Lea Cookson

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https://www.ukthemeparkspy.co.uk

Founder & Editor-in-Chief of UK Theme Park Spy. Lea can be contacted at news@ukthemeparkspy.co.uk Whether you're a theme park enthusiast or a casual visitor, UK Theme Park Spy offers valuable information and inspiration for your next park adventure.

Opinion

Is This the Biggest Myth in Theme Parks? “You Grow Out of Roller Coasters”

Do people really grow out of roller coasters? We explore one of the biggest myths in theme parks and why thrill rides can be enjoyed at any age.

Short Breaks

Experience Fright Nights with a Thorpe Park Halloween Short Break

Book a THORPE PARK Fright Nights Halloween Short Break with 2-day park entry, hotel stay, breakfast and exclusive perks for the ultimate spooky getaway.

Blue roller coaster cars lined up on a track inside a station with arched concrete columns and blue walls, ready for boarding.

Ride Closures & Availability

Big Dipper and Pleasure Beach Express Closed at Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Big Dipper and Pleasure Beach Express are currently closed at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Here's what we know and what it means for visitors.

Visitor Guides

Best Theme Parks for Teenagers in the UK

Discover the best UK theme parks for teenagers. Compare roller coasters, thrill rides and top parks for adrenaline-filled days out.

Theme Park Weekly

What’s Happening at UK Theme Parks This Week (Week of 27 July 2026)

Discover what’s happening at UK theme parks this week including Minecraft at Alton Towers, LEGO Festival, Summer Soundwaves and Blackpool fun.

Bright sun over a clear blue sky with a large steel roller coaster towering above a row of colorful low-rise buildings beneath it.

Features

10 Things Every Family Should Know Before Visiting a Theme Park This Summer

Discover 10 essential theme park tips every family should know before visiting this summer, from beating queues to packing smart for the perfect day out.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Blackpool Pleasure Beach Responds to Big Dipper Rumours Following Ride Incident

Blackpool Pleasure Beach has responded to rumours surrounding the Big Dipper after the historic wooden coaster stopped during operation. Investigation underway.

Offers

EXPIRED: Alton Towers Summer Holiday Offer: Kids Swim Free

Save on a summer short break at Alton Towers Resort with Kids Swim Free, Theme Park tickets, golf, hotel stay, breakfast and more.

Blue corrugated fence with a Minecraft-style pixel art sign showing a white blocky figure and the yellow 'HUB AHEAD' text.

Theme Park Weekly

What’s Happening at UK Theme Parks This Weekend (25–26 July 2026)

Discover what's happening at UK theme parks this weekend (25–26 July 2026), including Minecraft, LEGO Festival, Late Night Riding and more.

Features

School’s Out! The Best UK Theme Parks to Visit This Summer 2026

With many parks offering extended opening hours, exclusive summer events, and new attractions throughout the season, now is the perfect time to plan your next adventure.

Alton Towers

Alton Towers Extends Summer Opening Hours Until 7pm This August

Alton Towers has extended its summer opening hours until 7pm from 14–31 August, giving visitors an extra hour to enjoy rides and attractions.

White towel with a vintage newspaper print design spread over a surface, featuring bold black text and a yellow illustration panel.

Alton Towers

Archives Unlocked at Alton Towers: Step Behind the Scenes of Theme Park History

Discover Archives Unlocked at Alton Towers with a 60-minute curator-led tour featuring never-before-seen archive material, hidden stories and a historic keepsake.