Updated 26/07/2025
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Key Takeaways - THORPE PARK Resort
- Located in Chertsey, Surrey, THORPE PARK Resort is one of the UK’s premier theme parks for thrill-seekers
- Features a wide range of roller coasters and attractions, including record-breaking rides
- Hyperia is the UK’s tallest and fastest roller coaster, offering extreme airtime and speed
- Stealth delivers one of the fastest launches in Europe, reaching 80 mph in under two seconds
- The Swarm is the UK’s only wing coaster, known for near-miss elements and immersive theming
- Colossus was the first coaster in the world to feature ten inversions
- Nemesis Inferno offers a smooth inverted coaster experience themed around a volcanic eruption
- SAW – The Ride combines psychological horror with a beyond-vertical drop and intense inversions
- Additional attractions include water rides, dark rides, and themed zones for a variety of age groups
- Fastrack options, single-rider queues, and accessibility support are available to improve the guest experience
- Open seasonally from spring to autumn, with special events like Fright Nights and Oktoberfest
- A popular destination for adrenaline fans, families with teens, and roller coaster enthusiasts
Introduction
Nestled within the charming landscape of Chertsey in Surrey, England, THORPE PARK Resort is a vibrant oasis that promises adventure and exhilaration at every turn. Surrounded by lush greenery, sparkling lakes, and scenic countryside, this captivating amusement park blends the thrill of world-class roller coasters with tranquil natural beauty, offering visitors the perfect escape from everyday life. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping rides like Stealth and The Swarm, immersive family attractions, or simply a picturesque spot to unwind, THORPE PARK Resort stands out as an essential travel destination that warmly welcomes thrill-seekers, families, and leisure travellers alike. Let your journey begin in a place where excitement meets serenity, creating memories you'll treasure long after your visit ends.
THORPE PARK Resort Rides and Attractions
Hyperia
Hyperia, Thorpe Park Resort’s breath-taking new hypercoaster that redefined thrill-seeking across the UK when it opened on 24 May 2024 in Chertsey, Surrey

At a Glance: Records & Specs
- Height: A towering 236 ft (71.9 m), making it the UK’s tallest coaster.
- Speed: Reaches a blistering 80 mph (≈ 128 km/h), outrunning the previous record held by Stealth.
- Track Length: Approximately 995 m (3,266 ft), winding through unique ride elements.
- Inversions: Two, one barrel‑roll downdrop and a stalled dive‑loop, including a record outer‑banked airtime hill.
- Airtime: Offers up to 14.8 seconds of weightless hang-time, the most of any coaster in the UK.
The Ride Experience
Hyperia launches riders to dizzying heights via a chain lift hill before plummeting you into a twisted, 180° drop, an adrenaline surge complemented by high airtime hills and an innovative outer‑banked turn. You’ll brave soaring inversions and dive into a splashdown element, gliding over water (and often getting drenched) before returning to base. With lap-bar restraints and smooth trains, the ride emphasises fluid motion and weightless thrills.
Engineering & Design
Fabricated by Mack Rides, Hyperia is their first custom hypercoaster, built at a cost of around £18 million. The ride occupies the former Loggers Leap and Rocky Express site in the park’s Fearless Valley zone, and features two trains, each seating 20 riders (5 cars with 2 rows of 2 seats each). The design narrative follows the ride’s namesake: Hyperia, daughter of a river god who overcomes her fear of water, symbolically reflected in the coaster’s splash elements and airtime flight.
Accessibility & Queue Info
- Minimum Height: Just 1.3 m (130 cm), making it accessible to teenage riders.
- Queue Options: Standard queue, Fastrack, single‑rider line, and Ride Access Pass are available, plus rides often reopen earlier or later in the day for passholder perks like “Hyperia One Shot”.
Operational Notes
Shortly after opening, Hyperia experienced early mechanical teething issues, including a closure and an incident where riders were stranded on the lift hill. These hiccups have since been addressed, and the ride has resumed reliable operation throughout the 2024 season.
Why Hyperia Stands Out
- A record-breaking coaster, the tallest, fastest, and most weightless in the UK.
- Packed with unique elements like outer-banked airtime hills and dramatic inversions.
- Sensational design and theming fit for adrenaline junkies and coaster lovers alike.
- Accessible to taller teens and families due to its lower height restriction.
Visiting Tips
To avoid long queues, aim to ride Hyperia early in the day or consider purchasing Fastrack tickets. Want the front-row thrill? A potential front-row queue may be introduced soon, per recent insider sightings.
