UK Theme Parks: What Happens If It Is Too Windy?

Planning a day at a UK theme park? Strong winds can sometimes affect your visit, with certain rides temporarily closing when weather conditions become unsafe.

Why do theme parks close rides in high winds?

Roller coasters and other attractions are designed to operate within specific weather limits. When wind speeds or gusts become too strong, rides may be temporarily stopped to protect both visitors and staff.

There isn’t one wind-speed limit that applies to every ride. Different attractions have different restrictions depending on their design, height and manufacturer requirements.

For example, Paultons Park publishes specific wind limits for individual rides, with some attractions closing from around 32 mph, while others can remain open until higher wind speeds.

What happens during a windy day?

If conditions become too windy, a theme park may:

• Temporarily close individual rides
• Stop several outdoor attractions
• Delay rides until conditions improve
• Close certain outdoor areas
• Reopen rides once wind speeds return to safe levels

The park will normally monitor conditions throughout the day, meaning a ride that closes in the morning could potentially reopen later.

At Alton Towers, for example, rides can be temporarily paused because of adverse weather conditions, while its Skyride does not operate in high winds.

Can a theme park close completely because of wind?

Yes. In particularly severe weather, a park can decide to close the whole attraction or significantly restrict operations.

However, high winds do not automatically mean a theme park will close. The decision depends on the conditions at the time and the effect they have on the safe operation of the park.

Will I get a refund?

This depends on the individual theme park and its terms and conditions. A number of parks have their own weather or return policies.

For example, Chessington World of Adventures can activate its Return Promise when severe weather, including high winds, causes significant disruption to ride availability.

It’s therefore worth checking your theme park’s website and app before travelling, particularly when strong winds are forecast.

Planning a visit?

If high winds are forecast, check the park’s live ride availability before setting off and again during your visit. Weather conditions can change quickly, and ride closures can be temporary.

Remember: safety always comes first. If a ride closes because of high winds, it is because the park’s team has determined that operating it isn’t appropriate under the current conditions.