We Have Amazing Money-Saving Deals on Merlin’s Top UK Attractions

Welcome to KidRated’s guide to Merlin’s top UK Attractions including special offers and the money saving Merlin Pass. Enjoy a great family day out at The London Eye, SEA LIFE, Madame Tussauds, and LEGOLAND and more!

SPECIAL OFFERS

Merlin Annual Pass – Spring Sale from £99pp

Offer Dates: Now until 29th March 2026 

  • Offers starting at just £99 – which is equal to just £1.90 per week 
  • The sale launches just in time for the Easter holidays 
  • It’s a bumper year for Merlin Entertainments with two exciting new launches – the pup-tastic World of PAW Patrol at Chessington World of Adventures Resort and Bluey the Ride: Here Come The Grannies at Alton Towers Resort 

Merlin Entertainments is inviting families to step into a year of magical adventures with its Spring Sale on Merlin Annual Passes. Perfect for families looking to make the most of quality time together, the pass unlocks entry to over 20 top UK attractions, including the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Alton Towers Resort, Warwick Castle, Chessington World of Adventures Resort and more. 

With spellbinding savings available just in time for the Easter Holidays, from the 2nd to the 29th March, Merlin Annual Pass packs a year of family fun and adventure into incredible prices from as little as £99, which equates to just £1.90 per week. 

From thrilling theme parks like Thorpe Park, Alton Towers Resort and Chessington World of Adventures Resort, to fascinating aquariums, spooky dungeons and historic landmarks, the Pass offers something for everyone. Plus, with exclusive Passholder perks including discounts on food, souvenirs and short breaks, families can enjoy unforgettable days out for less.  

The limited time sale applies to all Merlin Annual Pass types including yearly passes and Platinum and Gold Monthly Memberships from just £16.99* per month. Adventurers can unlock a whole year’s worth of fun memories and epic moments saving up to £50** on unmissable days out.  

Buy a Merlin Annual Pass Now

PAW PATROL: MEET THE GANG & STAY IN A ROOM

Matt Alexander/PA Media Assignments

Big news for PAW Patrol fans! A brand-new PAW Patrol land is coming to Chessington in 2026.

The new immersive experience will include four thrilling rides – including the UK’s first ‘Drifter’ ride, designed to delight riders with sliding, drifting and skidding sensations – among a host of other tail-tagging fun and features. Each of the rides is themed around a beloved member of the PAW Patrol pack:  

  • Guests will be able to hop onto Chase’s Mountain Mission, a high-speed rescue vehicle and entry level rollercoaster to help Chase and Everest save the day.  
  • Soar into action by joining Skye on a high-flying rescue mission on Skye’s Helicopter Heroes, where riders are invited to climb aboard Skye’s iconic helicopter and take to the skies. With spinning rotors, panoramic views, and a mission full of teamwork and tail wags, Skye’s Helicopter Adventure is an unforgettable flight.  
  • Become Zuma’s co-pilot and spring into action on the UK’s first ‘Drifter’ ride.
  • Hop aboard a hovercraft and help navigate the waters from Adventure Bay to Seal Island on Zuma’s Hovercraft Adventure.   
  • Climb aboard the bright red fire truck on Marshall’s Firetruck Rescue and hang on tight as it rocks and rolls through the streets of Adventure Bay.  A high-spirited ride, it’s perfect for junior patrollers ready to spring into action.  
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London Dungeons

Set in the vaults beneath the South Bank, The London Dungeon is a walk-through attraction that takes you through some of the most gruesome chapters of London’s past, brought to life by a brilliant cast of actors (and they are bloody brilliant), spine-tingling effects, and immersive sets.

En route you’ll meet plague doctors, witches, Guy Fawkes, and the infamous Jack the Ripper, all while avoiding creepy shadows and sudden surprises. The 75–90 minute experience includes 19 live shows, chilling tales, and two thrilling rides – including Drop Dead, where you learn (almost) exactly what a medieval hanging felt like. Yikes!

Expect plenty of screams, some genuine history, and lots of gory giggles. It’s less “horror film” and more “history meets Halloween,” so older kids and teens will be in their element.

