Drayton Manor Theme Park and Hotel is situated near Tamworth in Staffordshire. One of Drayton Manor’s key attractions is, Europe’s only, Thomas Land™. This feature has seen it become a firm favorite for families. Thomas Land features 21 rides and attractions based on the ever-popular Thomas & Friends™ series. The rest of the park is also boasts an array of exciting rides for the little ones with many rides catered to young children such as a Ben10 rollercoaster.
So, we know the park is a great day out for kids in the West Midlands but what about for us adults? Does Drayton Manor have anything to offer couples and groups who don’t have children? Well, we went to find out.
As it was my fiancée’s birthday I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to experience the joys of Drayton Manor.
Thrill seekers will love the adrenaline-inducing drop-tower, Apocalypse. This was our first ride of the day and it certainly got the heart racing as the drop loomed and we plummeted 48metres in a matter of seconds. A great start to the day.
Shockwave, which was launched back in 1994, packs a punch and has the novelty of being the only stand up rollercoaster in Europe. This is also its downfall however as the bicycle like seat’s are both difficult to get into and extremely uncomfortable during the ride.
G Force was another highlight. Unlike its older sister, Shockwave, it uses special hip restraints instead of conventional shoulder restraints which makes the ride much more comfortable. Our only criticism with G Force is that it is all over a little too quickly, a few more seconds of enjoyment would make this ride.
Other highlights of the day included the gyro-swing Maelstrom and double gondola swing Pandemonium. Both of these rides however should be avoided if you are of a delicate disposition as the swinging motion is a stomach-churning event.
Even as adults the smaller rides can also be enjoyed. The nostalgia of a swinging pirate ship still has the ability to put a smile on your face. If you like roller coasters but not twisting and turning upside down, then enjoy the Ben 10 ride and the buffalo, both of which offer exhilaration.
Once we were finished with the excitement of the rides we headed over to Drayton Manor’s 15-acre zoo. Ever since our introduction to Meerkats in those much loved adverts we all have a fondness for the creatures. You won’t be disappointed at Meerkat Manor. These adorable little creatures are a joy to watch. The zoo is home to another 100 animals including endangered species.
So all in all we had a great day, full of exhilaration, nostalgia and fascination. It reminded us that adults can have fun too!
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