10 Best Theme Parks in London

Chessington World of Adventures is a sprawling complex which includes 2 hotels, a huge theme park and a zoo. The theme park is a great choice for a family day out, with over 40 rides which are suitable for all ages. It’s divided into several themed areas. You can enjoy nautical-themed activities in the Shipwreck Coast zone and if you love Ancient Egypt and hieroglyphics, then the Forbidden Kingdom area is for you.

It’s a good idea to download the Chessington World of Adventures app before visiting as it gives you a great map of the park and up-to-date queue times for the rides. You can get lots of special offers through the app too.

Thorpe Park lies just 20 miles southwest of London. You’ll find around 30 amazing rides in this vast park, including classics such as spinning teacups and water-themed rollercoasters. But the park is known for its adrenalin-packed rides such as those which spin you 60 ft above the ground with forces of up to 5G. If you’re feeling brave, you can also try the swings which reach up to 75 ft at speeds of up to 50 mph.

The rides at Thorpe Park aren’t for the faint-hearted and the extreme rollercoasters make it more suitable for older children and adults. There are a few activities for younger children, however, including a playground area and a 4-D cinema experience.

London Dungeon is the place to visit for all things spooky and scary. This popular attraction takes you far back to the dark days of London’s past. With the help of amazing actors, fantastic special effects and interactive shows, you’ll relive chilling tales of Jack the Ripper, the Plague, the Great Fire of London and other spine-tingling events.

There are lots of different shows here, plus 2 thrilling underground rides and frequent special events, including a Hallowe’en show. It’s a fantastic experience right in the centre of London, mostly suitable for adults and older children. You’ll be entranced by the storytelling. You’ll laugh and you’ll scream. Then, you’ll want to come back for more.

Legoland Windsor is located in the charming town of Windsor, west of London and just 12 miles from Heathrow Airport. It’s a huge park full of rides, live shows and amazing displays made from Lego bricks. Kids will love flying in the cute dragon, discovering an underwater city and searching for pirate treasure. Not to mention Miniland, where you’ll see model buildings from around the world.

Legoland is ideal for youngsters between 3 and 12 years old. A great bonus is its Total Sensory Space, designed for those who may get overwhelmed with the excitement of this fantastic theme park. This quiet and calming area provides vibrating bean bags and soft lighting to soothe younger children.

The Warner Bros Studio London Tour is an unforgettable experience containing actual film sets used in the Harry Potter films. Do you know your Muggles from your Quidditch? If so, and you’re a fan of this legendary character and the extraordinary books and films, then this is a great choice for a day out in London.

You’ll learn the secrets behind the flying broomsticks, discover how the magical creatures were brought to life on screen and see the costumes worn in the films. There are also regular events and temporary exhibitions showcasing different areas, such as The Great Hall and Professor Sprout’s greenhouse. The themed shops are also very popular and great for original souvenirs that you won’t find elsewhere.

KidZania London is a fun and educational experience for young children. Located in the Shepherd’s Bush area of central London, this colourful building is separated into several zones corresponding to different occupations. This is popular with parents who want their children to learn people skills, as well as the value of money, in a fun and entertaining environment.

Realistic role-playing activities are the key to KidZania’s success. Children can choose from many professions, including newspaper reporter, firefighter, florist or pilot, and they’ll love dressing up for the part. A great extra is that they’ll also be paid for their work, in the KidZo currency, and can spend this money in the KidZania shop.

Babylon Park London is a galactic adventure for all the family. This modern amusement park has a space theme and is based on having futuristic fun in an eco-responsible way. There are lots of activities for younger children, including rides, bumper cars and a small rollercoaster which weaves its way through the building. Older kids and adults will love the arcade machines and games too.

This is a fantastic choice for a rainy day in London as everything is indoors. Please note that it’s a cashless building though, and you’ll need to buy Babylon coins for the games, rides and restaurant. Plan on buying online or through the app before your visit to take advantage of special offers.

Go Ape Battersea is ideal for those who love the outdoors, great scenery and heights. It lies in Battersea Park, in southwest London. Go Ape is an exhilarating rope course amongst the treetops, giving you spectacular views over the park and the surrounding area. You can choose from challenging rope courses at different heights, as well as ziplining trails.

This is a fantastic option if you want to be outdoors in nature. Within the park, there are also walking trails, a mini golf course and eateries, so you can easily spend a day here. Don’t forget to wear sturdy shoes or trainers with a good grip as the rope courses can be slippery after rain. Gloves are recommended too.

Shrek’s Adventure London is in the city centre, on the banks of the River Thames, and it’s a great experience for children of all ages. Fantastic actors play characters from the Shrek films, and you can expect lots of laughter and interaction as enjoy the show. You’ll get to sing on a 4D flying magic bus, use your skills to find your way out of a puzzling mirror maze and cook up a potion in the enchanting bakery.

The highlight is meeting Shrek and having a photo taken with the ogre himself. This is a popular site, so be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid queues. You’ll also get a good discount if you reserve online.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a lovely way to get in the festive spirit. For 6 weeks a year, London’s iconic Hyde Park becomes a fairyland of winter games. You’ll love the thrilling fairground rides to get your adrenaline pumping, the fun ice-sculpting workshops and the chance to meet Santa and give him your Christmas list.

Locals love to come here for the magnificent ice rink, which dazzles with twinkling lights, and the exhilarating ice slide. There are also live shows, lots of food and drink choices and around 100 chalets in a Christmas market section. Wrap up warm, indulge in a hot chocolate or mulled wine and enjoy some wonderful festive shopping.