The best family days out in London and beyond rated by kids and teens
The UK’s Best Merlin Attractions – KidRated
Welcome to KidRated’s guide to Merlin’s top UK Attractions including special offers and unbeatable discounts.
Merlin is dedicated to helping families make incredible memories at their 125 global attractions which includes in the UK, The London Eye, SEA LIFE, Madame Tussauds, LEGOLAND and Blackpool Tower.
And remember, we’ve reviewed many of their venues in our Attractions section, so you can see what our kids and teens honestly thought of their experiences when they visited. So, without further ado, here’s our list of the best Merlin Entertainment locations in London and around the UK plus any special offers they’re running.
Remember click on the BOOK NOW button for the very best ticket prices for your fab day out.
Legoland Festival
You’ve played with the bricks. You’ve seen the movies. Now, get ready for the most epic LEGO play adventure ever – it’s The Lego Festival!
Grab your outfit and dive into five never-before-seen play zones, packed with festival vibes, awesome entertainment, and activities. Get lost in the moment with epic brick-building challenges, brand-new shows, massive builds, exclusive LEGO Minifigures, music, dancing, and unique LEGO experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
And the best part? On top of all the LEGO Festival excitement, you’ll get to enjoy all the rides, attractions, and entertainment LEGOLAND has to offer. So, the most amazing day out just got even more awesome!
The LEGO® Festival is included within your entry to LEGOLAND® Resorts (day tickets and Annual Pass – subject to pre-booking). Tickets are on sale. Book now to guarantee entry.
Selected dates from 3rd May – 11th June.
This Spring and Summer, step into the home of Feel-Good Thrills! From the UK’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster, Hyperia, to the UK’s wettest water rides like the super-soaking Tidal Wave – there’s excitement for everyone!
Double the fun with our 2nd Day Free Offer available for stays at the Thorpe Shark Cabins or one of our nearby partner hotels.
Packages include:
Plus, stays at the Thorpe Shark Cabins also receive:
Offer is running from 24th April to 11th May 2025 and valid on selected stay dates between 24th April and 17th July including May half term!
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, York and Blackpool.
KIDRATED TOP TIP: It’s scary-funny, not nightmare-fuel—perfect for thrill-seeking families with older kids!
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.
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.
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, Blackpool, Hunstanton, Great Yarmouth, Loch Lomond and Bray.
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?
Dragon Falls © 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!
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.
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, naturally), 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!
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 just 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 siblings. 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!
Sonic Spinball
Alton Towers is arguably the UK’s tnumber one heme park with something for every kind of kid (and grown-up) Werecommend ages 4 -14.
If your teens are all about the adrenaline, dive into rides like Oblivion (a heart-stopping 180ft vertical drop), the new twisty terror Toxicator, or Nemesis Reborn, back and more intense than ever.
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. And the whole family will enjoy Gangsta Granny: The Ride, a cheeky, quirky caper based on David Walliams’ hit book.
Add in the Sharkbait Reef aquarium, immersive themed areas, seasonal events like Scarefest and Alton After Dark, plus stay-and-play hotels (including the magical CBeebies Hotel), 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!
Blackpool Tower circus
Looking for a show that’ll wow your kids and make the grown-ups giggle too? Look no further than The Blackpool Tower Circus – a Blackpool institution that’s been delighting families since 1894. It’s perfect for ages 3+, but older kids, teens and grandparents will love it too….With slapstick comedy, aerial acrobatics, jaw-dropping stunts and a famously splashy water finale, this is not your average circus!
Hosted by deranged duo Mooky and Mr Boo, the show blends old-school charm with fresh, mind-blowing talent. Each year brings a brand new cast of global performers who fly through the air in the most death and gravity defying ways.. And the best part? No animals – just pure talent and fun.
The atmosphere is electric, with jaw dropping moment and plenty of comedy and some surprisingly emotional moments at times too.
The venue itself is magical – inside the iconic Blackpool Tower, with plush red seating and dramatic lighting that adds to the drama. Most families spend 1.5–2 hours here, and it’s a perfect rainy-day treat if the beach is too windy.
if you’re planning a full Blackpool Tower day? Combine your circus tickets with visits to the Tower Eye, Ballroom and Dungeon for a day of nonstop fun.
KIDRATED TOP TIP: Arrive early for the best seats and don’t forget snacks – it’s a full-length show with plenty to keep everyone entertained!
KidRaters Monty and Teddy enjoying their stay at 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+.
You’ll walk in the footsteps of kings and warriors, gaze up at towering turrets, 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 glittering chandeliers and 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!
Clink Prison Museum
Matilda the Musical
