Thomas the Tank Engine fans (of all ages) will absolutely love this theme park, which is part of the Drayton Manor Resort in Staffordshire (postcode: B78 3TW). In 2024, visitors can now Embark on 25 rides and attractions. Take a trip down the Sodor Railways with Thomas, Rosie or Percy.
Browse our full range of lodges with hot tubs in Staffordshire here.
And there are some really good lodges near Thomas Land which have their own private bubbly hot tubs just waiting for you.
Meet all the cast from the books and TV show including Percy, James and Thomas himself as you explode Sodor Island. Parents love this attraction nearly as much as their children.
A nice easy-going theme park for younger children
There are no thrills or white-knuckly rollercoasters here. The rides at Thomas Land are easy-going and aimed at younger kids. It’s the perfect introduction to theme parks with a good variety of rides, an outdoor and indoor play area and lots to see and do as you’re walking around.
Like any Theme park, Thomas’s is spread out and it can get tiring walking around. Thankfully, there are tea rooms, shops and restaurants to get a bite to eat in between rides and catch your breath.
Meet Thomas and all his friends at Thomas Land, Drayton Resort
Staying at a lodge vs. booking the on-site hotel
You can book the Thomas Themes Hotel rooms or choose to stay nearby in a lodge and drive to the theme park. You can buy tickets on the day of your visit to Thomas Land but you can often save a bit of cash by booking in advance, online.
Opting for a lodge break means you’ve got the perfect base to explore and there are some great options a short drive away.
Recommended lodges near Thomas Land
1) Mill Farm – The Farmhouse
Milton near Repton, Peak District & Derbyshire Dales
About 27.5 miles / 40 min drive to Thomas Land
Sleeps 10 | Pet Friendly
What is it? This is one of those properties you really have to see to appreciate it. It’s a whopping huge old English cottage set in a Derbyshire hamlet. It’s definitely a bit on the posh side and every room is decorated and styled beautifully.
Why you’ll love it: While this isn’t the cheapest property within reach of Thomas Land, I had to put it up here because it’s just so good. You get a massive traditional cottage (that sleeps up to 10) all to yourselves to play in and catch some serious relaxation. All with a lovely bubbly hot tub. You’ll get lost in this place at first but you’ll never forget a stay here.
What are the best bits?
- A real actual peacock strutting around the grounds
- Your own games room with a billiards table
- Bags of charm like the exposed beams
- A who private park to play in at the rear, including a large pond!
- The cosy summer room in the garden
What’s to do nearby? Apart from Drayton Manor and Thomas Land, there’s an absolute boatload of stuff to do near this cottage for families. You’ve got two zoos to visit – Twycross Zoo, which boasts over 1000 beasts, and Drayton Manor Zoo which stretches over 15 acres. Alton Towers is also about 30 mins away and there’s also Conkers Adventure park about 20 minutes out.
Favourite quote from a guest:
“Once we arrived it was so much better than we expected. The house was amazing, the grounds we beautiful. All the beds were comfy, the hot tub was amazing and fitted 8 of us in. The owner was so lovely and welcoming. We couldn’t have asked for a nicer place to stay, would recommend highly. We will be booking again.”
2) Colliery Lane Lodges
Swadlincote
About 16.2 miles / 38 min drive to Thomas Land
Sleeps 6 | Sorry, no pets
What is it? A lodge park near Thomas Land with lots of space and a clean modern interior. A partially sunken hot tub on the decking is a real highlight.
Why you’ll love it: This is a great booking if you’ve got a family and want somewhere that’s near Drayton Manor Resort but want to save some cash. Affordable but luxurious and with a 9.3 average user rating on Booking.com.
What are the best bits?
- Nice sized family lodge with plenty of room to spread out
- Super-friendly staff
- Lots of green and space to play around the lodge
- Budget price
- Easy parking outside your lodge
What’s to do nearby? You’re in a good spot to visit Thomas at Drayton manor here and you’ve also got Donington Park 16.2 miles away. You’re on the same road as the Foxley Wood Woodland Trust too, which is well worth a visit. And there’s a children’s playpark on site too.
Favourite quote from a guest:
“Exceptionally clean, great location, a lot bigger than expected, staff were friendly and helpful. Hot tub clean and perfect.”
Klaudia – UK
2)The Fox At Badger Brook
About 25 miles / 43 minutes away from Thomas Land
This is a huge spacious wooden lodge with a fantastic outdoor private-use hot tub! A modern design, with an open-plan living space.
Aside from visiting Drayton Resort, there’s also a lot to do in and around this lodge. With some excellent walking and cycling routes. There’s a good choice of local pubs and restaurants to visit too.
You’ll also get the chance to meet the farm animals at this location too.
Many of our visitors choose to re-book this lodge they have such a fun time here!