9 Best Theme Parks in London for an Unforgettable Adventure

Thinking about a trip to London? You are in for more than just history and iconic landmarks! The city is the ultimate gateway to some of the best theme parks in the UK, promises more than just an exploration. Just a short trip away, these spots are where you can enjoy thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, and unforgettable experiences. From adrenaline-pumping rides at Thorpe Park and the imaginative LEGO world at Legoland Windsor to a mix of wildlife and fun at Chessington World of Adventures, the theme parks in London have something for everyone. Easily accessible from the main city, these locations make for fantastic day trips. So, ready to add a little adventure to your London itinerary? Read on…

Top Theme Parks to Visit in London for Family Fun

London offers an exciting array of theme parks that promise fun and adventure for all ages. From thrilling rides to immersive experiences, these parks provide the perfect day out for families, friends, and thrill-seekers alike. The best time to visit is during the spring and early autumn months when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. Avoid peak summer holidays for shorter wait times and a more enjoyable experience at London’s top theme parks.

If you are still wondering which spots to add to your itinerary, given below is the list of the top theme parks in London that cater to every visitor, including kids:

1. Thorpe Park Resort

Located in Chertsey, Thorpe Park Resort is one of the top theme parks in London. Established in 1979, it was formerly known as Thorpe Park Resort. The park features over 30 high-speed roller coasters, water rides, and themed attractions. The main highlights of the park are Stealth (one of the fastest coasters in Europe), The Swarm and the horror-themed SAW ride. Families can enjoy gentler rides and live entertainment, while thrill-seekers will find plenty of adrenaline-filled experiences. The park also offers food outlets, souvenir shops, and themed areas to explore, making it a great day out for all ages.

Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (All Days)

Entry Fee: £40–£60 (on the day) per person

How to Reach Thorpe Park: Enjoy a train from Waterloo in London to Staines (35 minutes) and then a 950 shuttle bus (10 to 15 minutes). Alternatively, drive or take a taxi via the M25, approx. 50 to 60 minutes.

Insider Tips for Visiting Thorpe Park:

• Arrive early to beat the queues for top rides
• Use the Thorpe Park app for live wait times
• Bring a waterproof poncho for water rides
• Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds

Nearby Hotels:

• Great Fosters, an SLH Hotel
• Fairmont Windsor Park
• Coworth Park
• Sofitel London Heathrow
• Oatlands Park Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

• Pianillo Italian Restaurant & Bar
• The Bridge
• Thyme Tavern Bar and Restaurant
• Piccolino (Heddon Street, Mayfair)
• The Coach & Horses, Chertsey

2. Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Just southwest of London in Surrey, Chessington World of Adventures Resort blends a lively theme park, zoo, and SEA LIFE aquarium across 128 acres. This theme park features rides like the Jumanji‑themed Mandrill Mayhem, the spinning coaster Dragon’s Fury, the classic suspended Vampire coaster, and family attractions such as Gruffalo River Ride Adventure. With over 1,000 animals, including gorillas, penguins, rhinos, and sea lions, it is one of the most incredible places to visit in London for visitors of all ages.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (All Days)

Entry Fee: £29–£32/per

How to Reach Chessington World of Adventures: From Waterloo (London), take a train to Chessington South (35 minutes) and then walk for 10 minutes. By car or taxi via A3, it takes about 45 to 60 minutes to get to the park.

Insider Tips for Visiting Chessington World of Adventures:

• Head to Vampire and Dragon's Fury early to avoid long queues
• Use the Reserve & Ride system to skip lines on popular attractions
• Visit ZUFARI: Ride into Africa! during feeding times for more animal activity
• Pack water and snacks, as food points near the park get very crowded

Nearby Hotels:

• Beaverbrook
• Hotel Rafayel
• April House Weybridge Boutique Guesthouse
• Hurlingham Bed & Breakfast
• Premier Inn London Tolworth Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

• Temple Restaurant & Bar
• The Shy Horse
• The Chessington Oak
• Saffron Summer
• Vampire’s Burger Kitchen