The sets and costumes are top-notch, the storytelling is wickedly fun, and the actors are scarily convincing (and very funny). Best of all, it’s just a stone’s throw from the London Eye, SEA LIFE and Shrek’s Adventure, making it perfect for a SouthBank family day out.

Not suitable for under 5s, and we think the sweet spot is 12 and upwards but you know your kids best. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

There are also locations for The Dungeons outside of London including Edinburgh and York

KIDRATED TOP TIP: It’s scary-funny, not nightmare-fuel—perfect for thrill-seeking families with older kids!

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The London Eye

The London Eye is more than just a big wheel. It’s 30 minutes of amazing views, fascinating landmarks, and a surprisingly peaceful break from the noise and traffic of the bustling city.

At 135 metres tall, the Eye offers unbeatable panoramic views across the capital. On a clear day, you can see up to 25 miles – which is all the way to Windsor Castle! Inside the high-tech, climate-controlled glass pods, you’ll spot Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, The Shard and much, much more.

For curious minds, there are touchscreen guides inside the capsules, perfect for pointing out landmarks and sparking a few fun history fact. It’s also one of the few iconic attractions where the whole family – yes even those teenagers – can relax, look out together, and share a genuine “wow” moment.

The experience is slow, steady, and fully accessible, making it ideal for families with younger children, pushchairs, or grandparents in tow. Family tickets are available and offer decent savings – and fast-track options help you skip the queue on busier days.

Right next to the River Thames and just a short stroll from Waterloo, the London Eye is easy to get to and even easier to love. A must for first-time visitors, and still a thrill even if you’ve been before.

KIDRATED TOP TIP: Go at sunset and get two views for the price of one.

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London Sea Life Aquarium

SEA LIFE London Aquarium is one of those rare family attractions that manages to entertain, educate and bring down everyone’s stress levels. Located next to the London Eye, this indoor aquatic wonderland is ideal for rainy days, school holidays, and curious kids who love animals.

Step through the Shark Walk and into a world of underwater adventure. With over 5,000 sea creatures – from gentoo penguins and stingrays to piranhas and jellyfish – it’s a deep dive into ocean life without leaving London. There are themed zones to explore, including the Amazon-inspired Rainforest Adventure and the Coral Kingdom. The Ocean Invaders jellyfish room is particularly mesmerising – almost hypnotic for over-excited little ones.

Don’t miss the keepers’ talks, especially at feeding times – watching the penguins dive for their dinner is a real crowd-pleaser. And be sure to grab one of the kids’ activity trails at the entrance to help them focus and have fun along the way.

It’s mostly pram-friendly, fully indoors, and temperature-controlled, so great for younger children too. A visit takes around 2–3 hours, but there’s no rush – you can linger as long as your kids are mesmerised.

Back for a limited time only, this Spring, visit a unique universe with Animal Crossing: New Horizons
The renowned life simulation game, developed by Nintendo, offers an immersive experience in a world where you can create your own paradise on a deserted island and interact with its residents. This event is included with all entry tickets! Visit anytime between 23 February – 25 March 2026

For families combining it with other Southbank attractions like the London Dungeon or Shrek’s Adventure, it’s a brilliant add-on and teenagers will enjoy strolling round at their own pace.

KIDRATED TOP TIP: Arrive early (before 11am on a weekday if possible) for the calmest, clearest views of the tanks!

You can also visit Sea Life Aquarium’s across the UK, with locations in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Brighton, Weymouth, Scarborough, Hunstanton, Great Yarmouth, Loch Lomond.

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Legoland Windsor

If your kids love LEGO®, you’re about to become their hero. LEGOLAND® Windsor is a colourful, brick-tastic wonderland with over 55 interactive rides, shows, and attractions – spread across a whopping 150 acres – it’s no wonder this place is a family favourite.

It’s ideal for kids aged 3–12, but older siblings and nostalgic adults will have fun too. Highlights include:

Minifigure Speedway, the world’s first LEGO duelling coaster (yep – it goes in reverse too!). Dive into the Ferrari Build and Race Experience, where you design your own car, test it, and then race it virtually. And for younger builders? There’s a DUPLO® version too!

The Fire Academy –  go on a 4D ninja mission on the LEGO® Ninjago Ride, or drive their first car at the LEGO Driving School. Meanwhile, film buffs will love the 4D cinema and the new LEGO Friends movie experience.

