The May half-term holidays have officially arrived, bringing longer opening hours, special events and exciting new attractions across the UK’s theme parks.
From a brand-new coaster opening to late-night ride experiences and one of the year’s most anticipated new attractions now welcoming guests, here’s everything happening at UK theme parks this week.
AVIKTAS Now Open at Blackpool Pleasure Beach
It’s been a huge week for Blackpool Pleasure Beach as AVIKTAS is now officially open to guests.
Following preview events earlier this month, visitors can now experience the park’s newest attraction throughout the half-term holiday.
The opening marks one of the biggest additions to Blackpool Pleasure Beach in recent years and is expected to be a major draw throughout the summer season.
The park is also enjoying increased visitor numbers as families head to the seaside during the school break.
New Spinning Coaster Now Open at Pleasurewood Hills
There’s more exciting news for coaster fans this week as Pleasurewood Hills has officially opened its brand-new spinning coaster.
The new attraction adds another family-friendly thrill ride to the park’s lineup and offers riders a unique experience as carriages spin freely throughout the course.
The opening represents a significant investment for the park and gives visitors another reason to explore one of East Anglia’s most popular attractions this summer.
Twilight at the Towers Continues
Alton Towers Resort continues its popular Twilight at the Towers event throughout the week.
The event runs until:
- 31 May 2026
Guests can enjoy extended opening hours and experience many of the resort’s biggest attractions later into the evening.
Night rides on favourites including:
offer a completely different experience after dark and remain a highlight for many visitors.
Half-Term Week Arrives Across UK Theme Parks
Schools across much of the UK are now on their May half-term break, making this one of the busiest weeks of the season so far.
Major parks including:
are expecting increased attendance as families make the most of the school holiday.
Visitors should expect:
- Longer queue times on popular rides
- Extended opening hours at selected parks
- A busy atmosphere throughout the week
Booking tickets online in advance is recommended where possible.
What to Watch This Week
- AVIKTAS now open at Blackpool Pleasure Beach
- New spinning coaster now open at Pleasurewood Hills
- Twilight at the Towers continues until 31 May
- May half-term holidays underway across the UK
- Busy parks and increased visitor numbers expected nationwide
With schools on break, new rides opening and special events continuing, this is one of the busiest and most exciting weeks of the 2026 UK theme park season so far.
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