I faced Alton Towers' stomach-churning new ride and nearly lost my lunch

Abigail Hunt
-Credit: (Image: Abigail Hunt)


I had been eagerly awaiting my overnight trip to Alton Towers and when Friday finally came around, I was filled with anticipation.

As soon as I arrived at the hotel, I was immediately struck by the amazing decor. The room, set up for me by the wonderful Alton Towers press team, was decorated in a steampunk theme, and it certainly lived up to expectations.

The walls were covered with faux pipes, giving the place an industrial vibe, and even the carpet followed the theme with swirling gears and patterns that looked like they'd come straight from a Victorian inventor's workshop.

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But what really won me over was the huge teddy bear waiting on the bed, welcoming me like an old friend. There's nothing quite like a friendly teddy to greet you after a long drive.

The night was fairly quiet; I simply grabbed a quick Domino's and decided to save my energy for the park the next day. When I woke up the following morning, I headed down for breakfast and the buffet was a brilliant way to start the day, reports the Mirror.

Everything from sausages and bacon to fresh fruit and pastries was on offer, and I made sure to eat plenty, knowing I'd need all the energy I could get for the day ahead.

After a filling breakfast, I headed to the entrance of the theme park, which was decked out in full Oktoberfest attire. The smell of German street food filled the air as people in lederhosen walked by.

The atmosphere was just right and I couldn't resist taking a few photos before heading towards the rides. My day began with a leisurely ride on Wicker Man, a personal favourite of mine. The wooden track's slight shakiness adds to the thrill, and the fiery theme is simply superb.

It's fast-paced, fun, and the visuals truly immerse you in the story. On the other hand, Smiler is an absolute monster. With its dizzying inversions, it's impossible not to feel like you've been turned inside out. By the time I got off, I felt a bit shaky but still thrilled.

Oktoberfest presented a wide range of tempting food options, and I couldn't resist diving into a large, juicy German (vegan) sausage accompanied by some crispy potatoes and cheesy noodles. The food was outstanding, with flavours that could compete with any street market in Germany, although perhaps eating that much just before the rides wasn't my wisest decision.

I wandered towards Nemesis Reborn, the one ride I was most excited to try. I'd previously ridden Nemesis Inferno at Thorpe Park, but this one came highly recommended, and I was keen to see if it could live up to the hype.

Well, the short answer is: it surpassed them. Book your family for an unforgettable autumn break at Alton Towers.

The intensity of the ride is unmatched - the speed, the loops, and the sheer force that pushes you into your seat as your feet dangle below. Halfway through, I realised my mistake: I hadn't allowed enough time for my lunch to settle.

As we hurtled through another inversion, my stomach gave a lurch and I had to make a conscious effort not to be sick. It wasn't my finest hour, but the ride was so exhilarating that it barely mattered.

By the end, I was a mix of adrenaline and regret for eating beforehand, but I couldn't wipe the grin off my face. Nothing else that day could hold a candle to Nemesis Reborn. It leaves Inferno in the dust - it's quicker, smoother, and the theming is simply first-rate.

After that, I took a more relaxed approach, taking some photos, soaking up Oktoberfest, and eventually calling it a day. All things considered, it was an excellent trip.

However, next time, I'll hold off on the sausages until after the rides. Lesson learned!

Alton Towers' Oktoberfest runs from September 7 to September 29. Tickets can be booked online.