Tales from the Towers: the Unofficial Story Behind Alton Towers, Britain's Most Popular Theme Park

Tales from the Towers: the Unofficial Story Behind Alton Towers, Britain's Most Popular Theme Park

Author: Nick Sim

Publisher:

Published: 2013-10-10

Total Pages: 348

ISBN-13: 9781492377160

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Discover the amazing true story behind the world's most extraordinary theme park! A two hundred-year-old mansion, decaying and largely abandoned. A deep, foreboding valley hosting pretty gardens and dozens of bizarre and unusual structures. A terrifying plunge into Oblivion, and a mysterious alien beast known as Nemesis. All of these things can be found in one truly unique place: Alton Towers. But how on earth did they get there? The story behind the UK's most popular theme park is just as thrilling and full of twists and turns as the rollercoasters that attract millions to the park every year. Prepare to be sucked into a tale of daring invention, personal tragedy, wanton destruction and brilliant creative minds... "While in reality, this is a work of non-fiction, recounting true events and factual details, it captivates and engages readers like a fantasy story." - Airgates Attraction News Two hundred years ago, a wealthy earl began the transformation of a barren patch of land in rural Staffordshire into the site of a stunning gothic mansion surrounded by eye-wateringly beautiful gardens. Mocked and ridiculed by his peers for his strange tastes and outlandish ideas, he nevertheless succeeded in attracting people from far and wide to come and marvel at his creations. Less than 50 years later, the house stood desolate and empty. The genius architect who had helped the earl's successor complete his vision lay dead at 40, having spent many of his final months incarcerated in London's brutal Bedlam mental asylum. How had the mighty fallen so far, so fast? It didn't end there. The earl's descendants fought bitterly over Alton Towers - and with each other - until finally the near-ruined property was sold into private hands in the 1920s. In "Tales from the Towers", you can experience what it was like to visit the estate in its early years as a tourist attraction, when spectacular fetes, fairground rides and exotic animals were all part of the appeal. As well as documenting - for the first time - the full and fascinating history of Alton Towers, "Tales from the Towers" also explains exactly how the park's most popular rides - such as Nemesis, Oblivion and The Smiler - were created. It even takes an in-depth look at rides that were designed for the park but never built, enabling you to take a voyage of discovery and imagine what might have been. What reviewers say about "Tales from the Towers" "This excellent book may call itself the UNOFFICIAL story behind Alton Towers, but actually it has the merit to become the OFFICIAL story. It is meticulously researched, well-written, and highly insightful. I had assumed that I would find within the sections of the story that involved my work many inaccuracies and myths, but nothing could be further from the truth. It tells the story exactly as I remember it happening!" - John Wardley, creator of Nemesis, Oblivion and Air "This is a book that anyone interested in Alton Towers should get their hands on." - Adam Perry, AltonTowersMemories.net "The book adds a new depth to the Alton Towers experience, and is a must-read for any park fan." - Airgates Attraction News "The level of detail about the park is incredible, everyone will enjoy it." - RideRater.co.uk Grab your copy now! "Tales from the Towers" is available in paperback format, or you can download it instantly to your Amazon Kindle or on your tablet or smartphone. You can even start reading right away for FREE by clicking the "Look Inside" button above or by downloading a sample to your Kindle. What are you waiting for? Start reading now and enjoy an adventure through time as you discover how Alton Towers developed into a place that has entertained tens of millions of people over nearly two centuries.


Book Synopsis Tales from the Towers: the Unofficial Story Behind Alton Towers, Britain's Most Popular Theme Park by : Nick Sim

