Alton Towers Resort prepares for ultimate celebration of its world-class rollercoasters

This year’s event will come with an added twist for thrillseekers – The Smiler Takeover. With a series of marmalising experiences dedicated to the world’s first 14-loop rollercoaster, The Smiler, in its 10th year. The Smiler’s secretive organisation, Ministry of Joy, will take over the area of X-Sector on the Theme Park with a series of interactive elements, immersive theatre and optical illusions.  

Guests will also get to experience other world-class rollercoasters including Wicker Man and Oblivion, and by completing all of them, guests will get the chance to win a fantastical overnight stay for a family of four, including one-day tickets to the Theme Park. Guests need to pick up a Ministry of Joy identity card from Towers Street, collect a stamp from each of the six world-class rollercoasters, then share on Instagram using #FestivalofThrills.  

In its 10 years, The Smiler has delivered over 12 million riders. One of its biggest fans is Rachel Pender, aka @roller_coaster_rachel, who has amassed over 53k followers for her love of rollercoasters, said: “One of the reasons I enjoy The Smiler so much is the pure joy and escapism it brings. Not only is it the most incredible coaster I've ever ridden, it also has such a cool backstory too. This coaster holds a lot of special memories for me, from my daughter's first ride when she hit the magical 1.4 height restriction, to the special memories made with family and friends.” 

To help thrillseekers make special memories this Spring, as part of the event, Alton Towers Resort has announced the return of its student ticket. From just £20, students who are registered with Student Beans can get access to world-class rollercoasters for mid-week fun and thrills.  

The parent and toddler pass is also now available for those looking for smaller thrills. Guests can share massive giggles and mega thrills at the UK’s largest theme park including CBeebies Land for just £29 (one adult and one toddler under 5). The exclusive online offer is for visits on selected dates during off-peak periods and is not available during weekends and school holidays. Guests can choose to add on an extra toddler, under 5yrs, for just £5. In addition, under 3’s go free at Alton Towers Resort each and every day!  

If one day just isn’t enough, guests can extend their stay with an overnight stay at the Resort’s iconic themed accommodation. From the UK’s only CBeebies Land Hotel and Caribbean themed Splash Landings Hotel, to enchanting log cabins and the eccentric Alton Towers Hotel, there are six delightfully themed accommodations to choose from, and with a buffet breakfast, live evening entertainment, free parking and a free round of Extraordinary Golf, it’s the perfect escape for friends and families.  

Festival of Thrills – The Smiler Takeover will take place from April 17th – May 7th. For more information and to book, visit: Festival of Thrills | Alton Towers Resort  

For more information about the student ticket, visit: Alton Towers Student Discount | Alton Towers Resort 

For more information about the parent and toddler pass, visit: Parent & Toddler Pass (altontowers.com) 

-ENDS- 

Notes to Editors 

For more information please contact Louise.Eling@Alton-Towers.com or Sian.Wilson@alton-towers.com.  

Accompanying video and photo assets can be found here: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ixibuofjsm90roos5mgd5/h?dl=0&rlkey=2jzb1xdchzi0stk6js7gigjwr  

About Alton Towers Resort  Coming, ready or not! Escape to Alton Towers Resort in 2023 and get ready to experience The Curse at Alton Manor. A haunting dark ride taking you on a hair-raising journey through the abandoned Alton Manor, which has been repossessed under mysterious circumstances. Have your wits about you as you ride deeper into the historic Manor.  

Learn, play and inspire children’s imaginations at the UK’s only CBeebies Land and CBeebies Land Hotel. Your little ones can meet their favourite CBeebies friends and enjoy a range of fantastical rides and attractions, including the three latest attractions, Hey Duggee Big Adventure Badge, Andy’s Adventures Dinosaur Dig and JoJo & Gran Gran At Home. Extend your stay at CBeebies Land Hotel, with delightfully themed rooms, including the latest Bing-themed bedrooms where Bingsters can enjoy the ultimate sleepover.  

Throughout 2023, as well as launching an amazing new attraction, the Resort will be hosting a world of thrilliant events for the nation to enjoy including the return of Mardi Gras, Oktoberfest, award-winning Scarefest and Fireworks Spectacular, plus Festival of Thrills is back for its second year with an exciting Smiler celebration.  

Alton Towers Resort provides the ultimate staycation option with five uniquely themed hotels and accommodation options for a truly unforgettable escape for friends, families and thrillseekers alike. 

For more information about Alton Towers Resort or to book your fantastical escape, please visit www.altontowers.com