Alton Towers
Britain's largest theme park, built around the ruins of a Gothic mansion, with several record-breaking roller coasters.
Alton Towers is Britain's largest and most popular theme park. It lies on the southern edge of the Peak District in Staffordshire and was built around the ruins of a Gothic mansion and gardens belonging to the 19th-century Earl of Shrewsbury. The park features well-known rides such as Smiler (14 inversions), the reborn Nemesis, and the wooden coaster The Wicker Man, along with CBeebies Land for toddlers, a water park and themed hotels. Advance online booking brings significant discounts (around £35 to £60). The summer holidays are very busy, so arrive early. It is about 50 minutes' drive from Bakewell, and buses run from Derby and Stoke.
Opening hours
Mar–Nov, approx. 10:00–17:00 (extended hours in summer)
Nearby sights
- Ilam Park
- Thor's Cave
- Dovedale & Stepping Stones
- The Roaches
- Poole's Cavern
- Buxton Crescent & Spa Town
- Monsal Head & Monsal Trail
- Bakewell