Drayton Manor Park has announced the opening date for its all-new River Rapids ride – Wednesday 11 August!

The Staffordshire based family-favourite attraction recently launched its brand new nautical-themed area Adventure Cove, inviting young-seafarers from across the UK to explore world of maritime fun.

The Adventure Cove River Rapids will be the latest addition to the area, joining a host of other bright and colourful coastal-themed attractions this Wednesday (11 August).

Taking young-seafarers on a historical journey through a cartoon-style fishing port, the whole family can board the River Rapids on their very own boat around a rapids course, twisting and turning past vibrant painted shacks.

The new ride will also bring an exhilarating a sensory experience, immersing guests in the sounds and smells of the port!

Guests can also get a taste for the high life aboard the park’s new Wave Swinger and Tidal Towers rides, two fellow additions introduced with Adventure Cove in July.

Young thrill seekers will be pleased to see their old-favourite Shockwave decked out in a vibrant rainbow of new colours, bringing a fresh and fun atmosphere.

A riveting light-house rescue mission awaits guests for Stormforce 10 on this wild, white-knuckle ride like no other – true fans will also be thrilled with the repainting of the iconic tower, creating a dramatic view over the lake.

With so much to discover, avid adventurers can take a much-needed pitstop at the newly reopened Chicken Diner, serving tasty treats including the park’s famous fried chicken to keep busy families fuelled up for a fun-filled day of adventure.

The park’s 100+ well-loved rides and attractions will also be open for guests to enjoy as usual, including Europe’s only Thomas Land and performances from The Fat Controller and his friends!

William Bryan, managing director at Drayton Manor Park, said: “We are so thrilled to finally open our River Rapids ride!

“We know our guests have been eager to set sail on this exciting attraction, and we’re so pleased to see everyone enjoying Adventure Cove so far.”

Things to do near Drayton Manor Park

Whatever the weather there are plenty of things to do near Drayton Manor Park!

Keep the adrenaline pumping with a trip to the Snowdome, home of high octane fun on real snow, ice track, climbing walls and more.

Choose from an array of exhilarating activities, including paintball, quad biking, and archery, at the NPF Bassetts Pole Adventure Park.

Slow down the pace and knock down some pins at Namco Funscape Tamworth, or a stroll at the beautiful Warwickshire Moor nature reserve. Visit our Walks in Tamworth blog for more details.

For something a little more educational, Tamworth Castle has a fascinating new AR trail an exhibition exploring the ancient history of Mercia and our warrior queen Aethelflaed.

For more things to do near Drayton Manor Park, visit our Things to do in Tamworth page.

Places to stay near Drayton Manor

Spend the night at one of these places to stay near Drayton Manor Park and discover more great things to do in Staffordshire.

If you want to stay close to the action, the four-star Drayton Manor Hotel has 15 Thomas & Friends themed room, perfect for fans of the lovable engine, and the resort is also home to a Camping and Caravanning Club site.

Away from the theme park, Donative Holiday Cottages and Hispley Farm Cottages are ideal rural retreats if you want to escape from the hustle and bustle.

You'll find plenty more places to stay near Drayton Manor Park on the handy Places to stay in Tamworth page.

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Enjoy fun for everyone at Drayton Manor Resort; home of over 50 exciting rides and attractions including Europe’s only Thomas Land, epic family thrill rides and even a 15-acre zoo.

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For visitors travelling from further afield or simply looking to turn a day trip into an overnight stay, there’s also the luxurious four-star Drayton Manor Hotel. It has 150 bedrooms, including 15 Thomas & Friends themed family rooms, each with a unique hand-painted scene on the wall and ceiling, themed bunk beds, and train track patterned carpets in the corridors leading to each room.

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