Merlin Annual Pass Reveals Preferred Access Perks for Platinum Passholders at UK Attractions

Merlin Annual Pass Platinum Passholders can enjoy a range of exclusive preferred access benefits at selected UK theme parks and attractions, offering more convenient entrances and, in some cases, quicker access during their visits.

The benefits are designed to give Platinum Passholders an additional reason to upgrade, with dedicated entrances and special access opportunities available at several Merlin attractions.

According to the official Merlin Annual Pass website, the perks cover Alton Towers Resort, Thorpe Park, Chessington World of Adventures, LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, the London Eye and Madame Tussauds London.

Here’s a closer look at what Platinum Passholders can enjoy.

Alton Towers Resort – Preferred Entrance

Platinum Passholders visiting Alton Towers Resort can use the Short Breaks entrance to access the park.

The entrance provides a more convenient way to reach areas such as Forbidden Valley, home to attractions including Nemesis Reborn and Toxicator, potentially reducing the amount of walking needed at the beginning of the day.

Passholders must have their valid Platinum Pass ready to scan when using the entrance.

However, Merlin has confirmed that this benefit does not include Early Ride Time, and its availability may be affected by operational requirements.

Chessington World of Adventures – Early Ride Time Coming in 2027

One of the upcoming benefits is an early ride time opportunity at Chessington World of Adventures.

From the 2027 main theme park season, Platinum Passholders will be able to enjoy early ride time before the park opens to general visitors.

The benefit is expected to operate during the main theme park season between March and October.

However, spaces will be limited and the early ride time must be booked in advance alongside general admission.

Merlin says a booking link will be added to the relevant perk page from March 2027.

This could be a welcome addition for Platinum Passholders looking to experience some of Chessington’s popular attractions before the main crowds arrive.

Thorpe Park – Five-Minute Head Start

Platinum Passholders visiting Thorpe Park can also benefit from a five-minute head start before the park opens to general visitors.

To use the benefit, passholders should head to the dedicated Platinum Passholder queue on the ramp near THE SWARM.

Visitors will need to show their valid Platinum Annual Pass to access the dedicated queue.

Although five minutes might not sound like a huge amount of time, it could give passholders an opportunity to get closer to their favourite rides before the main entrance queues begin moving.

LEGOLAND Windsor Resort – Dedicated Entrance

Families visiting LEGOLAND Windsor Resort can take advantage of a dedicated Platinum Passholder admissions entrance.

The separate entrance offers a more convenient way to begin a family day out, helping passholders avoid the main admissions entrance.

To use the dedicated lane, visitors must show their valid Platinum Pass alongside their pre-booked admission ticket.

London Eye – Complimentary Fastrack Entry

Platinum Passholders can enjoy complimentary Fastrack access at the London Eye.

Rather than joining the standard queue, eligible passholders can show their valid Platinum Pass and pre-booked ticket to join the Fastrack queue.

The benefit is designed to reduce waiting times and allow visitors to spend more time enjoying the views across London’s skyline.

Merlin’s terms and conditions also state that this particular benefit is available to Gold Passholders.

Madame Tussauds London – Champagne Bar Entrance

Another exclusive arrival benefit is available at Madame Tussauds London.

Platinum Passholders can use the Champagne Bar entrance instead of the standard entrance, offering a quicker and more VIP-style way to begin their visit.

Visitors simply need to show their valid Platinum Pass and pre-booked admission ticket.

Can Friends and Family Use Platinum Preferred Access?

The preferred access benefits are generally reserved for Platinum Passholders.

Merlin has confirmed that friends visiting using Friends and Family vouchers cannot use the dedicated entrances unless they also hold a Platinum Pass or have a qualifying short break booking.

There are some exceptions for carers and younger children.

At the resort entrances, an accompanying carer with a valid essential companion ticket or carer pass may use the preferential entrance with the Platinum Passholder.

Children under 0.9 metres can also accompany a Platinum Passholder through the relevant entrance. Children over 0.9 metres who do not hold a Platinum Pass cannot use the Alton Towers Short Breaks entrance.

Are Platinum Pass Preferred Access Benefits Guaranteed?

Passholders should be aware that preferred access is subject to availability and operational requirements.

Merlin reserves the right to withdraw or suspend individual benefits when necessary.

A valid pre-booked admission ticket is also required for the relevant attraction, and some benefits, such as Chessington’s early ride time, require an additional advance booking.

Is a Merlin Platinum Annual Pass Worth It?

The preferred access benefits provide another advantage for visitors considering a Merlin Platinum Annual Pass.

With dedicated entrances at selected attractions, a five-minute head start at Thorpe Park and complimentary Fastrack access at the London Eye, there are several opportunities to make visits more convenient.

The introduction of early ride time at Chessington from 2027 will also add another benefit for passholders who regularly visit the resort.

However, visitors should always check the official Merlin Annual Pass website before travelling, as availability, booking requirements and individual benefits can change.

For the latest information, visit the official Merlin Annual Pass Platinum Passholder Preferred Access page.