The Adventure Journal
Sharing our journey through theme parks, attractions, holidays and
family fun across the UK and beyond.
2024
November 2024
Alton Towers Fireworks
A Magical End to the Season
The Alton Towers Fireworks event is always one of the highlights of our year, and this visit reminded us exactly why. Every November, the park puts on a world-class firework, light and music spectacular that’s unlike anything else in the UK and honestly, it never fails to give us goosebumps. We spent the day jumping on our favourite rides, soaking up the amazing atmosphere and the excitement that builds as evening approaches. As the sun went down and the music kicked in, the sky exploded with colour in perfect sync with the soundtrack! It’s such an emotional and unforgettable experience every single time. What makes it extra special is that you can still ride into the night, then step off and catch the fireworks from some incredible viewing spots around the park. It’s the perfect way to end the season, and we already can’t wait for next year!
October 2024
Haven Skegness
The Perfect Autumn Escape
Our autumn break at Haven Skegness was a little different to the usual summer caravan getaway, but it turned out to be just as special. There’s something peaceful about visiting the seaside once the crowds have gone, quieter walks, crisp sea air, and a slower pace that makes you appreciate it all even more. Our caravan was warm and inviting, the perfect base to unwind after days spent exploring some of our favourite Skegness spots. From bracing beach walks to fish and chips by the seafront, it was the perfect mix of cosy and coastal. Even with cooler weather, there’s still plenty to enjoy at Haven, from the on-site entertainment to relaxing evenings back at the caravan. It was the perfect autumn escape, and a lovely reminder that seaside breaks aren’t just for summer.
Fear Island at Fantasy Island
Halloween Thrills by the Coast
Our visit to Fantasy Island’s Fear Island event was the perfect mix of thrills, atmosphere, and seaside fun. Having tackled the scare mazes in our previous video, this time we took things a little slower, soaking in the spooky vibes and getting back on some of our favourite rides. The whole park transforms for Halloween, with eerie music, themed decorations, and a brilliant atmosphere that makes it feel completely different to a regular visit. We loved wandering through the market, grabbing a few treats, and watching the scares unfold around the park. It was great to experience Fantasy Island in this way, still full of excitement, but with that extra Halloween twist that makes Fear Island such a must-visit autumn event on the coast.
Fear Island at Fantasy Island
VIP Preview - A First Look at the Frights
We were lucky enough to be invited to the VIP preview night of Fear Island at Fantasy Island, and what an incredible evening it was. This special event gave us an exclusive first look at all of the scare mazes before the official opening and they did not disappoint! The park team really went all out, treating guests to delicious food and bubbly as we explored the eerie setting. It was a great opportunity to catch up with friends, share some scares, and soak in the chilling Halloween atmosphere that takes over the park each year. With fog rolling through the pathways and haunting music in the air, Fear Island once again proved why it’s one of the standout Halloween events on the coast. A huge thank you to the team at Fantasy Island for hosting such a fantastic evening! The perfect way to kick off spooky season!
HEX - VIP Reopening Event
The Legend Returns at Alton Towers
We were thrilled to be invited to the VIP reopening event for HEX – The Legend of the Towers at Alton Towers. After being closed for quite some time, this classic attraction has been truly missed by so many! It’s one of those brilliant “filler” rides that ties the whole park experience together. The event gave us an exclusive first look at the refreshed theming and the chance to be among the very first to ride once again. The attention to detail was fantastic, breathing new life into a fan-favourite attraction while keeping the eerie magic that makes HEX so special. We were treated to thoughtful touches throughout the day! From fact sheets and limited-edition pin badges to cakes, sweets, and even fastracks for the rides. It was a lovely gesture from the park and a great way to celebrate the return of such an iconic piece of Alton Towers history. HEX is back… and better than ever!
A huge thank you to the Alton Towers team for the invite and hospitality!
