Set in 175 acres of North Yorkshire countryside – just North of Ripon - Lightwater Valley Theme Park, Shopping Village and Birds of Prey Centre are celebrating after a record-breaking year.

With over 500,000 visitors flocking to the site throughout 2009, the visitor attraction has traded strongly on a wave of investment in new rides and special events. The thrilling theme park line-up comprises some of the UK’s most famous rides, including Europe’s longest rollercoaster - The Ultimate, as well as the mighty Eagle’s Claw (voted the UK’s best flat ride by Park Preview) and over 40 other rides and attractions. The on-site Birds of Prey Centre gives visitors the opportunity to see how these amazing birds are trained and handled, as well as being treated to dramatic flying shows every day, whilst Lightwater shopping village is home to over 30,000 square feet of undercover retail space.

One of the biggest hits this summer has been the brand new Wild River Rapids ride installation, which proved to be an instant hit with families from launch in April. Likewise, building on this major investment, the management team at Lightwater Valley have worked tirelessly to increase quality standards across the board, especially with regard to their catering provision. In fact, with the introduction of an ingenious range of value-driven meal deals, the Lightwater Valley brand has become synonymous with quality and value.

The most frightening success of 2009 was the inaugural Frightwater Valley, a hair-raising day for the theme park with over 7500 visitors in attendance. As strange nocturnal happenings took centre stage, thousands of families threw themselves into the party spirit by adorning devilish costumes and celebrating Halloween against a backdrop of eerie vibes and spooktacular fireworks.

In early December, Lightwater Shopping Village took centre stage by hosting their annual Dickensian Christmas Festival. Now in its fourth year, this yuletide celebration took place over a four day period from 3rd to 6th December 2009. With nearly 20,000 people in attendance, over 75 local suppliers and an enchanting entertainment programme, the festival has been expanded to 5 days in 2010 as it increases its worth to the local economy.

Building on such a successful season, Lightwater Valley is proud to announce a major £1.2 million investment in ride infrastructure. Yet to be finalised, the announcement will be at the heart of the park’s marketing strategy for 2010 as the management work tirelessly to offer families a cocktail of great value family entertainment and outstanding customer service.