Name: Chessington World of Adventures Resort London
Address: Chessington World of Adventures Resort, Chessington, Greater London, KT9 2NE, United Kingdom
Telephone: 0871 663 4477
Rating: 5

Chessington World of Adventures Dragons Fury 768x432

Mandrill Mayhem Chessington World of Adventures 768x432

Chessington World of Adventures Croc Drop 768x432

Chessington World of Adventures Land of the Tiger and Tiger Rock 768x432

Chessington World of Adventures Mandrill Mayhem 768x432

Chessington World of Adventures The Gruffalo River Ride Adventure 768x432

Chessington World of Adventures Tiger Up Close 768x432

Chessington World of Adventures Resort in Surrey has over 40 rides and attractions and over 1,000 incredible animals. The park is billed as Britain’s Wildest Adventure with a wide range of animals in the resort’s zoo and Sealife centre. There is plenty of on-site accommodation to choose from with two hotels.

Britain’s Wildest Adventure

Chessington World of Adventures Resort consists of themed areas loosely styled on a range of world cultures. John Wardley had a huge influence on the theming and attractions at both Chessington World of Adventures and its sister parks Thorpe Park and Alton Towers.

Chessington World of Adventures Resort - Croc Drop — Chessington World of Adventures Resort – Croc Drop

What is it?

Chessington World of Adventure Resort includes a Theme Park, Zoo & SEA LIFE centre. In addition to this, there is also Go Ape High Ropes, on-site accommodation and more. The video below gives an insight into what’s on offer.

Roller Coasters

Located in the Mexicana section of the park is the Rattlesnake roller coaster, which is themed around an old Mexican tin mine. The roller coaster snakes its way through sharp turns, inclines and sudden dips.

Chessington World of Adventures Resort - Rattlesnake — Chessington World of Adventures Resort – Rattlesnake

Mandrill Mayhem

Mandrill Mayhem sweeps up riders in the long arms of a mandrill, as the horde whisks adventurers around the sites of Jumanji, dodging the hazards of the jungle. Spiralling to the summit of the 55ft tall Jaguar Shrine, riders can catch a glimpse of the Jaguar’s Eye Jewel before falling and braving the adventure again… backwards.

The Vampire

Located in the Wild Woods (formerly Transylvania) section of the theme park is The Vampire roller coaster. With a height restriction of only 1.1 metres, this roller coaster is perfect for all ages. The Vampire is an inverted roller coaster ride that flies over the village and treetops with your legs dangling below you. This section of the Theme Park also plays host to The Gruffalo River Ride Adventure.

Vampire – Chessington World of Adventures

Dragons Fury

Dragons Fury is a spinning roller coaster ride located in Land of the Dragons. Other attractions in this section of the park include Canopy Capers, Sea Dragons, Dragon’s Playhouse and Griffin’s Galleon.

Zufari

ZUFARI – Ride into Africa! is a theme park adventure and Safari combined. On this adventure ride, you will come face to face with wonderful African animals such as White Rhino, Giraffe and Grevy’s Zebra. Embark on a thrilling off-road truck journey and watch out for unexpected dangers.

A Wild Adventure

Ride through the Ancient Egyptian labyrinth armed with a laser gun to shoot mummies and scarab beetles on the Tomb Blaster ride in the Forbidden Kingdom.
Adventure Point is home to Adventure Tree Carousel and Tiny Truckers.

Enjoy an adventurous cruise through the winding rivers, dips and gentle rapids of the Mystic East on the Tiger Rock log flume. Watch for the 4 majestic Amur tigers before the ride climaxes with a drop into the falls.

Land of the Tiger at Chessington World of Adventures

Chessington Zoo

Also located at Chessington World of Adventures Resort is Chessington Zoo which houses over 1000 animals including Lions, Tigers, and Giraffes.

Chessingon World of Adventures - Wanyama View — Chessingon World of Adventures – Wanyama View

SEA LIFE

Sea Life at Chessington World of Adventures Resort is a scaled-down version of a Sea Life Centre featuring sharks, spotted rays, seahorses and starfish. The spectacular ocean walk-through tunnel gives you the opportunity to experience life under the sea without getting wet.

Website Links

Chessington World of Adventures Resort – Official Website
Review of Chessington World of Adventures Resort
Chessington World of Adventures Resort Park Map

Food and Drink

Whatever your tastes, there is something to suit every palette from simple pizza and pasta to oriental and Mexican dishes at Chessington World of Adventures Resort.

Collectable Pop Badges

One of the unique offers at Chessington World of Adventures is the opportunity for children to collect a wild range of free pop badges during their visit. Free badges are available in children’s meals from the restaurants throughout the Resort. If you visit on your birthday then head over to Guest Help & Information for an exclusive birthday badge. During special events, badges relating to the event are often given away.

