Chessington World of Adventures
Experience a day out that keeps the whole family entertained at Chessington World of Adventures. From roller coasters to animal encounters, there is plenty to keep children engaged. The mix of fast paced rides and calmer experiences helps the day feel relaxed rather than rushed. With accommodation on site, the fun does not have to end after one day.
Theme Park - Rides & Attractions
Chessington’s theme park offers a broad mix of thrill rides, family attractions, and gentle experiences spread across its themed lands, making it easy to plan a balanced day. Height restrictions vary by ride and are clearly signposted, which helps families and groups decide what works for everyone in advance. Beyond the headline coasters, there are plenty of supporting rides that add variety and help break up the day. Some of the major rides and attractions include:
- Mandrill Mayhem: A launched coaster in the World of Jumanji featuring quick acceleration, twists, and airtime moments, with a minimum height of around 4.3 feet, aimed at confident older children and adults seeking a high energy ride.
- Dragon’s Fury: A spinning coaster where the cars rotate freely, delivering different ride experiences each time, suitable for riders approximately 4 feet and above who enjoy speed and unpredictability.
- Vampire: A suspended ride that sweeps through the treetops with swinging motion and drops, open to riders from about 3.6 feet, making it a popular choice for younger thrill seekers.
- Croc Drop: A drop tower style ride offering multiple drops and strong weightless moments, with a height requirement of roughly 4 feet, ideal for those wanting a short but intense thrill.
- Gruffalo River Ride Adventure: A slow paced boat ride bringing the story to life through themed scenes, with no minimum height but requiring young children to ride with an adult.
- Tiger Rock: A log flume style water ride with a significant final drop and themed jungle setting, suitable for riders around 3.6 feet and above, adding a classic splash ride to the line up.
- Room on the Broom A Magical Journey: An indoor flying themed attraction designed for younger visitors, with no height requirement when accompanied by an adult, offering a calmer and imaginative experience.
- KOBRA: A pendulum ride that swings riders high into the air while rotating, with a minimum height of approximately 4.3 feet, aimed at thrill seekers who enjoy strong motion.
- Blue Barnacle: A rocking pirate ship that increases in height over time, accessible from around 3.6 feet, making it a good stepping stone between gentle and more intense rides.
Zoo & SEA LIFE Experiences
Chessington combines a traditional zoo with a walk through SEA LIFE experience, creating a space where land and sea animals sit side by side. Visitors can see everything from towering giraffes to sharks and rays without leaving the park. These areas offer a quieter contrast to the theme park atmosphere. Some of the zoo experiences include:
- Trail of the Kings animal area: A walk through habitat featuring lions and other big cats, with raised viewing areas and informative displays, suitable for all ages and ideal for quieter moments in the day.
- Sea Lion Bay: An outdoor arena where sea lions can be seen swimming and interacting during scheduled talks, with step free seating areas and a strong focus on education as well as entertainment.
- Penguin Bay: A spacious enclosure home to Humboldt penguins, designed with underwater viewing sections that let visitors watch their movement and behaviour up close, suitable for all ages.
- SEA LIFE walkthrough aquarium: An immersive indoor experience featuring sharks, rays, and tropical fish, with pushchair friendly walkways and no age restrictions, making it a popular all weather option within the park.
- VIP animal encounters: Bookable experiences that allow small groups to meet and learn about specific animals with expert keepers, usually subject to minimum age requirements and timed slots, offering a more personal and memorable visit.
Where is Chessington World of Adventures located?
Chessington World of Adventures Resort is located at Leatherhead Road, Chessington, Surrey, KT9 2NE, England. Best ways to reach there are:
- By Bus: Local buses such as the 465 from Kingston and the 467 from Epsom run routes to Chessington town centre, requiring a short walk or taxi to the park entrance.
- By Train: Chessington South station is approximately a 10-minute walk from the park, with regular services from London Waterloo and other regional hubs.
- By Car: Enter KT9 2NE into your sat nav and follow signs from the A3 or M25 (junction 9 or 10) - the park is about 12-miles southwest of Central London.
- Car Parking: On-site parking is available close to the resort entrance, making arrival and departure straightforward for families.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the park opening hours?
Chessington World of Adventures has variable opening times depending on the season and specific events. It is recommended to check the official website for opening hours before booking.
Is parking available on site?
On site parking is available for day visitors and can be pre booked online. Guests staying at Chessington Resort Hotels usually have parking included as part of their stay.
What facilities are available inside the park?
The resort offers free Wi-Fi, baby changing and feeding rooms, lockers for storing bags, microwaves in dining areas, and unlimited digital ride photography packages.
Is there a park map available to help with navigation?
A digital park map is available through the official Chessington app, showing ride locations, animal areas, dining options, toilets, and guest services. Signage throughout the park also helps guide visitors between themed lands.
Are height restrictions in place for rides?
Many rides have minimum height requirements for safety reasons, which are clearly displayed at each attraction entrance. Children under a certain height may need to ride with an accompanying adult or may not be able to ride at all.
Are lockers available for bags and personal items?
Lockers are available in selected areas of the park and can be hired for different durations and sizes. These are useful for storing bags, loose items, or ride restricted belongings.
Are there facilities for families with young children?
Baby changing facilities, feeding areas, and pushchair friendly paths are available across the park. Some attractions are designed specifically for younger children and families.
What accessibility support is available for guests with additional needs?
Chessington offers accessibility guidance and a Ride Access Pass scheme for guests who may find standard queues challenging. This service must be arranged in advance and follows specific eligibility criteria.
Are food outlets and rest areas easy to find?
Food outlets, seating areas, and rest zones are spread throughout the park and clearly marked on maps and signage, allowing visitors to take breaks without leaving themed areas.
What happens if a child becomes separated from their group?
Guest Services and trained staff operate procedures to reunite lost children with their groups. Wristbands are available to record contact details as an added precaution.