Chessington World of Adventures theme park in London evacuated after 'threat' received

A major theme park on the edge of London was evacuated on Sunday after safety protocols were triggered following a “threat”.

Eyewitnesses said police and paramedics were seen at the entrance of Chessington World of Adventures, which is situated in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, south-west London.

People on social media reported being told they would not be allowed in, as staff asked visitors already inside the theme park to leave.

The Metropolitan Police said its officers attended and deemed that the alleged threat was not credible.

A spokesman for the London force said: “We are aware of a threat made on the morning of Sunday November 8 against a theme park in Chessington.

A sign at Chessington World of Adventures Resort

PA

“The matter has been assessed, and no security issues have been identified. This is believed to be an isolated incident with no wider risk to the public. “

A spokeswoman for Merlin Entertainments said: "Following a security incident earlier today, and in close coordination with the Metropolitan Police, we immediately implemented our well-rehearsed safety procedures and closed the resort as a precaution.

“The incident has now been resolved.”

Reports emerged on Sunday afternoon that the resort had closed for the day, with disappointed customers taking to social media to describe the scene.

Lewis Harrington, a football coach, posted on X: “Arrived at Chessington World of Adventures and was turned away as the parks closed for the day due to a major incident.

“Parks closed, everyone evacuated but the staff wouldn’t say the reason why. Lots of police and paramedics present. Hope everyone is OK.”

Confirming reports that the theme park had shut to visitors on Sunday, theme park management announced via social media that tickets were being accepted at others attractions operated by Merlin.

“Chessington World of Adventures Resort is currently closed,” the statement said.

“Guests due to visit today are advised that tickets are being accepted at Legoland Windsor or, alternatively, you can contact our customer services team after 2pm today.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and will provide a further update as soon as possible.”

The Chessington resort attracts 1.5 million visitors per year, according to industry figures.

In August during the heatwave that gripped the capital, the theme park had to shut its doors because of a water outage in the area.

The park said operations would resume this week, following Sunday’s closure.

The company’s spokesman continued: “The hotel will reopen tomorrow, Monday November 9, and the resort will reopen as planned on Saturday November 14.

“ The safety and wellbeing of our guests and staff remain our highest priority. We would like to thank our guests for their patience and understanding, and our teams for their swift response and support.”