A little-known UK park has been voted as one of the best theme parks in the UK beating out Thorpe Park, Legoland and Chessington – despite having no rollercoasters
A little-known UK attraction has been named as one of the best UK theme parks by Brits – despite the fact that it doesn’t have any rollercoasters.
Stockeld Park may not have the high-thrill attractions you’d find at other theme parks, but it’s still beaten the likes of Chessington, Legoland and Thorpe Park in rankings on Tripadvisor, based on visitors’ reviews. In fact, it’s currently ranked as the second best UK theme park, with Alton Towers leading the charge.
Approximately 275,000 visitors head to the attraction every year, and it’s not difficult to see why; although there are no rollercoasters, there’s plenty of fun to be had for families. We’re talking zip lines, tunnels, an outdoor maze, and even PlayHive, one of Europe’s largest indoor play centres (think everything from dedicated toddler zones to giant slides!).
In fact, it’s one of plenty of themed playgrounds across the attractions, whether you’re braving a Spider’s Lair or having an adventure in Woodsands Cove. Other highlights include a lake where you can even have a go on ‘Buccaneer boats’, an Enchanted Forest with plenty of woodland adventures on offer for little ones, and the ‘The Flying Stocksman’, a little purple train that takes you on a 10-15 minute tour of the forest.
READ MORE: Beautiful UK beach ‘rivals Spanish coastline’ with white sands and clear waters
There are various spots where you can grab a bite to eat across the park, but the good news is that there are plenty of picnic spots if you’d rather bring your own food along, from outdoor seating to picnic benches. However be warned, no barbecues are allowed anywhere on the site.
The attraction has proven a hit with visitors, and its Tripadvisor reviews have seen it catapulted in rankings of the best UK’s theme parks to second place. “Lovely day. The grounds are stunning,” wrote one happy holidaymaker who visited in June. “The attention to detail is brilliant so much to do for the children. There’s so much to do make sure you take a full day to get around everything.”
Another added: “Great place for a family day out whatever the weather. Loads to do. My granddaughters absolutely loved it, plenty of climbing, sliding, swinging both indoor and outdoor. They also liked the go-karts and the inflatable boats. Great day out.”
READ MORE: Beautiful UK island boasts ‘unspoiled’ beaches with whales and dolphinsREAD MORE: Tourists on UK beaches warned of habit that could land them £1,000 fine
Meanwhile one parent praised the plethora of activities for different ages. They explained: “Such a great day out. So much for children to do. We had a 3, 4 and 9 year old with us and they all had so much fun. We didn’t visit the restaurant as we brought sandwiches so can’t comment on that, but all of the things we looked at and and played on were perfect. Everything was clean and well looked after as well. We will definitely be back!”
Want to check it out for yourself? Day tickets start from £13.50 per person. You can find out more and book online at stockeldpark.co.uk.
Have you got a staycation story that you want to share? Email us at [email protected].