Rollercoaster fun at Lightwater Valley

 

If you are looking for a family day out filled with more fun, excitement and adventure than you could wish for, then get yourselves to Lightwater Valley.

It is easily accessible, incorporating a beautiful drive through picturesque Ripon. (sat nav post code – HG4 3HT) and there is plenty of free parking.  Check out Treetop Nets next to the car park while you are there for future visits – giant trampolines in the trees.

The most wonderful thing about Lightwater Valley is that a huge amount of thought has gone into ensuring there is absolutely loads for everyone to do and enjoy. When I checked the handy park guide you receive on admission, I noticed the rides were categorised three ways – Mini, Mega and Ultimate Adventures.

Mini Adventures are aimed at 1 – 5 year olds. They include a huge Angry Birds Activity Park, merry go rounds, mini roller coasters, water rides, tractor fun…. the list goes on. The little ones will be very happy.

 

The Mega Adventures are aimed at 6 + (over 1m). Fabulous water flumes, wild river rapids, a flying cutlass, fast and thrilling roller coasters and a tower of terror…and much, much more.  The great thing about most of these rides is that responsible people over 1.20m can accompany younger riders – my son, aged 10 years, was able to accompany my 6 yo daughter whilst I  held the bags/took pictures/ chickened out.

 

Finally there are the Ultimate Adventures and these are for older thrill seekers ( 1.20m +) who enjoy the ultimate adrenaline rush. The Eagles Claw, The Ultimate and the Black Pearl are among the more fearsome experiences. Petrolhead A rode every single one of these, at least twice! No idea where he gets his courage from!

  

Our visit was on a Sunday, and whilst the park was buzzing, it wasn’t crowded or too busy and there was never more than a 3-4 minute wait for any ride, which was fantastic. The rides are all very well staffed and every member of staff I spoke to was cheerful and more than happy to assist. There are plenty of places to purchase fast food, drinks ice – creams and sweets. We chose to take a picnic, and I’m so pleased that we did as there are lots of beautifully kept grassy areas to lay down the blanket and relax to enjoy our sandwiches. We chose a particularly lovely spot over looking the lake. There are plenty of toilet facilities throughout the park, which with young children is an important factor for a day out!

There is so much to do at Lightwater Valley it simply wasn’t possible for us to see everything (probably not helped by the fact that Petrolhead A and Princess D insisted on riding everything they came across atleast twice!).  When we visit again we will be sure to make time to visit the Tree Top Net Adventures, which we passed on our drive in and look great fun, plus an 18 – hole Jurassic Adventure Golf course which looks great and we would definitely like to try at some point. Its worth noting these activities are not included in the theme park admission.  

I highly recommend a day out with all the family to Lightwater Valley. It has a great fun atmosphere and you really feel that you can stroll around at your own pace, take everything in and enjoy it. Princess D declared that is one of her favourite places, which coming from her is quite a statement and we are all very excited to visit again!

Sincere thanks to Lightwater Valley for inviting us to visit and review