There’s something about arriving at Aston Tower that instantly puts everyone into adventure mode. My husband was already scanning the map like a strategist, my daughter was bouncing with the kind of energy only theme parks can unlock, and I was just happy to be out together, ready for a day that promised a bit of everything.
My first advice is to arrive early. The park opens at 10am, but the car park is rather far from the entrance, and the later you arrive, the more you’ll have to walk. Trust me on that one. It’s not about laziness, but about thinking ahead. At the end of the day, when you’ve already done over twenty thousand steps, the last thing you need is another long walk back to the car. Arrive well before 10am to secure a good parking spot, unless you have VIP access or come by bus, which is a different story.
The Minecraft Event.
Our first stop was the special Minecraft event, which runs until the 28th of August. If, like us, you’re a Minecraft‑enthusiast family, do visit before the mobs escape to another world. It was wonderful watching my daughter step into a world she normally only builds on a screen. Giant blocks, pixel creatures, meet and greet with your fav charaters, little challenges dotted around the area – it felt like walking through her imagination. She was in her element, and as adults, my husband and I loved it too. The main event is opposite the Hex manor, but other themed spots are scattered around the park for you to find.
Hex – The Legend of the Towers
From bright blocks to dark corridors, Hex was next, literally opposite the Minecraft event. What I really like about it is the legend behind the attraction (I won’t spoil it for you), and the fact that the whole experience takes place inside an actual historic manor. Real walls, real atmosphere, and for that alone it’s a must‑do. Be brave and go in.
Gardens and Gentle Wandering
The gardens were the perfect reset. Calm paths, pretty corners, and that feeling of being able to breathe again after the theatrics of the manor. I absolutely recommend it. I was astonished by the beauty of the place, the vast variety of plants, and the hundreds‑year‑old trees. Victorian‑style buildings are scattered around, holding more exotic plants inside. Although we couldn’t enter, it was a pleasure to admire them from the outside. As the day was warm, the gardens offered plenty of shady spots and fresh ponds to rest your eyes on. We even spotted a heron sitting calmly, waiting for its next catch. A must‑see.
Following the garden steps, we ended up at The Curse at Alton Manor. Another spooky attraction, and honestly my favourite of all the rides. A classic haunted‑style experience, but what I loved most was the atmosphere around it – the old building, the recreated graveyard scattered through the woodland. It was wonderfully atmospheric, and we’re definitely planning to return in autumn for that extra eerie vibe. Put this one on your list if spooky is your thing.
Runaway Mine Train and Congo River Rapids
The Congo River Rapids were a lot of fun and a bit wet, but as the weather was warm, a few droplets were more than welcome. Right next to the rapids, the Runaway Mine Train waved at us, so off we went to queue. Before we knew it, we were screaming while entering a dark, spooky mine at full speed. Lots of fun and highly recommended.
Bluey Ride and Octonauts Ride
These two were pure joy. The Bluey ride had my daughter grinning from ear to ear, and the Octonauts ride offered a gentle mix of fun and colourful storytelling. However, be aware that the Octonauts ride is small, with a long queue for a very short ride. It also looks a bit dated and definitely needs a fresh coat of paint. Compared to the other attractions, which were beautifully maintained, this one felt slightly forgotten.
Bluey, on the other hand, was vibrant, longer, and looked brand new. If you have to choose one, go for Bluey without hesitation.
I must admit I didn’t do this one (although I now regret it), as I was worried I’d be scared for life. According to my husband, who of course went on it, it was lots of fun and not as frightening as it appears. He said Hyperia at Thorpe Park was far scarier and that he’d never do that one again. As we’re planning to return, I’ll be brave next time.
For the little story, Wicker Man is the first wooden rollercoaster built in the UK in the past twenty years. It looks fantastic, very authentic, and even just to look at, it’s impressive.
Pirate Bay
Pirate Bay was one of my favourites too. I thought the décor was very cool and well maintained. It’s a fun area to explore and enjoy a few rides, mostly aimed at children, but who cares – enjoy them regardless of your age. Pirate Bay had my heart, maybe my childhood heart for sure. Do visit the small Sea Life centre full of beautiful species, including sharks. And definitely finish your visit at Pirate Bay with the Battle of the Galleons. Lots of fun, and don’t forget to check the shark in the bay.
Gangsta Granny Ride.
A fun mention also goes to Gangsta Granny, a classic ride, and as we love the book – especially my daughter – we had to do it.
Final Thoughts
The park itself is beautiful, large, and woodland based. There are food stands and restaurants of all sorts scattered around, along with plenty of shops and ice cream stalls. We decided to bring a picnic, and the park had lots of picnic tables, so there is plenty of space if you wish to bring your own food.
We truly had a great time, from the rides to the gardens and all the little moments in between. If you are planning a visit, do make sure not to miss the special Minecraft event, which runs until the 28th of August. It is absolutely worth seeing, especially if you have little ones who love the game or simply enjoy immersive experiences.
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