Alton Towers Resort has confirmed that it will extend its opening hours during the 2024 summer holidays, allowing guests more time to enjoy rides and attractions. The park will now open from 10am to 9pm on peak days, compared to the standard 10am to 5pm schedule. This change comes as the resort prepares for a surge in visitors during the school break.
Extended Hours Details
The extended hours will run from July 20 to September 1, covering the main summer holiday period. On these days, the park will remain open until 9pm, giving guests an additional four hours to experience popular rides like Nemesis Reborn, Wicker Man, and TH13TEEN. According to a spokesperson for Alton Towers, the decision was made to enhance the visitor experience and reduce queue times during peak times.
“We’ve listened to feedback from our guests and want to make sure everyone can make the most of their day,” the spokesperson said. “By extending our hours, we’re offering more flexibility and the chance to enjoy the park in the cooler evening hours.”
Special Events and Attractions
During the extended hours, the park will also host special summer events, including live entertainment and fireworks displays on selected evenings. The popular CBeebies Land and the new Curse at Alton Manor attraction will remain open, with staff ensuring all rides operate safely until close. Alton Towers expects to accommodate over 10,000 additional visitors per day during this period, based on advance ticket sales.
Impact on Visitors
The extended hours are designed to help spread visitor numbers across the day, reducing overcrowding and improving the overall experience. Families with young children will benefit from the later opening times, allowing them to plan visits without rushing. The park has also increased its evening dining and retail options to cater to the longer operating day.
Local tourism officials have welcomed the move, noting that it will boost spending in the surrounding Staffordshire area. Hotel bookings in the region have already risen by 15% since the announcement, according to a local business group.
Booking and Accessibility
Tickets for the extended hours are available online, with a limited number of entry slots per day to maintain capacity. Alton Towers recommends booking in advance to secure a spot. The resort has also confirmed that accessibility services, including wheelchair access and quiet areas, will be available throughout the extended hours. Guests can find more information on the park’s official website.
With the summer holidays fast approaching, the extended opening hours provide a welcome opportunity for thrill-seekers and families alike to enjoy one of the UK’s most beloved theme parks. As the spokesperson concluded, “We’re excited to welcome everyone for a summer to remember.”
