The Adventure Journal
Sharing our journey through theme parks, attractions, holidays and
family fun across the UK and beyond.
2025
November 2025
Check out our most recent video...
Extraordinary Golf at Alton Towers
A Fun Throwback Adventure
Alton Towers Fireworks 2025
Weekday vs Weekend - Queues & Crowds Compared
On our latest visit to Alton Towers, we took some time away from the rides to enjoy one of our favourite side attractions, Extraordinary Golf. It’s a brilliant crazy golf course that’s packed with nostalgia, themed around iconic Alton Towers rides both old and new. Every hole brings back memories, from classics that aren’t around anymore to the big names that define the park today. The theming is clever, colourful, and instantly recognisable, and it’s one of those activities that never feels rushed. Gio was in his element, showing off his putting skills and taking on each hole with full confidence. It’s a great reminder that Alton Towers has so much more to offer than just the coasters! Sometimes it’s the smaller, relaxed experiences that end up being the most memorable. Extraordinary Golf is the perfect family activity: fun, affordable, easygoing, and full of character. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day in the park or making it the main event, it’s always worth the stop. We loved every minute and will definitely be back for another round!
The Alton Towers Fireworks is always one of our favourite events of the year and once again, it did not disappoint! This time, we decided to visit on both Friday and Saturday to compare the two days. We wanted to see which offered the best experience in terms of queues, crowds, and overall atmosphere. Friday felt much more relaxed, with noticeably shorter queues and a calmer vibe — perfect for getting on more rides. Saturday, however, brought that classic weekend energy: busier, louder, and bursting with excitement. The fireworks themselves were stunning both nights, with amazing music and effects. A highlight of the weekend was when Gio finally met Digital Dan, a friend of Hush Hush, which made the event even more memorable! Both days had their perks, Friday for smoother ride times, Saturday for unbeatable atmosphere. Either way, Alton Towers once again proved why its fireworks are one of the best theme park events in the UK.
October 2025
A Week in Poland
Our Stay at the Krakow Express Hotel
During our recent trip to Poland we stayed at the Krakow Express Hotel, a budget-friendly option that gave us everything we needed for a comfortable few nights in this beautiful city. We’ve also filmed a full video tour and review of the hotel, which you can watch above! The hotel is conveniently located, making it a great base for exploring Krakow. Check-in was straightforward, and the staff were welcoming and helpful. The lobby and communal areas were simple but clean, matching the hotel’s budget-friendly vibe. Our room was compact but had everything we needed, a comfortable bed, a good shower, and a TV to wind down in the evenings. It’s not the most luxurious stay you’ll find in Krakow, but for the price, we felt it offered good value. There were a few small things that could be improved, some fixtures felt a little dated but overall it was clean, functional, and ideal for a short break or city stopover. We genuinely enjoyed our time at the Krakow Express Hotel. It gave us a comfortable base to rest between exploring Krakow’s old town, Wawel Castle, and the nearby attractions. Sometimes you just need a hotel that does the basics well and this one delivered exactly that. If you’re looking for a good budget hotel in Krakow, the Express Hotel is worth considering. It’s not perfect, but for travellers who value location and affordability over luxury, it’s a solid choice.
Exploring Krakow by Car
Food, History & Incredible Views!
Our Kraków adventure took us across one of Poland’s most beautiful cities with the freedom of a hire car. We spent the day uncovering everything from hidden gems to iconic landmarks, starting in the heart of the Old Town, a place packed with character, history, and stunning architecture at every turn. Food was a huge highlight of the trip. From traditional Polish dishes to modern street eats, Kraków delivered flavours that completely exceeded expectations. Every stop felt like a new discovery, and the city’s vibrant atmosphere made it even better. To top it all off, we took to the skies on the Kraków Eye for breathtaking views over the river and skyline, the perfect way to see the city from a whole new angle.
Energylandia
Polands Ultimate Theme Park Adventure!
