Blackpool Pleasure Beach has unveiled Aviktas, the tallest ride of its kind in the United Kingdom, sending thrill-seekers soaring 138 feet into the air. This record-breaking gyro swing officially opened on Thursday, May 21, and has already been dubbed a 'must-ride' by enthusiasts.
Record-Breaking Heights
Aviktas nearly doubles the height of Drayton Manor's Maelstrom, which previously held the title for the tallest gyro swing in the UK. Riders experience angles of up to 120 degrees, leaving them feeling weightless as they ascend toward the peak. The ride represents an investment of £8.72 million by the Pleasure Beach Resort.
CEO's Vision
Amanda Thompson OBE, CEO of Pleasure Beach Resort, expressed her pride in the new attraction. "Pleasure Beach has always had a reputation for going big and pushing boundaries - Aviktas is no exception," she said. "Its sheer size and presence speaks for itself; there is simply nothing like it in the UK. We wanted to build something that sets us apart from anywhere else and gives our guests a genuine must-visit reason to come to the park." Thompson added that the project underscores the resort's commitment to becoming one of the world's greatest theme parks.
First Rider Reactions
Rollercoaster enthusiast Scott Bickerton, who runs the YouTube channel Your Experience Guide, was among the first to ride Aviktas. "Aviktas is a must ride. It combines airtime, hangtime and intense thrill to provide a completely fresh experience," he said. "When you're up at 138 feet, the views across Pleasure Beach and out to sea are spectacular. Not only is it an incredible thrill ride, it's already become a striking visual landmark for the town."
The ride's official opening has generated significant excitement among theme park fans and locals alike, solidifying Blackpool Pleasure Beach's reputation as a destination for cutting-edge attractions.
