First trip in over 7 years. Boy, am I impressed
I know those who go frequently may disagree, but I just got back from a 2 day visit after 7 years, and I am beyond impressed. I don't just mean the obvious new addition since then in Hyperia, which was stunning - but the park overall.
I was unsure what to expect - 7 years ago, I wasn't massively impressed with operations, condition of the park overall, etc. But I really wanted to try out Hyperia, and my partner now loves theme parks and had never been, so it seemed a no-brainer to get the hotel plus the Annual Pass deal back in January.
So our stay in the Cabins finally rolled round (basic, but I think the value for money was fantastic personally), and we spent Monday and today in the park. Sure, it was the beginning of the week, so it was bound to be quiet, but I'm amazed at operations :
Two trains on everything that had two trains.
Barely any downtime, and whatever was down, came up quickly.
Fastest dispatch times I've ever seen. I timed Hyperia at 22 seconds from unload to leaving the station.
Virtually no graffiti.
Friendly staff (in the main).
The place looked and felt taken care of.
Working effects!
Honestly, after my 3 visits to Alton Towers this year so far - I'd rather travel the extra 3 hours and visit Thorpe Park. Whatever Thorpe Park are doing, Merlin need to spread it around.
And if you're staff on here - thank you for an amazing couple of days!