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Wet, Wild, and Worth Every Second: Conquer Splash Landings & Alton Towers Waterpark

Splash Landings and Alton Towers Waterpark are a bit like Manchester’s cheeky answer to the British weather—wet, wild, and unpredictable, but in a way you’ll actually enjoy. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill waterpark duo. 

Splash Landings has a quirky, tropical vibe that feels like a summer holiday that got a little lost and ended up in Staffordshire. And just next door, Alton Towers Waterpark kicks up the adrenaline, with slides that could give even the bravest a run for their money. 

It’s all about big splashes, wild rides, and those perfect lazy river moments where time seems to slow down—until a wave catches you off guard, of course. 

With its mix of non-stop thrills and laid-back spots, this place is a playground for everyone, from the little ones to the “big kids” who never quite grew out of a good water slide.

Where is Splash Landings Manchester

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Splash Landings and Alton Towers Waterpark are nestled in the Staffordshire countryside, just outside the bustle of Manchester. You’ll find them right next to the famous Alton Towers Resort, near the village of Alton. 

It’s a scenic drive from the city, about an hour’s journey south-east along the A523, making it a great day trip or weekend getaway.

How to Get to Splash Landings & Alton Towers Waterpark

Closest train station: To reach Splash Landings and Alton Towers Waterpark, take the train to Stoke-on-Trent station, which is about 15 miles from the resort. From there, hop on the X41 or 32A bus directly to Alton Towers. 

If you prefer driving, the waterpark is about an hour’s drive from Manchester via the A523, with plenty of signage pointing you in the right direction as you get closer. Make sure to check the resort’s website for updated shuttle times or alternative routes.

Best Time to Go to Splash Landings & Alton Towers Waterpark

The best time to visit Splash Landings and Alton Towers Waterpark is during spring and autumn when the crowds are thinner, and the weather is still pleasant. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, making it ideal for a more relaxed experience. 

Keep an eye out for special events at Alton Towers Resort that can add an extra splash of fun to your visit!

What to Do at Splash Landings Manchester

Take a dip at the waterpark

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Splash Landings isn’t shy about making a splash—literally. The waterpark here is all about slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools that’ll make you forget the Manchester drizzle for a while. 

It’s like the British seaside but without the pebbles in your shoes. Perfect for families, thrill-seekers, or anyone just looking to float around with zero worries. 

Just remember to bring your sense of adventure (and maybe a towel).

Explore Alton Towers Theme Park

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For those who think “relaxation” sounds suspiciously like “boredom,” Alton Towers is just next door, serving up adrenaline by the bucketload. From roller coasters that defy gravity to spooky haunted houses, it’s a day out that’ll leave you grinning like a kid on Christmas morning. 

Just don’t forget to scream—it’s half the fun. It’s the kind of place where one minute you’re flying through the air, and the next, you’re eyeing up the candy floss stand.

Wander around the gardens

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Need a breather from all the thrill rides and pool parties? The Alton Towers Gardens are right there, offering a leafy escape with a side of stunning architecture. 

Stroll through beautifully manicured lawns, snap some photos by the fountains, or just enjoy the bliss of not queuing for anything. It’s a proper zen moment in the midst of all the excitement—think of it as nature’s cool-down lap after a day of chaos.

Chill out in the Lazy River

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Sometimes you need to slow it all down, and the lazy river at Splash Landings has you covered. Drift along in a rubber ring while the water does the work—it’s like being on a tropical river cruise but without the airfare. 

Perfect for when you’ve had enough of thrill rides and just want to float away your worries. Just beware, you might get splashed by the occasional overexcited kid—occupational hazard, really.

Hit the rides at CBeebies Land

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If you’ve got little ones in tow, CBeebies Land is a lifesaver. It’s like a mini theme park designed to keep kids grinning from ear to ear—and to give parents a bit of a breather, too. 

Think gentle rides, sing-alongs, and enough colourful characters to keep the energy levels up. It’s a sweet spot for those with toddlers who want in on the fun but aren’t quite ready for the big roller coasters yet.

Test your nerves at the Alton Towers Dungeon

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For those who like their entertainment with a dash of eerie, the Alton Towers Dungeon is ready to spook. It’s a creepy, immersive experience that takes you through the darker side of history with actors who are a little too good at their jobs. 

Expect jump scares, creepy stories, and a few laughs if you’ve got a dark sense of humour. It’s like a haunted house with a history lesson—perfect for those who think a little fright is all part of the fun.

Relax in the Bubbly Wookey Hollow Hot Tubs

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For those moments when you need a break from all the watery chaos, the Wookey Hollow Hot Tubs are the perfect retreat. Sink into the warm bubbles and let the day’s adrenaline wash away. 

It’s got that perfect balance—just you, the steamy water, and the buzz of excitement lingering in the air. Plus, it’s a great spot to people-watch as your fellow thrill-seekers dash by on their way to the next ride.

Chill in the Lagoona Bay

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After tackling the big rides, Lagoona Bay is the place to unwind. It’s a more relaxed area where you can float around, splash gently, and just enjoy the tropical setting. Think of it as the calm before (or after) the storm of the waterpark’s more intense attractions. 