Suggested Read: Top Things to do In London: Gratify Your Heart in ‘The City of Dreams’

3. Legoland Windsor Resort

If you are visiting with kids, Legoland Windsor Resort in Berkshire is arguably one of the best theme parks near London that you must consider. The park is filled with impressive Lego models, gentle rides, and interactive building zones suitable for younger children aged 3 to 12 years. Major highlights of the park include The Dragon coaster, the Lego City Driving School, and Miniland, where famous landmarks are recreated with millions of Lego bricks. The park’s focus on creativity and play, combined with its colorful and friendly atmosphere, makes it a magical day out.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (All Days)

Entry Fee: £34 – £68

How to Reach Legoland Windsor Resort: It takes about 1.5 hours to reach Windsor from Paddington by train and further use 600 to reach the park. By car or taxi via M4, it is a 45–60 minutes’ journey from London city.

Insider Tips for Visiting Legoland Windsor Resort:

• Download the app to check live queue times
• Use the Reserve & Ride system to save time on popular attractions
• Visit Miniland in the afternoon when it’s less crowded
• Bring swimwear for the Drench Towers and Splash Safari water play areas

Nearby Hotels:

• Monkey Island Estate
• Great Fosters, an SLH Hotel
• Stoke Park
• Fairmont Windsor Park
• Cavendish House

Nearby Restaurants:

• The Hungry Troll
• GOGOS Waterfront Restaurant
• The Loch & The Tyne by Adam Handling Old Windsor
• The Greene Oak
• Harvester Windsor Lad Windsor

4. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

While not a traditional theme park, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is a must-visit for fans of the wizarding world. Located in Leavesden, near Watford, it offers an immersive journey into the sets, props, and costumes from the Harry Potter films. Walk through the Great Hall, explore Diagon Alley, and see the Hogwarts Express. The level of detail and behind-the-scenes magic is astounding. It’s an enchanting experience for all ages, offering a unique look at the filmmaking process.

Opening Hours: 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM (All Days)

Entry Fee: £53.50 to £43

How to Reach Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: Take a train from Euston to Watford Junction (20 minutes), then a shuttle bus (15 minutes). By car or taxi via M1, it takes about 40 to 50 minutes.

Insider Tips for Visiting Warner Bros. Studio Tour London:

• Book tickets well in advance, as slots for The Making of Harry Potter sell out quickly
• Arrive early to spend more time at key sets like The Great Hall and Diagon Alley
• Use the digital guide for behind-the-scenes insights on sets
• Try the Butterbeer at the Backlot Café

Nearby Hotels:

• Leonardo Hotel London Watford
• The Grove
• The Fox & Goose Hotel
• Sopwell House
• The Samuel Ryder Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Nearby Restaurants:

• The Glasshouse
• Opuz Kitchen & Bar Watford
• Madhu’s at The Grove
• Nana's Restaurant & Lounge
• Skewd At The Grove

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5. Shrek’s Adventure, London

Located on the South Bank, Shrek’s Adventure is a wonderfully immersive and interactive walk-through attraction. Join Donkey on a magical 4D bus ride and journey through 10 live fairytale-themed shows. You’ll meet characters like Cinderella, Puss in Boots, and, of course, Shrek himself. It’s perfect for families and younger children, blending live actors with captivating storytelling and special effects. The experience is right next to other major attractions like the London Eye, making it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (All Days)

Entry Fee: £24 – £32

How to Reach Shrek’s Adventure: You can easily reach the park on foot or via taxi or bus. From London Bridge, it's a 10-minute taxi or 15-minute bus ride via routes 381 or RV1.

