5 Dutch Theme Parks Every UK Theme Park Fan Should Visit

If you’re a UK theme park fan craving new adventures beyond Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, or Blackpool Pleasure Beach, it’s time to look across the North Sea. The Netherlands may be small, but it packs an impressive punch when it comes to amusement parks. Whether you love adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, enchanting fairytale rides, or immersive themed areas, Dutch parks offer a unique blend of creativity, world-class attractions, and European charm. Baron 1898 located at Efteling (Image: Efteling) In this guide, we’ll reveal 5 must-visit Dutch theme parks that every UK thrill-seeker should experience at least once. These destinations are easy to reach by flight or ferry, making them ideal for a short break or a longer holiday. From the magical Efteling to the high-speed coasters of Walibi Holland, get ready to plan your next unforgettable theme park trip. Let’s dive into the best theme parks the Netherlands has to offer! Efteling – The Fairytale Wonderland Location: Kaatsheuvel, North BrabantWhy Visit: The most famous and beloved theme park in the Netherlands. Efteling isn’t just a theme park—it’s a Dutch cultural icon. Open since 1952, Efteling is a magical world where classic European fairytales come to life. With beautifully themed attractions, lush forest settings, and stunning architecture, it rivals (and often exceeds) the atmosphere of Disneyland Paris. Top Attractions at Efteling: Baron 1898 – A spectacular dive coaster plunging riders into a dark mineshaft. Symbolica – A trackless dark ride through a royal palace, full of special effects. Python – The park’s classic double-looping coaster. Fata Morgana – A boat ride inspired by Arabian Nights. Droomvlucht – A dreamy suspended dark ride through enchanted forests. Why UK Fans Love It:Efteling’s theming is on par with the very best parks in Europe. There’s something here for everyone: gentle fairytale attractions, thrilling coasters, and immersive experiences that feel timeless. Walibi Holland – Thrill Capital of the Netherlands Location: Biddinghuizen, FlevolandWhy Visit: Home of Europe’s most intense roller coasters. If you’re a die-hard coaster enthusiast, Walibi Holland needs to be at the top of your list. Famous for extreme rides, this park delivers some of the most exhilarating experiences in Europe. Top Attractions at Walibi Holland: Untamed – A hybrid RMC coaster that’s often rated among the best in the world. Goliath – The tallest coaster in the Benelux, with airtime hills and sweeping turns. Lost Gravity – A Mack BigDipper coaster with unique elements. Speed of Sound – A Vekoma Boomerang coaster with an enclosed tunnel soundtrack. Xpress: Platform 13 – A launched coaster with intense acceleration. Why UK Fans Love It:Walibi Holland feels like a cross between Thorpe Park and Cedar Point, making it perfect for thrill-seekers. The atmosphere is laid-back, and queues are often shorter than at bigger European parks. Toverland – The Enchanted Adventure Location: Sevenum, LimburgWhy Visit: A hidden gem blending indoor and outdoor attractions. Toverland began as an indoor park for families, but it has rapidly transformed into one of Europe’s most exciting theme parks. With beautifully themed areas and unique rides, it’s a brilliant all-weather destination. Top Attractions at Toverland: Fēnix – A B&M Wing Coaster that swoops dramatically over Avalon. Troy – Europe’s fastest and tallest wooden coaster. Dwervelwind – A spinning coaster with impressive lighting and effects. Merlin’s Quest – A tranquil boat ride through the Avalon area. Port Laguna – A Mediterranean-themed entrance plaza with interactive features. Why UK Fans Love It:Toverland combines family-friendly attractions with major thrill rides, all set in immersive themed worlds. It’s perfect if you want a more relaxed experience than Walibi but still crave serious coasters. Slagharen – Wild West Fun for All Ages Location: Slagharen, OverijsselWhy Visit: A unique Wild West theme and family-friendly atmosphere. Attractiepark Slagharen is a Western-themed park and resort that offers a more classic, nostalgic amusement park vibe. It’s ideal for families or visitors who want moderate thrills mixed with gentle attractions. Top Attractions at Slagharen: Gold Rush – The first triple launch coaster in the Netherlands. Mine Train – A classic family coaster through western scenery. Ripsaw Falls – A log flume with a big splash finale. Big Wheel – One of Europe’s tallest Ferris wheels. El Teatro – A Western stunt show theatre. Why UK Fans Love It:Slagharen’s charming old-school atmosphere makes it feel different from modern parks. It’s a great place to take a break from high-intensity coasters and enjoy themed entertainment. Duinrell – Theme Park and Waterpark in One Location: Wassenaar, South Holland (near The Hague)Why Visit: Perfect mix of rides and a huge indoor waterpark. Duinrell is a unique combination of a theme park, a massive waterpark (Tikibad), and a holiday park. It’s ideal if you want to combine traditional attractions with water slides and relaxation. Top Attractions at Duinrell: Falcon – A compact Gerstlauer Euro-Fighter coaster with a vertical lift and drop. Dragonfly – A smooth family coaster great for younger thrill-seekers. Splash – A classic log flume ride. Tiki Pool – Europe’s largest indoor waterpark with more than 20 slides. Playgrounds and classic fairground rides – Perfect for kids. Why UK Fans Love It:Duinrell offers brilliant value: you can spend the morning riding coasters and the afternoon splashing in the Tiki Pool. The proximity to The Hague and the Dutch coast makes it an ideal family holiday spot. How to Get to Dutch Theme Parks from the UK One of the best parts of visiting Dutch parks is how easy they are to reach: By Ferry:P&O Ferries from Hull to Rotterdam or DFDS Seaways from Newcastle to IJmuiden. By Eurostar:Direct trains from London St Pancras to Rotterdam or Amsterdam. By Plane:Flights from major UK airports to Amsterdam Schiphol, Rotterdam, or Eindhoven. Once in the Netherlands, driving is straightforward thanks to excellent motorways, or you can rely on trains and buses. From fairytale adventures to record-breaking coasters, the Netherlands offers some of Europe’s most exciting theme parks. Each park has its own personality, and with great transport links, you can easily combine a few into a week-long holiday. Whether you’re a die-hard coaster fanatic or visiting with kids, you’ll find experiences that rival and even surpass some UK parks. Ready to plan your Dutch theme park adventure? Pack your bags, grab your tickets, and discover why the Netherlands is one of Europe’s top destinations for theme park fans.

5 Dutch Theme Parks Every UK Theme Park Fan Should Visit

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