In short, Hyperia is more than just a coaster; it’s a mythic plunge, a technical marvel, and a thrilling experience that challenges fears and redefines coaster adventures at Thorpe Park Resort.
Stealth
Stealth, the iconic launch coaster at THORPE PARK Resort in Chertsey, Surrey, a pure, adrenaline‑charged experience that’s clean, exhilarating, and unforgettable.

Stealth at a Glance
- Launch & Speed: Propels riders from 0 to 80 mph (≈ 130 km/h) in just about 1.8 seconds, delivering what many park highlights call the world’s fastest coaster acceleration.
- Height: Ascends to a dramatic 62.5 m (205 ft) over a classic "top hat" structure that dominates the Amity Speedway skyline.
- G-Force & Duration: Hits a peak of 4.7 G in under 30 seconds, blending launch intensity and airtime moments into one swift, thrilling ride.
- Stats:
- Track length: ~400 m (1,312 ft)
- Vertical drop: 90°
- Seating capacity: 3 trains carrying 20 riders each (5 cars × 2 rows × 2 riders).
Ride Experience Highlights
- Atmospheric Launch: A pre-ride countdown echoes racing themes before a sudden, breath‑taking launch sequence, making riders feel thrust into motion like an F1 car leaving the grid.
- Top‑Hat Pull: The train topples over a vertical rise that opens into a panoramic apex; anxious weightlessness lingers as you crest the peak and dive.
- Second Airtime Hit: An additional airtime hill further whips you off your seat before magnetic brakes bring you smoothly in for arrival.
Design & Background
- Manufacturer: Crafted by Intamin, designed by Werner Stengel as an Accelerator Coaster.
- Theme & Setting: Situated in the nostalgic, 1950s-style Amity Speedway, reflecting America’s drag-racing heritage.
- History: Launched in March 2006 at a cost of roughly £12 million, it held the UK record for fastest and tallest launch coaster until Hyperia debuted in 2024, but still retains its reputation for unmatched launch vigour.
Practical Info
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Min Height | 140 cm |
| Max Height | 196 cm |
| Virtual Queue | Fastrack available |
| Accessible | Yes |
| Season | March–November |
The Swarm
The Swarm, a sleek and powerful wing coaster at THORPE PARK Resort in Chertsey, Surrey, where precision design and sharp theming deliver a clean, intense ride that thrills from start to finish.

The Swarm at a Glance
- Type: Steel Wing Coaster (second-ever globally, first in the UK) built by Bolliger & Mabillard.
- Opened: 15 March 2012 as part of Swarm Island.
- Height: 38.6 m (127 ft).
- Top Speed: Approx. 59 mph (95 km/h).
- Inversions: 5 dive drop, zero‑G roll, inclined loop, corkscrew, and inline twist.
- G‑Force: Up to 4.5 G during key elements.
- Train Capacity: Two trains, each with 7 rows of 4 seats (side-mounted) = 28 riders per train.
Ride Experience
- Begins with a chain lift hill ascending to 127 ft, followed by the world’s first dive drop—a unique inversion that tips you belly-down before plunging earthward.
- You’ll barrel through five high-intensity elements while cutting through themed wreckage: a tilted church, crashed plane wing, burning fire engine, and upturned helicopter blades—creating near‑miss moments that enhance immersion.
- The ride ends with a smooth inline twist and magnetic brake run—delivering a dynamic yet composed finish. Fans describe it as “very, very good” with “incredible elements packed into a compact layout”.
Theming & Atmosphere
Set in Swarm Island, the area is fully themed to resemble a site devastated by alien invasion. Highlights include a crashed aeroplane, semi-submerged fire engine, and damaged church, plus red LED-lit trains styled as alien drones flying through the chaos.
Accessibility & Practical Info
- Height restriction: 140 cm – 196 cm, with a maximum torso width of approx. 51 in (130 cm).
- Virtual Queue: Fastrack access available for wait reduction.
- Accessibility: Open to non‑ambulant guests with adequate safety briefing; transfer support and upper-body strength required.
Why The Swarm Stands Out
- A pioneering wing coaster delivering an unmatched feeling of flight, with nothing above or below your torso.
- Combines dramatic theming and high-speed precision in a tightly-packed layout.
- Its elements flow seamlessly, offering both thrill and comfort, with standout airtime and near-miss design.
- The ride’s atmosphere and visuals enhance the emotional impact, immersive and cinematic, without gore or extremes.
