Colossus

The world's first roller coaster with 10 inversions, opened in 2002.

About Colossus

When Colossus opened at Thorpe Park in 2002, it became the first roller coaster anywhere in the world to feature 10 inversions in a single ride. Designed and built by Intamin, the ride packs a vertical loop, two corkscrews, a cobra roll, a heartline roll, two in-line twists, and more into its 850-metre track.

Over two decades later, Colossus remains one of the park's most popular rides. It is not the tallest, fastest, or smoothest coaster in the park - that is part of its character. The relentless sequence of inversions at sustained speed is unlike anything else at Thorpe Park, and its place in roller coaster history keeps it on every enthusiast's list.

What to Expect

Colossus delivers its 10 inversions in rapid succession with little time between each one to recover. The ride has a physical quality that newer coasters smooth away - you feel every element distinctly. Riders in the back of the train experience the most intense transitions; the front is somewhat smoother.

The inversions include a traditional vertical loop, two corkscrews (which spin you horizontally), a cobra roll (two inversions in quick succession over a single element), heartline rolls, and flat spins. If you have never experienced an inverted element before, this is an extreme introduction - ten of them consecutively.

Tips for Riding Colossus

• Ride in the morning. Colossus builds significant queues by mid-morning - it is consistently one of the three busiest rides in the park alongside Stealth and Hyperia.
• Middle rows are smoother. The front has the best view; the back is the most intense. Rows 3–5 are the best balance of smoothness and thrill.
• Brace lightly. Keep your head back against the headrest. Riders who tense up or lean forward during inversions experience more roughness.
• Not for inversion beginners. Ten consecutive inversions is a significant experience. If you have not ridden an inverting coaster before, consider starting with Nemesis Inferno or The Swarm first.
• Check the live queue. Use the live queue page to find the best window - Colossus queues fluctuate throughout the day.

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