Neurodiversity, Accessibility and the Alton Towers Ride Access Changes: A Clinical View

Clinical Perspective by Grace Waudby, Edited by Sophie Horn

Over the past few weeks, there has been significant discussion about proposed changes to the Ride Access Pass at Alton Towers Theme Park. The Ride Access Pass, as described by the park as, “a queuing adjustment for guests who are unable to stand in standard ride queues due to a disability or medical condition.” was proposed to be withdrawn for those with ADHD, ASD and anxiety. Although the park has since made a U-Turn on the proposal following public feedback, the change has highlighted something important: queueing environments are not experienced equally by everyone.

As a clinic specialising in ADHD and autism assessments, as well as comprehensive post-diagnostic care and support, we aim to provide a clinical perspective that helps contextualise the real-world challenges individuals with ADHD and ASD may experience.

What was the Ride Access Pass and How did it Help?

The Ride Access Pass was available to individuals with ADHD and ASD which provided a non-queueing option for guests unable to stand in long lines for extended periods of time. Individuals with ADHD commonly experience restlessness and heightened levels of fidgeting, making extended periods of waiting in queues particularly challenging and, at times, distressing.

Long queue times may discourage individuals with ADHD from visiting theme parks like Alton Towers due to a perceived lack of appropriate accommodations to meet their needs. The Ride Access Pass was therefore a highly valuable provision, enabling eligible guests to avoid prolonged physical queues and reducing the discomfort associated with waiting. Such accommodations play a vital role in ensuring that theme park environments are inclusive and accessible to individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions.

Grace Waudby, Assistant Psychologist Montrose Health Group

A venue such as Alton Towers, which offers thrill-seeking and exhilarating roller coasters, can provide a valuable outlet for individuals with ADHD. High-intensity attractions may offer a stimulating experience that supports dopamine regulation, enabling individuals to engage in excitement-seeking activities within a structured, controlled, and safe environment. In addition, many individuals with ASD derive enjoyment from structured, predictable experiences. Roller coasters and other attractions typically operate according to clear procedures, defined durations, and consistent safety protocols where this predictability can provide reassurance and a sense of control. Additionally, some individuals with ASD actively seek sensory input and high-intensity rides can offer controlled sensory stimulation in a way that feels purposeful rather than chaotic.

Public Opinion

The decision to discontinue the pass prompted significant backlash from the neurodiverse community. The absence of this provision was widely regarded as deeply problematic, as individuals with ADHD are entitled to the same rights as any other person to enjoy recreational activities without becoming overwhelmed or dysregulated. Furthermore, many individuals with ASD experience crowded environments as overwhelming and anxiety-inducing due to increased noise sensitivity. As a result, standing in lengthy queues for rides can become a distressing and unpleasant experience, underscoring the importance of reasonable accommodations to ensure appropriate access and enjoyment. 

“As an autistic former member of staff at Alton Towers, I saw firsthand how important the Ride Access Pass was, not just for guests, but for creating an inclusive environment overall. Long, crowded queues can be overwhelming due to sensory overload, unpredictability, and heightened anxiety. The pass was never about skipping lines; it was a reasonable adjustment that allowed people like me, and many guests, to enjoy the park safely and without distress. I’m really pleased to see it reinstated, as it plays a vital role in making the park accessible to those who genuinely need that support.”

Former Staff Member at Alton Towers (Anon)

The U-Turn

In response to the concerns raised, Alton Towers has since reversed its position and announced the reinstatement of the Ride Access Pass for individuals with ADHD and ASD. This development demonstrates that, although the organisation was being perceived as overlooking the needs of neurodiverse individuals by this decision, thereby appearing less inclusive, it has now reconsidered its position and taken steps to acknowledge and accommodate those needs more appropriately. More broadly, this situation highlights a concerning tendency among some businesses and employers to treat the needs of neurodiverse individuals as temporary or negotiable rather than ongoing and legitimate. Such an approach can be deeply disheartening for individuals with ADHD and ASD, who often experience daily challenges associated with their neurodevelopmental conditions and rely on consistent, meaningful accommodations to participate fully and comfortably in society.

We hope that future decisions around accessibility continue to recognise that neurodevelopmental conditions can present genuine environmental barriers and that inclusion works best when policies are informed by clinical understanding.