UK families looking to enjoy a summer day out could see significant savings on admission prices at some of the nation's most popular attractions. A new government initiative, the Great British Summer Savings (GBSS) scheme, has reduced the Value Added Tax (VAT) rate on eligible leisure and hospitality tickets from 20% to 5% for a limited period, running from June 25 to September 1.
This VAT reduction offers attractions a 15% saving, which they are not legally obliged to pass on to consumers. However, consumer champion Which? contacted 26 of the UK's largest attractions to ascertain their participation in the scheme and their commitment to reflecting these savings in ticket prices. The good news for consumers is that most participating venues have pledged to pass on the full 15% saving directly.
Among those committed to passing on the full savings are numerous Merlin attractions, which include popular destinations such as Alton Towers, LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, The London Eye, and Thorpe Park. However, Merlin has stated it will not be offering retrospective refunds for tickets purchased before the scheme commenced. In contrast, The National Trust, The Eden Project, and Warner Bros Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter have confirmed they will automatically refund the difference on eligible tickets already bought.
Not all attractions are passing on the full 15% saving, and some have specific conditions. Eureka! Science and Discovery and Eureka! The National Children’s Museum in Halifax, both charities, will pass on a portion of the savings from July 16 to August 31, using the remainder to support their operational costs. Go Ape is offering a 15% discount exclusively for online bookings on most activities, using the code VATSUMMER. Blackpool Pleasure Beach, while participating, indicated that due to dynamic pricing, it could not confirm exact savings to be passed on to customers.
It's also important for consumers to note that some attractions, particularly charitable organisations that do not charge VAT, are not eligible to participate in the GBSS scheme. Additionally, Which? reported that seven of the 26 companies contacted, including Brighton Palace Pier and The View from the Shard, did not respond regarding their involvement.
For those who have already purchased tickets, while retroactive refunds are not a legal requirement, it is worth contacting the attraction's customer services. Some companies may offer a partial refund, and it is advisable to enquire whether this process is automatic or requires action from the customer.
Source: Which?