ERT (Early Ride Time) has been a feature of the Alton Towers theme park for many seasons now, and from 28th March it will return along with the full open season.

This year, in addition to Alton Towers and/or Merlin Annual Pass holders and those with Hotel theme park packages, anyone booking their ticket through the official Alton Towers website will also be able to access the theme park earlier than other guests.

The Monorail opens from 8.30am with access to the theme park from 9.00am. Thrill rides are back on the ERT agenda in 2009 after the entirely family focus in 2008. TowersTimes understand that you will be able to enjoy the following rides and attractions:

– Heave Ho
– Marauders Mayhem
– Battle Galleons
– Sharkbait Reef by Sea Life
– Runaway Mine Train
– Duel: The Haunted House Strikes Back
– Haunted Hollow
– Rita – Queen of Speed
– Oblivion
– Enterprise

There will be no ERT during the parks Scarefest event and the rides are subject to change. The park opens fully at 10:00am, with some water rides opening slightly later.