CELEBRATING its 20th birthday this year, Paultons Park attracts more than 550,000 visitors annually.
It now has even more activities than ever, with in excess of 50 rides and attractions for all ages - three of which are brand new for 2004.
There's plenty to do and see, whether you like riding roller coasters, visiting the animals or enjoying the beautiful gardens the park is set in.
In a recent survey of the most family-friendly sites in Britain, Paultons was revealed as a firm favourite. Mother and Baby magazine and Pampers commissioned the research and awarded Paultons "best value for money" after questioning 2,000 parents.
Paultons also came runner-up in the "most family friendly" category, performing far better than most other major theme parks.
The latest attractions really sum up Paultons' "fun for all the family" theme.
First up, and then down, is the Jumping Bean, a roller coaster that rises an impressive 12 metres before a hair-raising vertical drop, then repeats the fun all over again.
The younger kids needn't miss out, as the Jumping Bean has a little brother of its own - the Jumping Jack. There, smaller children can enjoy the thrills on this mini version and maybe even look after their less adventurous parents as well!
These new roller coasters add to Paul-tons' already large collection of rides to suit all ages. The park has water rides for all heights, with the Wave Runner giving younger children a chance to try out the water coaster with a parent.
The Raging River Ride log flume lets older kids and adults experience the splash of a 60km-an-hour drop from 11 metres.
At the other end of the scale is the Flying Frog, a mini coaster. The only one of its kind in the UK, it has no height restriction so youngsters can ride with a grown-up and experience the thrill of a coaster for the first time.
But it isn't all about rides. As well as museums, a maze and Percy's Playhouse, Paultons has a large variety of animals.
And that's where you'll find one of the park's other new attractions. All the family will enjoy the Humboldt Penguins, especially at feeding time when the keepers give educational and fascinating talks. You will soon realise each of these humorous birds has its own individual personality.
The penguins can be viewed, not just from a sloping arena but also from underwater viewing areas. These birds join Paultons' extensive collection of exotic birds and the ever-popular meerkats.
Paultons Park is open daily from 10am to 6.30pm. Rides, attractions and catering all close at 5.30pm.
Prices are £13.50 for adults, £12.50 for under-14s and senior citizens, and free to children under one metre tall.
Paultons offers various family saver tickets, starting at £37 for a family of three, £48 for a family of four and £60 for a family five.
Paultons Park is one of the area's nearest theme parks. It is within easy driving distance, just off exit two on the M27 near Romsey. Telephone the park on 023 8081 4455 for more details.
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