Thrilling theme parks by train

Whether you want to experience the fast-paced, stomach-churning rollercoasters, ride immersive themed dark rides or if you're more suited to holding the bags and grabbing an ice cream, there really is something for everyone with a day out at a theme park.

We've collated some of Britain's most popular theme parks below and provided details of how to visit by train with useful links, to help you plan a green day out with the family. So the only decision left is which park will you go to first?

Alton Towers, Staffordshire

Uttoxeter Railway Station is the closest to Alton Towers and can be reached by bus. Take the D&G X41 bus from outside the railway station direct to the resort plaza.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Blackpool

Train travelling along the South Fylde Line and passing Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Could this be the easiest theme park to reach by train? We think so! Where else can you jump off the train and into the action within five minutes?

Take the South Fylde Line from Preston and leave the train at the dedicated Blackpool Pleasure Beach Railway Station, delivering you straight to the heart of the action. Then it's less than a five-minute walk to the park's South Entrance.

Chessington World of Adventures, Kingston upon Thames

Chessington is within 35 minutes of central London and regular South Western Railway services run from Waterloo, Clapham Junction and Wimbledon.

Chessington World of Adventures, Mine Train

Take the train to Chessington South Station. The park is approximately 10 minutes-walk from the station. If you travel by rail you can also get a combined train and ticket offer with National Rail.

Drayton Manor, Staffordshire

The nearest railway station is Tamworth (approximately 3 miles away).

Acorn Taxi's are located outside Tamworth Railway Station and offer up to 8 seaters. Alternatively, you can catch the Arriva 110 bus from Corporation Street in the town centre. Leave the bus at 'The Square' island in Fazeley and take the 30 minute walk to the entrance of the park.

Fantasy Island, Skegness

Travel along the Poacher Line to reach Skegness Railway Station. From here catch a Stagecoach East Midlands bus 3 that will take you straight to the action within 30 minutes.

Flamingo Land, Malton

Take the train to Malton Railway Station.

From here cross the road to Malton Bus Station and catch the Coastliner Bus that takes you straight to the park entrance.

Paultons Park, Hampshire

The park is located a short bus ride away from Southampton Central Railway Station, easily accessible from London Waterloo. From the station, catch the X7 bus that will take around 10 to 15 minutes to get to the park.

Thorpe Park, Staines

Regular South Western Railway run from London Waterloo direct to Staines Railway Station, which is the recommended railway station for travelling to Thorpe Park Resort.

From Staines Railway Station, catch the 950 Express Bus, running every 15-20 minutes, straight to the park.

*Please note all the information provided is correct at date of publishing. We strongly advise you to double-check opening and travel times and check for disruptions to your journey before setting off.