THEME park fans have been given their first glimpse at a brand new ride coming to the UK this year.
Last year, one of the country’s most popular theme parks revealed that it would be removing one of its best-loved rollercoasters for good.
InstagramA video has revealed what fans might be able to expect from the new ride[/caption]
AlamyIt’s set to replace Shockwave at Drayton Manor which closed after 30 years[/caption]
Shockwave at Drayton Manor had been described as “iconic” by theme park enthusiasts, who were sad to see it go.
Before it closed, the ride had been the only stand-up rollercoaster in the country, with riders on their feet instead of sat down as they wizzed around the track.
However, its replacement looks ready to be officially revealed to the public, with thrill-seekers given their first look at what may be in store.
After announcing the closure of Shockwave, Drayton Manor said that a new ride would be developed from the old one.
They said: “We will transform the iconic rollercoaster into an all-new experience in spring 2024, with a brand-new sit-down train suitable for riders as small as 1.2 metres.
“Shockwave has been an incredibly important ride throughout the history of Drayton Manor, opening in 1994 and creating incredible memories for millions of riders for almost 30 years.
“We’re thrilled that these updates will allow new generations to enjoy the ride for years to come and we can’t wait to reveal more on these exciting plans in the coming months.”
Now that ride looks as if it is ready to be unleashed onto the public, with a promo video inviting people to “let the wave of excitement begin”.
In the video, a family is seen driving past a huge blue rollercoaster loop, which looks as if it will be part of the track for the newly-developed ride.
From there they can sign up to be the first to hear about the “brand new ride opening this Spring”.
Plenty of people excitedly commented on the video, saying they were excited about trying out the new coaster.
One wrote: “This looks like so much fun!”
The brand new coaster will stand where Apocalypse used to be before it closed in 2022, with Managing director Victoria Lynn predicting it will be one of the country’s best rides.
She told the Birmingham Mail at the time: “One of the key things we want to say is that in 2024 there will be a new family thrill coaster coming.
Five new water attractions opening in the UK next year
Therme Manchester will have 25 swimming pools, 25 water slides and an indoor beach.
Modern Surf Manchester will be a surfing lagoon offering lessons to both beginners and experts.
Chessington World of Adventures waterpark is set to have wave, infinity and spa pools as well as waterslides and cabanas.
The Cove Resort, Southport is likely to have a water lagoon and a thermal spa with steam rooms and saunas.
The Seahive, Deal plans to be the “surfing wellness resort” in the UK.
“This is going to be one of the best coasters in the UK in my opinion. I think it is important to say we are still doing family thrill and not just kid rides.”
The park will fully reopen to the public for the spring and summer season from March 24, with 35% off tickets when booked online in advance.
It’s not the only new ride coming to the UK this summer.
Hyperia
The UK’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster is set to open at Thorpe Park this year.
Last year they said: “In 2024 we’re taking thrills to incredible new heights with ‘Hyperia’ — the UK’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster.
“Reaching heights of 236ft and speeds of over 80mph, once you’ve experienced Hyperia you’ll never fear again.”
Minifigure Speedway
Legoland is also set to launch a brand new ride this year in the form of its Minifigure Speedway.
The Berkshire-based theme park’s latest addition will be its fastest rollercoaster to date.
The duelling coaster will feature two teams, Team Legends and Team Allstars, who will race against each other in both forwards and reverse – with a winner being crowned each time.
Inspired by Speedway Circuits from around the globe, the Minifigure Speedway will be able to reach speeds of up to 56km/h (34mph).
Meanwhile, these five new rides and rollercoasters are opening in the UK this year.
And this lesser-known theme park by the seaside is also getting a new rollercoaster.
AlamyBefore it closed Shockwave was the only standing rollercoaster in the country[/caption]