Our trip to Energylandia was nothing short of incredible! Three days packed with thrills, laughter and unforgettable memories. From the moment we arrived, the friendly staff made us feel welcome and set the tone for an amazing experience. There was hardly any language barrier as most staff spoke good English. We spent hours enjoying some of Europes best rides, including Bens new number 1 roller coaster, Zadra, which truly blew us away with its speed and intensity. Between rides, we tucked into great tasting food including a stone baked pizza that was surprisingly affordable, adding even more enjoyment to the day. The prices across the park were fair, especially considering the world-class attractions on offer, and we were constantly impressed by how clean and well run everything was. Beyond the rides we met lovely people, both staff and fellow visitors which made the whole trip even more special. Overall, our three day adventure at Energylandia was the perfect mix of excitement, good food, friendly faces, and fantastic value! A destination we'd recommend to anyone looking for a theme park getaway.
A Sunny Family Day at Chester Zoo
Our day at Chester zoo was absolutely lovely, the perfect sunny family outing filled with smiles, wildlife and relaxation. It was heart-warming to see how well the animals are cared for, each in thoughtfully designed enclosures that offer a good amount of space for them to thrive. We were especially excited to explore the new Heart of Africa area, which gave us a closer look at some truly beautiful species in a vibrant, immersive setting. The Bats, penguins and Giraffes easily stole the show, providing lots of laughter and many photo worthy moments. Throughout the day the staff were knowledgeable, friendly and helpful, making our visit smooth and enjoyable. With fair prices across food, tickets and souvenirs, it felt like great value for such a special experience. Overall, our sunny day at Chester Zoo was a perfect family escape -- relaxing, educational, and full of unforgettable encounters with nature.
Alton Towers Scarefest 2025
Quite Possibly the UK's Best Halloween Event!
Our visit to Alton Towers Scarefest this year was an unforgettable experience from start to finish! We were lucky enough to have VIP passes, allowing us to capture and share exclusive content with our viewers and what a day it was. We braved all of the scare mazes, each one packed with immersive sets, top-tier actors, and just the right amount of terror. Between scares, we made the most of the rides, including after dark, which added an extra layer of atmosphere to the Halloween magic! There's truly nothing like flying through the night on your favourite coaster with the eerie glow of the park around you. The Halloween theming this year was incredible, with spooky decorations, live entertainment, and plenty of photo ops throughout the park. We even bumped into some friends along the way, making the day even more special. It's clear that Alton Towers have really stepped up their game, and we honestly think this could be the best Halloween event in the UK right now. A perfect mix of thrills, frights and festive fun.
September 2025
Gio's FIRST BIG COASTER EXPERIENCE
A Moment We Will Never Forget
This video marks a truly special milestone, Gio’s first big coaster experience! For years, he’s watched in awe as the older ones raced through loops and drops, always waiting patiently and cheering us on from the sidelines while we rode for both fun and content. His patience and excitement have built up to this exact moment and it was finally his turn to dive into the thrilling world of roller coasters. From the very first drop, it was clear he takes after his dad, absolutely loving every twist, turn, and burst of adrenaline. The highlight? Watching him ride The Smiler, the world-record-breaking 14-inversion coaster, with his hands up the entire time and the biggest grin on his face. It was one of those days we’ll never forget, a mix of pride, joy, and pure excitement. Seeing Gio laugh, smile, and finally share in the magic that’s brought us so many memories was truly unforgettable.
Manchester Airport T2 Meet & Greet
The perfect start and end to our trip!
Our Meet & Greet experience at Manchester Airport Terminal 2 was the ideal way to begin and end our holiday. The process was quick, cost-effective, and completely stress-free, taking all the hassle out of airport travel. We simply dropped off the car, handed over the keys, and walked straight into the terminal, no buses, no waiting around, and no fuss. After long flights, it was such a relief to return to find our car safe, secure, and well looked after in their monitored car park. The best part? It cost far less than a taxi and was priced similarly to other local car parks, making it excellent value for the convenience it offers. We’d definitely use Manchester Airport’s Meet & Greet again, it made the start and end of our trip smooth, simple, and worry-free.
