If you’re heading to Alton After Dark 2025, you’re in for a completely different vibe to a standard day at Alton Towers. As the sun sets, the park transforms — the lighting changes, the atmosphere builds, and those world-class coasters feel even more intense in the dark.
Here are three absolute must-dos to make the most of your night at Alton Towers Resort.
1. Ride Wicker Man After Sunset
There’s riding Wicker Man… and then there’s riding it in the dark.
At night, the towering wooden structure becomes genuinely eerie. The fire effects glow brighter against the black sky, the soundtrack feels more dramatic, and the speed through the twists and turns feels faster when you can’t see what’s coming next.
Why it’s a must:
- The fire effects look incredible after dark
- The structure feels more intimidating
If you only re-ride one coaster during Alton After Dark, make it Wicker Man.
2. Experience The Smiler in the Dark
Fourteen inversions. Total darkness. Neon lighting.
The Smiler at night is chaotic in the best possible way. The flashing lights in X-Sector, the glowing ride elements, and the disorientating layout make it feel even more intense once daylight disappears.
What changes after dark?
- The inversions feel more forceful
- The headchoppers feel closer
- The whole X-Sector area feels more atmospheric
It’s not just a re-ride — it’s a completely different experience.
3. Soak Up the Atmosphere & Night Rides on the Big Coasters
Alton After Dark isn’t just about ticking off rides — it’s about the vibe.
Make time to:
- Walk through the park once it’s fully dark
- See the illuminated Towers ruins
- Take in the different feel of each themed area
If open during your visit, Oblivion and Nemesis Reborn are both unreal night rides. That pause at the top of Oblivion’s drop in pitch darkness? Brutal. The speed and intensity of Nemesis at night? Next level.
Bonus Tips for Alton After Dark
- Arrive early so you’ve already ridden key attractions before queues build in the evening.
- Save at least one major coaster for after sunset.
- Check ride availability in advance, as not all attractions always run during extended hours.
Alton After Dark turns Alton Towers into something genuinely special. The darkness amplifies everything — speed, sound, lighting, and atmosphere.
If you:
- Ride Wicker Man after sunset
- Take on The Smiler in the dark
- Soak up the atmosphere and grab at least one more night coaster
…you’ll leave feeling like you experienced the park in a completely new way.
