Alton Towers has teased a brand-new ride set to open this year.
Gangsta Granny: The Ride was originally expected to open at the The World of David Walliams land in Spring 2020, however due to the unprecedented impacts of the pandemic the ground-breaking 4D experience has been delayed until 2021.
Written in 2013, Gangsta Granny is an acclaimed children novel authored by David Walliams. The thrilling new dark-ride sees guests of all ages join protagonist Ben in discovering his grandparent is actually an international jewel thief.
On board the royal carriage, guests will enjoy a series of twists, 360-degree spins and turns as they join Ben and his granny on an epic heist to steal the crown jewels.
Video showcases the behind the scenes magic of the ride
Merlin Entertainments has gone above and beyond to kit out Gangsta Granny: The Ride to be an ultra multi-sensory experience, where guests will be immersed into see, feel, hear and smell features as part of the epic story-telling process.
3D projection-mapping and animation inspired by acclaimed artist Tony Ross has been used to complete the ride extravaganza.
And David Walliams himself has been on board throughout the design process, stating: “I’ve worked really closely with the team at Alton Towers to make sure the ride is just as funny and exciting as the book. I think children and their parents and even their grandparents are going to love it!”
David Walliams working with Merlin Entertainments design team to bring Gangsta Granny: The Ride to life
A new area for 2021
The fun doesn’t stop there, Gangsta Granny: The Ride will join various rides and attractions inspired by legendary novelist’s book series at the new World of David Walliams area.
Guests will be able to race on the Royal Carousel, pick up memorabilia at Raj’s Shop and enjoy extra tantalising thrills on Raj’s Bouncy Bottom Burp.
And that’s not all, Alton Towers has also transformed four bedrooms in their onsite hotel into the Gangsta Granny theme.
Commenting ahead of the launch, John Burton, Creative Lead for Alton Towers Resort said: “David’s stories are full of witty characters, intrigue and exhilaration so it’s been a fantastic challenge to build all that into a new ride experience.
“It’s the first time we’ve attempted such a complex combination of a physical ride experience, high-tech special effects and brilliant story-telling to ensure guests feel they are with Granny and Ben on every step of their adventure.”
In other theme park news, Intamin has unveiled a ground-breaking coaster at Sunac Land China.

