The Smiler: A Twisted Journey
The Smiler at Alton Towers begins with a small drop from the station into the first inversion, an enclosed heartline roll. Following this, the first lift hill takes riders to a downward turn and into a corkscrew. A drop leads into the world’s only double dive loop. Riders then encounter an airtime hill with trim brakes before a double inversion similar to a batwing, but with a small banked turn between the inversions. Another corkscrew follows, leading into a magnetic brake run and the vertical lift hill.
At the top, a downward turn to the left leads into a corkscrew and a drop. Riders then experience a sea serpent, another airtime hill, and a cobra roll. The combined cobra roll and batwing are known as the Staffordshire Knot. A double corkscrew precedes the final brake run. WHAT A RIDE!
The Smiler On-ride POV #AltonTowersTogether
The Smiler is a remarkable addition to Alton Towers, attracting thrill-seekers with its jaw-dropping 14 inversions. As a pioneering Gerstlauer Infinity Coaster, it holds the record for the most loops worldwide. This achievement surpassed the previous record-holder, Colossus at Thorpe Park, and cemented The Smiler’s position as a significant feat for Alton Towers since its opening in May 2013.
Key Details
The rollercoaster’s track covers a lengthy 1170 metres, offering riders a thrilling experience that lasts nearly three minutes. With a height of 30 metres, the ride cleverly integrates into the landscape, maintaining Alton Towers’ unique approach to circumventing height restrictions. Riders can expect speeds of up to 85 km/h, creating a fast-paced and exhilarating journey through a series of inversions and sharp turns.
Theming and Narrative
Theming plays a crucial role in The Smiler’s identity. The ride is embedded within a unique narrative crafted by the fictional Ministry of Joy. This emphasis on social satisfaction and control underpins the entire ride experience, from the queue to the actual ride. The Ministry’s experiments, aiming to evoke permanent joy, are central to the storyline.
Among its standout features is the Marmaliser, a spider-like structure at the ride’s centre. Each limb of this imposing structure contributes to the theme, enhancing the ride’s intended effects of disorientation and euphoria. Features such as the Innoculator, the Flasher, and the Giggler form a complex system aimed at influencing riders’ emotions.
Ride Experience
The Smiler’s track design is an intricate web of corkscrews, dive loops, and other thrilling elements. Riders embark on an unexpected journey that begins with a hidden inversion, leading into a series of mind-bending loops. Designed for intensity, the ride showcases a series of unique inversions that offer a distinct experience compared to other coasters.
Historical Context
While The Smiler is celebrated for its innovations, it is also known for a serious incident in 2015 that led to significant injuries. Following a comprehensive investigation, the ride was enhanced with new safety protocols and staff training, allowing it to reopen with a renewed focus on safety. Over time, The Smiler is once again recognised for its engineering feats and enjoyment.
Design and Construction
Crafted by Gerstlauer Amusement Rides, The Smiler features trains equipped with over-shoulder restraints for safety. The ride is set in the X-Sector of Alton Towers, a section dedicated to intense attractions, and was developed as part of a secretive process labelled SW7, or Secret Weapon 7. The intricate design includes a vertical lift hill that adds an extra element of thrill.
Marketing and Impact
The marketing campaign for The Smiler was both extensive and creative. To generate excitement before its launch, Alton Towers engaged in an imaginative publicity drive that included painting sheep with the coaster’s logo, capturing national attention. This approach effectively built anticipation and established The Smiler as a must-ride attraction in the park.
Technical Aspects
The ride’s construction was a complex process, requiring precise engineering to integrate so many inversions into a compact space. The track layout challenges riders with multiple airtime moments and mind-altering elements, contributing to its reputation as a thrilling yet disorienting experience.
Train Configuration
- Trains: Each train accommodates 16 riders in a 4×4 arrangement.
- Restraints: Equipped with secure over-shoulder harnesses to keep passengers safe throughout the intense ride.
Theming Elements
The carefully designed queue and pre-ride sections immerse visitors in the Ministry of Joy’s world. Interactive elements, visual effects, and mood-enhancing music work together to build the sense of wonder and anticipation.
Noteworthy Elements
- Marmaliser Features:
- The Innoculator: Needles suggestively delivering happiness.
- The Flasher: Lights used to confuse and thrill.
- The Giggler: Spraying a mist inducing involuntary laughter.
- The Tickler: Tactile sensations to provoke smiles.
The Smiler is not just a rollercoaster; it’s a full-bodied experience that combines storytelling with engineering prowess to create something truly unique at Alton Towers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How has The Smiler at Alton Towers changed since it first opened?
Since its debut, The Smiler has undergone various updates to enhance safety and improve rider experience. These updates include improved ride inspections, modifications to prevent similar incidents, and regular maintenance checks to ensure the ride operates smoothly.
What makes The Smiler different from other rides at Alton Towers?
The Smiler stands out with its record-breaking 14 loops, making it the roller coaster with the most inversions in the world. It combines an intense speed with unique elements like dive loops and corkscrews. These features offer a unique thrill experience compared to other attractions at Alton Towers.
What is the story or theme behind The Smiler attraction at Alton Towers?
The Smiler’s theme revolves around mind manipulation and happiness enhancement. The design and experience of the ride are meant to ‘marmalise’ the rider, which means to leave them feeling disoriented yet exhilarated after the ride. This theme is consistently highlighted throughout the attraction’s branding and marketing.
