Looping Star

This massive steel roller coaster dominates the skyline at Clacton Pier, its distinctive loop-the-loop structure visible from miles around. The Looping Star has been hurling thrill-seekers upside down since the 1980s, making it one of the few proper roller coasters you'll find on a British pier.

Families with teenagers will get the biggest kick out of this one. Little ones might find it terrifying, while roller coaster enthusiasts will appreciate the vintage charm of this old-school ride. The loop itself packs a proper punch - there's no gentle easing into the inversion here.

Expected queues during summer holidays, especially weekends. The ride operates as part of Clacton Pier's attractions, so you'll need to pay per ride or buy a wristband for multiple goes. Worth allowing a couple of hours to explore the whole pier while you're there.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Valley Farm or Highfield Grange puts you within easy reach of this seaside classic. The ride fits perfectly into a traditional British seaside holiday - candy floss, arcades, and the sort of white-knuckle thrills that make kids beg to go again. Just don't ride it straight after fish and chips.