David takes the family to Thomas Land in Staffordshire
Last year Europe’s only Thomas Land at Drayton Manor Theme Park in Staffordshire, underwent a massive £2.5 million expansion. Voted the UK’s best children’s attraction I was looking forward to being transported to the magical Island of Sodor with my family and little grandson Dylan.
Drayton Manor Theme Park originally opened in 1950 and is still owned today by the Bryan family. There’s lots of adrenaline pumping rides at Drayton Manor but thankfully I was here for Thomas the Tank. The Park is located near Tamworth in the Midlands and is easily accessed by car off the M6. I had combined our visit with a stay at the Drayton Manor Hotel. This is a lovely Thomas themed, 4 star hotel set in 280 acres of beautiful lakes and parkland conveniently situated near the park entrance.
Hotel Facilities
Rooms were very comfortable with all the amenities you would expect from a 4 star hotel, and for a truly magical stay there’s the opportunity to upgrade to a Thomas & Friends themed bedroom and add on a Character Breakfast where you meet The Fat Controller in person. There’s a Thomas Land gift shop in the reception area, two well-stocked bars, two restaurants and a relaxing lounge. The restaurants offered a great choice of good quality family meals with excellent service. A couple of Thomas train tables were strategically placed for the little one’s to enjoy even more Thomas! Entertainment was also laid on for the children in the evening.
The World’s Biggest Thomas Shop
Thomas Land itself is well laid out and a lovely area to explore with over 25 rides and attractions including the world’s biggest Thomas gift shop. The area is packed with family fun … fly high on Jeremy Jets, runaway on the Troublesome Trucks and take a high level tour on Winston’s monorail. There’s Flynn’s Fire Rescue, Toby’s Tram Express, Captain’s Sea Adventure, Cranky Crane drop and lots more!
Catch the Thomas train and hop off at Tidmouth Hault. Here you’ll find a captivating little zoo and a Dinosaur Trail with larger than life exhibits.
Conclusion
This was a great family day out, highly recommended if you’re a fan of the little blue engine (and let’s face it, who isn’t). We created special family memories that will stay with us for a very long time. But, more importantly, what was little Dylan’s verdict? “When are we going again Grandad?”
More Information
For more information on Thomas Land and the Drayton Manor Hotel visit www.draytonmanor.co.uk