The World of David Walliams at Alton Towers theme park in Staffordshire has permanently closed, with the attraction shutting its doors today (November 3).
The themed land, which first opened in 2021, featured a dark ride based on Walliams' bestselling children's book Gangsta Granny, alongside children's rides such as Raj's Bouncy Bottom Burp, Flavio's Fabulous Fandango and the Royal Carousel, as well as a themed shop selling merchandise.
Decision after annual review
Theme park owner Merlin Entertainments confirmed the closure in a statement, saying: "As the 2026 peak season at Alton Towers Resort comes to an end and following our regular review of rides and attractions across the resort, we have taken the decision to permanently close the World of David Walliams."
The move followed an annual review into guest experience and operational decisions. The comedian and author has not commented on the development.
Fans react to closure
Fans of the theme park said they were "unsurprised" by the decision, with visitor numbers to the themed land having dwindled and its upkeep falling by the wayside.
One Reddit user commented: "Who's surprised, not me!" Another said: "It would be good if it was changed into Roald Dahl. I remember the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ride from when I was younger, it was great." A third posted: "The land was failing for years, every time I went it was basically abandoned!"
Publisher drops Walliams' books
The closure comes after Walliams' book catalogue was dropped by his publisher, HarperCollins, following allegations that he "harassed" young female staff. The publisher is phasing out physical copies in bookshops and will later remove ebook and audiobook versions.
A spokesperson for Walliams said in December last year: "David has never been informed of any allegations raised against him by HarperCollins. He was not party to any investigation or given any opportunity to answer questions. David strongly denies that he has behaved inappropriately and is taking legal advice."