August 2025
Aegean View Hotel - Kos
A Fantastic Holiday in the Sun
Our stay at the Aegean View Hotel in Kos, Greece, was nothing short of amazing! A perfect mix of sunshine, relaxation, and family fun. The hotel complex was beautifully laid out with multiple pools spread throughout, meaning there was always somewhere peaceful to unwind or splash about. Gio absolutely loved the water slides, while we enjoyed the lovely food, friendly atmosphere, and stunning views overlooking the Aegean Sea and the coast of Turkey. One of the highlights was the free shuttle service provided by the hotel, which made it so easy to explore Kos Town and even enjoy a bit of snorkelling along the coastline. What really stood out was how great the value was, it was one of the more affordable options when comparing holidays, yet it never felt that way. From start to finish, we had an amazing holiday that offered comfort, fun, and memories we’ll treasure for years to come.
Nemesis Reborn - Alton Towers
Exclusive On-Ride Footage
I was thrilled to be invited to Alton Towers to capture exclusive footage of the newly reimagined Nemesis Reborn, including on-ride filming that truly brings the experience to life. I was able to record both a front-facing POV showing every twist and inversion of the track, and a rider-cam POV capturing every reaction as the intensity kicked in. Nemesis has always been my favourite ride at Alton Towers, and honestly, it remains my favourite ride in the entire UK. There’s something incredibly special about it! From its unique setting, winding through the alien landscape of Forbidden Valley, to its relentless speed and force that keeps your adrenaline pumping from start to finish. It’s smooth, intense, and absolutely not for the faint-hearted. Being able to document and share this experience was a real privilege, and this version of Nemesis truly lives up to and even surpasses its legendary reputation.
July 2025
Duden Waterfalls - Turkey
A Breathtaking Family Adventure
Our visit to the Düden Waterfalls was one of the highlights of our trip to Turkey, a truly breathtaking day surrounded by natural beauty. We joined an arranged tour bus that took us to see both the lower and upper waterfalls, each offering something completely different but equally stunning. The Lower Düden Waterfall, where the powerful cascade plunges directly into the sea, was absolutely mesmerising! With panoramic views across the coastline that were simply unforgettable. From there, we travelled up the river to explore the Upper Düden Waterfalls, which offered a more tranquil, lush setting. To reach the falls, we walked down stone steps and through a majestic cave system, passing bat caves along the way before emerging to the sight and sound of the falls themselves, a moment that felt magical. It was another lovely family day in Turkey, filled with wonder and exploration, and one we’d definitely recommend to anyone visiting the region.
Alton Towers
A Busy but Brilliant Summer Day
Our summer visit to Alton Towers was everything you’d expect from one of the park’s busiest times of the year, long queues, and plenty of sunshine! With queue times reaching up to 90 minutes, it was definitely a full-on day, but I was lucky enough to be gifted Fastrack passes by the park, which made the experience much smoother and allowed me to capture great content throughout the day. Even with the passes, I always make sure to show viewers the real queue times and sometimes even join the main lines to give an honest look at the guest experience. I managed to get on some of my favourite rides, enjoy the atmosphere, and soak up the summer vibes around the park. One highlight was finally seeing the Skyride open again after being closed for a couple of years for maintenance, a small thing that made the day feel extra special. All in all, it was a lovely day in the sun at one of my favourite places, proving that even on the busiest days, Alton Towers still delivers an amazing experience.
June 2025
Antalya Boat Trip
Sailing from the Historic Port of Antalya
Our boat trip in Antalya was a truly peaceful and unforgettable experience, offering a whole new perspective of this beautiful region. We set sail from the historic port, surrounded by stunning old architecture and the gentle sound of atmospheric music playing as we drifted out to sea. The moment we left the harbour, the scenery opened up into something spectacular, calm waters, bright skies, and breathtaking views across the coastline. One of the highlights was seeing the Düden Waterfalls from the sea, watching the powerful cascade tumble dramatically over the cliffs into the Mediterranean. It was a beautifully tranquil journey, the perfect mix of relaxation and discovery, and such a lovely way to see Antalya from another perspective.
