Alton Towers can absolutely be a good choice for a February Half Term visit — but whether it’s right for you depends on what kind of experience you’re after. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide
What’s On During February Half Term
- Seasonal Event: The park runs its special “Pirate Takeover” event over the school half-term, typically mid-February (for 2026, roughly 14–22 February) with themed entertainment, live shows, and activities aimed at kids and families.
- Selected Attractions Open: Only certain areas of the park are open — like Mutiny Bay, CBeebies Land, Towers Street and some family rides. Big thrill coasters and the full park experience don’t run until the main 2026 season starts in mid-March.
If you’re visiting with younger children, this can actually be one of the best times to go. CBeebies Land and family attractions tend to be the priority during this period, and the overall scale of the event makes the park feel manageable rather than overwhelming. However, if your main goal is riding headline roller coasters, February may feel limited compared to a full-season visit later in March or April when everything is operating.
Crowd levels sit somewhere in the middle. It’s busier than a quiet term-time weekday but noticeably calmer than Easter or the summer holidays. Weekdays during Half Term are usually more comfortable than weekends, and queue times are often reasonable, especially earlier in the day.
Weather is the biggest variable. February in Staffordshire can be cold, wet and occasionally windy, which affects how long you’ll want to stay outdoors. Dressing properly makes a huge difference, and shorter park hours can actually work in your favour if you’re planning a relaxed visit rather than a full 10-hour marathon.
Overall, February Half Term is a good time to visit if you want a family-focused day with seasonal entertainment and lighter crowds than peak season. It’s less ideal if you’re chasing every major coaster. For many families, though, it’s a fun and slightly calmer way to kick off the theme park year.
