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Lightwater Valley officially opens 'epic' new rollercoaster

Tuesday, 7 April 2026 07:48

The Spinning Racer was officially opened at Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park.

A new rollercoaster officially opened at Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park over the Easter weekend, with visitors turning out to ride the attraction for the first time.

The new rollercoaster, aptly named ‘Spinning Racer’, was launched on Saturday (4th April) as part of ongoing investment in the park under new owners Mellors Group.

The family-focused coaster features rotating carriages designed to give riders a slightly different experience on each run, while remaining accessible to a wide age range.

It’s one of more than 35 rides and attractions now open to the public at the Ripon theme park.

Speaking at the launch event, James Mellors, Managing Director of Mellors Group, told Your Harrogate:

“It’s been a great day! The weather’s been a bit blustery, which can’t be helped, but there’s lots of people here, and the smiles on faces are really nice to see.

“We wanted to really put a stamp on [the new ride] and really put the park back on the map.”

Speaking about the new coaster, James said:

“The Spinning Racer is a really smooth family coaster - there are no inversions but there is an element of spinning, but not too much!

“It’s good fun! The good thing about this coaster is you can ride on it two or three times, and each time will feel different.

The coaster is the first new attraction to be introduced by Mellors Group - but James remained tight-lipped on any future rides.

He teased:

“There will be more attractions to open throughout this year and going into next year, so we’re definitely putting a lot back in.

“We’re a family business, I’m here with my two sons, and we’re in this for the long haul - we’re passionate about what we do.”

LISTEN IN FULL: Your Harrogate’s George Dickson spoke to James Mellors at Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park:

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