Planning a group trip can be a balancing act. After all, you want to choose a destination that offers plenty of excitement, convenience, and variety to cater to everyone in your group. For those based in or around Coventry, theme parks make a fantastic choice.
From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to family-friendly attractions and beautiful open spaces, these parks are packed with opportunities for bonding and fun. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best theme parks near Coventry, complete with tips to make your group outing one to remember.
Location: Drayton Bassett, near Tamworth, Staffordshire
Distance from Coventry: Approximately 40 minutes by car (28 miles)
Known for its variety of attractions, Drayton Manor Resort is a top choice for groups. Whether you're thrill-seekers or traveling with families, this park covers all bases.
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Group-Friendly Amenities:
Drayton Manor goes above and beyond to accommodate groups. Discounted group rates are available for parties of 12 or more, and pre-booking ensures you spend less time at the gate. The park features spacious picnic areas, perfect for large gatherings.
Tips for Visiting:
Arrive early to make the most of shorter queues, and consider renting a gazebo in the park for a central meeting point. For larger groups, lunch packages can be pre-arranged.
Location: Alton, Staffordshire
Distance from Coventry: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car (60 miles)
Alton Towers is among the UK’s most famous theme parks, offering a mix of thrills and entertainment that works wonderfully for groups.
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Group-Friendly Amenities:
Alton Towers offers reduced group rates for parties of 7 or more and customizable packages for corporate or educational trips. Group-friendly facilities include on-site parking for coaches and large vehicles and an extensive variety of food stalls catering to different diets.
Tips for Visiting:
To manage a large group efficiently, download the Alton Towers app for real-time updates on wait times and ride closures. Booking the park’s Fastrack passes can help your group skip queues and experience more rides.
Location: Atherstone, Warwickshire
Distance from Coventry: Around 30 minutes by car (15 miles)
For groups seeking a more relaxed outing with an educational twist, Twycross Zoo is an excellent option. While not a traditional theme park, its mix of animal encounters and kid-friendly attractions makes it a memorable destination.
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Group-Friendly Amenities:
This zoo offers significant discounts for groups of 15 or more. Ample seating areas and a choice of dining options make it easy to coordinate lunch breaks as a group.
Tips for Visiting:
Allocate at least half a day to see the zoo in its entirety. If you're visiting with kids, pack a change of clothes—they’ll likely want to explore the splash play areas!
Location: Bewdley, Worcestershire
Distance from Coventry: Around 1 hour 15 minutes by car (50 miles)
For groups that want the thrill of a theme park mixed with up-close wildlife encounters, West Midland Safari and Leisure Park is unbeatable.
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Group-Friendly Amenities:
Group tickets become significantly cheaper when you book for 10 or more people. The on-site eateries and picnic areas offer flexibility for meal breaks. Parking for coaches is available, as is a dedicated guest services team to help coordinate large group visits.
Tips for Visiting:
If visiting during peak season, consider arriving early for the safari drive. Booking ride wristbands in advance helps save time and money.
Location: Birmingham, West Midlands
Distance from Coventry: Approximately 40 minutes by car (21 miles)
While slightly smaller in scale than outdoor parks, LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a fantastic indoor destination for groups, especially families with young children.
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Group-Friendly Amenities:
LEGOLAND Discovery Center provides group discounts and special event packages. While the center isn’t as expansive as other parks, its manageable size makes it easier to keep groups together.
Tips for Visiting:
Book tickets online to guarantee entry as sessions can sell out quickly. Combine a visit with nearby attractions like Sea Life Birmingham for an action-packed group outing.
Location: Matlock Bath, Derbyshire
Distance from Coventry: Around 1 hour 45 minutes (65 miles)
Designed with families in mind, Gulliver’s Kingdom provides a variety of rides and attractions cushioned into a scenic hillside. Its smaller size and affordability make it an excellent pick for group trips.
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Group-Friendly Amenities:
Groups of 20 or more enjoy discounted admission rates. The family-oriented facilities include child-friendly restaurants and gift shops where little ones can pick out souvenirs.
Tips for Visiting:
Wear comfortable shoes as walking through the hilly layout can be a workout. Arriving early is key to securing parking closer to the entrance.
Location: Bournville, Birmingham
Distance from Coventry: About 45 minutes by car (25 miles)
For chocolate lovers, Cadbury World is a unique and delicious group experience. While it’s not a theme park in a traditional sense, the interactive exhibits and chocolate-themed activities make for a memorable outing.
Key Attractions:
Group-Friendly Amenities:
Groups of 15 or more receive a discount on tickets. Additionally, Cadbury World offers pre-booked lunches and private hosting spaces for school or corporate groups.
Tips for Visiting:
Combine your visit with a stroll through the historic Bournville Village. Keep an eye on the gift shop—perfect for grabbing uniquely sugary souvenirs for everyone back home.
From pulse-racing roller coasters to peaceful zoo visits and chocolate-themed adventures, the theme parks near Coventry offer something for everyone. These destinations are perfect for school trips, family outings, and group events, thanks to their fun attractions and group-friendly facilities.
If you're planning a group trip, you’ll need comfortable and reliable transport. We at 13 Travel provide luxury coaches and minibuses at great prices for group travel in and around Coventry. So gather your friends, family, or colleagues and start planning your adventure today — the memories will last a lifetime!