Heading off to Gulliver’s Land this weekend?
As part of our Best Toddler Days Out round-up, we’ve come up with these handy tips on how to get the most out of this fun-filled park in Milton Keynes. From the best time of year to visit, to the unmissable Princess Play Area and many other attractions, check out all you need to know before taking your toddler to Gulliver’s Land!
When is the best time to go to Gulliver's Land?
Ideally, visiting at off-peak times (i.e. not school holidays) is the way to go so you can have fun and explore without lengthy queues at every attraction. Off peak, you’ll only have to queue for around 4 minutes on average.
What are the opening times?
The park is open from 10.30 to 4.00pm, check here for Christmas Opening Times. We'd advise getting there as early as possible at this time of year!
What to do when you get to Gulliver's Land
Pop into the information centre when you get there. It’s just to the right of the main entrance and they can tell you all the shows and appearances that are on that day. All the entertainment aims to have your little one in fits of giggles… You can also pick up a sticker to write your phone number on and stick on your youngster’s back for extra safety.
Move on if there’s a crowd at Gulliver's Railroad Train, as everyone wants a go and we know a secret alternative. The train carries a maximum of 20 passengers and takes eight minutes to get round the whole park – so it’s always overcrowded. Rather than waiting, head over to the Rio Bravo train hidden away in the Discovery Bay area (just a 2 min walk away) for a much shorter queue.
What are the best rides and attractions?
Pop into the Whispering Woods and take the Fairy Trail through these magical woods to turn all your toddler’s worries into wishes. Scan the QR code for an interactive map of the trail, and make sure you eavesdrop at the point he has to tell the fairies his worries. Next, seek out the Princess Play Area. It’s up on the ramparts of Lilliput Castle but the ramped entrance can be difficult to spot, so it’s often deserted. Look just opposite the Gulliver’s Travels ride and you’ll see it, inside it’s full of slides, talking knights and turrets galore. Watch out for Little Red Riding Hood’s Wolf as he’s pretty creepy...
Experience stress-free soft play! You will find this in the candy-coloured Tiny Tots Play Area in Lilliput Land. With an illuminated slide and rocking boat, the area is staffed, taking the onus off you! Only little ones under 1m tall are allowed.
What to bring to Gulliver's Land
An adult for every child! There are not many ride-alone rides for children, most require an adult to ride as well, which means you need enough grown-ups to go round. The mini play areas next to each ride ensure that little ones can play whilst you queue. So while you’re waiting to ride on the Flying Texan Boots, your toddler can be busy in the Western play-town, swinging through the saloon doors or getting locked up in jail.
Your pram. Little legs are bound to get tired in Gulliver’s Land, there is so much fun to be had! There are buggy bays by many of the rides and the park is easily accessible. You can also hire a ‘funbuggy’ – a mini car that you can push your toddler around in – from the Guest Relations centre (right of the main entrance) for £5 a day.
Need to take five...?
There’s a big fenced sandpit at the entrance to the Western World that’s great for some downtime. Otherwise, the Jungle River Ride is a relaxing bob past huge elephants and other animal friends.
What about food?
The catering facilities get busy so make sure you get there in time. The sandwich counter in the main castle has Tots Boxes full of favourites. Or if you’re bringing a picnic, enjoy it in the grassy area opposite the entrance to Gully Town. Also, it’s handy to know there is a mums’ feeding room between the main entrance and Gulliver’s Railroad Train with a microwave and a bench.
How much are tickets to Gulliver's Land?
Ticket prices over Christmas are a bit more pricey than usual, but there is so much festive cheer, you won't want to miss it! Prices range from £5.95 to £31.95, depending on what you want out of your experience. This Christmas, choose from a 'Smasher', 'Cracker', 'Extravaganza' or 'Spectacular' ticket for various levels of merry-making! You can find tickets here.