Download or read book Tales from the Towers: the Unofficial Story Behind Alton Towers, Britain's Most Popular Theme Park written by Nick Sim and published by . This book was released on 2013-10-10 with total page 348 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Discover the amazing true story behind the world's most extraordinary theme park! A two hundred-year-old mansion, decaying and largely abandoned. A deep, foreboding valley hosting pretty gardens and dozens of bizarre and unusual structures. A terrifying plunge into Oblivion, and a mysterious alien beast known as Nemesis. All of these things can be found in one truly unique place: Alton Towers. But how on earth did they get there? The story behind the UK's most popular theme park is just as thrilling and full of twists and turns as the rollercoasters that attract millions to the park every year. Prepare to be sucked into a tale of daring invention, personal tragedy, wanton destruction and brilliant creative minds... "While in reality, this is a work of non-fiction, recounting true events and factual details, it captivates and engages readers like a fantasy story." - Airgates Attraction News Two hundred years ago, a wealthy earl began the transformation of a barren patch of land in rural Staffordshire into the site of a stunning gothic mansion surrounded by eye-wateringly beautiful gardens. Mocked and ridiculed by his peers for his strange tastes and outlandish ideas, he nevertheless succeeded in attracting people from far and wide to come and marvel at his creations. Less than 50 years later, the house stood desolate and empty. The genius architect who had helped the earl's successor complete his vision lay dead at 40, having spent many of his final months incarcerated in London's brutal Bedlam mental asylum. How had the mighty fallen so far, so fast? It didn't end there. The earl's descendants fought bitterly over Alton Towers - and with each other - until finally the near-ruined property was sold into private hands in the 1920s. In "Tales from the Towers", you can experience what it was like to visit the estate in its early years as a tourist attraction, when spectacular fetes, fairground rides and exotic animals were all part of the appeal. As well as documenting - for the first time - the full and fascinating history of Alton Towers, "Tales from the Towers" also explains exactly how the park's most popular rides - such as Nemesis, Oblivion and The Smiler - were created. It even takes an in-depth look at rides that were designed for the park but never built, enabling you to take a voyage of discovery and imagine what might have been. What reviewers say about "Tales from the Towers" "This excellent book may call itself the UNOFFICIAL story behind Alton Towers, but actually it has the merit to become the OFFICIAL story. It is meticulously researched, well-written, and highly insightful. I had assumed that I would find within the sections of the story that involved my work many inaccuracies and myths, but nothing could be further from the truth. It tells the story exactly as I remember it happening!" - John Wardley, creator of Nemesis, Oblivion and Air "This is a book that anyone interested in Alton Towers should get their hands on." - Adam Perry, AltonTowersMemories.net "The book adds a new depth to the Alton Towers experience, and is a must-read for any park fan." - Airgates Attraction News "The level of detail about the park is incredible, everyone will enjoy it." - RideRater.co.uk Grab your copy now! "Tales from the Towers" is available in paperback format, or you can download it instantly to your Amazon Kindle or on your tablet or smartphone. You can even start reading right away for FREE by clicking the "Look Inside" button above or by downloading a sample to your Kindle. What are you waiting for? Start reading now and enjoy an adventure through time as you discover how Alton Towers developed into a place that has entertained tens of millions of people over nearly two centuries.

Making Thorpe Park

Making Thorpe Park

Author: Chris Atkinson

Publisher:

Published: 2020-10-17

Total Pages: 330

ISBN-13:

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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Well researched and revealing - John Wardley Making Thorpe Park chronicles from the very beginning to the present day. Get the complete story behind classics such as Loggers Leap and Thunder River, to modern beasts such as Stealth, Saw and The Swarm. It's an engrossing tale of fierce rivalries, massive gambles, and constant evolution. The story behind every ride in the park's 40+ year history Revealing new and long forgotten fascinating facts Chronicling the past, present and future of the UK's first theme park The crazy stunts and ideas to promote the park and rides THE FULL BIG, ENORMOUS, GIANT, HUMONGOUS, GREAT JOURNEY


Book Synopsis Making Thorpe Park by : Chris Atkinson

Download or read book Making Thorpe Park written by Chris Atkinson and published by . This book was released on 2020-10-17 with total page 330 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Well researched and revealing - John Wardley Making Thorpe Park chronicles from the very beginning to the present day. Get the complete story behind classics such as Loggers Leap and Thunder River, to modern beasts such as Stealth, Saw and The Swarm. It's an engrossing tale of fierce rivalries, massive gambles, and constant evolution. The story behind every ride in the park's 40+ year history Revealing new and long forgotten fascinating facts Chronicling the past, present and future of the UK's first theme park The crazy stunts and ideas to promote the park and rides THE FULL BIG, ENORMOUS, GIANT, HUMONGOUS, GREAT JOURNEY

