Chessington Adventure Park Resort, located in Surrey, England, is a premier theme park and zoo offering a unique blend of thrilling rides, captivating attractions, and family-friendly entertainment. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Chessington World of Adventures, including its attractions, dining options, accommodations, and essential tips for a memorable visit.
1. Introduction to Chessington World of Adventures
Chessington World of Adventures is a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. The resort combines the excitement of a theme park with the charm of a zoo, offering something for everyone.
1.1 Overview of the Park
- Location: Situated in Chessington, Surrey, England, approximately 12 miles from Central London.
- Established: Originally opened as Chessington Zoo in 1931 and expanded into a theme park in 1987.
1.2 What to Expect
- Attractions: A mix of thrilling rides, themed areas, and interactive exhibits.
- Zoo: Home to a variety of animals from around the world.
- Entertainment: Shows, live performances, and seasonal events.
2. Themed Areas and Attractions
Chessington World of Adventures is divided into several themed areas, each offering a range of attractions and experiences.
2.1 Adventure Point
- Highlights: Home to popular rides and attractions like the Dragon’s Fury roller coaster and the Vampire ride.
- Family Rides: Features family-friendly attractions such as the Carousel and the Flying Jumbos.
2.2 Wild Asia
- Highlights: A themed area inspired by the cultures and wildlife of Asia.
- Attractions: Includes the Kobra spinning coaster and the Tiger Rock water ride.
- Animal Encounters: Offers opportunities to see Asian animals like tigers and monkeys.
2.3 Land of the Tiger
- Highlights: Dedicated to the majestic Bengal tiger, with a state-of-the-art enclosure.
- Attractions: Features the Tiger Rock log flume and educational exhibits about tiger conservation.
2.4 Gruffalo Kingdom
- Highlights: Based on the beloved children’s book series by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
- Attractions: Includes themed rides such as the Gruffalo River Ride Adventure and the Room on the Broom spinners.
2.5 Sea Life Centre
- Highlights: An aquarium showcasing marine life from around the world.
- Exhibits: Features a range of sea creatures, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish.
- Interactive Displays: Offers educational experiences and interactive touch pools.
2.6 Zoofari
- Highlights: An immersive safari experience featuring a variety of animals.
- Attractions: Includes the Safari Bus and animal encounters with species like giraffes and zebras.
3. Dining and Refreshments
Chessington World of Adventures offers a variety of dining options to suit different tastes and preferences.
3.1 Themed Restaurants
- Dragon’s Grill: Located in Adventure Point, offering a selection of grilled dishes and family meals.
- The Village Restaurant: Located in Wild Asia, serving a range of Asian-inspired cuisine.
3.2 Quick Bites and Snacks
- Snack Stalls: Various locations throughout the park offer snacks such as ice cream, popcorn, and pretzels.
- Food Carts: Convenient carts offering quick bites like hot dogs and sandwiches.
3.3 Picnic Areas
- Designated Areas: Several picnic areas are available for guests who prefer to bring their own food.
- Facilities: Equipped with tables, benches, and waste disposal facilities.
4. Accommodation Options
For guests looking to extend their visit, Chessington World of Adventures offers a range of accommodation options.
4.1 Chessington Safari Hotel
- Features: A themed hotel with rooms decorated in safari and adventure styles.
- Amenities: Includes a restaurant, bar, and family-friendly facilities.
4.2 Chessington Azteca Hotel
- Features: Themed around ancient Aztec culture, with vibrant décor and immersive experiences.
- Amenities: Offers a restaurant, indoor pool, and entertainment options.
4.3 Camping and Glamping
- Options: Enjoy camping or glamping experiences in the park’s dedicated camping area.
- Facilities: Includes modern amenities and themed accommodations.
5. Tips for a Successful Visit
To make the most of your visit to Chessington World of Adventures, consider the following tips:
5.1 Plan Ahead
- Tickets: Purchase tickets in advance to save time and potentially get better rates.
- Park Map: Familiarize yourself with the park map to plan your route and prioritize attractions.
5.2 Arrive Early
- Early Entry: Arrive early to make the most of your day and avoid long queues.
- Parking: Take advantage of the park’s parking facilities and consider arriving early for the best spots.
5.3 Dress Comfortably
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the park.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
5.4 Stay Hydrated and Nourished
- Water: Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Meals: Plan meal breaks to keep energy levels up and avoid long waits at busy dining spots.
5.5 Use the Park’s App
- Features: The park’s app provides real-time updates, maps, and information about attractions and wait times.
- Download: Download the app before your visit to enhance your experience.
6. Special Events and Seasonal Attractions
Chessington World of Adventures hosts various special events and seasonal attractions throughout the year.
6.1 Seasonal Events
- Halloween: Enjoy themed events and scare zones during the Halloween season.
- Christmas: Experience festive decorations, seasonal shows, and special holiday attractions.
6.2 Annual Passes
- Benefits: Consider purchasing an annual pass for unlimited visits, discounts, and exclusive offers.
- Types: Various pass options are available, including single and family passes.
7. Accessibility and Guest Services
Chessington World of Adventures is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible experience for all guests.
7.1 Accessibility Features
- Wheelchair Access: The park is accessible for wheelchair users, with ramps and elevators available.
- Assistive Services: Offers services such as disabled parking, accessible restrooms, and rental of mobility scooters.
7.2 Guest Services
- Information Points: Located throughout the park for assistance and information.
- Lost and Found: Dedicated area for lost items and assistance.
8. Conclusion
Chessington World of Adventures offers a diverse range of attractions, experiences, and accommodations, making it a top destination for families and adventure seekers. By planning ahead, utilizing the park’s amenities, and taking advantage of special events, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable visit. Whether you’re looking for thrilling rides, animal encounters, or simply a fun day out, Chessington World of Adventures has something for everyone.
