11:45am Saturday 1st August 2009
By Mike Laycock
MIKE LAYCOCK – that’s him screaming in the picture above – braves the world’s steepest rollercoaster at Flamingoland
What and where? Flamingoland theme park and zoo, between Malton and Pickering.
Why? I’ve been on the world’s longest and highest rollercoasters before, so hitching a ride on the world’s steepest (a ridiculous 112 degrees) was a challenge I couldn’t resist.
And my rollercoaster fanatic daughter Gabrielle, accompanied by friend Meredith, made sure there wasn’t any last-minute backsliding as I headed for Mumbo Jumbo and was then locked securely in my seat.
It quickly became clear this measure was essential as the car proceeded to shoot down a slope steeper than vertical, and then flew round corners without any of the usual gravity or centrifugal force to hold me in place.
It was a scream – literally.
Great fun, and highly recommended. I’d also recommend buying a Queue Buster ticket (at £1.50 a time) to avoid being stuck in the very long queues to go on this and several other very popular rides. I enjoyed Velocity almost as much as Mumbo Jumbo.
This is the UK’s only “motorbike launch coaster” which allows you to enjoy some of the hair-raising thrill of high-speed motorcycling without the danger. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 2.8 seconds.
Of course, the magic of Flamingoland is that you can leave behind the screaming hurly burly of the theme park to visit the more tranquil but equally interesting zoo, with its giraffes, hippos, tigers, zebras, chimps and camels. A good day out.
When? Gates open daily at 9.30, with rides available currently from 10 am until 6pm.
How much? Adults and children four years old and older: £23. Family ticket (four family members): £82. You need to get there early to get your money’s worth.
Further information: 0871 9118000.
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