The reason why foods so expensive is they know you cant go elsewhere for it why would anyone want to eat there anywhere you are there to ride no other reason
@@ThemeParkWorldwide It is, and I love your content and honest vlogs of our parks. I'm next at the park May 23rd, and for the first time in 10+ years I'll be taking a packed lunch...
Do bare in mind the woodcutters food prices doesn’t include a drink. So a cheaper meal in there will end up more expensive than the quick serve restaurants when you add your beverage.
@@ThemeParkWorldwideDidn’t I read somewhere last month that Merlin was also introducing “surge pricing” across all their parks? Can only imagine how much more on top they’d charge at lunch time…
Prices seem typical of most theme parks - outrageous prices for low quality food. Better to take your own food that you can eat in the queues throughout the day in my opinion, but each to their own. Thanks for sharing this and calling out the increases!
I feel like "most theme parks" really applies to the Merlin theme parks in the UK, as the prices at parks like Drayton and Paultons are more reasonable and they have higher quality food. And especially when you go out to Europe it's the same, doesn't even have to be a top theme park
@@stegosaurus993 Totally agree, especially with Paultons, prices are reasonable and food is actually pretty good. The American diner in Tornado Springs is very good. Merlin are just fleecing everyone with their 2nd rate parks and run down appearances. With any luck, with Universal possibly building a park it'll shake Merlin up and make them spend money on their UK parks instead of sending it to their other interests around the world. And no, Hyperia isn't enough either 😂
Top tip for you all…. I take my own hotdogs in a Thermos with a bag of HD rolls, if you have a good Thermos they’ll stay hot for up to 12 hours. Combine that with sachets of ketchup etc etc they cost me total of £4.50 for 8 hotdogs and rolls. We eat them in the queue lines as we’re waiting. Also, if you don’t have a good thermos flask or you want to heat them back up, just pop into a Costa and ask for a cup of hot water to heat a baby bottle up and you can swap out the water in the thermos 😂👍👍
That hot dog meal deal being over £17 and double the price is was 4 years ago is despicable - just plain and simple profiteering - horrible to see during a cost of living crisis.
@@ryanfoxley6756 perhaps not for you, but a lot of the country are struggling. It's not up for debate - it's documented very well by news publications and even government studies.
Last time I went to towers, the pizza buffet was miles cheaper something like 14.95 for adults and 8.95 for children. I'm quite shocked at how much the prices have risen
If they were providing quality food it wouldnt be as bad. But when everyone has been complaining about the standard of the Aramark food for the last 2 seasons, the fact they've put the prices up on top seems crazy! Blackpool are smashing it with Lokis and Gyros this year 🎉
@ThemeParkWorldwide you know it's bad if Pleasure Beach food is beating out anyone 😅 every time I've gone it's been incredibly slow service and the food has been very mediocre
@mollygriffiths6807 not saying everywhere in the park is good at Blackpool by any stretch. Had some absolute clangers of experiences eating there too. Lokis and Gyros are by far the best food options and very fresh, but agree about the waiting times on busy days.
@@ThemeParkWorldwideyep we used to always eat at vampire burger in chessington. We went there a couple of weeks ago and couldn’t believe how much it had gone up since last year
Some of the scandalous prices for food these days are joke In the day used to have a pack lunch going into Chesington or Alton Towers Thorpe Park There are some inside restaurants that give a good quality food. That’s the good thing about it.
When I visited earlier this week I tried something new and got a naan wrap from Eastern Express, which ended up being delicious. It was still extortionate, but I'd much rather pay a lot for good, freshly-prepared food than for the junk you get at the Aramark restaurants. Woodcutters is my usual option. The only downside is having to set aside half an hour or more for it since it's not fast food.
And the sit down restaurant is in a much nicer quieter area. You'd expect the food to be cheaper in a chicken takeaway in one of the busier cramped loud areas of the park
That’s the annoying thing about price increases, quick enough to increase the price but not quick enough to either give you more for your money or improve the quality of the food on offer. Inflation might be a factor, though it can’t be used as an excuse to dramatically increase prices more that the rate of inflation. Very insightful video, would love to see you do something similar at Drayton Manor at some point.
If people don't buy then they would have to lower the prices, but as long as stuff is selling theyll keep gouging the public. Hot dog prices are ridiculous even taking into account all the elements that go in to making up the cost (ingredients, wages, cooking costs etc) Last week we visited Chessy, Thorpe and Legoland and as we were staying in a local hotel we couldn't make our own packed lunch but popped into the M&S next to hotel and picked up pasta salads, mini pork pies, crisps and a couple of cakes. Just over £15 for the 2 of us. Even cheaper if you go to Tesco or Asda.
The idea of outsourcing catering seems like a good idea. But all it does is lead to increased prices and unhappy customers. Surely the park would make more money if the sold the food themselves. Visiting phantasialand the food there is quality and good value
They really take advantage of the guests that are staying on-site and have no option but to eat in the parks… I would love to see Alton Towers stop outsourcing and take over the eateries themselves to allow for better food options & theming 😅 seasonal and themed menus would be amazing
I started taking my son to Alton Towers regularly last season as we got Merlin passes for the first time. We spend most of our time in CBeebies and Mutiny Bay so we are big fans of Little Explorers. I tend to take a bag of snacks and then we buy a pizza to share between us, with the pass discount it’s not badly priced at all. I always buy a bag of doughnuts for the journey home but I won’t be doing that as much this season. It’s good to know about Woodcutters as we haven’t been in there before.
When I went in March, the donuts outside sharkbait reef were considerably cheaper than the donuts in Towers Street. But it seemed like they were not cooks the same way as they used to be. (and yes much smaller)
This was very helpful, as we visited last week and didn't know that cbeebies land had some meals for alot cheaper than other areas as we usually don't go in that area. We will for sure remember this for the future.
usually we do buy food at towers mostly for convenience, but have started taking packed lunches because its just become so expensive and not that great quality either. Always look forward to watching this video as it’s so helpful to know the prices before going. Thankyou Guys!!
