Alton Towers’ Scarefest is one of the UK’s most exciting Halloween events, transforming the park into a world of haunted mazes, eerie shows, and late-night thrills. While the scare mazes grab plenty of attention, the real magic happens on the rides after dark.
The park’s extended opening hours mean you can experience your favourite roller coasters and attractions in total darkness, making them feel more intense than ever.
Here are the Top 5 rides to do at night during Scarefest:
1. Wicker Man
The fiery wooden coaster feels completely different at night. The ride is already packed with atmosphere thanks to its burning effigy centerpiece, but after dark the flickering flames and shadows take the experience to another level. Racing through the wooden structure in pitch black makes the drops feel steeper and the turns more unpredictable.
Tip: Ride it just before park close – the queue tends to thin out, and the darkness adds maximum intensity.
2. The Smiler
With its 14 inversions, The Smiler is disorienting enough in daylight. At night, the hypnotic lights and glowing yellow theming create a neon-fuelled nightmare. You’ll lose all sense of direction as the track disappears into darkness, making the ride feel longer and more chaotic.
Why it’s best at night: The contrast between the bright strobe effects and the surrounding darkness makes it even more overwhelming.
3. Oblivion
Dropping into the black abyss of Oblivion’s tunnel is an iconic Alton Towers moment, but at night, it’s amplified. The suspense of dangling over the edge feels more nerve-wracking when you can barely see what’s ahead, and the plunge into total darkness is a perfect fit for the Scarefest vibe.
Pro tip: Sit on the edge seats for an even more exposed feeling.
4. Th13teen
This mysterious coaster really comes alive at night. Racing through the forest in pitch black gives it a spooky edge, and the famous surprise element in the ride’s second half is even more shocking when your eyes are still adjusting to the darkness.
Why it stands out: The ride’s theme of the cursed crypt blends perfectly with the Halloween atmosphere.
5. Nemesis Reborn
The legendary Nemesis has returned with a terrifying new look, and riding it at night during Scarefest is a must. The alien theming and glowing track lights create an otherworldly feel, and with parts of the coaster darting into shadowy areas of Forbidden Valley, the speed and intensity feel heightened.
At night: The eerie red lighting makes the alien theme feel more sinister, amplifying the adrenaline rush.
