Chessington History 2001

The rumors were true and the parks biggest ride, The Vampire, had closed. To be honest little was known at the time as to what was happening, massive repair costs meant something had to be done. With guests greeted at the Vampire gates with a sign which simply said Vampire would not be open in 2001. It may have been a late decision by the park as Vampire was on the map, with the park using its right to closed attractions with large signs at the door. To be fair unlike smaller rides, it’s difficult to tell guests that a ride that is so visible is closed for the year. On the plus side there were some new attractions for 2001 and it could be seen from these in which direction the park was going to be heading, with Thorpe opening Zodiac, Detonator and Vortex, Chessington only opened children/family attractions.

Trail of the Kings was the new enclosures for gorillas, lions and tigers. With more visible displays and a much tidied up from previous years; it also meant a re-name yet again from Animal Adventures to Animal Land.

New rides included Berry Bouncers, and Toadies Crazy Cars (wind in the willows theme), unfortunately the Clown Coaster was removed and Old Crocks Rally was re-themed for the new rides, all of which had opened with the park in 1987.

The other new ride for 2001 was the Bash Street Bus, located in Beanoland, this was a small children’s magic carpet style ride.