Quick Info Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Wing Coaster (B&M) |
| Opened | March 2012 |
| Height/Speed | 38.6 m (127 ft) / 59 mph |
| Inversions | 5 (incl. dive drop & zero‑G roll) |
| G‑Force | 4.5 G |
| Theme Area | Swarm Island |
| Height Limits | 140 cm – 196 cm; 51 in torso max |
| Queue Access | Fastrack & standard queues |
Colossus
Colossus is a high-intensity looping coaster at THORPE PARK Resort in Chertsey, Surrey. Known for being the world’s first roller coaster with ten inversions, it remains one of the UK’s most iconic thrill rides.

Colossus at a Glance
- Type: Steel multi-inversion coaster manufactured by Intamin
- Opened: 22 March 2002
- Height: 30 m (98 ft)
- Top Speed: Approx. 72 km/h (45 mph)
- Track Length: 850 m (2,789 ft)
- Inversions: 10, including a vertical loop, cobra roll, two corkscrews, and five consecutive heartline rolls
- G-Force: Up to 4.2 G
- Ride Duration: About 1 minute 32 seconds
- Train Layout: 2 trains with 7 cars each, 2 riders per row, seated in-line
Ride Experience
Colossus begins with a chain lift to its full height, followed by a steep drop into a vertical loop. Riders then whip through a cobra roll, a pair of corkscrews, and finish with five rapid heartline rolls, four in one direction and one in reverse. The tight inversions, fast transitions, and low-to-the-ground spins create a disorienting and forceful experience.
Theming & Atmosphere
Located in the Lost City section of the park, Colossus is themed as an ancient ruin overrun by twisting metal. The surrounding landscape includes crumbling statues, faux-stone structures, and water features, creating a jungle expedition vibe that complements the coaster's intense layout.
Accessibility & Practical Info
- Height restriction: 140 cm minimum, 196 cm maximum
- Queue access: Standard queue and Fastrack available
- Accessibility: Transfer required from wheelchair, upper body control necessary
- Virtual Queue: Not currently available
Why Colossus Stands Out
- The first coaster in the world to feature ten inversions
- Compact but intense, with a fast-paced layout and constant motion
- Delivers a unique sensation through its multiple heartline rolls
- Continues to attract thrill-seekers more than two decades after its debut
Colossus remains a defining part of THORPE PARK’s thrill lineup, offering a relentless and unforgettable looping experience. It’s a must-ride for fans of classic coaster engineering and inversion-heavy layouts.
Nemesis Inferno
Nemesis Inferno is a fiery inverted roller coaster at THORPE PARK Resort in Chertsey, Surrey. With a volcano-inspired theme and smooth, high-speed inversions, it’s one of the park’s most consistently praised thrill rides.

Nemesis Inferno at a Glance
- Type: Inverted steel coaster manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M)
- Opened: 5 April 2003
- Height: 29 m (95 ft)
- Top Speed: Approx. 80 km/h (50 mph)
- Track Length: 750 m (2,460 ft)
- Inversions: 4, vertical loop, zero-G roll, and two corkscrews
- G-Force: Up to 4.5 G
- Ride Duration: Around 1 minute 43 seconds
- Train Layout: 2 trains with 7 cars each, 1 row per car, 4 riders per row (28 riders per train)
Ride Experience
Nemesis Inferno starts inside a steaming volcanic tunnel before riders ascend the lift hill and drop into a twisting layout of high-speed inversions. The ride flows through a vertical loop, a zero-G roll, and a pair of smooth corkscrews with rapid transitions and strong G-forces. The inverted train design adds to the thrill by suspending riders below the track with their legs dangling.
Theming & Atmosphere
Set in the Calypso Quay area, Nemesis Inferno is themed around an erupting tropical volcano. The ride features mist-filled tunnels, lava rock textures, and jungle scenery that enhance the fiery backstory. The pre-lift tunnel adds a strong sense of anticipation, unique among UK coasters.
Accessibility & Practical Info
- Height restriction: 140 cm minimum, 196 cm maximum
- Queue access: Standard queue and Fastrack available
- Accessibility: Wheelchair access with assisted transfer required
- Virtual Queue: Not currently available
Why Nemesis Inferno Stands Out
- One of the UK’s smoothest inverted coasters, ideal for first-time thrill seekers
- Features a well-paced layout with strong forces and fluid transitions
- The volcanic theme adds atmosphere and sets it apart from standard thrill rides
- A fan favourite for its reliability, re-rideability, and visual appeal
Nemesis Inferno remains a staple of THORPE PARK’s ride lineup—thrilling without being overwhelming, and immersive without relying on gimmicks. It’s a must-ride for coaster enthusiasts and a standout example of B&M’s signature quality.
