UK Weather: Drayton Manor Shuts After Flooding as More Storms Threaten Bank Holiday

Drayton Manor Resort in Tamworth, Staffordshire, closed on Thursday after heavy rain caused flooding across the site and surrounding areas, with the attraction saying it shut to protect guests and staff.

The closure came as thunderstorms and intense downpours hit the West Midlands. A yellow thunderstorm warning remained in force until 22:00 on Thursday, and forecasters warned that unsettled conditions would continue into the Bank Holiday weekend.

Flooding Forces Drayton Manor To Close

Drayton Manor said adverse weather and flooding had forced it to close for the day. The resort told affected guests it would provide details on rearranging their visits.

The resort has more than 50 rides and attractions, including Thomas Land, as well as a 15‑acre zoo. Its website states that opening times and ride availability can change because of weather conditions.

Heavy rainfall was recorded across Staffordshire. Government flood data showed the Lichfield rain gauge recorded 73.8mm in the 24 hours to 18:45 on Thursday.

Bourne Brook at Hints reached 1.60 metres and was still rising. The Environment Agency also issued a flood alert for Bourne Brook in Tamworth, meaning flooding was possible.

Other parts of the West Midlands also saw disruption. Roads and properties flooded after intense rainfall overwhelmed drainage systems in some areas.

Birmingham City Council said 55 properties around Perry Brook experienced internal flooding. Water reached up to one metre inside the worst‑affected homes after the brook broke its banks.

Thunderstorm Risk Continues Into Friday

The Met Office said unsettled conditions would continue across much of the UK on Friday. Bands of heavy rain were possible across Scotland, northern England and Wales.

Elsewhere, showers could become heavy or locally thundery. Brighter spells were also expected between periods of rain.

In the West Midlands, Friday was expected to begin drier before showers developed from mid‑morning. Some could bring thunder or hail.

The Environment Agency and Met Office five‑day outlook placed the flood risk around Tamworth at very low for Friday. Conditions could still change if heavier showers developed locally.

The unsettled spell followed several days of warnings for intense rainfall across England and Wales. The Met Office said some areas could receive around 50mm of rain in a short period.

Such rainfall could lead to surface‑water flooding. Hail and frequent lightning were also possible in stronger storms.

Bank Holiday Weekend Set To Stay Unsettled

The Met Office expects unsettled Bank Holiday weather as low pressure crosses the UK. Another area of low pressure could bring persistent rain from the south‑west on Saturday.

The rain is forecast to spread north and east through the day. Winds could also strengthen in some areas.

Sunday is expected to remain unsettled. Northern Ireland and north‑west Scotland currently face the greatest chance of prolonged rain.

Heavy showers could develop elsewhere. Southern and eastern England could also see heavy rain from Europe.

Bank Holiday Monday could turn breezier or windy as the low‑pressure system develops. Temperatures should stay near seasonal averages, with highs in the low 20s.

The Met Office said uncertainty remains over the timing and location of the heaviest rain. People with outdoor Bank Holiday plans were advised to check updated forecasts as conditions develop.