Jump to the front of the queue

If you're heading to a theme park this summer, get some VIP treatment. As well as beating the queues, you can get extras, such as a personal guide bursting with gossip, use of a private lounge, top seats for shows and free souvenirs.

Universal Studios, Hollywood

A working studio with brilliant movie-themed rides, this exclusive behind-the-scenes tour is conducted by bus and is full of tricks and star-studded anecdotes. Tickets for a one-day VIP Experience, which includes priority entry, cost £91 (£96 in July and August) through Keith Prowse (02890 232425; www.keithprowsetickets.co.uk).

Walt Disney World, Orlando

Book a VIP tour guide to give you a customised visit complete with insights, choice seats for parades and shows and tips for avoiding the longest queues. Guides cost £54 an hour, minimum five hours, and can be employed for groups of up to 10 - book through Disney Special Activities (001 407 560 4033; www.disney.com).

Universal Orlando

A one-day VIP Experience on foot including a back-of-the-lots tour and immediate access to rides costs £91. A two-day private group tour for up to 15 guests costs £2,271. (001 407 363 8295; www.universalstudios.com).

Disneyland, Paris

Travel by Eurostar's Castle Service (which uses first-class coaches) direct from Waterloo to the gates of the resort, then check into the Castle Club at the Disneyland Hotel, which has two private floors with a lounge bar where breakfast, afternoon tea and soft drinks are served. A dedicated lift provides direct access to the Disneyland Park. In July a three-night Classic Package costs £659 adult, £148 child aged three-11, based on two adults and two children sharing a Castle Club family room. It includes breakfast, rail travel and a four-day Hopper ticket for the Disneyland Park and new Walt Disney Studios Park (08705 030303; www.disneylandparis.com).

Alton Towers

An X-Celerator Pass gets you free VIP parking, entrance to the park and a quick, once-only access to popular rides like Air and Nemesis via their exits. Passes cost £70 per adult, £40 per child aged four-11 and are only sold at peak times such as school holidays and weekends. Only 30 are available per day and they must be booked in advance (08705 204060; www.altontowers.com).

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