This year theme parks in the UK are open for longer than ever before, the main 2011 theme park season kicks off in March with the launch of new rides and attractions and draws to a close in November with a variety of special events, here are some key dates:

Alton Towers: 26th March - 6th November

Thorpe Park: 17th March - 6th November

Chessington World of Adventures: 26th March - 31st October

Drayton Manor: 19th March - 30th October

Legoland Windsor: 1st April - 6th November