Britain's best theme parks and where to stay nearby
Date published: 3 Mar 2026
Whether you’re hunting for the best theme park in Britain for adrenaline seekers or searching for theme parks for preschoolers, we’ve got you covered. We’ve done our rollercoaster research and rounded up what each of them has to offer. What’s more, we’ve also thrown in some property recommendations, so you know where to stay nearby.
Alton Towers, Staffordshire
If you’re debating the best theme park in Britain, Alton Towers is always going to enter the chat. Set within beautiful Staffordshire countryside, it combines white-knuckle thrill rides with family-friendly zones, and even landscaped gardens for a breather between coasters.
Big hitters like Nemesis Reborn and The Smiler draw thrill-seekers from across the UK, while CBeebies Land makes it one of the top theme parks for kids. That mix of heart-racing and wholesome fun is what keeps it firmly on lists of Britain’s best theme parks.
Where to stay near Alton Towers
The Old Parlour is less than five minutes’ drive from the theme park gates. This cosy cottage sleeps six over three bedrooms. Plus, there’s off-road parking for six cars, so it’s a great option for multi-family breaks. A hot tub’s on hand to ease tired legs after a day at the park. Or, you can keep the thrills going in the outdoor games room, complete with a dartboard and table football.
Thorpe Park, Surrey
When it comes to pure adrenaline, Thorpe Park is hard to beat. Home to some of the country’s most intense rides, it’s often crowned one of the best theme parks in England for teens and adults.
Hyperia, the UK’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster, has firmly put Thorpe Park on the map for adrenaline junkies. Add in water rides and themed nights, and it’s easy to see why it ranks among Britain’s best theme parks for older kids and brave adults.
Where to stay near Thorpe Park
Looking for places to stay near Thorpe Park? This 1-bed cottage in Chertsey is the perfect base for a thrill-seeking pair. The narrowboat is moored up at Penton Hook Marina, just three miles from the park’s thrilling rides. When you’re not riding rollercoasters, you can wander around nearby Windsor, or take a stroll along the River Thames to Chertsey’s shops and pubs.
Chessington World of Adventures, Greater London
If you’re travelling with younger children and want a bit of everything, Chessington World of Adventures is a brilliant choice. It combines theme park rides with a zoo and SEA LIFE centre, giving you far more than just rollercoasters.
It’s one of the top theme parks for kids, especially primary-school age children who want a little thrill without anything too extreme. The animal encounters add an educational twist, too.
Where to stay near Chessington
Stay in the Surrey or Berkshire area and you’ll be well placed for Chessington and other attractions. For a treat, why not book the River Haven, in Thames Ditton? The garden backs right onto the river, so paddleboarding and kayaking from your doorstep are a must. You’re close to Kingston upon Thames for riverside dining and great shopping. Plus, Hampton Court is just across the river, so you can mix history with high-adrenaline days out at Chessington.
Legoland® Windsor Resort, Berkshire
For families with small children, Legoland Windsor Resort consistently ranks among the best theme parks for preschoolers. Designed with younger visitors in mind, the rides are colourful, imaginative and fun.
Interactive play zones, shows and Lego-themed worlds make it especially magical for toddlers and early primary-school children.
Where to stay near Legoland
For flexibility and space for larger families, the Stylish 3 Bed Sunningdale Center provides a roomy stay with private parking and three bedrooms. It’ll only take you 10 minutes to reach the theme park, which is ideal with little ones in tow. Plus, you’re super close to Windsor Great Park and the surrounding countryside.
Paultons Park, Hampshire
Home to the hugely popular Peppa Pig World, Paultons Park is another contender for the best theme park for preschoolers, thanks to its gentle rides and thoughtful layout.
Older siblings aren’t left out either, with bigger coasters and attractions elsewhere in the park. That balance makes it one of the most versatile theme parks for kids in the south of England.
Where to stay near Paultons Park
The New Forest and surrounding Hampshire countryside offer some beautiful options. Five-bedroomed Sherpa makes a great choice for big families or groups, sleeping up to 10. It sits in the village of Wellow, right on the edge of the New Forest. Paultons Park is a 10-minute drive down the road, and day trips to the coast are easy. What’s more, it comes stocked with a potty, toys and children’s cutlery, so it’s well-suited for family-friendly stays.
Choosing the right theme park break
So, what really is the best theme park in Britain? It depends entirely on who you’re travelling with. Here are our recommendations for where to hit the rides…
- For serious thrills – Alton Towers and Thorpe Park lead the way
- For variety – Chessington is a strong contender, thanks to its zoo and aquarium
- For younger families – Legoland Windsor and Paultons Park shine
From high-speed coasters to magical lands designed especially for little ones, Britain’s best theme parks promise a great day out for everyone. Pair your park tickets with the perfect stay nearby – browse our full range of cottages today.
Meet the author
Annabel JacksonAnnabel loves exploring new parts of the UK with her family, including French bulldog, Albie. They’re regular visitors to North Wales and Norfolk, but have also made some paw-some memories in the Peak District, Cotswolds, Highlands and Cornwall.