I had a meal in woodcutters yesterday. The prices might seem reasonable, but the portions are ridiculously tiny and the descriptions sound nice but the food doesn’t look or taste anywhere near as appealing. I had the chicken flat bread skewer and the skewer had maybe two small chunks of chicken on it. I was very annoyed as I’ve got epilepsy and I eat keto to help control my seizures so this was my only option! I asked for more chicken, offering to pay extra and they said ‘they get this problem all the time’ and gave me an extra skewer for free. They said it’s all prepared and portioned out so there’s nothing they can do about it. It’s just a place where they heat up ready meals and you get served at the table like weatherspoons, except it doesn’t taste good, has measly portions and isn’t cheap. The staff are lovely and weren’t happy about the state of things either
I went to Alton towers last year, and the food and drink prices were absolutely eye watering. We stopped at a kiosk in the mutany bay area and it was £9 for a hot dog (without any sides) and I think it was £4 for a can of coke! It was around £26 for 2 hot dogs and 2 cans of coke… I felt totally ripped off! Thanks for a great informative video. Great tip of going to CBeebies for food.
Prices are starting to sound similar to the US parks. I know if you go to a six flags or cedar fair park over here it will cost you around $20 or more for a fast food style meal.
I'm not that fussed about paying a bit extra and the food is ok, but the BIGGEST and BEST theme park in the country should have the BIGGEST and BEST food outlets.When the rides are open people want to have something familiar, something fast and get back to the rides.Still the best day out in the country though- whether you're six or ninety six!
We said the same thing about the hotdogs this week when we went to Alton towers. Why would anyone pay £11 for a vegan hot dog when the one opposite is £8🤣it’s highly likely to be the same alternative meat they use too! Crazy really.
Thanks for the video. It’s been more than ten years since we visited Alton Towers but we’re going next week. We’re seriously considering feeding up before we go. How on earth can they justify those prices ? And we’ve been to Disney consistently for thirty-plus years and this makes their prices look like proper value !
10 days ago I was at Hansa Park and Heide Park. Both parks proved it's absolutely possible to get a quality, generously-sized meal at a reasonable price (€15 for a restaurant main meal, not street snacks). And in case you don't know yet, Holiday Park reduced food and beverage prices for this season. So bonus points for these 3 parks.
Thank you guys for another great video. Got to say guys that some of the prices are totally outrageous. No way would I pay 9.50 for a hot dog, can't believe there is one at 13 pounds. Think I will bring my own.!!
I remember as a kid the burger kitchen next to Rita was a McDonald’s, happy days. Can’t believe the prices it’s crazy. Had my first rollover hotdog recently (granted at LEGOLAND) and it was such poor quality for almost £9. Such a shame they have customers over a barrel. The best food for us as a family is little explorers in CBeebies, pizzas are actually pretty nice and even at £10 it at least feels freshly made
If that Universal park gets green lit, I wonder if it will push the other parks to lower their prices or raise them to compensate to another park taking away guests. I would wager their annual visitors would increase as Universal would bring in more tourism.
This is one of the most helpful videos you've made, thank you. In particular for pointing out the vegan options. These prices are outrageous. My partner and I are always unlikely to get any food at Alton mainly for to their tiny perk hours, if they actually stayed open after 4pm maybe I would but atm it feels like a waste of valuable ride time to go out looking for mediocre food. Roller coaster restaurant after park close is the only thing that's worthwhile
Same everywhere. Been out at PA and lunch for 4 always cost 50 to 60 each day! Criminal increases year on year at AT though. When you are paying for a full family too it's really painful.
@@liamcollinson5695 pizza planet has been closed almost 10 years because people complained about it so much, you want Downtown Restaurant, Hunters Grill, Bella Notte, ect x
i do not mind paying more for quality ingredients, nice, clean facilities and friendly service with plenty of seating. unfortunately the prices gone up but the rest does not justify the raise in my opinion. (except the roller coaster restaurant)
That's right up there with Universal Studios here in the US. Knock it up about another $5-15 and you've got Disney prices. Kinda surprises me, and it's not a huge park. But hey, they also sunk a ton of money into some of their new stuff, so I /guess/ the prices are reflecting that. I agree with a lot of people who say the park's prices, (all parks), are ridiculous. That's why I usually eat before I go, and just get a snack during the day, eating elsewhere at night. Can you bring food in? Because if not, no way. The drink prices aren't too awful tho.
Pricing is very similar to the theme parks in Orlando. A hamburger, fries, & drink at Disney is about $20. Disney and Universal still let you bring food into the park. Sea World does not let you bring in food anymore but they have a dine all day plan that is unlimited and includes soft drinks for $49.99 adults and $24.99 children. It was very interesting seeing a theme park outside of the U.S. Thank you 😊
This was really helpful, thank you, we haven’t visited in 10 years, so prices were a complete unknown! we’ve got a two day trip planned as a family of five! We will definitely be bringing a pack up for day one, and may be heading to CBeebies land for lunch on our 2nd day after seeing the prices of everything 🤑 we have RCR booked for dinner
I remember commenting in one you your videos a couple of years back when you did a food review for Alton Towers. I commented that I always used to get the £5.00 kids' meal deal at just chicken. Good value at the time. Now its sandwiches for me! A lot tastier compared to the food they have at the moment anyways. I just invested in a tea flask to take with me to theme parks as well lol 😆
I went to Alton towers a few weeks ago and I was sad when I found out they’ve stopped selling the loaded fries in forbidden valley. The nachos down by wicker man was good though
So expensive which is such a shame. Viewed this video prior to visiting this week and so glad i did. We decided to bring our own food and have a picnic in the gardens.
not sure if you covered the vending mchine prices but would like to know. ie the bottles of pop, the crisps, and id also like to know the price of the icecreams. or lollies. i remember like 10 years ago since i been they may have sold magnum icecreams
Could you do a video like this at Thorpe park when you can, aswell as possibly a merchandise video? My sister and I are going end of May to ride and it would be useful to see how much money I have to save up 😭 thank you both!!