Coasters 101

Coasters 101

Author: Nick Weisenberger

Publisher: Nick Weisenberger

Published: 2013-11-04

Total Pages: 134

ISBN-13: 1468013556

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Have you always wanted to learn more about how roller coasters work? I’m not talking about the basic “roller coasters use gravity!” descriptions you’re used to. I’m talking about learning in-depth about the nitty gritty engineering details, like: How do roller coaster engineers know what size motor is needed to pull the train to the top of the lift hill and how much will it cost to operate it? What material are the wheels made out of and how does it affect the performance of the ride? What is the difference between LIM and LSM propulsion? How does the control system on a racing or dueling coaster time up the near collision moments perfectly every single time? All of these questions and more are answered in the latest edition of Coasters 101: An Engineer’s Guide to Roller Coaster Design. “I thought it was great. It was a good first look at roller coaster design. It also gave great information and details about roller coasters in general.” - Adrina from Goodreads “Thanks for writing a very good book. I could not put it down. Lot's of great information. I am a technology and engineering teacher and the information I found here is very helpful in trying to get students more excited about engineering.” -Amazon reviewer


Book Synopsis Coasters 101 by : Nick Weisenberger

Download or read book Coasters 101 written by Nick Weisenberger and published by Nick Weisenberger. This book was released on 2013-11-04 with total page 134 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Have you always wanted to learn more about how roller coasters work? I’m not talking about the basic “roller coasters use gravity!” descriptions you’re used to. I’m talking about learning in-depth about the nitty gritty engineering details, like: How do roller coaster engineers know what size motor is needed to pull the train to the top of the lift hill and how much will it cost to operate it? What material are the wheels made out of and how does it affect the performance of the ride? What is the difference between LIM and LSM propulsion? How does the control system on a racing or dueling coaster time up the near collision moments perfectly every single time? All of these questions and more are answered in the latest edition of Coasters 101: An Engineer’s Guide to Roller Coaster Design. “I thought it was great. It was a good first look at roller coaster design. It also gave great information and details about roller coasters in general.” - Adrina from Goodreads “Thanks for writing a very good book. I could not put it down. Lot's of great information. I am a technology and engineering teacher and the information I found here is very helpful in trying to get students more excited about engineering.” -Amazon reviewer

Creating My Own Nemesis

Creating My Own Nemesis

Author: John Wardley

Publisher:

Published: 2015-10-26

Total Pages: 182

ISBN-13: 9781941500651

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How John Wardley Put the Thrill into British Theme Parks. Everyone knows Disneyland, but few Americans can name a single British theme park. Come across the pond to meet the UK's John Wardley, whose exciting career as an innovator of dark rides and roller coasters began with a simple magic trick.


Book Synopsis Creating My Own Nemesis by : John Wardley

Download or read book Creating My Own Nemesis written by John Wardley and published by . This book was released on 2015-10-26 with total page 182 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: How John Wardley Put the Thrill into British Theme Parks. Everyone knows Disneyland, but few Americans can name a single British theme park. Come across the pond to meet the UK's John Wardley, whose exciting career as an innovator of dark rides and roller coasters began with a simple magic trick.

