The Dudley Zoo Roller Coaster, also known as the Kiddies Coaster, is a steel kiddie roller coaster located at the Dudley Zoo and Castle in Dudley, West Midlands, England, UK. Manufactured by the Italian company SBF Visa Group, this compact yet exciting ride offers a fun-filled experience for visitors of all ages.
Specifications of the Dudley Zoo Roller Coaster
The Dudley Zoo Roller Coaster has the following specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Track Layout | Wacky Worm (Big Apple) |
| Train Configuration | Single train with 6 cars, 2 riders per car |
| Total Capacity | 24 riders per train |
| Propulsion System | Chain lift hill |
| Track Length | 138 meters |
| Inversions | None |
| Power Consumption | 9 kW |
| Footprint | 28 meters x 11.5 meters |
| Height | 5.5 meters |
Unique Features of the Dudley Zoo Roller Coaster
The Dudley Zoo Roller Coaster stands out for several reasons:
- Location: The roller coaster is situated in a picturesque setting, surrounded by a tree line that forms the northern boundary of the main amusement area in the zoo.
- Replacement of Previous Coaster: The Kiddies Coaster replaced the park’s previous roller coaster, which was relocated to Billing Aquadrome and operated as the Big Apple.
- Safety Measures: Dudley Zoo and Castle has implemented various measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors, such as online ticket booking, date and time restrictions, and the requirement for children under 14 to be accompanied by an adult.
Visiting the Dudley Zoo and Castle
The Dudley Zoo and Castle offers a unique and diverse experience for visitors. In addition to the Kiddies Coaster, the zoo features:
- Hundreds of animals set around an 11th-century castle
- The world’s largest single collection of Tecton buildings
- The country’s only vintage chairlift
- A 40-acre wooded hillside with a rich geological history
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including:
- Picnicking or dining in the licensed restaurant
- Taking a ride on the land train or chairlift
- Exploring the playground, fair rides, and face painting
- Purchasing gifts and souvenirs
The zoo operates seasonally during school holidays, with opening hours from 10 am to 5 pm (weekends) and 4 pm (weekdays), subject to mechanical breakdowns. Car parking is available for £3.50 per day, and admission tickets are subject to availability and may be changed or withdrawn at any time.
Conclusion
The Dudley Zoo Roller Coaster, or Kiddies Coaster, is a delightful addition to the Dudley Zoo and Castle, offering a thrilling and family-friendly experience for visitors of all ages. With its unique location, safety measures, and the wider range of attractions and activities available at the zoo, it is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a fun and memorable day out.
References:
– RCDB – Kiddies Coaster (Dudley Zoo)
– Coasterpedia – Kiddies Coaster (Dudley Zoo)
– RCDB – Big Apple (Billing Aquadrome)