Once you have collected a few badges, you can swap with staff members if you see a badge that you would prefer. Throughout the season new badges are released and some of the staff members have exclusive badges so keep your eyes peeled.

Chessington World of Adventures Resort Hotels

Go on a quest to find some treasure at the Azteca Hotel. At the Safari Hotel travel into the African Savannah or go on the wildest of adventures in the great outdoors at Explorer Glamping. Both hotels provide guests with access to the indoor swimming pool, savannah splash pool and gym.

Chessington World of Adventures Resort - Resort Hotels — Chessington World of Adventures Resort – Resort Hotels

Chessington World of Adventures Resort Tickets

Purchase your tickets in advance from the Official Website to save time queuing at the entrance to the park and also saving on the full-price admission. View our Chessington World of Adventures Resort Special Offers Page for the best discounts on your Tickets and Accommodation.

Make Big Savings on your Chessington Tickets when you purchase them from Love to Visit.

Buy Now

All Chessington World of Adventures Offers

Offers are regularly available for Chessington World of Adventures Resort. Offers range from free tickets to big savings on short breaks. View the latest Chessington World of Adventures offers and discounts.

Travelling to Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Chessington World of Adventures Resort is on the A243, just two miles from the A3 and M25 (junction 9 or 10). The attraction is well signposted.

Travelling by Train

The nearest train station to Chessington World of Adventures Resort is Chessington South Station, which is approximately a 10 minutes walk. Chessington is within 35 minutes of central London and regular South West Train services run from Waterloo, Clapham Junction and Wimbledon.

Chessington South station is located within Zone 6 of the London Travel zones and accepts Oyster cards. Search for your train tickets using Raileasy.

Nearby Accommodation

There are lots of places to stay in Surrey and the surrounding areas. Chessington World of Adventures Resort offers on-site accommodation. If you only planning on visiting the park for one day and would like to explore some of the other attractions in the area then take a look at some of the wonderful self-catering cottages available from Snaptrip.

Find hotel accommodation at Booking.com or Travelodge are always a good option for good quality, family-friendly budget hotel accommodation.

For the best discounts and savings, view our Travel and Accommodation Offers.

Featured Offers and Promotions

UK Attraction Hot Deals

View our Hot Special Offers Page for great deals and discounts on your Days Out. Also, like the Attractions Near Me Facebook Page to be amongst the first to know about the best discount offers and promotions for tourist attractions across the UK.

If you are looking for attractions outside the UK then visit our sister site Attractions Near Me Worldwide.

Chessington World of Adventures Resort London was last modified: June 3rd, 2026 by Dan

Chessington World of Adventures FAQs – Tickets, Costs, Ages, Travel & Value

Cost & Ticket FAQs

How much does a family day at Chessington World of Adventures really cost?

A family of four can expect to pay around £120 – £170 for tickets when booked in advance. On-the-day prices are much higher. Once food, parking, ride photos and extras are added, the total cost can rise by £40 – £70. Checking the Chessington World of Adventures Hot Deals on Attractions Near Me can significantly reduce costs.

Is Chessington expensive compared to other UK theme parks?

Chessington sits in the mid-to-high price range for UK theme parks. Many parents feel it offers better value than thrill-focused parks if you have younger children, as more attractions are age-appropriate.

Are there discounts for Chessington World of Adventures tickets?

Yes. Discounts are often available through supermarket loyalty schemes, newspaper promotions, short breaks and online partners. View the latest Chessington ticket deals on Attractions Near Me.

Is it cheaper to buy Chessington tickets online?

Yes. Booking online in advance usually saves £20 – £30 per person compared to paying at the gate.

Are Chessington annual passes worth it?

They can be good value for families planning multiple visits, especially locals. However, blackout dates, parking charges and food costs mean they don’t suit everyone. Some families prefer a Merlin Annual Pass for wider attraction access.

What hidden costs should I budget for at Chessington?

Common hidden costs include parking, food and drink, ride photos, lockers, animal feeding experiences and merchandise.

Can you take your own food into Chessington?

Yes. You’re allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks, and many families bring picnics to manage costs.

Age & Suitability FAQs

What age is Chessington World of Adventures best for?

Chessington is best suited for children aged 4 to 12, making it one of the most balanced UK theme parks for families with primary school-aged children. You can get a great value Make big savings with the Chessington Adult and Pre-Schooler Pass.

Can a 3-year-old enjoy Chessington?

Yes. There are rides, play areas and animal attractions suitable for toddlers, though some younger children may not manage a full day.

Is Chessington suitable for toddlers?

Yes. The park has several toddler-friendly rides and zoo areas, but it still offers more for slightly older children.

What height do children need to be for rides at Chessington?

Height restrictions are generally lower than at thrill parks. Many rides are accessible from around 0.9m to 1.2m.

Is there enough to do for older kids at Chessington?

