Drayton Manor Resort, Westmorland Travel Guide

4.3 (18833)

Experience thrilling rides, enchanting wildlife, and magical family fun at Drayton Manor Resort in Staffordshire.

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Drayton Manor Resort

Drayton Manor Resort in Tamworth, Staffordshire, is a premier family-friendly theme park and zoo spanning 180 acres. It offers a wide range of thrilling rides, gentle attractions for children, and the beloved Thomas Land. The resort also includes a zoo with over 100 animals and a 4-star hotel featuring themed rooms. With seasonal events and a rich history, it promises an exciting day out for all ages.

A brief summary to Drayton Manor Resort

Drayton Manor Dr, Tamworth, Fazeley, Mile Oak, B78 3TW, GB
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Duration: 4 to 8 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 10:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday 10:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10:30 am-5 pm
Thursday 10:30 am-5 pm
Friday 10:30 am-5 pm
Saturday 10:30 am-7 pm
Sunday 10:30 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Drayton Manor Resort.

Arrive early on weekdays to enjoy shorter queues and make the most of your day.
Don’t miss Thomas Land, especially if visiting with young children who love Thomas the Tank Engine.
Check the park’s calendar for seasonal events like Christmas Wonderland and Halloween for unique experiences.
Consider staying at the Drayton Manor Hotel to extend your visit and enjoy themed accommodations.
Use public transport options like the Arriva 110 or 115 buses from Birmingham or Tamworth for convenient access.

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Explore Drayton Manor Resort on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Drayton Manor Resort, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

Driving to Drayton Manor Resort is straightforward with ample on-site parking. The park is accessible via major roads near Tamworth. Parking fees typically range around £10-£15 per day. Travel times vary depending on starting point but expect approximately 20-40 minutes from Birmingham city center.
Bus

Arriva buses 110 and 115 serve Drayton Manor Resort from Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, and Tamworth. The bus stop is a short walk from the park entrance. Services run regularly during park opening hours. Tickets cost around £3-£6 depending on route and ticket type. Journey times range from 30 to 60 minutes.
Train and Taxi

The nearest train station is Tamworth, approximately 3 miles away, served by West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, and CrossCountry. From the station, taxis are available with wheelchair-accessible options. Taxi fares to the park are approximately £8-£12, with a journey time of about 10 minutes.
Coach

Group coach transport can be arranged for parties of 8 or more, offering eco-friendly and affordable options. This is ideal for larger groups or events, with pricing and availability subject to advance booking.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Drink Options
Food Options
Seating Areas
Trash Bins
Information Boards
Visitor Center

Discover more about Drayton Manor Resort

A Storied Estate Transformed into a Family Wonderland

Drayton Manor Resort occupies the historic grounds of the former Drayton Manor estate, once home to Sir Robert Peel, 2nd Baronet. The original manor house was mostly lost by the 1920s, leaving only the iconic clocktower standing at the park’s entrance. The land was repurposed after World War II when entrepreneurs George and Vera Bryan purchased it, opening a modest amusement park in 1950. Over the decades, the park expanded to include a zoo and numerous rides, evolving into one of the UK’s largest and most beloved family attractions.

Thrills, Family Rides, and Thomas Land

The park offers a diverse mix of attractions catering to all ages and tastes. Adrenaline seekers can enjoy several rollercoasters and thrill rides, while families with young children find plenty of gentler options. A highlight is Thomas Land, a themed area dedicated to Thomas the Tank Engine, featuring rides and interactive experiences inspired by the popular children’s series. This area is especially popular with younger visitors, blending nostalgia with immersive fun.

Drayton Manor Zoo: A Wildlife Encounter

Within the resort lies Drayton Manor Zoo, home to more than 100 animals including red pandas, Eurasian lynx, monkeys, and gibbons. The zoo provides an engaging and educational experience, complementing the amusement park’s attractions. Visitors can explore carefully curated exhibits that showcase a variety of species, making it a perfect destination for animal lovers and families seeking a diverse day out.

Seasonal Events and Festive Celebrations

Drayton Manor Resort hosts a range of family-friendly events throughout the year. Notably, the Christmas Wonderland event transforms the park into a festive dreamland with enchanting light displays, the Twinkle Express train ride, a Santa’s Grotto, and live entertainment including pantomimes. Halloween features themed activities and spooky fun tailored for children. These seasonal celebrations add a magical dimension to the visitor experience, drawing crowds eager for holiday cheer.

Accommodation and Amenities for a Complete Stay

The on-site Drayton Manor Hotel offers 150 contemporary guest rooms, including 15 Thomas & Friends themed rooms designed to delight families. The hotel features amenities such as air conditioning, restaurants, bars, conference facilities, and free parking. Its location within the resort grounds allows guests to extend their visit with convenient access to the park and zoo. Nearby dining and shopping options further enhance the stay.

Accessibility and Getting There

Located near Tamworth in Staffordshire, Drayton Manor Resort is accessible by car with ample parking available. Public transport options include buses from Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, and Tamworth, as well as taxi services from Tamworth railway station, about 3 miles away. The park’s central location in the West Midlands makes it an ideal destination for day trips and weekend getaways from surrounding cities.