The Big Reveal: The Smiler opens 23rd May 2013

The details surrounding the much-awaited and eagerly-anticipated new ride, The Smiler, has been a well-kept secret for sometime now.

But... we can now tell you that the official opening date of the world-beating ride is May 23rd — Just in time for half term!

We can’t quite tell you everything yet, but rest assured that The Smiler will be an amazing experience for the bravest thrill-seekers around. The name may conjure ideas of humour and pleasantries, but the ride is far from a subdued merry-go-round; it’s absolutely not one for the faint-hearted. the ride.

The Smiler will reach top speeds of 85km/hr - that’s 10km/h faster than Air! - and plummet a whopping 30m. It catapults thrill-seekers along the 1,170m track - that’s three times the length of Oblivion! - in nearly three minutes of ride time.
The Smiler promises to be the first of its kind, a thrill ride that the world has never seen before. It’s Alton Towers’ most expensive ride investment ever!

For more exclusive details click here for the latest information.

RECAP: What was New at Alton Towers Resort last year?

2012 was an exciting year at Alton Towers Resort. The Park's iconic Nemesis was in the limelight once again with an all new attraction: Nemesis Sub-Terra, taking place in a dark, intense underground setting based around the back-story of the original Nemesis attraction. Nemesis Sub-Terra takes guests down into the deepest, darkest location of the theme park for the experience, making it one of the Resort’s most terrifying attractions.

Ice Age Dawn of the Dinosaurs - The 4-D Experience opened in Cloud Cuckoo Land, offering an incredible interactive 4-D experience that transports guests to the chilly world of Sid and Scrat. 3-D footage based on the third blockbusting Ice Age film has been combined with amazing special effects including icy blasts, snow and bubbles. PLUS two Ice Age themed rooms opened up at the Splash Landings Hotel Each featuring interactive elements and character from the hit Ice Age franchise, providing the ultimate sleepover for any fan of the series. It’s certain they will also prove a popular night’s sleep in to the new year.

The fun at Alton Towers continues into 2013 with all this and more, including the launch of an exciting new ride. Book an Alton Towers ticket and hotel package to be part of the fun!