Claimed to be the UK's 'wettest' rollercoaster - Valhalla has finally made a return to the line-up at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.
Following a four-year closure, the ride reopened this week with a massive £4m upgrade, and promises a 'totally new immersive experience.'
One of its main draws is that it takes place in near-complete darkness behind a huge stone wall, with water cascading down. Those queueing to go on the ride have no idea what awaits them, all they can hear is the screams.
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And those on the ride only have a little bit more of a clue what's going on.
LancsLive was invited to be among the first passengers on the ride at Blackpool Pleasure Beach as it reopened after a four-year wait, in which time £4m was spent on upgrading the epic Viking-themed coaster.
The kicker was that we would be filmed with a waterproof camera fixed to the front of the long-boat throughout the four-minute journey.
Decked out in our blue ponchos and braced for a fright and soaking, we took our seats at the front. The camera picked up our every yelp, jump and facial reaction as we journeyed through plunging temperatures, several deluges of water, scorching heat and icy blasts.
Creators of the ride, which first opened in 2000 and has won numerous awards, say Valhalla will 'test limits and evoke shock, surprise and excitement at every twist and turn'.
It features 12 boats, each carrying eight riders at once. Children must be 117cm tall to ride, but only accompanied by an adult. Those 132cm or over can ride alone.
Amanda Thompson OBE, CEO of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, said: “We’re delighted to finally be able to share a glimpse into all our hard work. The new ride is absolutely sensational and will definitely leave riders wanting more.
“Those who remember the original ride may recognise some of its best-loved features, but this reimagining of Valhalla offers a totally new immersive experience that will leave riders eager to return."
Adam Slevin, director of creative, design and experience at the Pleasure Beach added: “We’ve worked so hard to find the perfect balance between maintaining nostalgia, giving the ride some much-needed TLC and adding in a few surprises for fans.
“Valhalla will test even the most confident rollercoaster rider’s limits, with plummeting temperatures, fiery furnaces and torrents of water.”
Tickets for the Pleasure Beach, from £27, can be booked online.
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