Alton Towers is permanently closing "The World of David Walliams," an attraction dedicated to the comedian's children's books, five years after its launch. The closure is part of Merlin Entertainments' annual review of its rides and attractions, with the end of the 2026 peak season marking the attraction's final operational period.
The decision follows a period of controversy for the comedian, who was dropped by his publisher HarperCollins in December 2025 amid allegations of inappropriate behavior towards women, which he denies. HarperCollins reportedly conducted an internal inquiry after a junior employee made a complaint in 2023.
"The World of David Walliams" opened in May 2021, featuring the £18 million "Gangsta Granny" ride as its centerpiece, along with two other rides and a gift shop named "Raj's Shop" after a character in Walliams' books. In recent months, visitors reported the attraction had been closed frequently and appeared unmaintained.
David Walliams, known for the BBC comedy "Little Britain," became a best-selling children's author, with his books selling over 60 million copies worldwide. Despite his success, former employees reportedly raised concerns about his behavior, leading to a probe after a complaint was filed. Walliams has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has largely withdrawn from public life since the allegations surfaced.
HarperCollins has not only dropped Walliams but is also phasing out existing stock of his titles from bookstores.