Yes. Children aged 8–12 usually find plenty to enjoy, though teenagers seeking extreme rides may find the park less exciting.

Is Chessington too mild for thrill-seeking teenagers?

Some teens may find Chessington too gentle, especially compared to Thorpe Park or Alton Towers.

Logistics & Planning FAQs

How long should I spend at Chessington World of Adventures?

Most families spend a full day at Chessington. Some choose to stay overnight to experience the park at a relaxed pace.

What is the best time to arrive at Chessington?

Arriving before opening time gives you the best chance to enjoy popular rides with shorter queues. Selected Chessington Short Break packages include Early Ride Access.

What is the quietest day to visit Chessington?

Mid-week during term time is usually quietest. Weekends, school holidays and event days are busier.

Is Chessington good if it rains?

Partially. While many rides operate in light rain, some outdoor rides and animal areas may be less enjoyable in bad weather.

How long are the queues at Chessington?

On busy days, queues for popular rides can exceed 60 minutes. Quieter days may see waits under 30 minutes.

Fast Track & Value FAQs

Is Fast Track worth it at Chessington?

Fast Track can be useful during peak periods, but many families feel it isn’t essential due to the park’s generally lower ride intensity and ride throughput.

Which rides benefit most from Fast Track?

Fast Track is most useful for rides such as Vampire, Mandrill Mayhem and Dragon’s Fury.

Is Chessington good value for families?

Yes, particularly for families with children aged 4–12. The mix of rides, zoo and themed lands often feels more “complete” than ride-only parks.

Is Chessington better value than LEGOLAND Windsor?

Many parents feel Chessington offers better value for slightly older children, while LEGOLAND is stronger for toddlers and LEGO fans.

Travel & Access FAQs

Is Chessington easy to get to by train?

Yes. Chessington South railway station is around a 10-minute walk from the park, making it one of the easiest UK theme parks to reach by public transport.

How far is Chessington from London?

Around 35–45 minutes by train from central London.

Is parking free at Chessington?

No. Standard parking is paid unless included in a ticket, short break or annual pass package.

Food, Facilities & Comfort FAQs

Is the food expensive at Chessington?

Yes. Food prices are commonly described as high, which is why many families bring their own food.

Are there picnic areas at Chessington?

Yes, there are designated picnic areas and seating around the park.

Can you leave and re-enter Chessington on the same day?

Yes, re-entry is allowed as long as you get your hand stamped when exiting.

Are there lockers at Chessington?

Yes, lockers are available near the park entrance and select attractions, payable by card.

Comparison & Decision FAQs

Is Chessington the best UK theme park for younger children?

For children aged 4–12, many parents consider Chessington one of the best all-round UK theme parks.

Is Chessington worth it if my child isn’t tall enough for big rides?

Yes. Unlike thrill parks, Chessington has plenty of rides, animal experiences and shows suitable for smaller children.

Should I choose Chessington or Alton Towers?

Choose Chessington for younger families and animal experiences, and Alton Towers for thrill rides and older children.

Final Tip for Parents

Chessington World of Adventures offers one of the most balanced days out for UK families, but value depends on your child’s age. Planning ahead, using discounts, arriving early and bringing your own food can help keep costs down and maximise enjoyment.

1 Review on “Chessington World of Adventures Resort London”

Overall rating

Dan Listing Owner

Much better than we had expected. Read our full review here https://www.attractionsnearme.co.uk/reviews/chessington-world-of-adventures-resort/

February 9, 2017, 10:15 am

Like
Log in to Reply

Leave a Review. Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Chessington World of Adventures Resort History

The Original Mansion

In 1348, the original mansion was built, a country house named Chessington Lodge. The lodge was used as a school for officers in archery, and a visit from Queen Elizabeth 1 resulted in an act being passed permitting the practice of archery in the grounds on Sundays. During the Civil War between 1642 and 1660, the original building became a Cavalier stronghold. The mansion was burnt to the ground by Cromwell’s forces. Following its restoration, it was renamed ‘Burnt Stub’. During the late 17th Century the site was used as a wayside alehouse.

The 20th century

At the beginning of the 20th century, the estate came into the hands of the Vere Barker family. Unfortunately, it was seriously damaged by fire for the 2nd time. It was reconditioned in 1919 at a cost of £50,000, and in 1931 the owner, Sir Francis Barker, offered it for sale. Entrepreneur and animal enthusiast Reginald Goddard was driving past the site when he saw the house and land for sale. He had been looking for a place to house his collection of exotic animals and immediately put in an offer. On 28th July 1931, Reginald opened Chessington Zoo to allow the public to view his private animal collection, which consisted of some truly exotic species.

