Here are ten interesting facts about roller coasters in the UK.
1. Oldest Operating Roller Coaster:
- The UK’s oldest operating roller coaster is the Scenic Railway at Dreamland Margate, which opened in 1920. It is one of only eight scenic railways in the world and is a listed structure.
2. Tallest Roller Coaster:
- The tallest roller coaster in the UK is Hyperia at Thorpe Park, standing at 236ft.
3. First Inverted Roller Coaster:
- The UK’s first inverted roller coaster is Nemesis at Alton Towers, which opened in 1994. It features a unique terrain-hugging layout and remains one of the most popular rides in the park.
4. Fastest Roller Coaster:
- The fastest roller coaster in the UK is Hyperia at Thorpe Park, which reaches speeds of 81mph.
5. World’s First Vertical Drop Roller Coaster:
- Alton Towers is home to Oblivion, the world’s first vertical drop roller coaster, which opened in 1998. It features a 180-foot (55 meters) drop at a 87.5-degree angle.
6. Longest Roller Coaster:
- The longest roller coaster in the UK is The Big One at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, with a track length of 5,497 feet (1,676 meters).
7. First Wooden Roller Coaster in 21st Century:
- Wicker Man at Alton Towers, which opened in 2018, is the UK’s first wooden roller coaster to be built in over 20 years. It features a large Wicker Man structure that appears to burst into flames as the train passes through.
8. Unique Water Coaster:
- Blackpool Pleasure Beach features Valhalla, one of the world’s largest and most elaborate water rides. While not a traditional roller coaster, it includes coaster-like elements and is known for its extensive theming and special effects.
9. Record for Most Inversions:
- Colossus at Thorpe Park held the world record for the most inversions (10) when it opened in 2002. The record has since been surpassed with the opening of The Smiler at Alton Towers, but Colossus still remains a popular ride for thrill-seekers.
10. Indoor Roller Coaster:
- The UK’s largest indoor roller coaster is X at Thorpe Park. Originally an outdoor ride, it was enclosed and themed as a nightclub experience, with synchronized lights and music, before being re-themed to The Walking Dead: The Ride in 2018.
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