Fresh Thrills for the Adrenaline Junkies of the UK

Fresh thrills await roller-coaster aficionados, adrenaline junkies and those young singletons seeking an alternative setting for a date this summer. The Swarm, the U.K’s first winged roller coaster, has been unveiled as ‘a death-defying flight for your life through apocalyptic devastation’.

(photo credits Alton Towers)

Thorpe Park’s newest attraction may not sound as ominous as the Colossus or Nemesis, but it certainly has all the stomach-churning statistics to attract an assortment of pleasure-seeking pilgrims. From a chilling, winged seating position, you can experience four gut-wrenching head-first inversions; including a climatic 127 ft. inverted drop.  The Swarm offers an exhilarating jolt to those who seek fear, fascination and fun. Along 2,543 feet of twisted metal, you can expect to reach speeds of 92 kms/ph and pull up to 4.5 G’s while experiencing near misses.  It is not every day you get to surpass the g-force of a space shuttle launch or jet pilot with nothing more than the air beneath your feet

(Photo credits Thorpe Park)

Designed by the pioneers of the inverted roller coaster design, Bolliger & Mabilliard, this new ride is expected to be one of the most popular rides on the planet!  Feeding on the psychology of fear and an intricate sense of illusion are required components for success in the roller-coaster business. The Swarm ride is smaller than its transatlantic rival, the Wild Eagle (Dollywood), but its elaborately themed setting is amazing and the ride transports guests at break-neck speeds through a scene of alien devastation, derelict buildings and authentic downed aircraft.

It would be fair to say that Thorpe Park does offer far more than all out shock and awe. If you are considering a day trip with friends or a fun family outing then there are plenty of choices other than white-knuckle roller coaster rides jetting through the skies. There is just as much fun for the faint-hearted accompanying younger children.  Family orientated rides, such as the carousels, classic tea-cup rides and water slides are certainly less daunting and are thoroughly enjoyable for younger guests.  

Neptune’s beach provides a pleasant respite for families with young children and the woods afford you a perfect picnic setting. There is something for everyone at this amusement park and you can certainly look forward to a full day of activities.