Theme parks are a staple of British summer holidays, with millions heading to rollercoaster-packed resorts and family-friendly attractions across the country. Now, the UK's very best have been revealed as the UK Theme Park Awards 2025 shortlist is officially announced.
From old favourites like Alton Towers and LEGOLAND Windsor to seaside gems and hidden family spots, more than 35 parks have been recognised across 22 different categories. The awards are run by Theme Parks UK, giving theme park lovers a chance to vote for their favourite destinations, rides, events and more.
There are prizes for the best new attractions, the most toddler-friendly parks, and even awards for the top food outlets.
But the biggest honour of all is Theme Park of the Year, a title given to the UK's top overall park.
This year's contenders for the top prize include:
- Alton Towers Resort
- Chessington World of Adventures Resort
- Crealy Theme Park & Resort
- Drayton Manor Resort
- Fantasy Island
- Gulliver's Theme Parks
- LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
- Paultons Park
- Pleasure Beach Resort
- Thorpe Park
Each of these parks has impressed with standout rides, customer service, family appeal and events.
Some, like Paultons Park and Drayton Manor, cater particularly well to families with younger children, while Thorpe Park and Alton Towers are known for their adrenaline-filled rollercoasters.
Organisers say more than 34,000 nominations were submitted by the public before the shortlist was finalised with help from a panel of expert judges.
These included Paul Kelly, chief executive of the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions, and Andy Hine MBE, chairman of the Roller Coaster Club of Great Britain.
There are also new categories this year like Best Use of IP in an Attraction, Best Integration of Technology, and Best Queue Line Experience.
Other notable categories include Best Theme Park for Toddlers, with parks like Peppa Pig World, DUPLO Valley and Thomas Land all in the running.
And for thrill-seekers, Best Theme Park for Thrills includes nominees such as Pleasure Beach Resort, Fantasy Island, and Flamingo Land.
Even content creators have their own awards this year, with bloggers, vloggers and influencers up for Best Established and Best Developing Content Creator.
Voting is open now and runs until September 1. The public vote will be combined with expert input to decide the winners, which will be revealed on September 18 during a dedicated awards event.
Fans can cast their votes at www.themeparkawards.uk.
