When it comes to classic British coasters, few rides are as iconic — or as notorious — as The Grand National at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Open since 1935, this wooden racing coaster is one of only a handful of Möbius loop coasters left in the world. But beyond its historic significance, it’s also gained a fierce reputation for delivering one of the roughest ride experiences in the UK.

But is it truly the roughest? Let’s dive into what makes The Grand National infamous — and see how it stacks up against the country’s other bone-rattling attractions.

Designed by legendary coaster engineer Charles Paige, The Grand National opened in the golden age of seaside amusement parks. It’s a Möbius racing coaster, meaning both trains share a continuous track loop, giving riders a thrilling “race” experience.

Despite its age, the ride remains a staple of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, retaining much of its classic character.

Why is The Grand National So Rough?

There are a few reasons why The Grand National has such a brutal reputation:

• Aged Track and Structure: As one of the UK’s oldest operating coasters, even with maintenance and retracking, its wooden track has inherent roughness.
• Train Design: The vintage-style trains have minimal padding and lap bars that offer little in the way of modern comfort.
• High Speeds and Airtime Hills: For a ride built in the 1930s, it packs surprisingly aggressive airtime, and when paired with the stiff track, it can feel like you’re being launched skyward only to slam back down.
• Minimal Shock Absorption: Unlike modern woodies like Wicker Man at Alton Towers, The Grand National lacks the engineering advancements that smooth out transitions and track bumps.

Let’s be fair — The Grand National isn’t alone in the UK’s “bone-shaker” club. Infusion and Colossus at Thorpe Park are also infamously rough coasters.

Should You Ride It Anyway?

Absolutely. The Grand National is a living piece of UK theme park history.

Pro tip: brace for the drops, lean into the corners, and hold tight. You’ll come off grinning (or grimacing) — but either way, you won’t forget it.

So, Is The Grand National the roughest ride in the UK?

It’s almost certainly the current champion of rough UK coasters. Whether that makes it legendary or borderline unrideable depends on how much you love (or hate) old-school woodies.

If you’re into vintage coasters, racing airtime, and a little bit of pain with your thrills — it’s a must.

Do you agree or disagree with us? let us know in the comments below.