Travel test

WHAT: Alton Towers’ brand new family festival, Oktoberfest, the first event of its kind at the theme park, which is celebrating its 40th year. One-day passes cost £34 in advance and the festival – running from 2pm daily until October 4 – is included. Suitable for all ages. Book online at altontowers.com WHERE: On the front lawns of the Alton Towers Resort, Staffs. The theme park is between the M1 and M6 and easily reached by car. The three nearest train stations are Stoke-on-Trent, Uttoxeter and Derby, where you can complete the journey by bus. EXPERIENCE: The usually tranquil front lawns have been turned into a Bavarian-themed venue, with Lederhosen-clad hosts and even an oompah band, German Jukebox.

There are singers entertaining guests from the main stage, street theatre acts milling around the outdoor space and a giant Alpine horn – look but don’t touch.

Of course no Oktoberfest is complete without authentic food and drink and there’s everything from hog roast sandwiches and Bratwurst sausages to hot chocolate and German beers, not forgetting the fire pits and toasted marshmallows. The place is filled with socially distanced picnic benches so it’s the perfect spot to take a break and refuel. QUIBBLES: The stalls and entertainment finish at 8.30pm, earlier on weekdays. With the bigger rides open until 8pm Friday to Sunday, we only just got our weary legs there in time to grab a quick bite to eat before it closed.

We could have easily enjoyed the music – and grub – for another hour before heading home. Or avoid the trek home altogether with a stay in the hotel, which is back open, or the cheapest option of the Stargazing Pods. VERDICT: We’re all in need of some entertainment in the current climate and Oktoberfest offers a much-needed warm welcome and light relief to thrill seekers and families desperate for some traditional family fun. 8/10