Oblivion

Oblivion at Alton Towers was the world's first vertical-drop coaster when it opened in 1998. The signature moment is the 180-foot dive into a smoke-filled hole in the ground, hanging riders over the edge for two seconds before releasing them. The whole experience lasts under a minute, which is part of its appeal: maximum impact in minimum ride time.

Queues at Oblivion build quickly because that brief thrill draws constant repeat riders. Aim for the first hour of operation or the final 30 minutes - mid-afternoon waits regularly hit 45 minutes. Single-rider queue is occasionally available and saves significant time when it is open.

Oblivion has averaged about 22 minutes of wait over recent weeks, and is typically busiest around 10:00 and quietest around 17:00. Over the last two weeks it has been open around 96% of the park's operating hours. It's typically quietest on Thursdays and busiest on Saturdays.