Alton Towers extends opening hours for summer holidays (aff)

Theme park Alton Towers is extending its opening hours over the summer.

The Staffordshire destination says it will stay open an hour later until 7pm from Friday 14 to Monday 31 August.

There is also free access to the waterpark and the Minecraft experience which is included in the standard ticket price.

Book your tickets here

The extended opening hours arrive as the resort unveils one of its biggest summer line-ups including the Minecraft experience where Minecraft Mobs come to life and which is running until August 28.

Alton Towers is also offering summer short breaks from £87 per person until September 1 which includes entry to the theme park, free swimming for children in the waterpark and reduced VAT pricing.

Guests are able to choose from the Alton Towers Hotel, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, Splash Landings, CBeebies Land, the Woodland Lodges at the Enchanted Village, Luxury Treehouses or Stargazing Pods.

Operations director Mina Fattahi said: "More time to experience thrills is always a good thing but the classic mistake that people make is to head straight for the big rollercoaster they see from the entrance.

"Instead, head to the rides at the back of the park first.

Book your tickets here

"You'll beat the crowds, spend less time queueing and fit in more rides throughout the day.

"With longer days, bigger adventures and more opportunities to create memorific moments together, there's never been a better time to visit Britain's Greatest Escape.

"It doesn't matter if you're a thrillseeker who wants to ride the likes of Nemesis Reborn and Toxicator, or a family who wants to try the exclusive Meet the Mobs Minecraft event, there's something for everyone this summer."