Universal Orlando: the Unofficial Story

Universal Orlando: the Unofficial Story

Author: Nick Sim

Publisher:

Published: 2014-01-02

Total Pages: 340

ISBN-13: 9781494739867

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Discover the amazing true story behind the world's most thrilling theme park resort! In the late 1980s, Universal decided to construct its first real theme park - right in Disney's backyard of Orlando, Florida. At the time, the company had never built a single theme park ride. Many predicted that it would be a disaster. It very nearly was. On Universal Studios Florida's opening day in 1990, all three of its major rides malfunctioned. Thousands of guests demanded refunds. And it got worse from there - eventually, the $30 million Jaws ride was closed permanently. It was three years and a further $40 million before it would reopen. Through a combination of outrageous risk-taking, technical ingenuity and sheer persistence, Universal eventually carved out its own niche in Orlando. For the first time, "Universal Orlando: The Unofficial Story" reveals how the resort's incredible, ground-breaking rides were created, from Kongfrontation to Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Go behind the scenes at Universal Orlando! How was King Kong's banana breath generated? How hot are the flames in Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride? How does the The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man's "falling" effect work? What are the rocks underneath Hogwarts Castle made of? Does filming really take place on the streets of Universal Studios Florida? Whatever your questions about Universal Orlando, this book has the answers! Enhance your Universal Orlando visit As well as detailing the amazing special effects that are employed by the rides at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, "Universal Orlando: The Unofficial Story" is also packed with hidden secrets that you can look out for during your next visit. Want to know where you can rent a time machine, or how to boost your score on Men in Black: Alien Attack? Look no further! What reviewers say about "Universal Orlando: The Unofficial Story" "Universal Orlando: The Unofficial Story is the only book currently available that covers the complete history and creation of the resort, from the onset to the present day. I was a bit skeptical because it is a self-published book but I was blown away with how good it was." - Amusement Authority "Universal Orlando: The Unofficial Story is the ultimate book about the creation and development of the Universal Orlando Resort. Relive the history of the resort from conception through the present day including all the bumps in the road along the way." - Coaster101.com Grab your copy now! "Universal Orlando: The Unofficial Story" is available in paperback format, or you can download it instantly to your Amazon Kindle or a Kindle app on your tablet or smartphone. You can even start reading right away for FREE by clicking the "Look Inside" button above or by downloading a sample to your Kindle. What are you waiting for? Start reading now and enjoy an adventure through time as you discover how Universal Orlando developed into a place that has entertained tens of millions of people over more than two decades.


Book Synopsis Universal Orlando: the Unofficial Story by : Nick Sim

Download or read book Universal Orlando: the Unofficial Story written by Nick Sim and published by . This book was released on 2014-01-02 with total page 340 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Discover the amazing true story behind the world's most thrilling theme park resort! In the late 1980s, Universal decided to construct its first real theme park - right in Disney's backyard of Orlando, Florida. At the time, the company had never built a single theme park ride. Many predicted that it would be a disaster. It very nearly was. On Universal Studios Florida's opening day in 1990, all three of its major rides malfunctioned. Thousands of guests demanded refunds. And it got worse from there - eventually, the $30 million Jaws ride was closed permanently. It was three years and a further $40 million before it would reopen. Through a combination of outrageous risk-taking, technical ingenuity and sheer persistence, Universal eventually carved out its own niche in Orlando. For the first time, "Universal Orlando: The Unofficial Story" reveals how the resort's incredible, ground-breaking rides were created, from Kongfrontation to Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Go behind the scenes at Universal Orlando! How was King Kong's banana breath generated? How hot are the flames in Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride? How does the The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man's "falling" effect work? What are the rocks underneath Hogwarts Castle made of? Does filming really take place on the streets of Universal Studios Florida? Whatever your questions about Universal Orlando, this book has the answers! Enhance your Universal Orlando visit As well as detailing the amazing special effects that are employed by the rides at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, "Universal Orlando: The Unofficial Story" is also packed with hidden secrets that you can look out for during your next visit. Want to know where you can rent a time machine, or how to boost your score on Men in Black: Alien Attack? Look no further! What reviewers say about "Universal Orlando: The Unofficial Story" "Universal Orlando: The Unofficial Story is the only book currently available that covers the complete history and creation of the resort, from the onset to the present day. I was a bit skeptical because it is a self-published book but I was blown away with how good it was." - Amusement Authority "Universal Orlando: The Unofficial Story is the ultimate book about the creation and development of the Universal Orlando Resort. Relive the history of the resort from conception through the present day including all the bumps in the road along the way." - Coaster101.com Grab your copy now! "Universal Orlando: The Unofficial Story" is available in paperback format, or you can download it instantly to your Amazon Kindle or a Kindle app on your tablet or smartphone. You can even start reading right away for FREE by clicking the "Look Inside" button above or by downloading a sample to your Kindle. What are you waiting for? Start reading now and enjoy an adventure through time as you discover how Universal Orlando developed into a place that has entertained tens of millions of people over more than two decades.