I visited pizza pasta first weekend of the season as someone who is gluten free. The lady at the entrance said they could cater for Gluten Free but then once we were seated and after ordering our pizza were told they aren’t doing it anymore this season. I really hope they have bought the gluten free pizza back 🤞🏼 my advice if you are gluten free would be to double check again before queuing for a table (if busy)
Nice to be kept informed regarding Food snd Drink prices at any Theme Park, I think that,cas a captive Audience, we will all head for what's available, regardless of the price. More fool us! I've packed and taken Pick nicks before, however, after several hours, stuck with a Locker, the food will never taste as fresh as it should. If only refrigeratored Fridges were available at each and every Theme Park!
I've planned to try out one of those themed doughnuts, but after seeing the price, I immediately backed out. I am a big sucker for themed foods at theme parks, and doughnuts themed to the big rides of AT would've been amazing, but if I can get a box of about 3 Krispy Kreme doughnuts at a nearby service station for around the same price as a single iced doughnut with a sugar logo slapped on it, then theres very little point that I, or some other guests, would get one. Thank you so much for this video, and thank you so much for looking out for and helping any future visitors to AT.
We were there 2 weeks ago and was shocked at the prices increases. We've been merlin pass holders for years but this year has really stood out for extortionate increases. We were staying on site so had no option for pack lunches. We ate at Flambo’s one night - you now have to pay for soft drinks, which I think is completely off when you are paying high prices for a buffet. Very disappointed. We live in the south and usually make an annual trip to Alton Towers but doubt we will be back next year. 😢
If you're looking for pizza I'd recommend Ma Garritas bar in the Splash landing hotel. It's cheaper than pizza and pasta, better quality and they serve pretty late into the evening ( I got back to the hotel after 9pm at last years scarefest and they were still serving). In general the hotel food is significantly better quality than what you'll get in the park itself (with the exception of the roller coaster restaurant who are pretty good to be fair)
The prices have gone up a lot. Understand the change of company, inflation and you pay more in a theme park. But surely putting them up in some outlets like just chicken people will pay more per item so good for the company profit but less people will be buying and opting to bring their own lunch or buy only snacks instead of a meal so be interesting to see if they sell the same number of meals in the season to last year. For me it's frustrating but if there is a meal or snacks I fancy I'm in a position to do it but shouldn't have to pay so much more. Woodcutters is definitely my favourite
I can understand the increases with Just Chicken in X Sector considering their high profit margins. I had a KFC boneless banquet yesterday and that cost me £9.99! It's somewhat inline to KFCs increases over the last few years. I remeber when I could have had the same for around £6!
It just makes the day very expensive especially if you are a family of 4 after admission the food prices are a total rip off which just encourages you to bring a picnic. Please do the same at Blackpool Pleasure Beach
It’s always best to bring your own food, however this is very informative. I would be interested in seeing how the other parks food prices have gone up. Chessington, LEGOLAND, Thorpe park etc.
Thank you for going through, especially calling out the dietary options and price increases! (Think we'll be bringing our own next time we go, there's not much GF options available and all very expensive!)
I have Legoland, Thorpe Park and Chessington all nearby so it’s packed lunch all the way or dinner after leaving the parks…. The only time we deviate from that is as a treat and even then it would only be Pizza/Pasta as I can eat my body weight in pizza. Which is a lot.
Aramark used to do the food at my old cricket club & wrecked it so I don’t hold out much hope for the Merlin parks. The prices shown in this video are absolutely scandalous & I hope the Merlin hierarchy are taking note of all these comments!
Brilliant tip about the jacket potatoes in CBeebies land, will be remembering that one for next time! Who would have thought Alton towers have made my experience in Orlando not seem as costly now! Thanks for such an informative vlog (as always) x
I wonder if this is enough of an increase to put people off buying food, or if everyone who would be put off is already the kind of person that brings their own food. I guess for some people they just see it as a convenience and a once in a while treat and don't worry too much about the price, but if I was a passholder and there regularly I dont think the discount would make me willing to buy the food regularly where as perhaps previously I might have
For the prices I reckon aswell it's partly due to commisson fees, Alton sells food at a certain price then on top of that is added commission fees that go to Aramark but still it's rediculous!
Went for 3 days last week. Stayed in Quarry Walk Park (15 min drive from the park) apart from getting a whole cabin with hot tub we stayed there because we could make our own food to take to the park, the price is ridiculous and the quality is poor. Apart from RCR and maybe woodcutters it's not worth it, though I was tempted by the coach house goodies I must say
A very good informative video, the problem is families go to alton towers without any food, then they are stuck paying the high prices in the park, where now they have a insight of the prices and can take their own food if they feel its too expensive. What alton towers should do is put all the food prices on their website so families can make an informed decision.
Pizza and Pasta buffet last year was horrendous, I asked for Vegan cheese pizza and had to ask 3 separate times and by the time it came out, the rest of the family had finished and it tasted awful.