Miniland – is a must-see. It’s like a miniature world tour made by master builders and includes  – London, Paris, and even NASA’s Kennedy Space Center built from over 42 million bricks.

In the summer months, don’t miss DUPLO Valley’s Splash Safari, the UK’s largest water play area. Or time travel to LEGO® MYTHICA where mythical creatures take you on magical rides – including the legendary Flight of the Sky Lion.

Extend the adventure with an overnight stay in a themed room at the LEGOLAND Resort Hotel – which boasts Pirate rooms, Kingdom suites and LEGO Friends rooms, complete with bricks to build with in your room.

Stay packages include early access to the park, character meet-and-greets, and free Wi-Fi and parking.

LEGOLAND Windsor is more than a theme park – it’s a place where families connect and create lasting memories..

KIDRATED TOP TIP: Bring swimwear – seriously! The water play zones in DUPLO® Valley are splash-tastic and irresistible to kids on sunny days.

LIVE OUTSIDE LONDON – Check out Legoland Discovery Centre’s in Birmingham or Manchester?

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Chessington World of Adventures

Chessington World of Adventures is the place with something for everyone because it’s part theme park, part zoo and part aquarium. Just 35 minutes from central London, it’s packed with wild rides, amazing animals and immersive zones that cater to ages 4 – 14 and of course adventurous adults as well.

Older kids will love racing through the treetops on Mandrill Mayhem in the brand-new World of Jumanji, spinning on Dragon’s Fury, or taking flight on the classic Vampire rollercoaster. Meanwhile younger kids can hop on The Gruffalo River Ride Adventure, join the crew in Pirate’s Cove, or meet dragons in the kid-friendly Land of the Dragons.

Away from the rides, there’s an entire zoo featuring lions, gorillas, giraffes, and even a SEA LIFE centre with sharks and stingrays. Chessington does an amazing job mixing learning with fun, especially with its animal encounters and regular keeper talks.

Add in themed lands like Wild Asia, live stunt shows, and seasonal events (Halloween at Chessington is epic), and you’ve got a day out that’s equal parts adventure and education.

It’s a big park with loads to see, so we recommend arriving early, wearing comfy shoes, and planning your route using the Chessington app. Oh and book your tickets in advance – it fills up quickly, especially during the school holidays!

KIDRATED TOP TIP: Bring a change of clothes – you’ll need after the log flumes and splash zones!

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Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds London isn’t just a museum – it’s a wild walk through pop culture history. With over 150 eerily lifelike wax figures and loads of interactive zones, this iconic attraction is a crowd-pleaser for any aged 6+ – especially celeb spotters, superhero fans and kids who love a selfie.

From Taylor Swift to Spider-Man, King Charles to Usain Bolt, it’s a dream line-up of film stars, sports heroes, royals, and musicians – and you can snap selfies with ALL of them. Marvel fans should head to the 4D Marvel Universe experience with wind, water and motion effects that’ll make them feel like a true Avenger.

There’s also the Spirit of London ride, a fun black cab journey through the capital’s history, and the spooky Chamber of Horrors for braver teens (and grown-ups). And if the family loves Star Wars, the dedicated Star Wars zone is brilliant – especially to see dad pose with Han Solo!

It takes around 2–3 hours to see everything at a relaxed pace, but you could easily spend longer if your kids want to meet everyone. Plus, if you’re doing London’s top attractions, you can grab multi-attraction passes that include the London Eye, SEA LIFE, and more.

KIDRATED TOP TIP: Want to avoid the big crowds and long queues? Book in advance and aim for early or late slots.

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Shrek’s Adventure

Great Offers for Days Out at Merlin's UK Attractions with KidRated
Shrek’s Adventure, Photography courtesy of Viator

Step into a fairytale that’s full of laughs, surprises, and a cheeky talking donkey!

Your adventure kicks off on a magical flying bus tour through London (narrated by Donkey), before landing in the land of Far Far Away. From there, you’ll travel through ten lively scenes featuring much-loved characters like Cinderella, Puss in Boots, and Gingy. Along the way, you’ll dodge a witch, find hidden ingredients, and try to rescue Shrek from Lord Farquaad’s clutches.

