Alton Towers is the only Merlin Theme Park to offer Early Ride Time. This added bonus gives you an extra hour before the main opening times on selected rides.  Early Ride Time is well worth having as, if used well, allows you to ride many of the main attractions with minimal queues.  Here are some of the most common queries regarding Early Ride Time:

Who can claim Early Ride Time?

• Annual Passholders
• Tickets purchased online at Alton Towers
• Alton Towers resort guests

What Rides are open for Early Ride Time?

• Oblivion
• Nemesis
• Sonic Spinball
• Runaway Mine Train
• Hex
• Sharkbait Reef Sealife
• Marauder’s mayhem
• Heave Ho!

What time does Early Ride Time start?

One hour before general opening time so this tends to be a 9am early start if you are entitled to Early Ride Time.

What are the benefits of Early Ride Time?

Basically for thrill seekers it gives you an additional hour with minimal queues for some of the main thrill rides at the park, such as Oblivion, Nemesis & Sonic Spinball.  This also means you can concentrate on those thrill rides not within Early Ride Time as soon as they open.

How do Alton Towers police Early Ride Time?

You will need to show proof of eligibility for Early Ride Time, such as an Annual Pass, to Alton Towers staff before they let you through.

For more top tips to beat the queues, go to the Insiders Guide to Alton Towers.