Centre, Sharkbait Reef. It was a resounding success, with an immersive starfish exhibition and a glass tunnel where huge sharks swim around you.
Then it was time to head to the hotel, which ticked all the Christmas boxes with beautiful decor.
Our awesome Arctic Explorer room added to the atmosphere with its polar mission theme and came with a single bed each for the boys and a double for mum and dad
Via the Dragon Bar, where singers performed Christmas tunes, we headed for dinner in the Secret Garden carvery, with the yule log a big family hit.
The action never stops and next up was The Tale of Cinderella and Prince Charming panto, which left the boys transfixed.
After posting a letter to Santa it was time to snuggle up in our room, waking up to a letter each for Wilf and Jasper from Father Christmas. Pure family joy.
Before heading home after our Splash Landings blast, we grabbed a delicious lunch at the Talbot Inn just outside the park and all agreed we’d had a flume-ing fabulous festive break.
THE overnight Alton Towers Santa Sleepover costs from £91pp and is on until December 23. For more information or to book, see altontowers.com.
Silver Lake City is the newest land for Europa-ParkCredit: Europa-parkThe cowboy themed land has diners tooCredit: Europa-parkThe new outdoor pool opened this yearCredit: Europa Park
Along with four themed diners, there is even a 630-bed Tipi Town accommodation village.
Next year will see the opening of the Riverside Western Lodge, with another 120 rooms.
It might not have the recognition of Disneyland, but with so much for all ages, Europa Park should top any theme park-lover’s list.
It’s not just me who was impressed, with one money-saving mum saying it was perfect even in half term holidays.
Content creator TheTravelMum said: “The theming is incredible, and the queue times are absolutely amazing.
“A lot of the smaller rides only have one minute queues.
“The park is fantastic for thrillseekers but at the same time it caters to the little ones,
“This place is fantastic value.”
Entry to the park costs £52 for adults and £44 for children (4–11) and seniors.
Despite being in Germany, the park is near the border of France and Switzerland, so the nearest airport for Brits is Basel.
Return fares in November start from £39pp.
The best way to get there is to fly to BaselCredit: EUROPA PARK