SAW – The Ride
SAW – The Ride is a dark, horror-themed roller coaster at THORPE PARK Resort in Chertsey, Surrey. Designed to immerse riders in the twisted world of the SAW film franchise, it combines intense thrills with cinematic theming and dramatic visual effects.

SAW – The Ride at a Glance
- Type: Steel Euro-Fighter coaster manufactured by Gerstlauer
- Opened: 13 March 2009
- Height: 30 m (100 ft)
- Top Speed: Approx. 88 km/h (55 mph)
- Track Length: 700 m (2,296 ft)
- Inversions: 3, including a dive loop, Immelmann, and heartline roll
- G-Force: Up to 4.7 G
- Ride Duration: Around 1 minute 40 seconds
- Train Layout: 8-passenger cars, 2 rows of 4 seats each
Ride Experience
SAW – The Ride begins indoors, where riders face sudden drops, sharp turns, and spinning blades in near-total darkness. The train then ascends a vertical lift hill before plunging down a terrifying, beyond-vertical 100° drop, the steepest of its kind when it opened. The outdoor section includes three forceful inversions, tight turns, and near-miss effects designed to disorient and thrill.
Theming & Atmosphere
Set within a rusted industrial complex styled after the traps and torture rooms from the SAW films, the ride is loaded with props, audio effects, and lighting to create a gritty, suspenseful environment. The queue winds past bloodied saws, flickering lights, and Jigsaw’s voice delivering warnings. The entire experience is designed to feel like a life-or-death challenge from the movies.
Accessibility & Practical Info
- Height restriction: 140 cm minimum, 196 cm maximum
- Queue access: Standard queue and Fastrack available
- Accessibility: Wheelchair users must transfer with assistance; upper body control required
- Virtual Queue: Not currently available
Why SAW – The Ride Stands Out
- Features a record-breaking drop with a highly visual vertical ascent
- Combines intense coaster elements with immersive horror theming
- Offers a unique indoor and outdoor ride layout, blending suspense with action
- A top pick for fans of thrill rides and psychological horror
SAW – The Ride is not just about speed and inversions—it’s an experience. With sharp design, eerie detail, and relentless pacing, it delivers a ride that’s as much psychological as it is physical. It remains one of THORPE PARK’s most memorable and distinctive attractions.
Water & Family Attractions
- Tidal Wave – One of Europe’s tallest water rides, plunging riders 85 ft into the splash zone below.
- Rumba Rapids – A classic river-raft journey through choppy rapids, a longtime favourite since 1987.
Immersive & Dark Experiences
- Ghost Train – A sophisticated dark ride featuring live actors, motion simulation, illusions, and a haunting storyline in a retro railway setting, reopened May 2023.
Additional Rides & Attractions
The park offers over 25 rides and attractions in total, ranging from adrenaline-pumping coasters to engaging family experiences and attractions for younger guests, all in a single day outing.
Quick Reference Table
| Ride / Attraction | Category | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Hyperia | Roller Coaster | UK’s tallest & fastest |
| Stealth | Roller Coaster | High-speed launch |
| The Swarm | Roller Coaster | Wing coaster with inversions |
| Colossus | Roller Coaster | Ten inversions, looping spectacle |
| Nemesis Inferno | Roller Coaster | Inverted layout, volcanic theme |
| SAW – The Ride | Roller Coaster | Horror theme, steep drop |
| Tidal Wave | Water Ride | 85 ft dramatic plunge |
| Rumba Rapids | Family Water Ride | Rapids rafting fun |
| Ghost Train | Dark Ride | Immersive, multi-sensory adventure |

THORPE PARK Resort Events
THORPE PARK hosts a variety of exciting events throughout the year, adding to the thrill and fun.
- Mardi Gras: Enjoy funky beats, vibrant celebrations, world-class rides, authentic street food, and beads galore. Mardi Gras at THORPE PARK delivers Louisiana vibes and is a must-attend event in the spring.
- Fright Nights: Prepare for spine-chilling scares as FRIGHT NIGHTS return every October. This award-winning Halloween event features the most terrifying attractions, ensuring you’ll be sleeping with the lights on.
- Oktoberfest: Celebrate Bavarian culture with Oktoberfest at THORPE PARK. Enjoy Bavarian beats, German treats, and classic German food while experiencing the park’s thrilling rides.
With these exciting live events, there’s always something new and thrilling to look forward to at THORPE PARK.
