Alton Towers when theme park is closed

[StolenChanel]

Aside from the waterpark which is still open, does anyone know what there is to do in or around Alton Towers when the main theme park is closed? Teen DD has a dance competition there in a few weeks so we’re staying in the resort for the weekend, but I’m going to need to keep DS occupied while she’s competing (she’s unbothered about us watching the competition and he’ll get bored sitting around all day).

We have booked the water park, but I’m wondering if there is anything else to do in the area as well? I’ll also be with DM who is coming with me for the drive and she’ll get very bored at the water park all day too. It’s so hard trying to work out how to please everyone!

It depends how far you want to drive and what you like to do! There isn't that much in Alton itself but a bit further in various ways you have Trentham Gardens (lots of shops etc) and Trentham monkey forest. Lichfield is a nice little town with a big cathedral. The national memorial arboretum. The Peak wildlife park...

Trentham Monkey Forest sounds interesting! I’ll look that up. Thank you!

When we went to Alton Towers a few years ago we stayed in Derby and went driving around the countryside. We found old mills and a lovely waterfall. I've no idea where they were though (lots of help I know!) but the area in general was quite pretty with lots of little villages

This sounds lovely! I just looked up “waterfall in Derby” and Lumsdale came up - does that sound familiar to you? It looks gorgeous.

@StolenChanel yes that looks like it. We also passed a farm on the way that made and sold their own ice cream. It was before children so we didn't really have a plan just floated around for the day. Hope you enjoy your little holiday

Sounds like a dream 😄 Thank you!

You could go and have a look at the real chained oak (of the Hex ride fame) It's in Dimmingsdale which is has lots of nice walks and lovely cafe called Ramblers Retreat and you can walk to both from Alton Towers.

Peak Wildlife Park isn't far from Alton Towers and is worth a visit. They have polar bears, red pandas, penguins, artic foxes and lots of other animals. Would suggest you take a very warm coat and hat in winter and its very cold up there.

Thank you for the suggestions!