This is the type of vlog/information which is so important, especially for families. I've never been but wow ..to the prices!! I've been to Disneyland Paris and honestly...the way these prices are they will be the same soon as DLP but with a lower quality in look and taste of food😮
The price of things now is crazy. I used to love a rollover when vsiting but for nearly a tenner I think I'd wait until I get back home and get the same dog for £3 from the local shop. The quality in the Burger Kitchen and Just Chicken are not very good either especially for the price. I know inflation and food costs have gone up but the prices this year are just ripping everybody off! Packed lunch all round for me now :)
They can Govern their own prices I worked there for the 2014&2015 season and the prices were still super high, but it is to be expected. But for most alton towers is a rare day out so you would be happy to spend abit to enjoy the day I'm full. 😊😊
I understand they're locked into a contract with Aramark now but I never understood the move away from having mainstream fast food outlets at Towers as supplementary to park-owned restaurants. Or even at the likes of Thorpe where you have the usual Aramark fare but you also have the option of going to Burger King or KFC. Obviously not the healthiest, but it does allow families and other customers who are already paying obscene admission charges a more affordable option for food. Even if they are slightly inflated in comparison to off-site prices. This would be a step in the right direction imo.
I was at chessington 3 days ago and food price was expensive plus all restaurants were closed. Me and my wife just ordered x2 regular fries cost £7.50p complete rip off, it was small and was not freshly cooked
Wow a hug increase since I last visited in October 2019 (feels like a life time ago with lockdowns and inflation ruining everything since). Feels like these prices will continue to rise and rise and in years to come a hotdog will be same price as park admission 🤣🙈
For a theme park, i didnt think they were shockingly high. Always the same with theme parks....same with airports, captive audience....what youd pay normally +50%.
I don't understand why they do this. You not only have to pay lots to get in. Then pay lots for accommodation and pay way more for food. One hit dog being a 6th of the price of admission is ridiculous.
I don't go to theme parks very often the last time I went to Alton Towers was around this time last year I think when it may have been a little cheaper but when it comes to buying the food, I'm still sceptical about what I want to buy because I don't want to spend a lot but if I go again by looking at these prices, I'm definitely going to bring something of my own to save money 😂😂
Packed lunch for us and a locker to keep it in, and we have our freestyle cup recharge it when we visit we use 1 cup and refill our own bottles with it, weve all got a drink within 30 minutes of arriving 😀 keep our bottles topped up throughout the day
I think the Costa prices are fairly reasonable. £5 for a really good quality coffee, especially within a theme park is a fairly good price. Whilst, it’s still not in any means cheap, it’s still a reasonable price for a large coffee. Doughnuts on the other hand, that’s unreal.
I was there that day and I couldn't believe how much it is now. At least the Annual Pass discount helps a bit. Thanks also for sparing a minute to speak to me and my partner in Mutiny Bay. Love the channel 🤩🤩
We would love to know your thoughts on the food quality and prices at Alton Towers this year. Let us know in the video comments!
I was so shocked by the £9.50 hotdog when I went the other week 🌭🌭🌭
the food looks great at alton towers and the restaurant looks pretty awesome the rides are phenomenal you’re two channels are absolutely incredible
Not as extortionate as Disney prices and tastes better at AT, too !
The reason why foods so expensive is they know you cant go elsewhere for it why would anyone want to eat there anywhere you are there to ride no other reason
prices should go DOWN now that theyre not paying as many staff to serve you
I'd love to hear how they justify £4.25 for the regular sized Coke/Fanta/Sprite. That is a complete rip-off alongside the inflated food prices.
Very expensive indeed
@@ThemeParkWorldwide It is, and I love your content and honest vlogs of our parks. I'm next at the park May 23rd, and for the first time in 10+ years I'll be taking a packed lunch...
They justify it because they can charge it and get it. Its called capitalism haha
Do bare in mind the woodcutters food prices doesn’t include a drink. So a cheaper meal in there will end up more expensive than the quick serve restaurants when you add your beverage.
@@ThemeParkWorldwideDidn’t I read somewhere last month that Merlin was also introducing “surge pricing” across all their parks? Can only imagine how much more on top they’d charge at lunch time…
Prices seem typical of most theme parks - outrageous prices for low quality food. Better to take your own food that you can eat in the queues throughout the day in my opinion, but each to their own.
Thanks for sharing this and calling out the increases!
Thank you. The prices for some items have gone up significantly this year!
I feel like "most theme parks" really applies to the Merlin theme parks in the UK, as the prices at parks like Drayton and Paultons are more reasonable and they have higher quality food. And especially when you go out to Europe it's the same, doesn't even have to be a top theme park
@@stegosaurus993 Totally agree, especially with Paultons, prices are reasonable and food is actually pretty good. The American diner in Tornado Springs is very good.
Merlin are just fleecing everyone with their 2nd rate parks and run down appearances. With any luck, with Universal possibly building a park it'll shake Merlin up and make them spend money on their UK parks instead of sending it to their other interests around the world. And no, Hyperia isn't enough either 😂
@@stegosaurus993 absolutely not for Drayton, but yes for Paultons
We usually bring sandwiches and snacks and then eat one meal at the park.
Charlotte seems a lot more confident and relaxed lately and it's nice to see
Yes, more natural and less scripted!
Yes❤
Top tip for you all….
I take my own hotdogs in a Thermos with a bag of HD rolls, if you have a good Thermos they’ll stay hot for up to 12 hours.
Combine that with sachets of ketchup etc etc they cost me total of £4.50 for 8 hotdogs and rolls.
We eat them in the queue lines as we’re waiting.
Also, if you don’t have a good thermos flask or you want to heat them back up, just pop into a Costa and ask for a cup of hot water to heat a baby bottle up and you can swap out the water in the thermos 😂👍👍
Awesome idea, I'm nicking it
Thanks for the top tip!
Absolutely brilliant, I do that myself way cheaper than those extortionate prices being charged 😂😂
That's a merlin annual pass holders Facebook group classic!
Absolutely 👍👍
That hot dog meal deal being over £17 and double the price is was 4 years ago is despicable - just plain and simple profiteering - horrible to see during a cost of living crisis.
