Alton Towers Announces Closure of The Blade Ride After 44 Years

Thrill-seekers flocked in large numbers, often engaging in cheering contests as the Pirate Ship commenced its operation. Alton Towers is retiring its longest-running current attraction, now identified as The Blade, which is scheduled to permanently cease operations following 44 years of service. Management at the park stated that the ride’s discontinuation occurs at the conclusion of an “unforgettable 2024 season,” a period that also saw the reintroduction of Nemesis, featuring its Reborn designation after a comprehensive renovation. In addition to The Blade, Flavio’s Fabulous Fandango will also be removed, alongside the Alton Towers Dungeon. The Pirate Ship first opened in 1980, allowing passengers to board and then be propelled progressively higher into the air. Its initial placement was within Fantasy World, currently known as X-Sector, occupying the former site of Submission. Blogger Theme Park Guide commented on the Pirate Ship, stating: “We would tactically place our group on either end of the ride and partake in cheering competitions to see which side would be louder and quite often, to our joy, other guests joined in with us.” Mechanical engineer Mark Hambelton, who dedicated 30 years to working on the ride in various weather conditions, remarked: “It’s been a joy. I’ll be sad to see it go, but it’s time for its retirement.” The ride was rebranded as The Blade in 1997 and relocated to its present position within the Forbidden Valley section. During its operational lifespan, it accommodated 500,000 riders annually, which translates to approximately 450 riders per hour, according to the park. Roller Coaster Rachel, another blogger, shared: “One of my favourite memories of riding The Blade is sitting on the back rows with friends and family, and seeing who can cheer the loudest as we reach the highest point of the ride.” Theme Park Guide further added: “We have extremely fond memories of The Blade, and always loved getting a large group of us to ride.” In a statement, park officials declared: “With the Phalanx having maxed out the potential of its swinging blade, we are committed to bringing a new weapon to Forbidden Valley ready for 2025.”