Identify a well known tourist destination and explain why the inter – relationship between transport, catering, accommodation, attractions and other ancilliary services are vital for its success
Alton Towers, Staffordshire
Alton Towers is a theme park, waterpark and hotel complex in Staffordshire. It is owned by Merlin Entertainments. The park originally opened in 1860 with flower and garden shows until the theme park opened in 1980. One of its main marketing tools has been the theme music – Edvard Grieg’s – In the Hall of the Mountain King.
Transport
Alton Towers is easily accessible from most part of the United Kingdom. The best transport links are by rail and road. Numerous coach companies run days out and short breaks to the resort. The theme park attracts a number of school parties and other groups who arrive by coach transport and parking close to the resort entrance. The resort provides facilities for the coach drivers.
Guests can also arrive by road – there is a vast amount of car parking available. Guests need to pay a daily rate to use the facility. Guests are transported from the car park to the theme park by mono rail. Disabled guests have spaces reserved close to the park entrance.
For guests wanting to travel by rail need to arrive at Stoke on Trent, Derby or Uttoxeter. First Group rail provide joint rail and ticket offers. The negative to the use of rail transport is the need to transfer from the station to the park by bus. Most of the bus routes require one or more changeovers adding extra time to the journey.
The refurbished monorail (2008) provides transport from the car parks and from both of the resort hotels.
The sky ride (although damaged by fire in the past) provides transport for guests across the park. The ride gives views of the gardens and moves guests around the different areas of the theme park.
Catering
Alton Towers has a wide range of food outlets across the resort. Annual pass holders receive a...