Merlin's 'Stay for a Night, Play for a Year' Deal Ends This Weekend

Merlin's 'Stay for a Night, Play for a Year' Offer Concludes This Weekend

Theme park enthusiasts across the UK have a limited opportunity to secure a year of unlimited access to over 20 attractions for the price of a single overnight stay. Merlin Entertainment's annual promotion, which provides a free Essential Merlin Annual Pass (MAP) with eligible bookings, ends this Sunday, March 1. Families must complete their reservations by this deadline to take advantage of the deal.

How the Deal Works

By booking a stay at participating Merlin resorts, such as Alton Towers, Legoland Windsor, Thorpe Park, Chessington World of Adventures, or Warwick Castle, guests receive a complimentary Essential MAP for each person. This pass grants 339 days of entry to theme parks and other attractions, including the London Eye, Madame Tussauds, and SEA Life centres. The offer applies to stays on selected dates between March and June 2026, with specific windows varying by location.

For instance, stays at Legoland and Alton Towers are eligible from March 14 to June 26, while Chessington accepts bookings from March 20 to June 26. Thorpe Park and Warwick Castle have availability from March 27 to June 26. When making a reservation, look for a banner labeled 'Merlin Pass Included' to confirm eligibility.

Benefits and Savings

This promotion can lead to substantial savings for families. A standard Essential MAP costs £139 per person at full price. For a family of four, purchasing passes separately would total £556. In contrast, booking an overnight stay—such as at the Warwick Castle Hotel for £429—includes four free passes, making it a cost-effective option for those planning multiple visits.

Additionally, day passes to attractions like Alton Towers range from £32 online to £68 at the gate. With the annual pass, families can enjoy repeated visits throughout the year without extra entry fees, potentially saving hundreds of pounds. The pass also covers attractions beyond theme parks, such as Cadbury World and Shrek's Adventure! London, offering diverse entertainment options.

What's Included and Restrictions

Eligible stays often include themed accommodation, breakfast, and two days of theme park entry. For example, Alton Towers hotel guests have access to a 9-hole golf course, while Chessington visitors can explore its SEA Life Centre. Upon booking, passes are emailed immediately and can be activated before the stay.

However, passholders should note some restrictions. The Essentials tier excludes certain dates, such as some bank holidays and Saturdays in August. July remains fully accessible, and most summer holiday days are unrestricted, allowing for flexible planning during peak seasons.