Life as a SEN mum

If you’re looking for a definitive answer, I probably can’t give you one. I know, it makes this seem a little pointless. However, as someone who was debating Merlin Passes for years, I thought I’d share some things with you that helped in my decision and also things I’ve found since having the passes. Hopefully I can also help with some other things to take into account.

Attractions

There are loads of attractions owned by Merlin, whilst these are dotted across the country they do tend to be grouped together somewhat, so you’d most likely have to think about whether you are within travelling distance of some of the attractions. That being said, there is something for everyone, and if there is a particular attraction nearby that you’d happily visit frequently if it wasn’t for the high entrance costs then you could easily end up saving money pretty quickly. A full list of attractions can be found at https://www.merlinannualpass.co.uk/our-attractions/ for those in the North West, or who visit Blackpool frequently, I have also heard rumours of their acquisition of the Sandcastle Waterpark, although this isn’t included in their admission, but it is worth keeping an eye on for the future. Also a note regarding Cadbury World, whilst they are now owned by Merlin, it can be quite difficult to get slots at peak times, so make sure you book well in advance to secure your place.

Other Discounts

Depending on the type of pass you opt for, there are also a range of discounts available, from parking, and purchases at each attraction, discounts on special events, as well as discounts with some partner companies. Although it’s worth noting, as you’ll find lots of Julia Donaldson branded merch at some attractions (particularly Warwick Castle) your discounts don’t work on these items.

Pass holders with Access needs

This is where it can get a little confusing. I’ve heard lots of people say that Merlin Attractions don’t offer disabled/carer tickets etc as standard, and that if you do need these tickets you have to go through a whole process to apply for access cards through a third party. Now this isn’t entirely true. I’ve visited attractions prior to having passes and been able to use the usual forms of proof to acquire carer tickets. The accessibility passes are designed for some of the larger attractions for guests who may have more complex access needs and therefore will likely need priority queuing etc. When it comes to Merlin Annual passes there are a few things to take into consideration. Firstly, pass holders can apply for a carers ticket, this is linked to the main pass holder and so can be interchanged if the holder may visit different attractions with a different carer. Once you’ve purchased the main pass you’ll need to email Merlin with details of why a carers pass is needed, along with a copy of any supporting documents. I used their DLA letters. You’ll then receive confirmation as to whether a carers pass will be issued and the details of the pass sent. This won’t be a physical pass; you will receive a digital copy to save to your apple/google wallet, and also a document attached to the email where you will be able to print them, just in case you would prefer to have a paper copy to hand. If you do require extra assistance you can contact Merlin after pre-booking your attraction to arrange any other support that might be required. At this point I can’t comment on how this works and how easy it is to arrange as the attractions we’ve been to we haven’t needed additional support.

So is it worth it?

For us personally it has been worth it. Being within reasonable distance of Birmingham as well as Warwick, we’ve been able to get out and visit the attractions there a few times already since getting the passes just before Christmas. We have done other days out as well, so it isn’t a case of needing to go somewhere every single week. Even with the possibility of saving with carers tickets when booking and paying, we have managed to save. It also proved it’s worth when we visited London recently as we were able to fit lots into the day and save on souvenirs from those places in the process.

On the whole I really would recommend Merlin Passes. However, there are certain instances where I would maybe suggest alternatives. If you can travel, then you most likely will get your moneys worth. However, if travelling isn’t as easy then you it may be more difficult. It also very much depends on location. Whilst the attractions are across the country, they generally are grouped. You’ll find the most attractions in and around London, moving out you’ve got several attractions in the West Midlands, and Blackpool. There are a few attractions dotted around the country, but with them being well spread out then you’d have to work this out based on your circumstances. Similarly with the type of attractions you would like to visit. There are a number of attractions open all year round, however, if you’re interest is theme parks, you are more limited and individual passes for those attractions may work out more cost effective. If you’re a family with young children it may also be worth waiting until they’re older and more is open up to them.

Which passes do we have?

We opted for the Platinum passes. These have no date restrictions, include free parking at theme parks, higher discounts in the shops, discounts in their hotels, as well as extra vouchers for friends and family. For us it made sense to opt for this one. But again, which pass you choose will depend entirely on what suits your needs and budget.