How to Beat the Queues at UK Theme Parks

If you are planning a theme park trip in the near future,  make the most of these simple steps to be ahead of the queues this season!……

Be an Early Bird

 The quietest time at any theme park tends to be the first 60/90 minutes of the day.  The car parks and ticket booths often open significantly earlier than the theme park opening times.  Be ahead of the crowds and ready to go the moment the park opens for the day.

Book Online

 Book online tickets to theme park  such as Legoland Windsor, and sidestep the queues at the ticket kiosks by heading straight for the park entrance.

Know Your Pleasure

Download a map of the park before you visit and work out which rides are a MUST for you.  Start with the most popular rides as the queues for these tend to build throughout the day.

Find out what’s Running

As you arrive at the park, catch a member of staff to check if there are any rides that are not running on the day of your visit.  There is nothing more frustrating than spending valuable time heading for a ride that isn’t even open!

Parent Swap Passes

 Many parks, such as Thorpe Park and Chessington World of Adventures, offer Parent Swap Passes for those with young children.

This free option allows parent/carers with young children to access the main thrill rides without having to queue twice.  Passes are available from guest services on the day of your visit.

Fastrack Tickets

 Fastrack tickets are available at many UK theme parks and offer you a method to buy your way out of the queues.  Fastrack tickets are in addition to your entrance charges and can often be purchased either as a package or individually.

Non-Queue Attractions

 Many theme parks now offer a range of non-queue attractions such as playgrounds, soft play areas, shows and 4D cinema experiences. During busier times of the day, opt for a few non-queue attractions for some light relief.

Height Checking Service

Theme parks are notoriously strict on height requirements so don’t spend valuable time queuing for a ride with your fingers crossed!

If your child is close to minimum height restrictions, ask a member of staff if they offer a height checking service.  Once measured, if your child is over minimum height bands, he/she can then be given a wristband confirming this to avoid any possible altercations with ride attendants.

Use the Queue Checker

Many theme parks now have apps that give you approximate queue times, in real time, that can help you plan your day.

Alternatively, make use of the electronic boards dotted around many of the parks.

These simple steps can help you enjoy a day out at the theme park & stay ahead of the crowds.

Happy theme-parking!

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