Thomas Land at Drayton Manor near Tamworth in Staffordshire was our destination but in the eyes of our three year old, we had quite literally arrived on the Island of Sodor. As the car door opened his first words were "Listen, it’s Thomas" and sure enough the familiar theme tune was playing out over the loud speaker at 09.30 to welcome guests.
Thomas Land contains 12 themed rides, each based on a character from the ever popular books. All rides are designed to fit both adults and children and include Harold the Helicopter, Cranky’s Drop Tower, Jeremy’s Flying Academy, Bertie Bus, Rockin' Bulstrode and the Troublesome Trucks Rollercoaster.
The attention to detail and authenticity of all the rides is fabulous. Thomas, Annie and Clarabel left a beautifully detailed Knapford Station and took passengers on a short journey around the park to Spencer’s playground, a very well designed play area next to Drayton Manor’s small zoo.
Everything about Thomas Land is ideally scaled for a pre-schooler. The rides are close together and form a small part of Drayton Manor. The rest of the park is packed with all the giant rides teenage and adult thrill-seekers could wish for.
Toby, who measures over a metre, was the right height to enjoy all 12 rides and he did! He liked the fact that he could go on rides by himself and enjoy others with us. He couldn’t relax until he had been on every ride at least once. The Troublesome Trucks Rollercoaster was his favourite, being just on the right side of scary and exhilarating.
Most of the Thomas Land rides are miniature, themed versions of familiar fairground rides, including a vertical drop ride and carousel. One of the most surprising attractions – for a parent - was Terence the Tractor’s driving school, which allowed Toby to drive and steer himself amongst a sea of similarly surprised children. The Fat Controller wandered around the park booming at people. This was perhaps a little intimidating in his authenticity for Toby.
We visited Thomas Land on an unusually grey, chilly June day. This turned out to be an unexpected bonus as we didn’t have to queue for any rides. Emily’s Indoor Play Area was a very welcome break from the drizzle and the comfy sofas and friendly staff made this themed soft play space the best we’ve been to.
Rain could not dampen any of our spirits. This much anticipated outing was a great hit. The best advice I can give is to bring your own picnic and snacks as the theme park catering left a lot to be desired (although good quality baby food is available).
Thomas Land is highly recommended for the Thomas fanatic in your household.
The 2008 season runs until 2 November. Rides operate from 10.30am to 5pm or 6pm depending on the time of year. In the run up to Christmas, Thomas Land will be open on selected dates.
Prices
A range of family supersaver tickets is also available. Tickets can be purchased in advance via the Ticket Hotline 0844 472 1960 and at a reduced rate: adults £18 and children £15.
Drayton Manor Theme Park, near Tamworth, Staffordshire, B78 3TW.