There isn’t a cost of living crisis 😂😂😂
@@ryanfoxley6756 perhaps not for you, but a lot of the country are struggling. It's not up for debate - it's documented very well by news publications and even government studies.
Always appreciate the details in these videos. As a family who have allergies, and are on a budget, I find it really useful. Thanks Shawn & Charlotte!
Thank you. We always try to cover the menus and prices the best we can!
Alton Towers have used the wrong word on their sign at 19:19.
Margherita is the name of the pizza.
Margarita (which they've used) is a cocktail.
Good spot!
Omggg lol thats embarrassing
@@ThemeParkWorldwide Thanks for the video. Very informative. Food beyond 'pricey'.
Is that £10.75 for 1 slice of pizza or a whole pizza?
Eagle Eyes > Think you can use both spellings maybe the "H" was added because of the confusion years ago.
Love charlotte keeping note of price increases. Holding AT accountable
We wanted to show just how much the prices have changed!
Last time I went to towers, the pizza buffet was miles cheaper something like 14.95 for adults and 8.95 for children. I'm quite shocked at how much the prices have risen
They have shot up these past two years
If they were providing quality food it wouldnt be as bad. But when everyone has been complaining about the standard of the Aramark food for the last 2 seasons, the fact they've put the prices up on top seems crazy! Blackpool are smashing it with Lokis and Gyros this year 🎉
Unfortunately so. Pleasure Beach food is better and cheaper!
@ThemeParkWorldwide you know it's bad if Pleasure Beach food is beating out anyone 😅 every time I've gone it's been incredibly slow service and the food has been very mediocre
@mollygriffiths6807 not saying everywhere in the park is good at Blackpool by any stretch. Had some absolute clangers of experiences eating there too. Lokis and Gyros are by far the best food options and very fresh, but agree about the waiting times on busy days.
It's the price increase for me. I expect average food at a theme park, as long as it's priced average. This is ridiculous 😂
Merlin theme Parks must’ve put their prices up since at Chessington and Legoland the prices have gone up loads!
Unfortunately so. It seems like Chessington has been hit with the biggest increases from what we have seen!
@@ThemeParkWorldwideyep we used to always eat at vampire burger in chessington. We went there a couple of weeks ago and couldn’t believe how much it had gone up since last year
Merlin pricing them selves out no one going to pay them prices
@@ThemeParkWorldwideyep. Chessington being my home park I’m gutted. half a hot dog is 14.50 gone in 2 mouth fulls
Some of the scandalous prices for food these days are joke In the day used to have a pack lunch going into Chesington or Alton Towers Thorpe Park There are some inside restaurants that give a good quality food. That’s the good thing about it.
6 pound for a doughnut! I wouldn't pay that if I were a millionaire!
When I visited earlier this week I tried something new and got a naan wrap from Eastern Express, which ended up being delicious. It was still extortionate, but I'd much rather pay a lot for good, freshly-prepared food than for the junk you get at the Aramark restaurants.
Woodcutters is my usual option. The only downside is having to set aside half an hour or more for it since it's not fast food.
Definitely
How they’ve managed to get the quick service meals more expensive than a sit down meal is staggering.
The quick service meals include a drink and fries...sit down doesnt.
They expect you to buy a drink and tip too though. So it does end up more.
And the sit down restaurant is in a much nicer quieter area. You'd expect the food to be cheaper in a chicken takeaway in one of the busier cramped loud areas of the park
And that's why we bring packed lunch to theme parks.
We do too!
theyre planning on anyone taking food etc in to the parks
And you can eat packed lunch in the queues, so you're not wasting part of your day waiting for food.
Sandwiches and snacks travel well
Those Geese are the most underrated part of Alton, they make it serious business.
They are great!
I hope this gets merlins attention because this is unfair pricing
That’s the annoying thing about price increases, quick enough to increase the price but not quick enough to either give you more for your money or improve the quality of the food on offer. Inflation might be a factor, though it can’t be used as an excuse to dramatically increase prices more that the rate of inflation. Very insightful video, would love to see you do something similar at Drayton Manor at some point.
If people don't buy then they would have to lower the prices, but as long as stuff is selling theyll keep gouging the public. Hot dog prices are ridiculous even taking into account all the elements that go in to making up the cost (ingredients, wages, cooking costs etc) Last week we visited Chessy, Thorpe and Legoland and as we were staying in a local hotel we couldn't make our own packed lunch but popped into the M&S next to hotel and picked up pasta salads, mini pork pies, crisps and a couple of cakes. Just over £15 for the 2 of us. Even cheaper if you go to Tesco or Asda.
The idea of outsourcing catering seems like a good idea. But all it does is lead to increased prices and unhappy customers.
Surely the park would make more money if the sold the food themselves. Visiting phantasialand the food there is quality and good value
Phantasialand's food is in its own league, but you can easily spend a week's food budget on a single day there (I did recently 😅)
I'm surprised Alton Towers don't charge the Geese £4 to drink the puddles!
They really take advantage of the guests that are staying on-site and have no option but to eat in the parks… I would love to see Alton Towers stop outsourcing and take over the eateries themselves to allow for better food options & theming 😅 seasonal and themed menus would be amazing
I agree. Especially if they're going to have those prices. It'd be better if it was orginal and themed.
You aren’t trapped on site. You are welcome to leave to get food. That’s what I do sometimes.
You have to find an employee for that and good luck doing that when you have a gigantic que going on @@michala2187
I started taking my son to Alton Towers regularly last season as we got Merlin passes for the first time. We spend most of our time in CBeebies and Mutiny Bay so we are big fans of Little Explorers. I tend to take a bag of snacks and then we buy a pizza to share between us, with the pass discount it’s not badly priced at all. I always buy a bag of doughnuts for the journey home but I won’t be doing that as much this season. It’s good to know about Woodcutters as we haven’t been in there before.
