AT Flamingo Land, everything is not as it seems. A teacup is not just a teacup and an elevator not just a ride to the top floor.

At one of the most popular theme parks in the United Kingdom, the teacups spin madly over a whirling surface, while you cling to their leather insides for dear life. Beware of the ride operator - if he likes you, he'll give your teacup extra spins!

And the elevator? There are reasons it's called the Cliffhanger! At 55 metres high and at speeds of more than 80 miles per hour, the UK's tallest tower ride is definitely not for the faint of heart. The same goes for 'Magnum Force,' Europe's only triple-looping rollercoaster. 'The Bullet' is another rollercoaster which hurls you up to the top of a steep hill, then backwards, through a loop, screaming at the top of your lungs, before repeating the same thing again, in the opposite direction.

But in case you don't enjoy feeling your heart in your mouth, the park, at Kirby Misperton, near Pickering, also caters to weaker stomachs, with carousels, cable cars, a bubble fountain and even a miniature version of the Cliffhanger for youngsters - 'The Frog Hopper.' Or parents can let small kids take a spin at learning to drive in the special 'school' the park has, while mum and dad relax rafting down a lake filled with ducks of all sorts.

Professor Bubble's Seaside Adventure is a new themed area at Flamingo Land which celebrates the history of the traditional British seaside holiday. Young children and their families will enjoy the song and dance routines performed by costumed dancers, including 'Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polkadot Bikini' and 'Walkin' on Sunshine', all accompanied by the exuberant Professor Bubbles.

When a break is needed, there are plenty of places to picnic or buy lunch. Even holiday accommodation is available, with free entry to the park and its various attractions for every day of your stay.

The theme park opens daily until November 3 at 10 am and closes at 5pm on weekdays, 6pm weekends and bank holidays.

Regular admission prices are: adult/child £13.50, family ticket for four people £50, senior citizens £6.75, children aged three and under free. If your child is three years or under, but looks older, please bring proof of age.

Mini-group packages are available for 12-25 visitors: Adult/child paying on arrival £11.50, pre-paid £10.

Large group packages (26+ visitors): Adult/child paying on arrival £11, pre-paid £9.50.

For general information on the theme park e-mail info@flamingoland.co.uk or telephone (0870) 752 8000.

Updated: 10:21 Wednesday, September 18, 2002