Chessington World Of Adventures Summer Festival!

Whether you’re a first-time festival-goer or a seasoned veteran, the new Summer Festival has something for all ages and is packed with fun that the whole family will enjoy.

We kicked things off with the silent disco, which was a blast. The entertainers were full of energy and kept dancing until the very end. It was great fun to follow different dancers and switch between songs on our headsets. Next, we watched Seatopia. It was fantastic to see the performers in colourful costumes dressed as sea creatures. They all sang beautifully, and the younger kids in the audience had a wonderful time. Finally, we checked out the DJ battle, which was very entertaining. At the end, the children were sprayed with foam, and even the quiet ones at the back rushed forward to join in.

Here’s a glimpse of what a typical day might look like:

Arrival and Entry:

• Arrive early to make the most of your day. The park opens around 10 AM.
• Collect a map at the entrance to plan your visit and check the schedule for animal feedings and shows.

Animal Encounters:

• Participate in animal feeding sessions and talks. These sessions are informative and allow for closer interaction with the animals.

Lunch Break:

• There are various dining options within the park, from quick snacks to full meals. Try the Safari Hotel restaurant or grab a quick bite at one of the many kiosks.

Interactive Experiences:

• Visit the Children’s Zoo where kids can interact with farm animals like goats, sheep, and chickens.
• Head to the Wanyama Village & Reserve for a mini-safari experience with zebras, antelopes, and ostriches.

Shows and Presentations:

• Catch the daily shows like the Birds of Prey display or the Sea Lion show. These are not only entertaining but also educational.

Chessington World of Adventures Resort is located in Surrey, about 35 minutes by car from Richmond. We left in the morning and were fortunate not to encounter any traffic.

Rides and Attractions:

Thrill Rides:

• Vampire: A thrilling suspended roller coaster that soars through the treetops.
• Dragon’s Fury: A spinning roller coaster with unexpected twists and turns.
• Kobra: A high-speed spinning disc ride that provides an adrenaline rush.

Family Rides:

• Gruffalo River Ride Adventure: A gentle boat ride based on the popular children’s book, offering enchanting scenes and animatronics.
• Tomb Blaster: An interactive dark ride where guests use laser guns to defeat mummies and other creatures.
• Scorpion Express: A family-friendly roller coaster with fun theming and mild thrills.

Water Rides:

• Tiger Rock: A log flume ride that combines a splashdown with views of the tiger enclosure.
• River Rafts: A gentle river ride perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

Themed Areas:

Wild Asia:

• Explore the jungle-themed area with rides like Kobra and family attractions such as the Tuk Tuk Turmoil bumper cars.

Mexicana:

• Experience the Wild West with rides like Rattlesnake, a wild mouse roller coaster, and the Scorpion Express.

Land of the Dragons:

• A fantastical area with rides and play areas designed for younger children, including the Dragon’s Playhouse and Dragon’s Fury.

Animal Experiences:

• ZUFARI: Ride into Africa: A safari truck adventure that takes you close to giraffes, zebras, and rhinos in a recreated African savannah.
• SEA LIFE Centre: An aquarium within the park that features a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and seahorses.

Shows and Entertainment:

• Daily Shows: Enjoy entertaining and educational shows such as the Sea Lion Show, the Birds of Prey display, and various animal talks throughout the day.

Dining and Shopping:

Dining Options:

• The park offers a variety of food options, from quick snacks to sit-down meals. We opted for the burger restaurant, which was delicious but pricey, with each meal costing around £14.75.

Shopping:

• Several gift shops throughout the park sell souvenirs, toys, and memorabilia. The Chessington Shop offers a wide range of merchandise to remember your visit.

Tips for a Great Visit:

• Arrive Early: To make the most of your day and avoid long queues.
• Check Ride Height Restrictions: Ensure everyone in your group meets the height requirements for specific rides.
• Use Fast Track: Consider purchasing a Fast Track pass to skip the queues on popular rides.
• Stay Hydrated and Wear Sunscreen.
• Plan for Weather: Bring appropriate clothing for the day’s weather, as many attractions are outdoors.

For those who love water rides but forget to bring a change of clothes, the park has walk-in dryers available. The dryer costs £4 and lasts around 5 minutes, fitting up to 4 people.

Chessington Theme Park offers a blend of exciting rides, animal encounters, and family-friendly entertainment, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.