Fantastic detail from you both on the price increases. Looking at it like this just shows how expensive everything is now😢
Thank you
Great informative video guys. Staggering prices 😢. Thanks for sharing this Shawn and Charlotte x
When I went in March, the donuts outside sharkbait reef were considerably cheaper than the donuts in Towers Street. But it seemed like they were not cooks the same way as they used to be. (and yes much smaller)
This was very helpful, as we visited last week and didn't know that cbeebies land had some meals for alot cheaper than other areas as we usually don't go in that area. We will for sure remember this for the future.
usually we do buy food at towers mostly for convenience, but have started taking packed lunches because its just become so expensive and not that great quality either. Always look forward to watching this video as it’s so helpful to know the prices before going.
Thankyou Guys!!
We always take a packed lunch now, especially with all of the increases!
I have never really brought themepark food since its always been so expensive for what you get even when I was younger
I had a meal in woodcutters yesterday. The prices might seem reasonable, but the portions are ridiculously tiny and the descriptions sound nice but the food doesn’t look or taste anywhere near as appealing. I had the chicken flat bread skewer and the skewer had maybe two small chunks of chicken on it. I was very annoyed as I’ve got epilepsy and I eat keto to help control my seizures so this was my only option! I asked for more chicken, offering to pay extra and they said ‘they get this problem all the time’ and gave me an extra skewer for free. They said it’s all prepared and portioned out so there’s nothing they can do about it. It’s just a place where they heat up ready meals and you get served at the table like weatherspoons, except it doesn’t taste good, has measly portions and isn’t cheap. The staff are lovely and weren’t happy about the state of things either
Thank you so much for covering Vegan/ Allergen food options! This is so helpful!
I went to Alton towers last year, and the food and drink prices were absolutely eye watering. We stopped at a kiosk in the mutany bay area and it was £9 for a hot dog (without any sides) and I think it was £4 for a can of coke! It was around £26 for 2 hot dogs and 2 cans of coke… I felt totally ripped off!
Thanks for a great informative video. Great tip of going to CBeebies for food.
Prices are starting to sound similar to the US parks. I know if you go to a six flags or cedar fair park over here it will cost you around $20 or more for a fast food style meal.
I'm not that fussed about paying a bit extra and the food is ok, but the BIGGEST and BEST theme park in the country should have the BIGGEST and BEST food outlets.When the rides are open people want to have something familiar, something fast and get back to the rides.Still the best day out in the country though- whether you're six or ninety six!
Definitely
We said the same thing about the hotdogs this week when we went to Alton towers. Why would anyone pay £11 for a vegan hot dog when the one opposite is £8🤣it’s highly likely to be the same alternative meat they use too! Crazy really.
Thanks for the video. It’s been more than ten years since we visited Alton Towers but we’re going next week.
We’re seriously considering feeding up before we go. How on earth can they justify those prices ?
And we’ve been to Disney consistently for thirty-plus years and this makes their prices look like proper value !
10 days ago I was at Hansa Park and Heide Park. Both parks proved it's absolutely possible to get a quality, generously-sized meal at a reasonable price (€15 for a restaurant main meal, not street snacks). And in case you don't know yet, Holiday Park reduced food and beverage prices for this season. So bonus points for these 3 parks.
Thanks for this guys this is so helpful. I thought food was expensive in 2018/19 so I think I will be bringing my own food
Thank you. Food has increased significantly this year!
Thank you guys for another great video. Got to say guys that some of the prices are totally outrageous. No way would I pay 9.50 for a hot dog, can't believe there is one at 13 pounds. Think I will bring my own.!!
I remember as a kid the burger kitchen next to Rita was a McDonald’s, happy days. Can’t believe the prices it’s crazy. Had my first rollover hotdog recently (granted at LEGOLAND) and it was such poor quality for almost £9. Such a shame they have customers over a barrel. The best food for us as a family is little explorers in CBeebies, pizzas are actually pretty nice and even at £10 it at least feels freshly made
Everytime April rolls around everywhere in uk increased prices it’s awful :(
If that Universal park gets green lit, I wonder if it will push the other parks to lower their prices or raise them to compensate to another park taking away guests. I would wager their annual visitors would increase as Universal would bring in more tourism.
This is one of the most helpful videos you've made, thank you. In particular for pointing out the vegan options. These prices are outrageous. My partner and I are always unlikely to get any food at Alton mainly for to their tiny perk hours, if they actually stayed open after 4pm maybe I would but atm it feels like a waste of valuable ride time to go out looking for mediocre food.
Roller coaster restaurant after park close is the only thing that's worthwhile
Thank you
Gotta love the effort put into this, with the previous years price comparison
Thank you
Same everywhere. Been out at PA and lunch for 4 always cost 50 to 60 each day! Criminal increases year on year at AT though. When you are paying for a full family too it's really painful.
The fact they think they can charge more then Disney is absolutely ridiculous. At least Dianey food is nice.
Disney buffets are €45 💀
I don't know I didn't think much of Disneyland Paris food
@@liamcollinson5695 probably not eating at the right places then cause most of it is lush
@@robyntheslytherin it was a while ago admittedly but none of the food did much for me at all and pizza planet was a expensive and such a let down
@@liamcollinson5695 pizza planet has been closed almost 10 years because people complained about it so much, you want Downtown Restaurant, Hunters Grill, Bella Notte, ect x
Thanks for making the video to inform the people about the price increases...
i do not mind paying more for quality ingredients, nice, clean facilities and friendly service with plenty of seating. unfortunately the prices gone up but the rest does not justify the raise in my opinion. (except the roller coaster restaurant)
That's right up there with Universal Studios here in the US. Knock it up about another $5-15 and you've got Disney prices. Kinda surprises me, and it's not a huge park. But hey, they also sunk a ton of money into some of their new stuff, so I /guess/ the prices are reflecting that. I agree with a lot of people who say the park's prices, (all parks), are ridiculous. That's why I usually eat before I go, and just get a snack during the day, eating elsewhere at night. Can you bring food in? Because if not, no way. The drink prices aren't too awful tho.
