First look at the UK’s ‘wettest rollercoaster’ as it opens ahead of summer hols

BLACKPOOL Pleasure Beach has offered a first look at what it claims to be the UK’s wettest roller coaster, as it re-opens before the summer holidays begin.

Guests to the resort have missed out on the popular water ride, which first opened in 2000, but has been closed since 2019.

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But now, following a £4million refurbishment, Valhalla is available to ride once again.

Parkgoers will be boarded onto a longboat and taken on a journey to Valhalla by a Viking named Ivàr.

He will transport guests to the Viking afterlife, where they’ll experience several elements including fire, ice, and water.

The ride, whose famous tagline reminds riders “You will get wet, you may get soaked”, includes a reservoir holding over one and a half million gallons of water – enough to fill more than two Olympic sized swimming pools. 

Pleasure Beach claim that Valhalla “will test limits and evoke shock, surprise and excitement at every twist and turn” as visitors journey towards the right to be hailed as a true Viking warrior. 

Amanda Thompson OBE, CEO of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, said: “We’re delighted to finally be able to share a glimpse into all our hard work.

“The new ride is absolutely sensational and will definitely leave riders wanting more. 

“Those who remember the original ride may recognise some of its best-loved features, but this reimagining of Valhalla offers a totally new immersive experience that will leave riders eager to return.”

Adam Slevin, Director of Creative, Design & Experience at Blackpool Pleasure Beach added: “We’ve worked so hard to find the perfect balance between maintaining nostalgia, giving the ride some much-needed TLC and adding in a few surprises for fans. 

“Valhalla will test even the most confident rollercoaster rider’s limits, with plummeting temperatures, fiery furnaces and torrents of water.” 

As well as Valhalla, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is home to the UK’s tallest rollercoaster, the Big One, which offers high-speed drops and breathtaking views.

Those who have a head for heights can also walk up The Big One where they’ll reach 235ft.

The seaside theme park’s wooden rollercoaster, the Big Dipper, will be celebrating its 100th birthday later this year too.

Younger visitors can enjoy Nickelodeon Land where youngsters can go on 12 rides and meet a whole host of characters from their favourite shows.

Meanwhile, this is the cheapest theme park in the UK, with the most affordable tickets.

And these ideas can entertain kids for cheap during holidays.

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