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If you’re looking for a thrilling day out with the children, then Drayton Manor is a must-visit destination. Home to lots of water rides, roller coasters, a zoo and Thomas Land, it’s a great place for a day trip or a short break with kids of all ages.
Based in central England, Drayton Manor is also easy to reach by car, bus or train, meaning everyone can make the most of their time at the theme park. Whether you’re looking forward to riding the River Rapids, going to a holiday event or want to see endangered animal species, you’re sure to have a fun-packed day at this resort.
To help you plan your visit to Drayton Manor, this article will give you all the information you need, including directions and travel details for trains and buses.
Where is Drayton Manor?
Drayton Manor is located in Tamworth, Staffordshire. Its full address is Drayton Manor Park, Near Tamworth, Staffordshire, B78 3TW.
If you’re driving and looking for directions to Drayton Manor, then using the postcode B78 3SA in your sat nav is recommended to take you to the theme park entrance.
Otherwise, the driving directions are as follows:
- Take the M42 to junction 10 (from the north) or junction 9 (from the south)
- Alternatively, take exit T2 off the M6 Toll
- Follow the A38 or the A446 to the A4091
- From here, follow the signs to the Drayton Manor site entrance
There’s plenty of car parking at Drayton Manor which can be booked in advance online or be purchased on the day. Each ticket costs £6.
Travelling to Drayton Manor by train
To get to Drayton Manor by train, visitors need to take a service to Tamworth train station three miles away from the theme park.
An easy and convenient way to get to Drayton Manor, there are direct services to Tamworth from major cities such as London, Birmingham, and Manchester.
Getting the train to Drayton Manor from London
If you're travelling to Drayton Manor from London, you can catch a direct train to Tamworth. The journey takes around one hour and 30 minutes with trains running regularly throughout the day. From Tamworth station, you can catch a shuttle bus or a taxi to the theme park, which is located about three miles away.
Getting the bus to Drayton Manor
The number 110 and 115 buses run to Drayton Manor from Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, Tamworth and surrounding areas. There is also a shuttle bus service from Tamworth station, which runs every 30 minutes during park opening times.
Drayton Manor opening times
Drayton Manor is open from March to November, with different opening times depending on the season. During peak season (July and August), the park is open from 10am to 6pm. In the off-peak season, the park may close earlier.
As such, it's always a good idea to check the park's website or social media pages for the latest information on opening times.
Things to do at Drayton Manor
Drayton Manor is known for its thrilling rides and attractions, but there's plenty more to do at the park besides riding roller coasters. Here are some of the top things to do at the resort.
- Enjoy the rides. Drayton Manor is home to more than 20 rides and has something suitable for all ages and thrill levels, from the adrenaline-pumping Apocalypse to the family-friendly Thomas Land
- Visit the zoo. Home to more than 500 animals including tigers, monkeys, penguins, reptiles and endangered species, it’s a great place for little ones to visit
- Catch a show. There are various shows and events at the park, including fireworks displays, live music and a daily parade featuring the characters from Thomas Land
- Grab a tasty snack. Drayton Manor has plenty of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants. There are also several picnic areas where you can enjoy your own food and drinks
Tips for visiting Drayton Manor
To make the most of Drayton Manor’s attractions, rides and events, you need to be prepared. Here are some tips on how to get ready for your visit to the theme park:
Check the weather
The weather can have a big impact on your visit to Drayton Manor. Make sure to check the forecast ahead of time and dress appropriately for the conditions. If it's going to be hot and sunny, bring sunscreen and a hat. If it's going to be cooler, bring layers and a waterproof jacket in case of rain.
Arrive early
Getting to the park early will help you avoid long queues and crowds. Try to arrive at least 30 minutes before the park opens to get a head start on the day. This is especially important if you're visiting during peak season or on a weekend.
Bring snacks and drinks
While there are plenty of dining options at Drayton Manor, they can be crowded during peak times. Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks to keep you fueled without having to queue. There are several picnic areas throughout the park where you can sit and enjoy your own food.
Take breaks
It's important to take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. Drayton Manor can be a tiring experience, especially if you're walking around all day, so don’t forget to take some time out to relax.
Plan ahead
Before you arrive at the park, make sure you have a rough plan of what you want to do and see. Drayton Manor has a lot of attractions and shows, so it's helpful to have an idea of what you want to prioritise to make the most of your visit.
Travel to Drayton Manor with Avanti
Make sure you’ve brought any tickets or planned the routes you’ll take to get to the theme park. If you’re travelling by train, book in advance on the Avanti West Coast app to get the best train times and cheapest ticket prices.
For more inspiration for great days out, you can read our guide on the best day trips by train.
