Pete Egerton

10:00am - 1:00pm

Email the studio

Kelly Clarkson

Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)

Listen Live

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:

More from Local News

Yorkshire's biggest ever pug meet to be held at Harewood House

Yorkshire's biggest-ever gathering of pugs is set to take place at Harewood House next month.
Bin fires prompt call for public to dispose of batteries responsibly

Residents are being reminded not to place batteries or unwanted electrical items containing batteries in their household waste or recycling bins to help to prevent fires.
Knaresborough Mayor to open town's first padel venue

Knaresborough's first dedicated town centre padel venue will officially open on Friday with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor taking to the court.
New award launched to find Yorkshire's best pub

A new award recognising Yorkshire's best pub has been introduced as part of the 2026 Deliciously Yorkshire Taste Awards.
Vale of York services given go-ahead despite "rape of countryside" claim

Plans for a motorway service area (MSA) off the A1(M) in North Yorkshire have been approved despite a claim the scheme amounts to the "rape of the countryside".
Traffic to use new A59 Kex Gill route for first time tomorrow

Drivers travelling between Harrogate and Skipton will begin using part of the new A59 Kex Gill route from tomorrow (Wednesday)
Annual Tour de Aky set to hit £10,000 target

This year's Tour de Aky is on course to raise £10,000 for charity after another successful series of fundraising events.
Harrogate bus staff nominated for national award

Two Harrogate-based Transdev colleagues have been shortlisted for national honours at this year's RouteOne Awards.
Parking warning issued after Burnsall car park closes

Burnsall visitors are being urged to plan ahead after the closure of a major parking field left parking in the village extremely limited.
Spire Harrogate Clinic earns top housekeeping award

Spire Harrogate Clinic has been recognised for its high standards of cleanliness after achieving its first Gold CAP Award.
Otley music studio launches six-week daytime courses

A series of new daytime music courses is launching in Otley later this month, giving adults the chance to sing, play and meet new people.
New guide helps families find free and low-cost summer fun

Families across the Harrogate district are being encouraged to make the most of a new guide to free and low-cost activities during the seven-week summer holidays.
Much-loved Slingsby Gin becomes new Festivals' partner

Harrogate International Festivals has announced a new partnership with Slingsby Gin.
Princess Royal to become Great Yorkshire Show President

The Princess Royal will become President of the Great Yorkshire Show next year in a landmark moment for the event.
Concern over lack of consultation ahead of Lifeline cuts decision

Cuts to a 24/7 emergency helpline for elderly North Yorkshire residents have been pushed through without consulting users of the service, say critics.
Animal charity launches £2 million redevelopment appeal

An animal charity that supports vulnerable pets from Harrogate has launched a major public appeal to help fund a £2 million redevelopment of its facilities.
Sneak peek: New Otley play area starts to take shape

A brand new indoor and outdoor play attraction is beginning to take shape ahead of its opening in Otley.
Historic Harrogate pub named among the UK's best by The Telegraph

One of Harrogate's most historic pubs has been recognised as one of the best places in the UK to enjoy a pint.
Police appeal to find wanted Harrogate man

North Yorkshire Police is appealing for help to trace a wanted man from Harrogate.
Harrogate MP calls on new Prime Minister to overhaul 'broken' water industry

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon is calling on Prime Minister Andy Burnham to make reform of the water industry one of his first priorities in office.