The UK’s Wettest Theme Park
THORPE PARK is also home to some of the UK's most exhilarating water rides.
- Tidal Wave: Brave the 85ft drop on this super-soaking water ride.
- Storm Surge: Spin and get soaked on this sky-high water ride.
- Rumba Rapids: Navigate the ferocious rapids and play splash roulette on the UK’s wettest ride.

For Young Thrillseekers
THORPE PARK has plenty of attractions for younger visitors, ensuring everyone has a fantastic day.
- Flying Fish: This junior coaster offers young theme park fans an exciting ride.
- Zodiac: Little ones will love the pure exhilaration of this gravity-defying ride.
- Quantum: Enjoy a magical carpet flight through your wildest imagination on Quantum.
Plan Your Visit
Book your tickets now for an unforgettable adventure at THORPE PARK. Experience the ultimate thrills, spills, and fun that will make your visit truly memorable. Don’t miss out on the UK's most thrilling theme park rides, live events, and water attractions.
Location and How to Get There:
THORPE PARK Resort is located in Chertsey, Surrey, KT16 8PN, England.
By Car:
- From London: M25 motorway, exit at Junction 12
- From the South: M3 motorway, then A320
- Parking is available on-site (charges may apply)
By Public Transport:
- Train: Staines is the nearest station (about 3 miles away)
- Bus: 950 shuttle service runs between Staines station and the park during peak season
- Some packages include a free shuttle bus from Staines station
Opening Times:
- Generally open from March to early November
- Typical hours: 10 am to 5 pm or 6 pm (extended during peak season)
- Closed during winter months except for special events
- Always check the official website for current opening times, as they vary seasonally
Map
Admission:
- Tickets are available online (often at a discount) or at the gate
- Various ticket types, including day passes, short breaks, and annual passes
- Fast Track passes available for popular rides
Special Events:
- Fright Nights during Halloween season
- Ministry of Sound club nights
- Christmas events
Accommodation:
- THORPE SHARK Hotel on-site
- Nearby hotels with package deals available
Accessibility:
- Accessible parking available
- Many rides have accessibility options
- Ride Access Pass available for guests who have difficulty queuing
Facilities:
- Multiple restaurants and food outlets
- Gift shops
- Lockers
- First aid centre
- Baby changing facilities
Important Notes:
- Height restrictions apply on many rides
- Allow a full day for your visit
- Some rides may close in adverse weather conditions
- Bringing your own food and drinks is generally allowed, but check current policies
Tips:
- Visit on weekdays or off-peak times for shorter queues
- Consider Fast Track passes for popular rides
Conclusion
THORPE PARK Resort stands as a leading destination for thrill-seekers in the UK, offering a dynamic mix of record-breaking roller coasters, immersive theming, and high-adrenaline attractions. From the sheer speed of Stealth and Hyperia to the cinematic intensity of SAW – The Ride and the twisting inversions of Colossus, the park delivers unforgettable experiences for every kind of coaster enthusiast. With seasonal events, a scenic setting in Surrey, and rides designed to push limits, THORPE PARK is more than a theme park; it’s a full-day adventure packed with excitement, energy, and memories that last long after the gates close.
FAQs
Where is Thorpe Park located?
Thorpe Park is located in Chertsey, Surrey, England, approximately 20 miles southwest of Central London.
How can I get to Thorpe Park?
You can reach Thorpe Park by car via the M25 motorway or by public transport, including trains to Staines railway station, followed by a short bus ride or taxi to the park.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
While you can buy tickets at the entrance, it is highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance for better rates and to guarantee entry, especially during peak times.
Are there any age or height restrictions for rides?
Yes, most rides have specific height and sometimes age restrictions for safety reasons. Check the Thorpe Park website for details on individual rides.
Does Thorpe Park offer Fast Track passes?
Yes, Fast Track passes are available for purchase to reduce waiting times for popular rides. Different tiers of Fast Track options are offered, so you can choose based on your preferences.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Guests are generally not allowed to bring large quantities of food and drinks into the park, except for essential items like baby food or dietary needs. There are various restaurants and food outlets within the park.
Is Thorpe Park suitable for young children?
While Thorpe Park is known for its thrill rides, there are some attractions and areas suitable for younger children. However, it may be more appealing for older kids and teens due to its focus on high-intensity rides.
Are there facilities for people with disabilities?
Yes, Thorpe Park provides accessible facilities and ride access passes for guests with disabilities. Check their accessibility guide for more detailed information.

