Theme parks on a roll thanks to staycations

UK THEME parks are riding high thanks to the "staycation" trend of families holidaying at home.

Figures from consumer analysts Mintel reveal that one in four Brits visited a UK theme park in 2009, with 3 per cent of adults visiting for the first time, equating to about 1.2 million new visitors.

And admission levels to theme parks in 2010 are set to break the 14 million level for the first time – up from 12.3 million five years ago.

The overall market value for the theme park sector is also booming, hitting 315 million in 2009.

Michael Oliver, Mintel's senior leisure analyst, said: "The past two years have been very positive for the UK theme park industry, with the combined effect of economic recession and the weak pound actually working to its advantage because it persuaded more people to stay at home and take more day trips, short breaks and holidays."

And he added: "Operators are reaping the rewards of a sustained period of investment in new rides, attractions and facilities."