Edge of the Forest vs. Previous Scarefest Mazes: Which Is the Scaries

Every October, Alton Towers Scarefest transforms the resort into the UK’s ultimate Halloween destination. Over the years, guests have faced a terrifying lineup of haunted mazes — from the infamous Sub Species: The End Games to the unnerving The Attic: Terror of the Towers. But with the arrival of Edge of the Forest in Scarefest 2025, one big question is on everyone’s mind: is this the scariest maze Alton Towers has ever created?

A Quick Look Back: Iconic Scarefest Mazes Through the Years

Before we step into the shadows of the new maze, let’s remind ourselves of a few fan-favourite Scarefest mazes:

• The Sanctuary (2012–2015) – Dr. Kelman’s twisted asylum offered psychological thrills mixed with physical scares.
• Sub Species: The End Games (2015–2018) – Widely regarded as one of the most intense mazes in Scarefest history, with multiple paths and crawling sections.
• The Attic: Terror of the Towers (2019–2022) – Gothic horror in a chillingly detailed attic setting, filled with ghostly children and demonic entities.
• Darkest Depths (2019–2022) – A nautical nightmare with sirens, sea monsters, and claustrophobic shipwreck theming.

Each maze pushed boundaries in its own way, creating unforgettable Halloween memories for guests.

What Makes Edge of the Forest Different?

Edge of the Forest (2025) is more than just a maze — it’s an expansion of the park’s existing Dark Forest lore. Guests are lured deep into woodland territory stalked by The Leshman, a creature rooted in Staffordshire folklore.

Here’s what sets it apart:

• A Living Legend: Unlike past mazes, Edge of the Forest is built on a myth tied to the land itself.
• Outdoor and Indoor Elements: Combining natural woodland pathways with enclosed scare zones.
• The Leshman Presence: The central figure ensures continuity and fear throughout the experience.
• Immersive Storytelling: The maze connects directly to the rides Th13teen and Rita, making the story bigger than one attraction.

Edge of the Forest vs. Past Mazes

So how does Edge of the Forest stack up?

• Vs. The Sanctuary: While Dr. Kelman’s asylum played on medical fears, Edge of the Forest leans heavily into folklore and primal fears of the dark.
• Vs. Sub Species: Sub Species was physically demanding and unpredictable, but Edge of the Forest adds an extra psychological weight with the looming threat of The Leshman.
• Vs. The Attic: Both mazes feature detailed backstories, but Edge of the Forest is tied to the park itself, giving it a stronger sense of place.
• Vs. Darkest Depths: The nautical setting was unique, but the forest environment — especially in the pitch black of October nights — feels far more real and threatening.

Which Is the Scariest?

Scare is subjective — some people jump at sudden noises, others are unnerved by eerie atmospheres. But early feedback and fan excitement suggest that Edge of the Forest could easily claim the title of the scariest Scarefest maze yet.

• Its folklore roots make it feel believable.
• The outdoor woodland setting blurs the line between real and staged scares.
• The looming presence of The Leshman provides continuity and dread throughout.

If you thought Sub Species was intense, or The Attic was chilling, prepare yourself. Edge of the Forest may well be the ultimate Scarefest experience.

Practical Tips for Brave Guests

• Book in advance: Edge of the Forest requires a separate ticket, and slots sell out quickly.
• Go after dark: The woodland setting is far scarier once night falls.
• Don’t go alone: This is a maze designed to disorient and terrify — bring a group!
• Prepare for intensity: Recommended 15+ due to strong scares and dark themes.

Final Verdict: Dare to Decide for Yourself

Every maze has left its mark on Alton Towers Scarefest history, but Edge of the Forest could be the defining horror experience of the decade. The combination of Dark Forest theming, the legend of The Leshman, and next-level immersive scares puts it in direct competition with the most terrifying mazes of the past.

So, which is the scariest? There’s only one way to find out: step into the Edge of the Forest this Scarefest… if you dare.