First came Thomas … Our love of theme parks, and family trips away, really began ThomasLand and Drayton Manor.
We’re certainly not alone, either.
No doubt, many families will have fond memories of the UK theme park that this year celebrates its 75-year anniversary.
Reaching such an age is some achievement for any business, but creating an enduring success in a UK theme park is especially impressive.
We’ve had many trips to Drayton since our kids were very young, and we returned much more recently, and, if anything, the park appears to be going from strength to strength.
Here, we revisit some of our favourite times at the Staffordshire-located park and look at why it is an attraction that’s close to the hearts of many guests.
75 years and going strong
Drayton Manor Resort has evolved from modest beginnings on the Drayton Manor Estate in 1950 to become the top-tier British family park that we know today.
From the early days of row boats and a petting zoo, to today’s ThomasLand and fun family rollercoasters, Drayton Manor has continued to develop and grow.
For us, a family with a Thomas the Tank Engine-obsessed small child, we visited Drayton Manor numerous times over the years.
Honestly, it is a dream destination for any Thomas fan, young or old. And it’s a pretty wholesome trip for everyone in the family.
ThomasLand itself is very well laid out, with lots to mesmerise and amuse younger guests, without their little legs being walked off.
A number of expansions and ride additions have been made over the years, such as the James and the Red Balloon ride and Sodor Airport, which have ensured that it remains a must-return destination for guests.
The highlight is definitely getting to go on a little journey in carriages pulled by Thomas himself or his friends - what could be better!
As well as the rides in ThomasLand, there are daily entertainment shows featuring Sir Topham Hatt to be enjoyed throughout the day.
And, parents, expect your wallet to take a hit when you visit the largest Thomas the Tank engine shop in the world!
More than ThomasLand
ThomasLand is a big draw to Drayton Manor, and arguably it’s one of the top kids theme park area in the UK.
But, nevertheless, Drayton Manor has so much more to offer.
Drayton Manor has really upped its family coaster/ride offerings in the last few years.
The new Goldrush and updated Wave coasters offer the right amount of thrills whilst remaining family-friendly.
The Viking-themed area with its variety of rides such as the Disk’O Coaster, Thor, is a welcome addition to the park and the theming here is great.
Add these to the park staples such as Stormforce 10 and Maelstrom, and there are hours of fun to be had here.
Drayton Manor also offers a variety of dining options to satisfy even the fussiest of palates.
Whilst some of it is classic theme park fayre such as burgers and pizza, Drayton’s Fish and Chips by the lake is a nice option, especially on a sunny afternoon.
And for a sweet treat, you can indulge in bubble waffles and doughnuts from the Fun Foods kiosk.
Development and expansion
It can only be a positive thing when a theme park continues to expand, evolve and upgrade its facilities, and Drayton Manor has certainly done this over the last few years.
There are still one or two areas in the park that have room for improvement.
Indeed, the mini zoo area, for example, could really do with a little love and either investment or redevelopment - frankly, it’s a huge space, so there’s a lot of scope if the park’s owner Looping Group has the appetite to make big changes.
Also, the Thomas-themed playground and dinosaur exhibition, at the top end of the park, are now showing their age.
That said, the park has had ongoing investment put into it in the last number of years, which is very encouraging, so we’re hopeful that these areas will benefit in the coming years.
Stay at the hotel
If you can, the Drayton Manor stay and play package is highly recommended, especially when visiting with little ones - it really allows you to make the most of your trip.
The hotel itself is well-appointed and just a short stroll from the entrance to the park.
There is a large outdoor adventure play area, and on select dates, you can enjoy a character breakfast and children's entertainment in the evenings.
For a really special visit, there is the option to stay in Viking-themed or wonderful Thomas the Tank engine-themed rooms.
The Drayton Manor Hotel's ‘Stay and Play’ offer gives guests a night at the Drayton Manor hotel and two days theme park entry.
Why it’s one of our favourites
Drayton Manor Resort is an excellent family destination, with a great balance of thrills, excitement and joy for every member of your party.
We have made fantastic family memories here over many years - and, now our little ones aren’t so little it has a good amount of nostalgia too.
For us, it is an absolute must-visit UK theme park for families.
