One of the leading theme parks in the UK, Thorpe Park is focused almost exclusively on thrill rides. Its major rollercoasters include Colossus (the world's first rollercoaster to feature 10 inversions), Stealth (which accelerates from 0-80mph in 1.8 seconds) and SAW - The Ride (which includes the steepest free fall drop in the world). It is also home to a number of intense flat rides and an assortment of water rides, including the UK's tallest log flume (Loggers Leap).

History: Thorpe Park was first opened in 1979, on the site of a former gravel quarry which had been flooded by its owners to create an educational water park. Few links remain to this era besides the park's selection of water rides and its large lake. Instead, owners The Tussauds Group (taken over by Merlin Entertainsment Group in 2007) have opted to transform the park into a thrill-seeker's paradise. The park has seen major investment since 2002 with installation of 4 major rollercoasters, and the addition of several attractions moved from nearby Chessington World of Adventures (which is also owned by Merlin and now caters for families).

Further info: Don't miss our verdict on Thorpe Park's latest addition, in our review of the SAW Alive Horror Maze.