Stealth

You'll spot Stealth long before you reach Chertsey - it's Thorpe Park's notoriously intense roller coaster, and it's not subtle about announcing itself. A hydraulic launch system catapults you from 0 to 80 mph in 1.9 seconds before plummeting into an underground tunnel. The whole ride lasts roughly 45 seconds, which sounds brief until you're experiencing it firsthand. Then it feels eternal.

This is for thrill-seekers, full stop. If you're the sort who gets a kick out of extreme G-forces and genuinely enjoys the sensation of your stomach detaching from your body, you'll find it properly exhilarating. Families with young kids should skip it entirely - there's a minimum height requirement and it's relentless. Teenagers who've graduated from standard coasters? They'll queue again immediately.

The ride's at Thorpe Park, which means you'll need to buy park admission. It's not free, and it's rarely cheap, though online booking ahead usually saves you a few quid. Expect to queue 30-60 minutes in peak season unless you fork out for fast-track access.

If you're basing yourself at one of the caravan parks near Chertsey - Laleham or Chertsey Caravan Park are both walkable distance - Thorpe Park makes for a decent half-day out, especially if you're staying put for the week. It's not a destination on its own, though. Stealth's the headline act, but the park's got enough other rides and attractions to justify a full day if adrenaline's your thing.