Oblivion at Alton Towers: The Pioneering Dive Coaster Experience
Experience the world’s first dive coaster with Oblivion’s heart-stopping vertical drop and smooth thrills at Alton Towers.
Oblivion, located in Alton Towers Resort near Stoke-on-Trent, is the world's first B&M dive coaster, renowned for its thrilling vertical drop and smooth ride. Open daily from 10am to 10pm during the season, this iconic roller coaster offers an intense yet accessible adrenaline rush, set within the immersive X-Sector area of the park. Its unique design and fast operations make it a must-ride attraction for thrill-seekers visiting Alton Towers.
A brief summary to Oblivion
- Alton Towers, Farley Ln, Stoke-on-Trent, Farley, ST10 4DB, GB
- Click to display
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-10 pm
- Thursday 10 am-10 pm
- Friday 10 am-10 pm
- Saturday 10 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Use the single rider queue to reduce wait times and enjoy multiple rides throughout the day.
- Visit during extended opening hours on select weekends for the unique experience of night rides.
- Combine your Oblivion visit with other X-Sector coasters like Nemesis Reborn for a full thrill-packed day.
- Arrive early when the park opens at 10am to avoid peak crowds and maximize ride time.
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Getting There
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Train
Take a train to Stoke-on-Trent station, then a taxi or local bus to Alton Towers Resort; total travel time approximately 45-60 minutes, taxi fares range from £25-£35.
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Car
Drive to Alton Towers via the M6 motorway and A50, with parking available on-site for approximately £10 per day; travel time from Birmingham is about 45 minutes depending on traffic.
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Bus
Use the Alton Towers Shuttle Bus service from Stoke-on-Trent city center, running at regular intervals during park opening hours; journey takes around 30-40 minutes, ticket prices about £5 one way.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Restrooms
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Drink Options
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Food Options
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Seating Areas
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Trash Bins
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Information Boards
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Visitor Center
Oblivion location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Oblivion
Groundbreaking Dive Coaster Innovation
Oblivion holds the distinction of being the world’s first Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M) dive coaster, debuting a new roller coaster style that features a dramatic vertical drop. This pioneering design revolutionized thrill rides by suspending riders over a sheer drop before releasing them into a high-speed plunge. The ride’s compact layout and intense drop deliver a powerful adrenaline surge, making it a standout attraction at Alton Towers Resort.Immersive Theming and Ride Experience
Set within the X-Sector area, Oblivion’s theming complements its futuristic and industrial atmosphere. The queue line is intricately designed to build suspense, leading riders through a high-tech facility preparing them for the dive. The ride itself is smooth and fast-paced, with a notable drop that plunges riders into a dark tunnel, enhancing the sensation of free fall. Despite its intensity, the coaster maintains a rerideable quality, appealing to a broad range of thrill enthusiasts.Operational Excellence and Capacity
Oblivion is known for its efficient operations, running up to five trains simultaneously. This high throughput minimizes wait times despite the ride’s popularity. The coaster’s relatively short track length is offset by the rapid dispatch and smooth ride cycle, allowing guests to experience the thrill multiple times during their visit.Context Within Alton Towers Resort
Alton Towers is England’s largest theme park, offering a diverse range of rides and themed areas. Oblivion contributes significantly to the park’s reputation for cutting-edge thrill rides alongside other iconic coasters like Nemesis Reborn and The Smiler. The park itself spans 500 acres and includes family-friendly zones such as CBeebies Land, balancing intense attractions with experiences for all ages.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Riders approaching Oblivion encounter a blend of anticipation and excitement, heightened by the ride’s dark, industrial aesthetic and the suspenseful queue. The vertical drop and tunnel plunge deliver a visceral thrill that is both exhilarating and memorable. The ride’s design ensures it is not overly extreme, making it accessible to many coaster fans while still providing a unique and intense experience.Legacy and Future Prospects
Since its introduction, Oblivion has remained a flagship attraction at Alton Towers, influencing coaster design worldwide. While some theming elements show signs of aging compared to newer rides, its fundamental thrill and innovative concept continue to captivate visitors. It stands as a testament to Alton Towers’ commitment to delivering pioneering and immersive roller coaster experiences.Explore the best of what Oblivion has to offer
Explore a majestic Georgian estate blending history, nature, and family fun across Staffordshire’s scenic parkland.
Explore the enchanting underwater world of Sharkbait Reef, a pirate-themed aquarium featuring sharks, rays, and interactive marine experiences at Alton Towers.
