Alton Towers: Coaster History at England's Most Famous Park

We gave Alton Towers, England's most famous theme park, a full two days, and it earned every minute. Set in the grounds of a grand ruined manor house and its historic gardens, the park is a legend of the industry, home to groundbreaking rides like Nemesis, Oblivion, and Air. Simply being there felt like stepping into coaster history.

We stayed on-site at the Splash Landings Hotel, part of the resort, with its Caribbean theme and the Cariba Creek water park right next door. Basing ourselves there meant we could soak up the atmosphere well into the evening and be back at the gates first thing in the morning, giving us time to enjoy both the big thrill machines and the beautiful gardens that make Alton Towers unlike anywhere else.