Creating My Own Nemesis

Creating My Own Nemesis

Author: John Wardley

Publisher: Createspace Independent Pub

Published: 2013-04-13

Total Pages: 160

ISBN-13: 9781484049143

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The autobiography of the man who brought the theme park concept to Britain, and created some of the world's most thrilling rides and attractions. He talks about his early beginnings in the theatre, circus and magical cabaret, his time working on some of the most incredible special effects in the James Bond films (including the famous bus crash scene in Live and Let Die), and how he became associated with Madame Tussauds, the world's most famous wax museum. This led to the development of Chessington World of Adventures, then Alton Towers. Now in its sixth edition, the book answers many questions about how enormous theme park rides are conceived and developed, and the fascinating stories behind them, including his most famous ride "NEMESIS" at Alton Towers.


Book Synopsis Creating My Own Nemesis by : John Wardley

Download or read book Creating My Own Nemesis written by John Wardley and published by Createspace Independent Pub. This book was released on 2013-04-13 with total page 160 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The autobiography of the man who brought the theme park concept to Britain, and created some of the world's most thrilling rides and attractions. He talks about his early beginnings in the theatre, circus and magical cabaret, his time working on some of the most incredible special effects in the James Bond films (including the famous bus crash scene in Live and Let Die), and how he became associated with Madame Tussauds, the world's most famous wax museum. This led to the development of Chessington World of Adventures, then Alton Towers. Now in its sixth edition, the book answers many questions about how enormous theme park rides are conceived and developed, and the fascinating stories behind them, including his most famous ride "NEMESIS" at Alton Towers.

The Language of Things: Understanding the World of Desirable Objects

The Language of Things: Understanding the World of Desirable Objects

Author: Deyan Sudjic

Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company

Published: 2009-06-01

Total Pages: 209

ISBN-13: 0393240924

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A brilliant exposé of the interaction between art, design, and commerce. In The Language of Things, the director of London's Design Museum charts our relationship with all things designed. With scintillating wit and an eye for the pleasures and dangers of rampant consumerism, Deyan Sudjic takes us from luxury car commercials to glossy advertisements for seasonal variations of the Prada purse to the hype surrounding the latest version of the iPhone, exploring how we are manipulated and seduced by our possessions. Who would've thought that it's the subtle visual similarity between the Volkswagen Golf GTI and the barrel of an automatic pistol that makes people want to get behind the wheel? And why is it that digital cameras in cell phones "click" even though they don't have a shutter? Sudjic's illuminating argument will resound with anyone who has ever been affected by how things look—lured, in other words, by the powerful siren call of design.


Book Synopsis The Language of Things: Understanding the World of Desirable Objects by : Deyan Sudjic

Download or read book The Language of Things: Understanding the World of Desirable Objects written by Deyan Sudjic and published by W. W. Norton & Company. This book was released on 2009-06-01 with total page 209 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A brilliant exposé of the interaction between art, design, and commerce. In The Language of Things, the director of London's Design Museum charts our relationship with all things designed. With scintillating wit and an eye for the pleasures and dangers of rampant consumerism, Deyan Sudjic takes us from luxury car commercials to glossy advertisements for seasonal variations of the Prada purse to the hype surrounding the latest version of the iPhone, exploring how we are manipulated and seduced by our possessions. Who would've thought that it's the subtle visual similarity between the Volkswagen Golf GTI and the barrel of an automatic pistol that makes people want to get behind the wheel? And why is it that digital cameras in cell phones "click" even though they don't have a shutter? Sudjic's illuminating argument will resound with anyone who has ever been affected by how things look—lured, in other words, by the powerful siren call of design.

