If you’re a thrill-seeker, LEGO® lover, or someone who just can’t resist a day out at Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, or Chessington, then the Merlin Annual Pass might just be your golden ticket to a year packed full of adventures.
With access to Alton Towers Resort, LEGOLAND® Windsor, SEA LIFE, Chessington World of Adventures, and many more UK attractions, the Merlin Pass has always been one of the best ways to experience the magic all year round — while saving a fortune in the process.
But 2025 brings some big changes. Merlin has officially retired both the Discovery and Silver Passes for new customers, replacing them with a brand-new tier called the Essential Pass. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s changed, what’s staying, and how to make the most of your Merlin magic this year.
🎟️ What Is the Merlin Annual Pass?
Think of it as your all-access key to the UK’s top theme parks and attractions.
One pass — one price — and you can unlock hundreds of days of entry across over 30 Merlin attractions nationwide. Depending on which pass you choose, you can also enjoy perks like free parking, discounts on food and hotels, and even money off Fastrack.
🆕 The New Essential Pass: What’s Changed?
Let’s start with the headline: Merlin has waved goodbye to the Discovery and Silver passes for new buyers. They’re still available for existing holders (for now), but once you stop renewing, they’re gone forever.
In their place comes the Essential Pass — designed to be the budget-friendly, entry-only option.
Priced at £139 per person, it gives you access to over 335 days across the year, but there’s a catch — it’s an entry-only pass. That means no discounts on food, drink, retail, hotels, or parking. It’s also one upfront payment (no monthly option), so you’ll need to pay in full when you buy.
In short, it’s perfect for guests who just want entry to the parks at the lowest price possible, without worrying about extras.
🟡 The Gold Pass: Still the Sweet Spot
If you visit often — or love making the most of every perk — the Gold Pass is still the best all-round choice.
You’ll get access to around 340+ days of the year, free parking, and 20% off food, drink, and shopping at all Merlin attractions. You’ll even enjoy discounts on Fastrack, which is a lifesaver on busy days!
The Gold Pass is available for an upfront payment of £239, or you can spread the cost at just £19.99 per month with no joining fee.
And here’s the clever bit: you don’t necessarily need a Gold Pass for everyone in the family. One Gold Pass can cover perks like free parking and discounts, while the rest of the family can enjoy their visits with Essential Passes — saving you a tidy sum each year.
🔵 The Platinum Pass: For the Ultimate Fans
If you’re a true Merlin enthusiast — the kind who loves to visit on any day of the year and bring friends along for the fun — then the Platinum Pass is your ultimate ticket to adventure.
It includes everything from the Gold tier, plus some brilliant extras like a free refill cup, exclusive friend discount vouchers, and no blackout dates — meaning you can visit whenever the mood strikes.
The Platinum Pass is available for an upfront payment of £299, or you can spread the cost at £23.99 per month with no joining fee.
It’s the all-inclusive choice for families who are always on the go, park-hopping across the country, or anyone who wants the full Merlin experience without limitations.
💬 Why Did Merlin Make These Changes?
There’s been plenty of chatter about this — especially since many fans loved the Silver Pass.
But from a business point of view, the change makes sense.
Merlin has essentially simplified their range: one entry-only pass (Essential) and two premium tiers (Gold and Platinum) for those who want the extras. It’s easier to understand, easier to market, and probably helps balance crowd levels during peak times.
Also, with the Essential Pass being a one-off payment, it gives Merlin that instant revenue boost — and for guests, it means no monthly bills to keep track of.
💡 Tips for Getting the Best Value
Here’s a trick that’s worked brilliantly for many families — including mine.
Only one person in your group really needs the top-tier perks. So, get one Gold Pass for whoever usually pays for food, souvenirs, or parking — and Essential Passes for everyone else.
That way, you’ll still get your 20% discounts and free parking from the Gold Pass, but the rest of your family can enjoy the cheaper entry-only passes.
If you visit regularly, that setup easily pays for itself within a couple of trips.
⚠️ A Few Things to Remember
- The Discovery and Silver passes are still available for renewal if you already hold one, but once you cancel or let it expire, you’ll have to move to the Essential or a higher tier.
- The Essential Pass has no perks — no discounts or free parking — so keep that in mind if you often buy food or stay overnight.
- Passholders still need to pre-book at many attractions before visiting.
- The digital pass means no more waiting for cards in the post — you can use it right away via the Merlin app.
🔍 So, Which Pass Is Right for You?
Here’s the short version:
- Essential Pass – Best for casual visitors who just want cheap access to the parks.
- Gold Pass – Ideal for regular visitors who want discounts and free parking.
- Platinum Pass – For hardcore fans who visit all year round and want maximum perks.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Merlin’s new Essential Pass marks a big shift in how the company structures its Annual Passes. While some fans miss the old Silver and Discovery tiers, the new setup keeps things simple — and still offers great flexibility depending on how often you visit.
Whether you’re chasing coasters, exploring the dungeons, or diving into SEA LIFE, there’s still a Merlin Pass to suit every kind of adventurer.
And if you plan it right, your pass can easily pay for itself — meaning more memories, more magic, and less stress about costs.