Insider Tips for Visiting Shrek’s Adventure:

• Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early, as shows like Magic Mirror Maze start promptly
• Photos are taken at the start,but can be viewed and purchased after Far Far Away Adventure
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions like The London Eye for ticket discounts
• Book timed-entry tickets online to avoid long queues

Nearby Hotels:

• London Marriott Hotel County Hall
• The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London
• Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars
• Conrad London St. James
• Bankside Hotel, Autograph Collection

Nearby Restaurants:

• La Gamba - Spanish Tapas Bar & Restaurant London, UK
• Comptoir Libanais
• Flat Iron Southbank
• Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
• Honest Burgers South Bank

6. The London Dungeon

The London Dungeon is an interactive attraction that takes you through the darker side of the city’s history. Located on the South Bank, it combines live actors, themed sets, and special effects to recreate events from London’s past. You can get to know stories about the Great Fire of London, the plague, and infamous figures like Jack the Ripper and Sweeney Todd. The experience also includes an optional drop ride for an added thrill.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (All Days)

Entry Fee: £29.50 – £39

How to Reach The London Dungeon: Walk 10 minutes, or take a taxi or bus (routes 381, RV1) from London Bridge. From central London, expect a 15–20 minute journey by taxi or public transport.

Insider Tips for Visiting The London Dungeon:

• Arrive early or late in the day to avoid peak crowds, especially for The Drop Dead: Drop Ride
• Not ideal for young children below 5 years, especially The Plague Street and Sweeney Todd
• Use the London Dungeon app or website to get real-time updates and offers
• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of standing and walking to do

Nearby Hotels:

• The Savoy
• Raffles London at The OWO
• Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars
• Corinthia London
• The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London

Nearby Restaurants:

• Comptoir Libanais
• La Cucina Di Mamma
• Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
• Flat Iron Southbank
• La Gamba - Spanish Tapas Bar & Restaurant London, UK

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7. Go Ape Battersea Park

Go Ape Battersea Park is an outdoor adventure course set among the trees in one of London’s popular parks. It offers rope bridges, high platforms, and exciting zip wires with views over the park. The main Treetop Challenge is designed for adults and older children who want a bigger thrill, while the Treetop Adventure and Treetop Adventure Plus are perfect for younger participants. Before starting, all visitors get a safety briefing and equipment. The activity is a fun way to enjoy the outdoors, challenge yourself, and see the park from a different height. Most visits last around two to three hours.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (All Days)

Entry Fee: £20 – £35

How to Reach Go Ape Battersea Park: The park is about 5 km from Central London. Take a train to Battersea Park Station (10 minutes), then walk 5 minutes. Alternatively, take a taxi or bus via Battersea Park Road, totaling around 20 to 30 minutes.

Insider Tips for Visiting Go Ape Battersea Park:

• Advance bookings are required for the popular Treetop Challenge course
• Wear gloves and closed-toe shoes for better grip and comfort on the Zip Wires and Rope Crossings
• The Treetop Adventure Plus is ideal for older kids seeking thrill without full challenge
• Arrive early to explore all the attractions at the park

Nearby Hotels:

• The Chelsea Harbour Hotel & Spa
• Hotel Rafayel
• 100 Queen's Gate Hotel London Kensington, Curio Collection by Hilton
• The Kensington Hotel
• The Bentley Hotel London

Nearby Restaurants:

• Megan's Battersea Power Station
• The Farmers Mistress
• Angoletto Trattoria Italiana
• Dishoom Battersea
• Wright Brothers Battersea Power Station

8. Diggerland Kent

Diggerland Kent is a unique theme park in Kent where kids and adults can drive, ride, and operate real diggers, dumper trucks, and other construction machines. It’s an ideal place for families, offering activities like excavator rides, mini dumper fun, and pedal karts. Most rides come with an instructor, so even children aged 3 and above can try out safe, hands-on experiences. The park also includes soft‑play areas, play zones, and small rides for younger children. A visit usually takes around 2–3 hours, making it perfect for a short yet memorable family outing.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (All Days)

Entry Fee: £25.95 – £32

How to Reach Diggerland Kent: Take a train from St. Pancras to Ashford International (approximately 40 minutes), then a taxi or bus (20 minutes) via A2070. Total travel time is around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Insider Tips for Visiting Diggerland Kent:

