Theme park fans are always on the lookout for the best times to visit: days when the queues are short, the prices are lower, and the atmosphere feels a little more relaxed. While summer has the sunshine and school holidays bring the buzz, there’s a time of year that seasoned visitors know is the ultimate hidden gem—weekdays in September.
If you want the inside scoop on when to go, here’s why September weekdays are the sweet spot you won’t want to miss.
The Crowds Have Gone Home
By early September, schools are back in session, and family visits drop dramatically. Weekdays become blissfully quiet, with queue times for headline rides like Nemesis Reborn at Alton Towers or The Swarm at Thorpe Park often cut to a fraction of their summer peak.
Insider tip: Tuesdays to Thursdays are typically the quietest. Mondays can catch late weekend visitors, and Fridays sometimes draw in locals starting their weekend early.
A Relaxed Atmosphere
Without the holiday crowds, the parks feel calmer and more spacious. Walkways are clearer, restaurants are quieter, and there’s less pressure to rush around ticking off rides. It’s the kind of day where you can slow down, appreciate the details of the theming, or even ride your favourite coaster three times in a row without stress.
Milder Weather
Summer can be hot and sticky, and later autumn can be rainy and chilly. September hits that perfect balance—cooler mornings and evenings, but still warm enough in the day to enjoy being outside all day long. You’ll spend less time overheating in queues and more time enjoying the rides.
The Best Bang for Your Buck
When you combine short queues, cheaper tickets, and a relaxed pace, your day in the park becomes much more efficient. You’ll likely ride more, spend less, and leave feeling like you’ve had a truly premium experience.
If you’ve ever thought theme parks are “too crowded” or “too expensive,” September weekdays are the answer. They’re the sweet spot where everything lines up: short waits, lower costs, mild weather, and even a hint of seasonal magic.
So if you’ve got some annual leave to use, or just fancy a spontaneous midweek adventure, skip the summer chaos and head to the parks in September. The insiders already know—it’s the best time of year to go.
