In an era dominated by endless WhatsApp messages and “we need to do this soon” conversations, Thorpe Park has revealed a new social phenomenon affecting Gen Z: the “Group Chat Gap”.
According to new research commissioned by the UK theme park resort, 88% of Gen Z admit they currently have at least one dream plan sitting unfinished in a group chat — never quite making the leap into reality.
The findings highlight a growing disconnect between making plans online and actually following through with face-to-face experiences, despite young people craving more real-world connection than ever before.
Gen Z Craving Real-Life Connection
The research found that while digital communication dominates daily life, Gen Z still place huge value on in-person interaction.
More than 81% of respondents said face-to-face experiences help them feel connected to others, while 64% reported feeling emotionally closer to friends when spending time together in real life.
However, many young people are struggling to make those moments happen. Around 30% admitted they find it difficult to build meaningful social connections within their everyday routines, leading to countless plans remaining trapped in chat threads.
The top plans currently “stuck in the group chat” include:
- Holidays abroad (47%)
- Spontaneous fun day ideas (40%)
- Weekend city breaks (27%)
- Activity days out such as theme parks (26%)
- Concerts and festivals (25%)
Thorpe Park Lates Returns This May
To help bridge the “Group Chat Gap”, Thorpe Park Resort is extending ride opening hours during its popular Thorpe Park Lates event this May bank holiday.
Beginning Saturday 23 May, guests will be able to experience the park’s major attractions until 9PM, giving friend groups more time to finally turn online plans into real-life memories.
Known for adrenaline-filled rides and shared thrill experiences, the park is encouraging visitors to “swap scrolling for screaming” this spring and reconnect beyond their phone screens.
Thorpe Park Says Shared Experiences Matter
Katie Howell, Director of Operations at Thorpe Park, said the research reflects a relatable modern habit among younger generations.
She explained:
“The Group Chat Gap is something that almost everyone recognises – the plans you talk about for weeks but never actually make happen.”
Howell added that shared experiences remain central to how people build friendships and memories, from the anticipation before a ride to reliving those moments afterwards.
“With Thorpe Park Lates returning and rides running until 9pm, we’re giving groups even more time to turn those ‘we should do something’ messages into real memories together,” she said.
Tickets and More Information
Tickets for Thorpe Park Lates start from £32 per person when booked online through the park’s official website.
For more information and to book tickets, visit the official Thorpe Park website.