The Watchers

The Watchers

Author: Helen Cresswell

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers

Published: 1994

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9780027253719

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Two runaway children hide out in a theme park and become enmeshed in an unearthly battle between the forces of good and evil.


Book Synopsis The Watchers by : Helen Cresswell

Download or read book The Watchers written by Helen Cresswell and published by Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers. This book was released on 1994 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Two runaway children hide out in a theme park and become enmeshed in an unearthly battle between the forces of good and evil.

Smoke and Mirrors

Smoke and Mirrors

Author: Michael Eley

Publisher:

Published: 2013-06-11

Total Pages: 118

ISBN-13: 9781490417080

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When the UK theme park Alton Towers invested millions of pounds in their ground-breaking Haunted House, a new era of dark rides was born. The spectacular attraction amazed and spellbound theme park enthuisasts and dark ride fans for many years, with its breath-taking illusions and state-of-the-art technology. The original concept was retired in 2002 to make way for the interactive zombie blaster, Duel. However, the Haunted House left a lasting impression on some of those intrepid riders who braved the Poltergeist Room and were scared witless by the Grand Hallway's grinning demon.Michael P Eley was one of those riders. Through the pages of this book he will guide you back into the darkness, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the making of creator John Wardley's 'laff in the dark' attraction, as well as serving up a brief history of dark rides and haunted houses.


Book Synopsis Smoke and Mirrors by : Michael Eley

Download or read book Smoke and Mirrors written by Michael Eley and published by . This book was released on 2013-06-11 with total page 118 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: When the UK theme park Alton Towers invested millions of pounds in their ground-breaking Haunted House, a new era of dark rides was born. The spectacular attraction amazed and spellbound theme park enthuisasts and dark ride fans for many years, with its breath-taking illusions and state-of-the-art technology. The original concept was retired in 2002 to make way for the interactive zombie blaster, Duel. However, the Haunted House left a lasting impression on some of those intrepid riders who braved the Poltergeist Room and were scared witless by the Grand Hallway's grinning demon.Michael P Eley was one of those riders. Through the pages of this book he will guide you back into the darkness, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the making of creator John Wardley's 'laff in the dark' attraction, as well as serving up a brief history of dark rides and haunted houses.

Coasting Around the UK

Coasting Around the UK

Author: Peter Andrews

Publisher: Schiffer Publishing

Published: 2016

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9780764350153

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The United Kingdom has been entertaining the public with its amazing selection of parks and roller coasters since the late 19th century. This book features in-depth profiles of 80 roller coasters, from the 7,442-foot Ultimate in Lightwater Valley to Thorpe Park's Stealth, which goes from 0 to 80 mph in 1.9 seconds. A compelling series of photographs, gathered from 38 of Great Britain's most famous amusement parks, includes many behind-the-scenes perspectives and rare views that prove these compelling structures are not merely fun rides but also mechanically magnificent and, at times, visually stunning machines. Covering the length and breadth of the UK, this photographic and historic guide takes you from Brighton up to Glasgow, and from Gwynedd over to Great Yarmouth and provides the ultimate adrenaline rush.


Book Synopsis Coasting Around the UK by : Peter Andrews

Download or read book Coasting Around the UK written by Peter Andrews and published by Schiffer Publishing. This book was released on 2016 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The United Kingdom has been entertaining the public with its amazing selection of parks and roller coasters since the late 19th century. This book features in-depth profiles of 80 roller coasters, from the 7,442-foot Ultimate in Lightwater Valley to Thorpe Park's Stealth, which goes from 0 to 80 mph in 1.9 seconds. A compelling series of photographs, gathered from 38 of Great Britain's most famous amusement parks, includes many behind-the-scenes perspectives and rare views that prove these compelling structures are not merely fun rides but also mechanically magnificent and, at times, visually stunning machines. Covering the length and breadth of the UK, this photographic and historic guide takes you from Brighton up to Glasgow, and from Gwynedd over to Great Yarmouth and provides the ultimate adrenaline rush.