Thorpe Park Queue Times

Vortex

A suspended gondola that rotates as it swings - riders face outward with unobstructed views of the park below.

Type
Suspended Swing Ride
Setting
Outdoor
Min Height
1.2m
Thrill Level
Moderate–High

About Vortex

Vortex is a Mondial Chaos-type suspended ride in which a large gondola of outward-facing seats is hung from a rotating arm. As the arm swings the gondola in a wide arc, the gondola also rotates - meaning riders continually face different directions as the ride progresses. At the peak of each swing the sensation of height and exposure is significant, with clear sightlines across the park and lake.

The ride is less extreme than Quantum or Rush, but the combination of rotation and swinging creates a unique kind of disorientation that riders either love or find deeply uncomfortable. The outward-facing seating means there's nothing in front of you - just open air and the park below.

What to Expect

Vortex operates at a moderate pace compared to some of the other flat rides. The swing builds gradually and the combined motion becomes increasingly disorienting without ever reaching the acute intensity of the drop tower or the height of Rush. It is a good option for riders who want a genuine thrill without the all-out intensity of the coasters.

The views from Vortex at full height are among the best in the park - looking out across the lake with the coasters visible in the background. On clear days the ride gives a good overall perspective of the park's layout.

Tips for Riding Vortex

  • Good mid-intensity option. Vortex sits between the family rides and the major coasters in terms of intensity - a good step-up ride for visitors building their way toward the big coasters.
  • Short queues. Vortex rarely attracts the queues that the coasters or Detonator see. Usually a reasonable wait even on busy days.
  • Loose items. The rotating gondola will dislodge anything not secured. Use the storage bins provided before boarding.
  • Avoid if prone to motion sickness. The compound motion - swinging while rotating - is a reliable trigger for nausea in susceptible riders.

See the current wait time for Vortex

View Live Queue Times

← All Rides  |  Visitor Guide