Where to Stay in Splash Landings Manchester

Splash Landings Hotel

Address: Alton Towers, Alton ST10 4DB

Phone: +44 871 222 3330

Pricing: £££

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Splash Landings Hotel isn’t your typical snooze-fest. It’s like a beach holiday that took a wrong turn and landed in Manchester—in the best way possible. Bright, lively, and with more poolside vibes than your average hotel, it’s the perfect spot if you’re still holding onto that inner kid. 

And let’s be real, who doesn’t want to step out of bed and right into a waterpark? It’s loud, it’s colourful, but that’s exactly the point.

The Bridge House Hotel & Restaurant

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Address: 121 Werrington Road, Stoke-on-Trent ST2 9AL

Phone: +44 1782 302300

Pricing: ££

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Think of The Bridge House like that snug corner pub you stumble into on a rainy day—except you get to sleep over. It’s got this classic, no-frills charm with a side of “yeah, we’ve been here a while and know what we’re doing.” 

The rooms won’t blow your mind, but they will give you a decent night’s kip before you head out for your adventures. Plus, the food downstairs is just what you’d expect: hearty and comforting.

Peakstones Inn

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Address: Cheadle Road, Alton ST10 4DH

Phone: +44 1538 753271

Pricing: ££

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Peakstones Inn is like that mate’s place in the countryside—if your mate had a pub downstairs and a couple of spare rooms. It’s all about laid-back vibes, a bit rough around the edges but in a way that feels more like a personality than a flaw. 

If you’re after quiet nights and pub chats with a side of the countryside, this is where you want to rest your head.

Quarry Walk Park

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Address: Coppice Lane, Freehay, Cheadle ST10 1RQ

Phone: +44 1538 723412

Pricing: ££

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Quarry Walk Park is for when you want a little nature fix but aren’t ready to completely rough it. Think of it as camping with a cheat code—cosy cabins, woodland trails, and a hint of fresh air that’ll do wonders after a day at the theme parks. 

It’s not about the frills, but more about enjoying the simple stuff—like toasting marshmallows without worrying if your tent’s about to collapse. Perfect if you fancy a night under the stars without sacrificing a proper bed.

The Bay Tree Alton

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Address: 76 High St, Alton ST10 4AQ

Phone: +44 1538 702904

Pricing: ££

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The Bay Tree Alton feels like that charming spot your nan would approve of—cosy rooms, friendly vibes, and just enough personality to keep things interesting. 

It’s the kind of place where breakfast is worth waking up for, especially if you’re looking to fuel up before a day of roller coasters. Nothing over-the-top here, just solid, warm hospitality with a touch of “make yourself at home.” 

It’s small, it’s snug, but that’s exactly the point.

Where to Drink and Eat in Splash Landings Manchester

The White Hart

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Address: 51 Stockport Rd, Lydgate, Oldham

Contact details: +44 1457 872566

Pricing: £££

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The White Hart is what happens when a classic British pub grows up and finds a bit of style. The kind of place where the beer is as crisp as the banter and the menu takes no prisoners. 

Expect hearty plates that feel like a hug on a cold day—proper pies, melt-in-your-mouth roasts, and sticky puddings that might make you rethink dessert limits. It’s the sort of spot where you’ll roll in for a quick bite and end up staying for the atmosphere.

The Bulls Head Alton

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Address: 84 Cross St, Sale M33 7HF, UK

Contact: +44 161 976 5356

Pricing: ££
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The Bulls Head is like that mate who’s always up for a laugh and never disappoints. It’s got that classic village pub vibe—think low beams, cosy corners, and a roaring fire that practically begs you to stay a bit longer. 

The menu? Comfort food done right, from burgers that require both hands to handle to a roast that’ll leave you in a blissful food coma. It’s unpretentious, unfussy, and exactly what you’d want after a day of exploring.

The Duncombe Arms

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Address: Ellastone, Ashbourne DE6 2GZ
Phone: +44 1335 324275
Pricing: £££
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The Duncombe Arms is where rustic charm meets a touch of posh—like a countryside manor that’s let its hair down. This spot’s all about seasonal dishes that might just convert even the fussiest eaters.

It’s got that refined-but-relaxed feel, so you can rock up in your walking boots and still be served food that looks like it belongs in a glossy magazine. If you’re a sucker for local produce and a pub with a proper fireplace, this one’s got your name on it.

The Star at Cotton

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Address: Star Road, Cotton, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 3DW

Phone: +44 1538 703655

Pricing: ££

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The Star at Cotton feels like that hidden gem you almost don’t want to tell anyone about—cosy, welcoming, and with food that’s got that homemade touch. Think classic pub dishes but with a little extra flair—like the fish pie that’s more comfort than a warm blanket. 

Plus, the beer garden have those countryside views that’ll have you thinking about quitting the city life altogether. It’s perfect if you want a quiet pint and a meal that hits the spot without any fuss.

The Red Lion

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Address: Red Lion Inn, Boundary, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 2NU

Phone: +44 1538 702380

Pricing: ££

Website

The Red Lion’s got that classic pub spirit—welcoming, a bit rugged, and never taking itself too seriously. It’s the kind of place where locals and newcomers mingle over generous portions of comfort food, from juicy steaks to fish and chips that’ll have you licking your fingers. 

It’s not fancy, but that’s exactly the point—just good vibes, hearty food, and a pint or two to wash it all down. Perfect for when you want to kick back after a long day of exploring.

FAQs about Splash Landings Manchester

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