Halloween Farm
Spooky Family Fun in Leicestershire
We were invited down to be among the first to experience this year’s Halloween Farm event and as always, it didn’t disappoint! Set on a picturesque farm in the heart of Leicestershire, this family-friendly event is packed with seasonal fun and spooky surprises that kids absolutely love. Gio had an amazing time exploring the rides, play zones, and kid-friendly scare mazes, all designed to be more fun than frightening. There were free sweets, delicious food trucks, pumpkin picking, a corn maize to get lost in, and even crazy golf for a bit of extra adventure. While Halloween Farm is definitely aimed more at children, there’s plenty for adults to enjoy too! From the festive atmosphere to the beautiful countryside setting. It’s a wholesome, feel-good Halloween experience that brings out the excitement of the season in everyone.
A huge thank you to the team for providing us with admission to the event, access to all the mazes, and treating us to food and drinks throughout our visit! Such a lovely gesture that made the day even more special.
September 2024
Alton Towers Oktoberfest
Rides, Marshmallows and Music
Our latest visit took us back to Alton Towers for their annual Oktoberfest celebration, a lively event that transforms the park into a Bavarian-style festival full of music, food, and family fun. While this is probably our least favourite of the seasonal events, it’s still great to see the park making the effort to create something different for guests to enjoy. The themed decorations, live entertainment, and cheerful atmosphere add a nice touch to the usual park experience. We made the most of the day by jumping on some of our favourite rides! Between rides, we stopped to toast marshmallows over the firepit, which was the perfect autumn treat. We also took some time to check out the Oktoberfest entertainment, with live music and energetic performers bringing that traditional Bavarian vibe to life. Even though it’s not an event we’d rank at the top of our list, it’s always nice to see Alton Towers trying something new and offering fresh reasons to visit outside the main summer season.
Little did we know that this would be the last Oktoberfest event at Alton Towers.
Hotel El Paso
The Perfect PortAventura Stay
We’re looking back and wrapping up our PortAventura adventure series with a full tour of Hotel El Paso, and what a way to finish! This holiday truly stood out as one of our favourites! From the moment we arrived, it had that perfect mix of fun, relaxation, and great hospitality. The pool area was a real highlight, spacious, beautifully designed, and the ideal place to unwind after a day of thrills in the parks. The food didn’t disappoint either, with plenty of choice and something for everyone, whether you wanted a quick bite or a full meal. The staff were fantastic throughout our stay, friendly, helpful, and always adding to that relaxed holiday atmosphere. The rooms were comfortable and well-kept, offering everything we needed for a great night’s rest. Best of all, the hotel’s location couldn’t have been more convenient! Just a short stroll from PortAventura Park, making it super easy to pop back for a break or head straight into the action first thing in the morning. It’s fair to say Hotel El Paso has become a firm favourite of ours, and we honestly can’t wait to return. A brilliant way to end our PortAventura series! Sun, smiles, and a stay that ticked all the boxes.
August 2024
Haven Greenacres
Family Fun by the Sea in Porthmadog
From the moment we arrived, we were impressed by how clean and spacious the site was. Everything felt well looked after, and it was easy to settle in and feel at home. There’s so much space for the kids to explore safely, and the layout of the park made getting around simple and stress-free. One of the highlights was definitely how much there was to keep the kids entertained. Whether it was the on-site activities, play areas, or just running about enjoying the open space, they were always busy and smiling. You simply can’t beat the location, just a stone’s throw from the most beautiful beach. We spent hours walking along the sand, paddling in the sea, and soaking up the peaceful coastal views. It really added something special to the trip and made each day feel like a proper holiday escape. We left Greenacres feeling refreshed and already talking about when we can go back. It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for families looking for fun, comfort, and that classic seaside charm.
Caribe Aquatic Park
Making a Splash in the Sun at PortAventura
Our day at Caribe Aquatic Park was an absolute splash! From the moment we arrived, we were surrounded by vibrant tropical theming! Palm trees, waterfalls, and colourful slides that made it feel like a true island escape. Although it was quite busy during our visit, we still managed to enjoy plenty of the slides and attractions. Whether it was racing down high-speed chutes or relaxing in the lazy river, there was something for everyone to enjoy. We were impressed by the food outlets and dining options throughout the park. There was a great variety to choose from and since our food was included in our hotel stay, it made things even easier, though there are plenty of places where you can pay if you’re visiting just for the day. Overall, Caribe Aquatic Park is a brilliant addition to the PortAventura experience! A tropical paradise that’s perfect for cooling off, having fun, and making family memories under the sun.
