Theme parks are a favorite pastime, but crowded parks can be a turn-off. Thankfully, the UK has over 500 amusement parks to choose from. Some lesser-known parks offer unique experiences for visitors. One such park is Diggerland, known as the “ultimate adventure theme park,” where guests can drive real JCBs and diggers. The park features rides such as the Skyshuttle and Spindizzy, as well as a carousel made from an adapted JCB 8060. With indoor soft play areas and four locations across the UK, Diggerland offers affordable prices and minimal queues, making it a top choice for families.
Wicksteed Park in Northamptonshire is another lesser-known theme park that offers a unique experience. After reopening in 2020, the park is free to enter, with guests paying to go on one of the 25 rides across three zones – Adventure, Thrill and Splash. From a water chute ride to a rollercoaster, Wicksteed Park has something for everyone. Visitors can also enjoy other attractions such as crazy golf, farmyard encounters, and camping facilities. With a mix of old favorites and new attractions, Wicksteed Park is a Midlands must-do that appeals to visitors of all ages.
Blackgang Chine on the Isle of Wight holds the title of the UK’s oldest theme park, having been open for 181 years. Nicknamed the Land of Imagination, the park features themed lands like Cowboy Town, Fairyland, and Underwater Kingdom. The park’s newest ride, Extinction, offers cliff-edge views, while a beach and pirate-themed ride add to the excitement. Blackgang Chine aims to create intergenerational memories, with parents and grandparents revisiting the park to share their fond childhood experiences with the younger generation.
Milky Way Adventure Park in Devon may be one of the best-kept secrets in the theme park world, having been named the fifth-best theme park in the world by TripAdvisor. With a history as a dairy farm, the park offers a range of attractions such as mini golf, rollercoasters, ninja courses, dodgems, and live shows. Visitors appreciate the park’s variety of activities and indoor attractions, making it a popular choice for families. Milky Way Adventure Park’s positive reviews on TripAdvisor highlight its uniqueness and the abundance of things to do while visiting.
Playland Fun Park in Worcestershire stands out as the cheapest theme park in the UK, with free entry and rides starting at just 20p. While the park may not have rollercoasters, it offers a range of attractions for both kids and adults, including go-karts, safari trains, bumper boats, trampolines, and more. Visitors have praised Playland Fun Park for its affordability and the variety of local attractions available in Stourport. With a mix of smaller rides and activities, the park provides a budget-friendly option for families looking for a fun day out.
Overall, these lesser-known theme parks offer unique experiences for visitors looking to avoid the crowds at more popular attractions. From driving real diggers at Diggerland to exploring themed lands at Blackgang Chine, these parks cater to a wide range of interests and ages. With affordable prices, minimal queues, and a variety of rides and attractions, these hidden gems showcase the diversity of theme parks across the UK. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a fan of family-friendly fun, these lesser-known parks offer something for everyone to enjoy.
