Drayton Manor Park

Long drive, absolutely worth planning, especially if you love a drop tower

[RATING] /10
๐Ÿ“LocationNear Tamworth, Staffordshire
๐ŸŽขRides40+ rides and attractions
๐Ÿ‘ถBest ageAll ages, Thomas Land perfect for under 7s, thrill rides for 10+
๐Ÿ’ทTickets fromApprox ยฃ33 per person online
๐Ÿ“…OpenMarch to November
๐Ÿš—Getting thereM42 junction 9, free parking on site

TobesVerse Review

Drayton Manor Park is a family theme park near Tamworth in Staffordshire, home to Thomas Land, the world's only Thomas the Tank Engine themed land, and a range of thrill rides including the UK's only stand-up roller coaster. Reopened under new ownership following a brief closure in 2021 with significant investment in new attractions and improved guest experience.

[Verdict goes here]

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Top Rides ๐ŸŽข

Shockwave

140cm Thrill ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ

The only stand-up roller coaster currently operating in the UK. Riders stand upright in individual restraints through multiple inversions at speed. Significantly different physical sensation to a seated coaster. Height: 140cm.

Apocalypse

130cm Thrill ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ

Gyro drop tower, 54 metres. Slow ascent to the top before controlled free fall at up to 55mph. The slow ascent is a deliberate feature. Height: 130cm.

Storm Force 10

90cm Thrill ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ

Water rapids ride with circular course and significant final drop. Guests will get very wet. Spectators on the viewing bridge alongside also frequently get soaked. Height: 90cm.

Accelerator

120cm Thrill ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ๐Ÿ”ฅ

Spinning coaster, good entry point for guests building towards larger coasters. Compact layout, spinning cars. Height: 120cm.

Thomas Land

No restriction / various Thrill ๐Ÿ”ฅ

11 rides themed around Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends including Day Out with Thomas, Harold's Helicopter Tours and Dustin's Dino Dig. Detailed theming throughout. Ideal for ages 2 to 8.

Plan Your Visit

Getting There

  • By car: Located on the A4091 near Tamworth, Staffordshire. M42 junction 9, approximately 5 minutes from junction. Free parking on site. Approximately 2 hours from London via M1 or M40 and M42. Approximately 30 minutes from Birmingham. Nearest train station Tamworth, short taxi to park.
  • By train or public transport: Nearest train station Tamworth, short taxi to park.
  • Parking: Free parking on site.

Tickets & Prices

Available online at draytonmanor.co.uk, significantly cheaper in advance. Prices vary by date. Zoo included at no additional cost. Family tickets and annual passes available.

Book Official Tickets โ†’

TobesVerse Tips โšก

Plan for the drive

Arrive as close to opening as possible.

Thomas Land is best in the morning

Queues for popular rides are shorter before midday.

Bring waterproofs

Storm Force 10 can get riders soaked.

Factor in the zoo

It is included and many visitors overlook it entirely.

Watch The Videos โ–ถ

Check out TobesVerse Drayton Manor Park videos and visit notes on the channel.

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FAQs

Is Drayton Manor worth visiting?

Yes, particularly for mixed age families. Thomas Land for younger children and proper thrill rides including the UK's only stand-up coaster make it a park that genuinely works when not everyone wants the same thing.

What is Thomas Land at Drayton Manor?

A fully themed area dedicated to Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends containing 11 rides, included in standard park admission. Consistently rated one of the best children's themed areas at any UK theme park.

What is the best ride at Drayton Manor?

For thrill seekers, Shockwave is the most unique experience as the only stand-up coaster in the UK. Apocalypse is the most intense single experience. For younger children, Thomas Land is the clear highlight.

How long does it take to drive to Drayton Manor from London?

Approximately 2 hours via the M1 or M40 and M42 in normal traffic. Near M42 junction 9 with free parking on site.

Is Drayton Manor good for young children?

Yes. Thomas Land is one of the best children's areas at any UK theme park and the included zoo adds further appeal for young families.

Does Drayton Manor have a zoo?

Yes. Drayton Manor Zoo is included in standard park admission and contains over 100 animals across multiple species within the theme park grounds.

What are the biggest rides at Drayton Manor?

Shockwave (stand-up coaster, 140cm), Apocalypse (drop tower, 130cm) and Storm Force 10 (water rapids, 90cm) are the major thrill attractions.

When is the best time to visit Drayton Manor?

Weekdays during school term time for shortest queues. Busiest during summer holidays and bank holiday weekends. Halloween events run in October.

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