Looking for an adrenaline rush without melting in the summer sun? Alton Towers has you covered! Whether you want to get soaked, cool off indoors, or fly through the breeze at high speed, these top 7 thrill rides are perfect for beating the heat during your summer visit.
1. Congo River Rapids
Ride Type: Water ride | Location: Katanga Canyon
Get ready to ride the rapids! This iconic Alton Towers attraction is the ultimate way to cool off and have fun with friends or family. With unexpected splashes and swirling waters, Congo River Rapids is a must on any hot day.
2. The Curse at Alton Manor
Ride Type: Dark indoor ride | Location: Gloomy Wood
When the sun is blazing, escape into the eerie coolness of this indoor haunted house. The Curse at Alton Manor combines spine-chilling effects with air-conditioned comfort, making it one of the best ways to chill out—literally—while enjoying a thrilling story-driven ride.
3. Wicker Man
Ride Type: Wooden coaster | Location: Mutiny Bay
The world’s first wooden coaster fused with fire may sound hot—but don’t worry. Wicker Man flies through its layout fast enough to keep you cool with every turn. Plus, the shaded queue line and enclosed pre-show offer a break from the sun.

4. Rita
Ride Type: Launch coaster | Location: Dark Forest
Hold onto your hats! Rita launches you from 0 to 61 mph in just 2.5 seconds. The speed creates a natural breeze that makes it a surprisingly refreshing experience in the summer heat.
5. Hex – The Legend of the Towers
Ride Type: Indoor illusion ride | Location: The Towers
Step inside the historic Alton Towers ruins and cool down inside this air-conditioned, mysterious ride. Hex offers a mind-bending, immersive experience with plenty of shady respite from the summer heat.
6. Battle Galleons
Ride Type: Interactive water ride | Location: Mutiny Bay
If you don’t mind getting drenched, Battle Galleons is one of the most interactive ways to cool off. Climb aboard and fire water cannons at other riders—and prepare to be soaked in return!
7. Galactica
Ride Type: Flying coaster | Location: Forbidden Valley
Soar face-down through the sky with Galactica. The wind-rushing sensation as you fly through space-themed loops offers a surprisingly cool and airy ride, especially in the shade-filled Forbidden Valley.
If you’re staying at the resort, don’t miss the Alton Towers Waterpark. Packed with slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones, it’s the ultimate way to beat the summer heat all day long.
From wild water rapids to icy indoor adventures, these 7 Alton Towers rides are the perfect way to stay cool while chasing thrills this summer. Whether you’re braving the curse or flying through the forest, there’s something for everyone.
Don’t forget to stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and use the Alton Towers app to check live queue times for maximum enjoyment.