It’s fast-paced, funny, and just a little bit spooky in places – perfect for kids aged 4 – 12, who like a bit of adventure without things getting too scary. Younger children might find a few moments intense, but the humour keeps things light and silly. You even have the chance to explore Shrek’s swamp and see his ogre-sized loo!

Having had a shrek-tastic adventure, you can also meet loads of other Dreamworks characters including the animals from Madagascar and Kung Fu Panda, Po and Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon.

The experience lasts about 75 minutes, and while it’s mostly indoors, parts involve standing or walking, so comfy shoes are a must. Buggies are left in the buggy park at the start.

Located next to the Aquarium, Dungeon and London Eye , it’s an ideal add-on for a big South Bank day out.

KIDRATED TOP TIP: Arrive 15 minutes early and use the toilets beforehand – once you’re in the story, there’s no pause button!

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Thorpe Park

Thorpe Park KidRated reviews by kids family offers

If your teens are always chasing that next scare, shock or thrill, then Thorpe Park is the destination for them. Welcome to a day of wild rides, fearless flips and non-stop screams.

Known as “The Home of Feel-Good Thrills,” it’s located 20 miles from London, and it’s packed with record-breaking roller coasters and big splash water rides.

The newest coaster, Hyperia, is the UK’s tallest and fastest, flying you 263 feet into the air before a series of weightless drops that feel like flying. Or there’s Stealth (0 to 80mph in under two seconds!);  SAW – The Ride (based on the gory film complete with a 100-degree vertical drop); and Colossus, the world’s first 10-loop (yes – TEN!) coaster.

For fans of frights, the Walking Dead and Ghost Train rides bring all the creepy vibes. But don’t worry – there are tamer options like Rumba Rapids, Flying Fish, and the new Big Easy Boulevard, a colourful area with gentler rides and family games.

Thorpe Park is best suited for families with older children, but there are still a few mini rides and splash zones for younger kids. Want to make a weekend of it or making a journey to visit? Then book an overnight stay in the quirky Thorpe Shark Cabins.

KIDRATED TOP TIP: Bring a waterproof poncho – or embrace the splash. You will get drenched on Tidal Wave!

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Outside London

Alton Towers

Alton Towers is arguably the UK’s number one theme park with something for every kind of kid (and grown-up). We recommend it for ages 4 -14.

If your teens are adrenaline junkies, rides like Oblivion (a 180ft vertical drop), the new twisty terror Toxicator, or Nemesis Reborn, are suitably intense.

Younger kids will love CBeebies Land, which turns your little one’s favourite shows into real-world fun – perfect for first rides and gentle thrills. The world’s first Bluey rollercoaster – Bluey The Ride: Here Come the Grannies, will open on 28th March. Designed for younger adventurers and their big imaginations, the first of its kind attraction whisks guests through Bluey’s backyard. Featuring Bluey’s House, selfie spots, and fun play activities, little fans can meet Bluey, Bingo and the whole Heeler family live in Big Fun Showtime.  

Add in the Sharkbait Reef aquarium, immersive themed areas, seasonal events like Scarefest and Alton After Dark, plus stay-and-play hotels, and you’ve got more than just a theme park – it’s a family break worth planning.

KIDRATED TOP TIP: It’s another one that needs a change of clothes as Toxicator and Wicker Man can leave you drenched!

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Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is the ultimate history-meets-fun day out. Think castles, catapults, and creepy dungeons – all wrapped up in a brilliant family experience and kid aged 7+.

Walk in the footsteps of kings and warriors and discover what life was like in a real medieval fortress. The Castle Dungeon is a spooky hit with older kids, while the Great Hall, with its armour displays, is pure medieval glam.

Got a head for heights? Climb the ramparts and soak up stunning countryside views. Fancy some action? Watch as the world’s biggest working trebuchet flings a massive stone through the air. And don’t forget the Birds of Prey show – it’s swoop-tacular!

Live shows, reenactments, jousting tournaments – it’s all happening at Warwick. Plus, the Knight’s Village offers family glamping if you fancy a sleepover in style.

KIDRATED TOP TIP: Book your dungeon tickets ahead – they often sell out fast!

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