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Alton Towers entrance. Photo by Christophe95 via Wikimedia Commons (CC0).

Merlin Reverses RAP Policy After 25,000 Sign Backlash

Just seven days after [announcing controversial changes to its Ride Access Pass (RAP) system](https://gonetoexplore.com/alton-towers-faces-boycott-over-hidden-disabilities-rule-change/), Merlin Entertainments has performed a dramatic U-turn. The company will now continue accepting the "Difficulty with Crowds" access symbol for the pass, reversing a plan that would have excluded many

Credit cards and loyalty rewards concept. Photo by CardMapr.nl via Unsplash (free to use under Unsplash License).

Earning Avios Without a Credit Card: A Practical Guide

Credit cards offer the fastest Avios accumulation, but they are not the only path. Many travellers either cannot qualify for travel credit cards or prefer not to use them. The good news is that significant Avios balances are achievable through everyday spending and smart choices. Shopping Portals The British Airways

The £10 Mistake That Could Ruin Your UK Trip. ETA Enforcement Begins 25 February

The £10 Mistake That Could Ruin Your UK Trip. ETA Enforcement Begins 25 February

The UK will fully enforce its Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme from 25 February 2026. Visitors from 85 countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, and EU nations will be blocked from boarding flights, ferries, or Eurostar services without advance permission.

Alton Towers Faces Boycott Over 'Hidden Disabilities' Rule Change

Alton Towers Faces Boycott Over 'Hidden Disabilities' Rule Change

Merlin Entertainments, the operator behind Alton Towers, Thorpe Park and LEGOLAND Windsor, has sparked a major public backlash after changing its Ride Access Pass (RAP) eligibility criteria. The new rules exclude visitors with ADHD and Autism from accessing the virtual queuing system, affecting thousands of families planning half-term visits. What

Brean Theme Park Saved. The Somerset Park Reopens for 2026 Despite Liquidation

Brean Theme Park Saved. The Somerset Park Reopens for 2026 Despite Liquidation

Brean Theme Park has confirmed it will reopen for the 2026 summer season, just two weeks after one of its operators entered liquidation. The Somerset attraction will welcome visitors again from Easter. What Happened On 28 January 2026, Brean Theme Park appointed liquidators from Hazlewoods LLP. However, general manager Peter

Paultons Park Valgard Opens May 16 with First Ever Inverting Coaster

Paultons Park Valgard Opens May 16 with First Ever Inverting Coaster

Paultons Park has confirmed its most ambitious expansion to date will open on 16 May 2026. Valgard represents a £12 million investment that signals the Hampshire theme park's intent to compete directly with industry giants. What is Valgard? Valgard is a fully themed world inspired by Norse mythology,

Airplane wing view from window during flight. Photo by Luca Bravo via Unsplash.

The £10 Mistake That Could Ruin Your UK Trip. ETA Enforcement Begins 25 February

Starting 25 February 2026, the UK's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme enters full enforcement. If you are planning to visit the UK and you do not hold British or Irish citizenship, you will need an ETA before you board your flight, train, or ferry. The scheme has been