July 2024
Visiting PortAventura with Express Passes
Was it Worth it?
Our day at PortAventura was made even better thanks to the Express Passes! These handy passes allowed us to skip the queues on the major rides once, which made a huge difference, especially on a busy day. While there’s an extra cost involved, it’s definitely something worth factoring in if you’re visiting during peak times. In our video, we show exactly how to purchase the passes and break down the costs involved, so you’ll know what to expect before your visit. The Express option saved us a lot of waiting around and gave us more time to explore, ride, and enjoy everything the park has to offer. From adrenaline-filled coasters to immersive themed areas, we made the most of every moment. Overall, we’d say the Express Pass is well worth it if you want to maximise your time at PortAventura, especially on those extra busy days when every minute counts!
Our Evening at Ferrari Land
Conquering Europes Tallest Coaster
Our visit to Ferrari Land at PortAventura World was a unique and unforgettable experience. This park is only open in the evenings, giving it a different atmosphere to the rest of the resort! With lights, energy, and the roar of engines setting the tone for a thrilling night ahead. Ferrari Land is home to Europe’s tallest and fastest roller coaster, Red Force, which dominates the skyline. Standing at over 110 metres tall, it’s an absolute must-do.. but be warned, queues can stretch to two hours or more on busy nights. We made a plan, ran straight to Red Force as soon as the gates opened, and were lucky enough to get on quickly without too long a wait! The park itself is a great mix of rides, attractions, and Ferrari history, showcasing the brand’s legacy and high-speed spirit. From the realistic driving simulators to the sleek Italian theming, it’s a small but exciting park that’s perfect for an evening visit. We had a brilliant time exploring Ferrari Land! It’s definitely one for thrill-seekers and car lovers alike. Just make sure to plan your visit carefully if you want to conquer Red Force more than once!
Waterworld Stoke
Filming on the Slides After Hours
We were thrilled to be invited down to Waterworld in Stoke for their special press event, giving content creators the rare opportunity to film on all the slides and attractions! The atmosphere was incredible, exploring the park after hours made the experience feel extra special. From high-speed slides to relaxing pools, we had an awesome time enjoying everything Waterworld has to offer and capturing some amazing footage along the way. Events like this are a great way to showcase what makes Waterworld such a popular spot for families and thrill-seekers alike. It was the perfect mix of fun, energy, and creativity, and we’re so grateful to have been part of it.
A huge thank you to Waterworld for the invitation and for making it such an enjoyable evening, we can’t wait to visit again soon!
June 2024
Our First Visit to PortAventura
Sunshine, Thrills and Unforgettable Moments!
Our first ever visit to PortAventura World was one to remember! This incredible theme park in Spain is packed with world-class rides, immersive themed areas, and plenty of sunshine! The perfect recipe for an amazing day out. From the moment we stepped through the gates, we were blown away by the park’s atmosphere. The attention to detail in each themed zone makes you feel like you’re travelling the world, from the Mediterranean coast to the wild Far West and the mysterious temples of China. We jumped straight into some of the park’s most iconic rides, including the massive coasters that PortAventura is famous for. The adrenaline rush, the laughter, and the incredible views under the Spanish sun made for an unforgettable first experience. It was also our first time visiting a theme park abroad, which made the day feel extra special. Everything felt new and exciting! Different food, different vibes, and a whole new level of fun. We captured plenty of highlights from our adventure, so be sure to check out the video to see all the action, the atmosphere, and our reactions to some of the park’s biggest rides.
Chessington World of Adventures
A Fun Filled Family Day Out!
