We just got word that Merlin Entertainment has officially confirmed that it we be reopening ALL its major theme parks, attractions and accommodations across England as of July 4th, 2020, for day visits and short breaks. This follows the UK government’s announcement on June 23rd, 2020 that eased restrictions in England. Museums, cinemas, theme parks and other attractions will all now be able to open, as long as safety measures are put into place.

In case you are unfamiliar with Merlin Entertainment is a world leader in family, location-based entertainment. Their UK Resort attractions include Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, LEGOLAND Windsor, Warwick Castle and Chessington World of Adventures Resort. Merlin’s indoor attractions, including The Blackpool Tower, SEA LIFE Centres and Madame Tussaud’s, will also re-open in line with the latest Government guidelines.

Alton Towers and Warwick have been welcoming visitors to their grounds and gardens since June 6th, 2020, while Chessington successfully reopened its Zoo area to the public on June 18, 2020.

Merlin attractions will be reducing capacity to limit the number of visitors, allowing for proper social distancing and an over-positive guest experience. As with most theme parks worldwide reopening, due to COVID-19, visitors are required to pre-book tickets online.

Naturally, guests will find substantial and comforting new safety measures employed, such as updated routes surrounding attractions and new queuing formats. Staff will be required to wear PPE and enhanced cleaning will support Government guidelines.

Official Statement from Nick Varney, CEO at Merlin Entertainments

“We are delighted to be reopening following UK Government guidance. There has been a huge effort from our world-class Health and Safety team, and all our teams across our attractions to ensure we are ready to safely welcome guests back through our doors. I’m personally very proud of their passion, commitment and hard work over the last few months.”
“We welcome the UK Government’s announcement that we can finally reopen our Theme Parks, accommodation and some of our indoor attractions. We look forward to welcoming guests from across the UK back to our sites, just as we have done successfully across Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and North America. In each location, we have seen our guests embrace the ‘new normal’ and actively adhere to the new safety measures we have put in place. After the extended lockdown, we recognise that people need leisure and escapism and to make new happy memories with those they love. We look forward to helping them do just that.”

Despite temporary closures due to COVID-19, Merlin continued to connect with visitors through ‘Making Magic with Merlin’, an initiative that helped educate and entertain children at home with behind-the-scenes videos of SEA LIFE attractions and theme parks.

Merlin Entertainments operates in 25 countries,. The UK is the last country to allow attractions to reopen fully.

We are still awaiting an opening date for Merlin’s five attractions in London including Shrek’s Adventure! London, the London Eye, London Dungeon, SEA LIFE London Aquarium and Madame Tussauds London.