Alton Towers changes free entry rules for kids under 3 and people are divided

21 February 2024 , 15:50

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Alton Towers has made a change to its entry rules (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

Alton Towers has made changes to its entry rules that could affect families with young children.

The popular theme park has altered the rules for free entry, which will take effect from March 16. Before, children under three years old could enter the theme park for free. But now, the new rules state that anyone shorter than 90cm can get in without paying.

Day passes can cost as little as £35 if booked online, but this can rise to £68 if bought at the gate. Many visitors are happy with the change because many rides have a minimum height requirement of 90cm.

The news sparked a lot of commentary online. One mum said: "Makes sense if those over 90cm can use most of the rides and those that are under can't. I have short children so would have appreciated being able to get them in for free but probably wouldn't have taken them until they were tall enough to enjoy the rides anyway."

Most of the big rides at Alton Towers have height restrictions (Alton Towers)

But some parents were worried about their tall toddlers. One mum shared: "I have a two-year-old at 94 cm." Another agreed: "My little lad isn't even two yet and he's about 85cm."

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Another person suggested a price for kids under 1.4m, as many rides also have a height limit.

They voiced their concerns saying: "I still think there needs to be a price for anyone under 1.4m as they are unable to go on the bigger rides. My daughter is 5 and just 1.1m and we still have to pay for a full-price ticket."

An Alton Towers spokesperson said: "We regularly review our pricing structure to ensure we continue to deliver the best value experience for our guests. These changes, which were implemented following trials at our attractions last year, bring us in line with a variety of other attractions at Merlin and across the UK that have similar policies."

Today Alton Towers also announced that Nemesis Reborn - previously just called Nemesis - will be back up and running on March 16. It's gone through a big makeover, having its whole track replaced and a total revamp of the beast character the ride is known for.

Bianca Sammut, who manages Alton Towers, said: "Throughout its first 30 years, Nemesis captured the imagination of millions of thrillseekers from around the globe. It's been an astonishing privilege to bring this truly iconic ride into the 21st century.

"We've kept its essential DNA, while using the latest technology and immersive storytelling techniques to make sure it stays a truly unmatched rollercoaster experience for a whole new generation. And from March 16, those brave enough can experience for themselves the truly awesome power of Nemesis Reborn."

Ben Hurst