We always love returning to Chessington World of Adventures, and this visit was no exception! It’s a park that holds a special place for us, full of charm, fun, and perfect for younger adventurers like Gio. Unlike some of the bigger thrill parks, Chessington is packed with family-friendly rides and attractions, which means Gio can enjoy almost everything without many restrictions. It’s such a joy watching him light up with excitement as he jumps on ride after ride, exploring every themed area with a big smile. The park has that perfect balance of adventure and atmosphere, from wild animal encounters to fun family coasters. Add in the warm sunshine, and it made for a perfect day out together. There’s something really nice about coming back to a park that feels familiar. Chessington continues to deliver great family fun, and seeing Gio have such a fantastic time made the day even more special. We’ve shared all the highlights, laughter, and sunshine moments in our latest video.
May 2024
Alton Towers
A Fun Filled Day with Gio
Our recent trip to Alton Towers was all about enjoying the park through Gio’s eyes! Since he’s under 140cm, there are some big rides he can’t quite get on yet, but that didn’t stop us from having an amazing day. Alton Towers is fantastic for younger visitors, with plenty of rides and attractions perfectly suited for kids under height restrictions. Gio loved exploring the rides he can enjoy, from the coasters to fun family attractions, and seeing his excitement as he hopped from one ride to the next was priceless. Of course, he’s already dreaming about the bigger rides he’ll tackle when he’s taller, but in the meantime, it was wonderful to focus on what he can experience. The park’s themed areas, interactive attractions, and playful atmosphere made the day fly by. There’s something really special about seeing your little one’s confidence grow and watching him experience the magic of a theme park, even with restrictions. Alton Towers continues to deliver fun for all ages, and this trip was no exception.
Thorpe Park
A Comfortable Stay in the Shark Cabins
While I was in the area on a business trip, I decided to try out the Shark Cabins at Thorpe Park. With a competitive price compared to local hotels like Premier Inn, it seemed like a convenient option and I was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable it was! The cabins are cleverly designed, offering all the essentials for a cozy and hassle-free stay. It was a nice change from a typical hotel room, and the unique theme made it a fun experience in itself. The best part? Being so close to the park meant I could enjoy a full day at Thorpe Park the day after I arrived. From thrilling rides to great atmosphere, it was the perfect combination of work and play. If you’re looking for somewhere convenient, comfortable, and just a stone’s throw from the action, the Shark Cabins are a surprisingly great option for both short stays and theme park adventures.
April 2024
Thorpe Park
A Peaceful Day of Thrills
Sometimes the best theme park days are the quiet ones, and my recent visit to Thorpe Park was a perfect example. With fewer crowds, I had the freedom to explore the park at my own pace and ride my favourite attractions as many times as I wanted, pure bliss for any thrill-seeker. Being on my own gave me the flexibility to wander between rides, soak in the atmosphere, and really enjoy everything the park has to offer without the usual rush. Every corner felt like my own little playground! As if the day couldn’t get any better, I was even lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Hyperia testing. Watching a new ride come to life before it officially opens is always exciting and added a unique highlight to my visit. It’s amazing how a quieter day can make a familiar park feel fresh and special again. Sometimes, less really is more especially when it comes to enjoying the thrill of Thorpe Park.
March 2024
Alton Towers
First Ride on the Newly Imagined Nemesis Reborn!
We were so excited to check out Nemesis Reborn on our latest visit to Alton Towers! This newly reimagined version of the iconic coaster brings a fresh twist to a classic, and we couldn’t wait to experience it for the first time. In our latest video, we take you through the rethemed area, sharing our thoughts on the new atmosphere, theming, and details that really make the experience feel special. From the moment you step into the revamped zone, you can see the care and creativity that’s gone into bringing Nemesis back to life. Of course, we couldn’t resist hopping on some of our favourite rides while we were there, making it a full day of thrills and fun. From classic coasters to the reimagined Nemesis, it was a perfect blend of nostalgia and excitement. If you’ve been curious about the rethemed area or are planning your first ride on Nemesis Reborn, our video gives you a full look at what to expect! From the ride experience to the details that make this retheme truly stand out.