Pricing is very similar to the theme parks in Orlando. A hamburger, fries, & drink at Disney is about $20. Disney and Universal still let you bring food into the park. Sea World does not let you bring in food anymore but they have a dine all day plan that is unlimited and includes soft drinks for $49.99 adults and $24.99 children. It was very interesting seeing a theme park outside of the U.S. Thank you 😊
This was really helpful, thank you, we haven’t visited in 10 years, so prices were a complete unknown! we’ve got a two day trip planned as a family of five! We will definitely be bringing a pack up for day one, and may be heading to CBeebies land for lunch on our 2nd day after seeing the prices of everything 🤑 we have RCR booked for dinner
I remember commenting in one you your videos a couple of years back when you did a food review for Alton Towers. I commented that I always used to get the £5.00 kids' meal deal at just chicken. Good value at the time. Now its sandwiches for me! A lot tastier compared to the food they have at the moment anyways. I just invested in a tea flask to take with me to theme parks as well lol 😆
I went to Alton towers a few weeks ago and I was sad when I found out they’ve stopped selling the loaded fries in forbidden valley. The nachos down by wicker man was good though
Great vid really helpful for budgeting thank you!!
So expensive which is such a shame. Viewed this video prior to visiting this week and so glad i did. We decided to bring our own food and have a picnic in the gardens.
not sure if you covered the vending mchine prices but would like to know. ie the bottles of pop, the crisps, and id also like to know the price of the icecreams. or lollies. i remember like 10 years ago since i been they may have sold magnum icecreams
I think it’s £3.50 for a magnum
Could you do a video like this at Thorpe park when you can, aswell as possibly a merchandise video? My sister and I are going end of May to ride and it would be useful to see how much money I have to save up 😭 thank you both!!
Thanks for your suggestion!
I visited pizza pasta first weekend of the season as someone who is gluten free. The lady at the entrance said they could cater for Gluten Free but then once we were seated and after ordering our pizza were told they aren’t doing it anymore this season. I really hope they have bought the gluten free pizza back 🤞🏼 my advice if you are gluten free would be to double check again before queuing for a table (if busy)
That’s not good at all!
Went to Blackpool Pleasure Beach last week. Food & drink were sensibly priced and good quality.
Nice to be kept informed regarding Food snd Drink prices at any Theme Park, I think that,cas a captive Audience, we will all head for what's available, regardless of the price. More fool us! I've packed and taken Pick nicks before, however, after several hours, stuck with a Locker, the food will never taste as fresh as it should. If only refrigeratored Fridges were available
at each and every Theme Park!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
I've planned to try out one of those themed doughnuts, but after seeing the price, I immediately backed out.
I am a big sucker for themed foods at theme parks, and doughnuts themed to the big rides of AT would've been amazing, but if I can get a box of about 3 Krispy Kreme doughnuts at a nearby service station for around the same price as a single iced doughnut with a sugar logo slapped on it, then theres very little point that I, or some other guests, would get one.
Thank you so much for this video, and thank you so much for looking out for and helping any future visitors to AT.
Thank you for watching
We were there 2 weeks ago and was shocked at the prices increases. We've been merlin pass holders for years but this year has really stood out for extortionate increases. We were staying on site so had no option for pack lunches. We ate at Flambo’s one night - you now have to pay for soft drinks, which I think is completely off when you are paying high prices for a buffet. Very disappointed. We live in the south and usually make an annual trip to Alton Towers but doubt we will be back next year. 😢
If you're looking for pizza I'd recommend Ma Garritas bar in the Splash landing hotel. It's cheaper than pizza and pasta, better quality and they serve pretty late into the evening ( I got back to the hotel after 9pm at last years scarefest and they were still serving). In general the hotel food is significantly better quality than what you'll get in the park itself (with the exception of the roller coaster restaurant who are pretty good to be fair)
I'm local so I don't do the towers i tend to do the historical part of the area like Alton Castle and the Churnet valley I also go for the chained oak
The prices have gone up a lot. Understand the change of company, inflation and you pay more in a theme park. But surely putting them up in some outlets like just chicken people will pay more per item so good for the company profit but less people will be buying and opting to bring their own lunch or buy only snacks instead of a meal so be interesting to see if they sell the same number of meals in the season to last year.
For me it's frustrating but if there is a meal or snacks I fancy I'm in a position to do it but shouldn't have to pay so much more.
Woodcutters is definitely my favourite
Very useful information for people that don't visit all the time. Well done to Charlotte for taking note of the previous prices!
Wait. £18 for a Hotdog? That's Bonkers. I think Donuts are overrated on price too, they need lowering.
It is very pricey , glad it’s been pointed out , great video! ❤
I can understand the increases with Just Chicken in X Sector considering their high profit margins. I had a KFC boneless banquet yesterday and that cost me £9.99! It's somewhat inline to KFCs increases over the last few years. I remeber when I could have had the same for around £6!
21:41 that’s more expenses than Krispy Kreme doughnuts damn!!!!
It just makes the day very expensive especially if you are a family of 4 after admission the food prices are a total rip off which just encourages you to bring a picnic. Please do the same at Blackpool Pleasure Beach
It does indeed. Prices have gone through the roof this year!
It’s always best to bring your own food, however this is very informative. I would be interested in seeing how the other parks food prices have gone up. Chessington, LEGOLAND, Thorpe park etc.