A Place to be Entertained

Chessington Zoo soon became known for the many different types of entertainment on offer. The attractions included a circus, funfair and a miniature railway in addition to the Zoo. Adverts from the era tell of Joey the tightrope walking monkey, bears' tea parties, lions, elephants, tigers, leopards and hyenas. According to history, the Zoo had over 200,000 visitors during the first season.

World War Two

With World War Two impending, there was a temporary closure of Chessington Zoo in 1939. This was due to government restrictions preventing large crowds forming at entertainment venues during wartime. This resulted in a partnership between Reginald Goddard and Herbert Whitley, the owner of Primley Zoo in Paignton (now known as Paignton Zoo). A selection of animals was transferred to the Zoo in Paignton and the Devon Zoo and Circus were created. The exile lasted until 1946 when Reginald returned to Chessington with his stock. Sadly Reginald died on Christmas Day in 1946. Following his death, Chessington was registered as a Company.

The Tussauds Group

Investment was needed to update Chessington Zoo and in 1978 it was sold to the Pearson Group, who later bought Madame Tussauds forming The Tussauds Group. The site offered great potential as a Family Adventure Park and The Tussauds Group recognised this opportunity. In 1981, plans to transform the park into a Theme Park and Animal Adventure began. In July 1987, six years and £12m later, Chessington World of Adventures opened as a Theme Park. The original line up of rides included Dragon Falls, Safari Skyway, Toadie's Crazy Cars and The Runaway Train. In the following years, a number of new rides and attractions were opened.

Merlin Entertainments Group

In October 1998 it was announced that Pearson had sold The Tussauds Group to Charterhouse Development Capital for £352m, adding a number of new attractions to their growing portfolio, including the nearby Thorpe Park. The Tussauds Group was then owned by Dubai International and operated a varied portfolio of leisure attractions, including Madame Tussauds, Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, Warwick Castle and Chessington World of Adventures. In May 2007, the Tussauds Group merged with Merlin Entertainments Group to create Europe's leading visitor attraction group. Also in 2007 Holiday Inn Chessington opened. This hotel featured a contemporary design and a safari theme.

Major Developments

The Samurai ride first opened at Chessington World of Adventures in 1999. This ride has now been relocated to Thorpe Park. Major additions were made to the Theme Park in 2004 when Land of the Dragons opened. This new land included a children's adventure playground and Dragon’s Fury, a spinning roller coaster for all the family.

Chessington SEA LIFE Centre

In 2008, a SEA LIFE centre was introduced to Chessington, housing over 20 displays with marine life ranging from starfish to stingrays. The SEA LIFE centre is packed full of fun exhibitions, including interactive rock pools, daily talks and feeding sessions as well as a breathtaking walkthrough ocean tunnel. Chessington Zoo also introduced two new Sumatran tiger cubs in 2008. This was a welcome addition to a species that has fewer than 400 left in the world. Major investment in 2010 saw the opening of the Wild Asia section of the theme park complete with the KOBRA ride. Wanyama Village and Reserve were created to expand the Zoo area of the Park and integrate the hotel as a resort.

Azteca Hotel

In 2014, the Resort saw its biggest investment ever with nearly £15 million spent across the estate. A brand new ride experience for Scorpion Express was launched. The major development was the opening of the Azteca Hotel. This is a fully themed Resort hotel located on the park with 69 themed rooms, a new splash water play zone within the leisure club and a totally unique temple-themed restaurant.
Another addition was the AMAZU Treetop Adventure located just outside the hotel. Read our review of Chessington World of Adventures Resort including our stay in the Azteca Hotel.

North East

North West

Yorkshire and the Humber

East Midlands

West Midlands

East England

South East

South West

Greater London

Wales

Top 10 Listings

North East

North West

Yorkshire and the Humber

East Midlands

West Midlands

East England

Greater London

South East

South West

Ireland

Scotland

Wales

Top 10 Listings

North East

East England

North West

South

South East

South West

Scotland

Wales

North East

North West

Yorkshire and the Humber

East Midlands

West Midlands

East England

South East

South West

Greater London

Scotland

Wales

Additional High Rope Courses

UK Theme Parks

UK Attractions

Discounts and Offers

Seasonal Activities

UK Waterparks

Roller Coasters

Travel and Accommodation

Family Fun

Theme Park Offers

Zoo and Wildlife Park Offers

Aqua Park and Waterpark Offers

Rest and Relaxation Offers

Attraction News and Activity Offers

Offers By Region

Theme Park Reviews

Attraction Reviews

Events

Travel and Accommodation

Britain’s Wildest Adventure

What is it?

Roller Coasters

Mandrill Mayhem

The Vampire

Dragons Fury

Zufari

A Wild Adventure

Chessington Zoo

SEA LIFE

Website Links

Food and Drink

Collectable Pop Badges

Chessington World of Adventures Resort Hotels

Chessington World of Adventures Resort Tickets

All Chessington World of Adventures Offers

Travelling to Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Travelling by Train