May 2025
Sensitive Premium 5-Star Hotel - Belek
Luxury, Comfort and Relaxation in the Turkish Sun
Our stay at the Sensitive Premium 5-Star Hotel in Belek, Turkey, was everything we could have hoped for and more. From the moment we arrived, we were impressed by the beautiful design, friendly atmosphere, and attention to detail throughout the resort. The food was fantastic, with plenty of choice each day, and the pool area was the perfect place to unwind under the sun. The hotel also offered amazing facilities, including Turkish baths, a steam room, and a sauna, giving that perfect touch of luxury and relaxation. On site, there were shops selling snacks, souvenirs, clothing, and even a hairdresser, which made everything super convenient. Our room was comfortable, spotless, and offered lovely views overlooking the pool and mountains in the distance. One of the highlights was the private beach, easily reached by the hotel’s free shuttle service, where we spent some peaceful afternoons by the sea. With plenty of evening entertainment and a welcoming atmosphere, this was a holiday we absolutely loved! A perfect blend of comfort, fun, and five-star service from start to finish.
The Land of Legends
A Day of Thrills & Sunshine in Turkey
Our visit to The Land of Legends was nothing short of incredible! A full day packed with world-class rides, sunshine, and laughter. We split our time between the thrilling theme park and the awesome waterpark, which was the perfect way to cool off under the hot Turkish sun. One of the highlights of the day was experiencing our first-ever water coaster, a mix of high-speed thrills and refreshing splashes that left us all grinning from ear to ear. It was also a special day for Gio, who braved his first hyper coaster and absolutely loved every second of it! The combination of adrenaline, fun, and summer vibes made this a day we’ll never forget. The Land of Legends truly lives up to its name! A must-visit for any thrill-seeking family looking for the ultimate mix of rides, water, and unforgettable memories.
March 2025
Toxicator VIP Preview - Alton Towers
New Thrill Ride for 2025
We were incredibly lucky to be invited to the VIP preview event for Toxicator, the brand-new Huss Top Spin ride at Alton Towers. As a long-time fan of its predecessor Ripsaw, this was a special moment! Ripsaw was always one of those iconic “filler rides” that added so much character to the park, and it’s amazing to see a modern, adrenaline-fuelled successor take its place. The event itself was fantastic from start to finish. We were treated to a sneak peek at the brand-new 2025 food menu, received a goody bag full of exclusive merchandise, and even had the incredible opportunity to film on ride, capturing both front-facing and rider-cam POVs to share with our viewers. Being one of the first to ride Toxicator was a surreal and unforgettable experience! The perfect blend of nostalgia and excitement. The ride delivers intense spins, powerful flips, and that unmistakable Top Spin thrill that’s been missing from the park for years. I’ll always be grateful to Alton Towers for including us in these special events and giving us the chance to share exclusive first-look content with everyone who follows our journey. This was definitely a day and a ride I’ll treasure for a long time.
February 2025
Zip World Quarry Karts
Slate, Speed and Stunning views in North Wales
Our trip to Zip World Quarry Karts at Penrhyn Quarry in Bethesda was an incredible mix of fun, skill, and scenery. This unique experience takes you down a winding slate track through the old quarry, offering something totally different from your typical adventure day. While the karts aren’t super fast and can be quite slow in places, certain sections really test your control and confidence, if you’re brave enough to push the speed a little! The views from the top of the quarry were absolutely breathtaking, with the rugged Welsh landscape stretching out in every direction. The adventure begins with a ride up to the top in old military-style trucks, which adds to the excitement before the real fun begins. You even get two runs down the track, so you can take it steady first and go for speed on the second. The staff were friendly and professional, making sure everything ran smoothly and safely. We had such a great time! Just remember to wrap up warm, as it can get pretty chilly in the winter months up there! Overall, Zip World Quarry Karts is an awesome, one-of-a-kind experience that combines adventure, skill, and the stunning beauty of North Wales.
Zip World Sky Swing
Big Thrills in the Heart of Zip Forest
Our trip to Zip World’s Sky Swing in North Wales was another fantastic adventure! Set within Zip Forest, home to rides like the Forest Coaster, this giant swing takes a simple concept and turns it into something truly thrilling. Much like a park swing but on a massive scale, it gives an incredible rush as you drop and soar through the trees. It was also a special day for Gio, who had his first go on the Forest Coaster! He loved every twist and turn, smiling all the way down! Between his ride and the Sky Swing, it was a perfect mix of family fun and adrenaline. The Sky Swing is a brilliant addition to the Zip World line-up, offering big thrills and beautiful forest views, proof that North Wales is one of the best places in the UK for adventure seekers.
