Festive opening is a first for Towers
THEME Park Alton Towers is opening attractions to the public in the run-up to Christmas.
The move, the first of its kind, has prompted speculation that the resort, which has already announced plans to extend its season, could soon open all year round.
Fifteen new employees have been taken on as the resort is transformed into a winter wonderland for three Santa days.
The new Sharkbait Reef by Sea Life aquarium and children's rides will be among the attractions to open.
Grottos have also been built at the Moorlands attraction and youngsters will get the chance to meet Santa and his reindeer.
The move has been welcomed by theme park enthusiasts.
Dan Ketteringham, a 24-year-old marketing assistant, from Wrexham, said: "I think it is a good thing and a further step to Alton Towers opening all year.
"It is a positive move for visitors, the local economy and bed and breakfast businesses.
"It would be great if the roller coasters were operating, but I accept they have to close at some stage for maintenance.
"I have a six-year-old nephew and he would enjoy this."
Dennis Power, landlord of the Blacksmiths Arms in Alton, said: "Anything which brings business in for bed and breakfast businesses and pubs in Alton in the run-up to Christmas is to be welcomed, especially in this current economic climate."
Local councillor Tony Moult said: "We were aware that Alton Towers had put in a planning application for some Santa grottos so we were anticipating something.
"There are normally activities at the hotels over Christmas. I don't think it will create a lot of extra traffic. I would not be surprised if they eventually opened all year round. But they are quite restricted with what they can do. The weather has a lot to do with it."
An Alton Towers spokesman said: "It is the first time we have ever opened a selection of the theme park rides over Christmas. They will be exclusively for hotel lunch guests.
"We have day packages available, which include a traditional Christmas lunch, access to the rides and attractions, and a visit to Santa in his secret hideaway grotto and his reindeer.
"The attractions open include Sharkbait Reef by Sea Life, Berry Bish Bash, Riverbank Eye-Spy, Old MacDonald's Tractor Ride, Doodle-Doo Derby, Old MacDonald's Singing Barn, Dung Heap, Marauders Mayhem and Heave Ho."
The Santa Lunch Days are on Sunday, November 29, Sunday, December 6 and December 13.
The resort is also offering hotel packages over Christmas and the New Year, including Santa Sleepovers.
Reservations for the Santa Lunch Days must be made by telephone on 0871 222 6693. Tickets are £29.50 for adults and £21.50 for children.
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4 Comments
by caz, stoke
Wednesday, November 25 2009, 11:23AM
“Hoped they asked Mr Ropers permission!!!”
by what'supduck, UK
Tuesday, November 24 2009, 12:11PM
“Considering we are in a ression their prices are way too high. Plus the lunch is a just the same as a well known brand of ready meal, not as warm and 9.5 times more expensive.”
by John, Staffs
Saturday, November 21 2009, 4:56PM
“Of course Alton Towers is a business, but I agree, the price is way too high for what's on offer. You are looking at £120 for an average family for lunch and a few rides!!!! Total rippoff!!!”
by Dave, Newcastle
Friday, November 20 2009, 4:35PM
“I think the ticket prices are too high considering the big white knuckle rides won't be open. This is intended to attract families so they should set a more family friendly admission price!”