UK theme park enthusiasts have a thrilling year ahead, with several major parks introducing new rides and themed areas in 2026. From adrenaline-pumping coasters to family-friendly attractions based on popular children's shows, there is plenty to look forward to.
Paultons Park will open Valgard: Realm of the Vikings on May 16, featuring three Viking-themed rides. The highlight is Drakon, the park's first inverting rollercoaster with a dramatic vertical lift. Other rides include Vild Swing, which propels riders 39ft into the air, and Raven, a revamped bobsled coaster. The area also includes a Viking-themed playground and dining hall.
Chessington's World of PAW Patrol is set to open in spring 2026, though an exact date has not been announced. The area will feature four attractions: Chase's Mountain Mission, Skye's Helicopter Heroes, Marshall's Firetruck Rescue, and Zuma's Hovercraft Adventure, touted as the first of its kind in the UK. Rubble and Rocky's Playzone will offer climbing and sliding fun, and meet-and-greets with the pups will be available. Guests can also book PAW Patrol-themed rooms at the Azteca hotel.
Alton Towers will launch Bluey the Ride: Here Come The Grannies! on March 28, the world's first Bluey roller coaster. Suitable for young children, the ride is set in the Heelers' back garden and features Bluey and Bingo dressed as grannies. Additional Bluey rooms are being added to the CBeebies Land hotel. Thrill-seekers can also enjoy the Toxicator, a neon-green coaster that opened last March.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach will unveil Aviktas, a £8.72 million gyro swing ride, in spring 2026. Standing at 138ft, it will be the tallest of its kind in the UK. The park also celebrates its 130-year anniversary in 2026, with half-price tickets available online in March at £30 each, or four tickets for £100.
Crealy will introduce two new rides in 2026. Pirates' Plummet, an 80ft tall drop tower, will open in spring and become the South West's tallest ride. It was previously located at Paultons Park, where it was known as Magma. In summer, Rotor, an inverting air race ride, will debut.
