Chessington World of Adventures is a unique theme park and zoo, appealing to thrill-seekers and animal lovers alike. Situated just outside of London, this attraction promises a full day of family-friendly fun with over 40 rides and attractions split across different themed areas.
Interestingly, Chessington began life much earlier than many might expect. The site was originally opened as a zoo in 1931, and it quickly became one of the UK's leading zoological attractions. The theme park followed much later, debuting in 1987 and transforming the site into a multi-faceted destination.
One of the most iconic attractions is the Vampire rollercoaster, a swinging rollercoaster that has been thrilling visitors since 1990. Its gothic theme is complemented by a swooping journey around the park, offering a bird's-eye view of the surrounding area.
Chessington is home to over 1,000 animals from across the globe. Notably, it houses the only zoo in the UK with Madagascans hissing cockroaches that you can handle, a rare treat for any creepy-crawly enthusiast!
The theme park is also renowned for its unique blend of themed world experiences. From the Wild Asia area to the Mystic East, there's a journey for everyone to embark on, making it seem as though you've wandered into different parts of the world without leaving the park.
A fun fact for movie buffs: the vampire-themed ride holds a cinematic connection. It was designed by the legendary coaster designers Arrow Dynamics, known for designing rides in prominent theme parks like Disneyland.
Chessington offers more than just fun rides; it provides educational experiences too. The park regularly hosts 'Zoo Days' where guests can learn about conservation efforts and how they can help protect wildlife.
For those with an appetite for the unusual, Chessington occasionally offers immersive sleepover experiences among the animals, allowing guests to wake up to the sounds of the savannah or jungle, a detail that truly differentiates it from other theme parks.
Making the Most of Your Visit:
Arrive early to make the most of the quieter hours. It gets busier as the day goes on, especially in the summer or during school holidays. This is the best time to hop on popular rides like Vampire or Dragon's Fury.
Don't skip the Sea Life Centre. It's tucked away a bit, so you might miss it if you're rushing to other attractions. It's perfect for a breather and the kids love watching the sea creatures.
Check the schedule for live shows. The penguin feed and sea lion presentations are a big hit. These events get quite crowded, so plan to arrive a little early if you want a good view.
Bring a change of clothes if you plan on visiting the water attractions, like River Rafts. There's nothing worse than walking around in squelchy shoes, and the splash from Tiger Rock can be surprising!
Take advantage of the park's parent swap policy. If you're visiting with little ones, this allows one parent to ride while the other waits with the kids, and then swap without having to queue again. It's a lifesaver for the family on popular rides!
Visiting Times & Costs:
Chessington World of Adventures is open to the public from March to November. Opening times can vary, so it is advisable to check ahead for specific dates and times.
The standard ticket prices vary based on age and any ongoing promotions, but generally, they start from around £36 for children and £42 for adults if booked in advance online. On-the-door ticket prices may be higher.
The theme park and zoo are both inclusive, offering facilities for guests with disabilities. The park provides accessible routes, disabled parking, and the option to hire wheelchairs. Additionally, they offer a Ride Access Pass for eligible guests to reduce waiting times. It is recommended to contact them ahead for detailed accessibility options.
Entry to the Sea Life Centre and zoo is included with the park ticket, but some experiences within the park may incur additional charges.
Address & Map:
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