We took a trip to Alton Towers unintentionally after the COVID restrictions have lifted. I know for many that returning to normal or at least the new normal can be an anxious time and perhaps you’d like to know what it’s like to visit Alton Towers now the restrictions have lifted. I hope this is somewhat insightful and helpful for those who are maybe worried to visit.
Parking:
I’m uncertain as to whether or not this change is connected or it’s been happening for a while now on perhaps the busier days. But we arrived around half-hour earlier than the park opening not on purpose or anything and ended up parking just behind the drop off point in the express parking. It’s never happened before during our visits so I’m unsure as to how or why this would be connected but it’s worth mentioning.
Entry:
Upon entry now the barriers to separate queues remain in place alongside social distancing markers. Face mask aren’t enforced within the plaza area. When entering through security there is no temperature checks anymore.
Face Mask & Social Distancing:
Face masks seem to be optional as we had expected. You have the choice to wear yours or not there is no enforcement on the matter. Personally, we wore ours on rollercoasters, indoor spaces and crowded areas. Social distancing markers continue on the floor and one-way walkways also proceed. However, again it’s down to preference if you feel someone is too close to you then I always think you are in the right to tell them to back off.
Eateries and Restaurants:
You no longer have to wait to be seated with the eateries that have indoor spaces you simply walk in and wait to be served. I’m pretty pleased to see this change but again face masks are optional. I believe the food ordering option is still available on the app and in selected restaurants that had it in the first place which is beneficial again.
Shared Ride Carriages/Gondolas:
Those rides with individual carriages that can seat more people than your group were getting filled up again with other groups. Some staff asked if it was okay to add some more people whereas others don’t. I’d imagine if you were to address the fact you’d rather not share they would respect it nonetheless. Duel is one of those rides where you don’t usually tend to share unless the queue is above 20 odd minutes, so that was not an issue.
Rides Social Distancing:
Prior to the restrictions getting lifted Alton Towers began filling up the trains with no social distancing in place which is continued now. I found this change is more helpful on the throughputs and queue lines in all honesty. Face masks are again optional on all rides.
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I can’t think of much else to share in regards to the changes but the things are spoken of already. I’m sure people will add on some comments in regards to other changes in the comments or across our socials, so keep an eye out for them. I hope this is somewhat useful and if you have a trip planned, have a fab time.
Thank you so much for reading!