Thank you for going through, especially calling out the dietary options and price increases! (Think we'll be bringing our own next time we go, there's not much GF options available and all very expensive!)
I have Legoland, Thorpe Park and Chessington all nearby so it’s packed lunch all the way or dinner after leaving the parks…. The only time we deviate from that is as a treat and even then it would only be Pizza/Pasta as I can eat my body weight in pizza. Which is a lot.
Aramark used to do the food at my old cricket club & wrecked it so I don’t hold out much hope for the Merlin parks. The prices shown in this video are absolutely scandalous & I hope the Merlin hierarchy are taking note of all these comments!
Not good at all!
Brilliant tip about the jacket potatoes in CBeebies land, will be remembering that one for next time! Who would have thought Alton towers have made my experience in Orlando not seem as costly now! Thanks for such an informative vlog (as always) x
I wonder if this is enough of an increase to put people off buying food, or if everyone who would be put off is already the kind of person that brings their own food. I guess for some people they just see it as a convenience and a once in a while treat and don't worry too much about the price, but if I was a passholder and there regularly I dont think the discount would make me willing to buy the food regularly where as perhaps previously I might have
I remember when there was a McDonalds up near Toyland Tours. Seemed good value back then!
Don’t forget 10% discount with merlin silver annual pass & 20% discount with merlin gold annual pass 2:07
For the prices I reckon aswell it's partly due to commisson fees, Alton sells food at a certain price then on top of that is added commission fees that go to Aramark but still it's rediculous!
theme parks need some proper grub sunday roasts and pies 🥧 great video both
Went for 3 days last week. Stayed in Quarry Walk Park (15 min drive from the park) apart from getting a whole cabin with hot tub we stayed there because we could make our own food to take to the park, the price is ridiculous and the quality is poor. Apart from RCR and maybe woodcutters it's not worth it, though I was tempted by the coach house goodies I must say
14:15 guys in the background jumping seeing you film 😂❤
A very good informative video, the problem is families go to alton towers without any food, then they are stuck paying the high prices in the park, where now they have a insight of the prices and can take their own food if they feel its too expensive. What alton towers should do is put all the food prices on their website so families can make an informed decision.
Pizza and Pasta buffet last year was horrendous, I asked for Vegan cheese pizza and had to ask 3 separate times and by the time it came out, the rest of the family had finished and it tasted awful.
Sorry to hear that
This is the type of vlog/information which is so important, especially for families. I've never been but wow ..to the prices!! I've been to Disneyland Paris and honestly...the way these prices are they will be the same soon as DLP but with a lower quality in look and taste of food😮
Thank you
The price of things now is crazy. I used to love a rollover when vsiting but for nearly a tenner I think I'd wait until I get back home and get the same dog for £3 from the local shop. The quality in the Burger Kitchen and Just Chicken are not very good either especially for the price. I know inflation and food costs have gone up but the prices this year are just ripping everybody off! Packed lunch all round for me now :)
Looks like i will definitely be taking packed lunch next time i go hopefully prices start becoming more reasonable soon love your videos!
They can Govern their own prices I worked there for the 2014&2015 season and the prices were still super high, but it is to be expected. But for most alton towers is a rare day out so you would be happy to spend abit to enjoy the day I'm full. 😊😊
I understand they're locked into a contract with Aramark now but I never understood the move away from having mainstream fast food outlets at Towers as supplementary to park-owned restaurants. Or even at the likes of Thorpe where you have the usual Aramark fare but you also have the option of going to Burger King or KFC.
Obviously not the healthiest, but it does allow families and other customers who are already paying obscene admission charges a more affordable option for food. Even if they are slightly inflated in comparison to off-site prices.
This would be a step in the right direction imo.
I was at chessington 3 days ago and food price was expensive plus all restaurants were closed. Me and my wife just ordered x2 regular fries cost £7.50p complete rip off, it was small and was not freshly cooked
Wow a hug increase since I last visited in October 2019 (feels like a life time ago with lockdowns and inflation ruining everything since). Feels like these prices will continue to rise and rise and in years to come a hotdog will be same price as park admission 🤣🙈
For a theme park, i didnt think they were shockingly high. Always the same with theme parks....same with airports, captive audience....what youd pay normally +50%.
More like +100%
It's the quality that's insulting and the main issue here. We are talking a plain canned hot dog for 9.50 😮
It’s definitely the quality and price for some of the items (such as hot dogs) that is the main issue!
I don't understand why they do this. You not only have to pay lots to get in. Then pay lots for accommodation and pay way more for food. One hit dog being a 6th of the price of admission is ridiculous.
Another great idea plus it’s quick and easy to put together, thanks Myles
Thank you!
Love your channel guys, I dont get out much, so I come out with you guys
Thank you
I don't go to theme parks very often the last time I went to Alton Towers was around this time last year I think when it may have been a little cheaper but when it comes to buying the food, I'm still sceptical about what I want to buy because I don't want to spend a lot but if I go again by looking at these prices, I'm definitely going to bring something of my own to save money 😂😂
Packed lunch for us and a locker to keep it in, and we have our freestyle cup recharge it when we visit we use 1 cup and refill our own bottles with it, weve all got a drink within 30 minutes of arriving 😀 keep our bottles topped up throughout the day
I think the Costa prices are fairly reasonable. £5 for a really good quality coffee, especially within a theme park is a fairly good price. Whilst, it’s still not in any means cheap, it’s still a reasonable price for a large coffee.
Doughnuts on the other hand, that’s unreal.
Really helpful video guys....thank you for sharing...can't believe pricing increase...just crazy! Packed lunch it is then!
Thank you
I was there that day and I couldn't believe how much it is now. At least the Annual Pass discount helps a bit. Thanks also for sparing a minute to speak to me and my partner in Mutiny Bay. Love the channel 🤩🤩
Great to see you!