• Kids can operate real diggers at Mini Diggers and Dig-A-Round
• Height restrictions apply for rides like Skyshuttle, so check before booking
• Bring snacks or buy food from the Dig Inn café
• Purchase tickets online in advance for discounts and to guarantee entry

Nearby Hotels:

• Holiday Inn Rochester - Chatham by IHG
• Premier Inn Rochester Hotel
• The Inn on the Lake - Hotel & Events Venue in Kent
• Travelodge Chatham Maritime
• Bridgewood Manor Hotel & Spa

Nearby Restaurants:

• Turkuaz Rochester
• Fish at 55
• The Cheese Room Botanicals
• The White Horse
• Brettington's Steak and Lobster House

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9. KidZania London

Situated within the Westfield London shopping center, KidZania is an indoor city run by kids. Here, children aged 4 to 14 can try out more than 60 real-life professions, from being a pilot in a flight simulator to performing surgery in a mock hospital. They earn "kidZos" (the local currency) for their work, which they can spend on activities or save in the bank. It's a fantastic educational and entertaining experience that builds confidence and teaches valuable skills in a fun, safe environment.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (All Days)

Entry Fee: £20 – £39.50

How to Reach KidZania London: Take the Jubilee Line to West Ham Station (15 minutes), then walk for 5 minutes to reach the park. Alternatively, use a taxi or bus via Prince Regent Road to get there in around 20 to 30 minutes.

Insider Tips for Visiting KidZania London:

• Try the KidZania Café for kid-friendly options
• Enjoy accessibility to the Parent Lounge while kids explore attractions at the theme park
• Don’t miss indulging in activities like Firefighter Academy and Hospital Roleplay
• Consider online bookings in advance to secure preferred time slots and avoid queues

Nearby Hotels:

• Hilton London Kensington
• Park Avenue Bayswater Inn Hyde Park
• The Premier Notting Hill
• Premier Inn London Wembley Stadium Hotel
• Premier Inn London Tolworth Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

• Copper Chimney
• Bill's Westfield White City Restaurant
• Flat Iron Westfield London
• Osteria Napoletana
• Nando's Westfield London

Other Information to Know about London in the UK

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to London, UK

• Purchase an Oyster Card or use a contactless card for affordable and easy commute
• Book major attractions and London theme park tickets online in advance to save money and skip long queues
• Bring layers and a waterproof jacket, as the weather in London is highly unpredictable
• Stay connected with a local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device to use navigation apps and stay in touch
• Visit free-entry museums and galleries like the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate ModernWear comfortable shoes for exploring the city comfortably

Top 10 Things to Do in London, UK

1. Visit the Tower of London to see the Crown Jewels.
2. Ride the London Eye for panoramic views of the city
3. Explore the historic halls of the British Museum
4. Witness the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Buckingham Palace
5. Go on an evening cruise on the River Thames
6. Shop at Covent Garden and watch the street performers
7. Watch a world-class theatre show in the West End
8. Stroll through the Hyde Park, one of the largest Royal Parks in London
9. Discover the vibrant food scene at Borough Market
10. Explore the historic maritime area of Greenwich

How to Reach London, UK

London is well-connected to the rest of the world via six major airports: Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN), Luton (LTN), London City (LCY), and Southend (SEN). Heathrow and Gatwick are the largest, with excellent express train services to Central London. The Eurostar train connects London to major European cities like Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam via the Channel Tunnel, arriving at St. Pancras International Station. National rail services and coach networks connect London to all major cities across the United Kingdom.

London is not just about historic sights and iconic landmarks but also a gateway to exciting theme park adventures. From the creative worlds of Legoland Windsor to the high-speed thrills at Thorpe Park and the unique mix of rides and wildlife at Chessington, each location promises an adventure‑packed holiday for every age. Plan your visit to the theme parks in London and enjoy a getaway filled with excitement, variety, and lasting memories. Book one of our London tour packages today and start packing your bags for a fun-filled vacation in the heart of the UK!

FAQ’s - Theme Parks in London