Betteshanger Country Park near Deal reveals new Christmas plans

A Kent country park has been forced to cancel plans for an artificial ski slope over Christmas.

Betteshanger Country Park near Deal had hoped to welcome an 18-metre-long artificial slope for snow tubing, which would have also allowed families to explore a series of tunnels underneath.

But the park has said an issue with an external supplier has now forced a rethink.

Instead Betteshanger is bringing Europe's largest inflatable tubing ride to the park instead.

Fresh from its success this summer with the world's largest inflatable obstacle course called The Beast, winter thrillseekers can now plummet on a snow tube down a 24 metre-long inflatable slide.

And to accompany it, an interactive mobile caving system will arrive at the park on December 21. With 90 feet of tunnels, across two levels it is described as the most realistic caving experience to have above ground.

Each caver will be provided with a helmet and head torch and a quick briefing before being sent to explore.

Betteshanger says while it is sure its new plans include bigger and better activities, anyone with tickets for the originally advertised events will be offered the option of a refund.

The two new attractions come with a bumper packed Christmas programme including festive food and drink stalls as well as extended park opening hours for Thursday, December 21, Friday, December 23 and Saturday, December 23.

A 50ft inflatable snowman is also going to be introduced over the festive period in which younger children can jump and bounce around inside his tummy. Booking for this is not required.

For Betteshanger's full Christmas programme and ticket details click here.