Beijing not nauseating enough for you already? Head to one of these theme parks for a stomach-churning good time! That's not to say you can't stick to the kiddy rides, but you might as well put some hair on your chest while you're at it.

We endured Beijing's best and worst parks, loop-the-looping, slaloming down water slides, spinning in discs of death and queuing in the sweltering heat. Think of this list of Beijing's best theme parks as your ticket to ride. Off you go!

Happy Valley

This is the biggest and slickest of Beijing’s amusement parks, with over 40 rides spread over seven themed zones, such as ‘Shangri-La’ and ‘Ant Kingdom’. There’s a hint of the Disneyland approach here, although minus Mickey and friends. But Happy Valley’s rides are the real reason people flock here, with intense thrills offered by the likes of the ‘Extreme Rusher’ – a modern roller coaster that hits 135km/hr and twists through almost-impossible angles. Be prepared to queue – even on a weekday morning, we had to wait over 80 minutes to enjoy that 35-second adrenaline rush.

For those with kids (or a lack of nerves), there are gentler offerings here that have much shorter lines, as well as activities such as face painting (10-30RMB) or cruising the park in a two-person buggy (120RMB/hr). There’s also a carnival, with free special entertainment, running until Sunday 26. Fun for all, then, as long as you don’t mind big crowds.

Best ride The ‘Apollo Wheel’ – a terrifying contraption that spins you around on the outside of a wheel, while you swing, pendulum-like.

Top tip Start by planning your route, instead of wandering aimlessly around. The park is big and some of the rides shut at 1pm.

Cost 200RMB for adults (entry, unlimited rides); 130RMB for children 1.2-1.5m tall, and adults 65-69 years old; free for over-70s and kids under 1.2m. Night ticket (many facilities closed) 80RMB for 6-10pm.

How to get there You’re best off getting a taxi, which will cost around 30RMB from the south of the city centre.