{"id":8564,"date":"2026-09-21T01:08:00","date_gmt":"2026-09-21T00:08:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\/?p=8564"},"modified":"2026-09-21T10:14:11","modified_gmt":"2026-09-21T09:14:11","slug":"merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Merlin Ride Access Pass changes: new virtual queuing system coming to UK theme parks"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Last reviewed:<\/strong> 21 September 2026<br><strong>Applies to:<\/strong> Merlin UK Resort Theme Parks<br><strong>Written by:<\/strong> Georgina, Founder of Purpl<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Merlin Entertainments has announced a major change to its <strong>Ride Access Pass (RAP)<\/strong> system, with a new virtual queuing system due to begin rolling out at the end of 2026 before being introduced across its UK resort theme parks in 2027.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The important news for disabled visitors is that <strong>the Ride Access Pass eligibility criteria are not changing<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What is changing is how the queue itself works. Instead of the current system where you ride and then effectively serve the equivalent queue time afterwards, the new system will let RAP users choose a ride in an app and <strong>wait virtually before riding<\/strong>. During that time, you can wait somewhere quieter or more accessible rather than standing in the standard queue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Merlin also says it ultimately intends to <strong>remove the requirement to pre-book a RAP slot for your day at the park<\/strong>, although that will only happen once the new system has been tested and Merlin is confident it works effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-at-a-glance\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">At a glance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A new Merlin Ride Access Pass virtual queuing system will start rolling out from <strong>late 2026<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Alton Towers<\/strong> will be the first resort involved in the initial rollout.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Full implementation across Merlin&#8217;s UK resort theme parks is planned ahead of the <strong>2027 peak summer season<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>RAP eligibility is not changing<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>RAP users will virtually wait for the same length of time as the standard queue.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You will be able to wait somewhere quieter or more accessible until it is time to head to the ride.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Up to <strong>three companions<\/strong> can continue to accompany the RAP holder.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Merlin eventually hopes to remove the need to pre-book RAP access before visiting.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-in-this-article\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">In this article<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#h-what-is-changing-with-the-merlin-ride-access-pass\">What is changing with the Merlin Ride Access Pass?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-how-will-the-new-virtual-queue-work\">How will the new virtual queue work?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-which-merlin-theme-parks-are-getting-the-new-system\">Which Merlin theme parks are getting the new system?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-is-ride-access-pass-eligibility-changing\">Is Ride Access Pass eligibility changing?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-Do-you-need-to-pay-for-an-Access-Card-to-use-Merlin-Ride-Access-Pass\">Do you need to pay for an Access Card to use Merlin Ride Access Pass?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-will-you-still-have-to-pre-book-ride-access-pass\">Will you still have to pre-book Ride Access Pass?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-can-companions-still-use-ride-access-pass-with-you\">Can companions still use Ride Access Pass with you?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-why-is-merlin-changing-the-rap-system\">Why is Merlin changing the RAP system?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-what-happens-between-now-and-2027\">What happens between now and 2027?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-what-does-this-mean-for-disabled-visitors\">What does this mean for disabled visitors?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-frequently-asked-questions-about-the-new-merlin-ride-access-pass\">Frequently asked questions about the new Merlin Ride Access Pass<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-in-summary\">In summary<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-is-changing-with-the-merlin-ride-access-pass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is changing with the Merlin Ride Access Pass?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Feature<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Current RAP System<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>New RAP System (Rolling out 2026\u20132027)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Queuing order<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Reverse queue:<\/strong> Ride first, then wait out queue time afterwards.<\/td><td><strong>Virtual queue:<\/strong> Wait out queue time virtually in app, then ride.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Where you wait<\/strong><\/td><td>Must wait out timer after ride before booking next attraction.<\/td><td>Wait anywhere quiet\/accessible in the park <em>during<\/em> the queue time.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Eligibility criteria<\/strong><\/td><td>Verified via Nimbus \/ Merlin Digital Access Pass.<\/td><td><strong>Unchanged<\/strong> (Same Nimbus criteria applies).<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Pre-booking RAP<\/strong><\/td><td>Required in advance (slots can sell out).<\/td><td>Required for now; <strong>to be phased out<\/strong> once virtual queuing is tested.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Companions<\/strong><\/td><td>RAP holder + up to 3 companions (4 max total).<\/td><td><strong>Unchanged<\/strong> (RAP holder + up to 3 companions).<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Rollout timeline<\/strong><\/td><td>Currently active across all UK resorts.<\/td><td>Alton Towers (Late 2026) <br>Thorpe Park, Chessington, LEGOLAND (2027).<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The biggest change is <strong>when you wait<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under the existing RAP system, disabled visitors who cannot use a conventional queue can access a ride and are then given a waiting period based on the standard queue time before they can use RAP for another attraction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merlinentertainments.biz\/newsroom\/news-releases\/2026\/ride-access-pass-update-2026\/\">Merlin<\/a> describes this as a form of <strong>&#8220;reverse queuing&#8221;<\/strong>, because the wait happens after the ride rather than before it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The new system will turn that around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You will select the ride you want to visit through the RAP app. The app will then place you into a <strong>virtual queue based on the current standard queue time<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of physically standing in that queue, you can spend the waiting period elsewhere in the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you are approaching the front of your virtual queue, the app will tell you it is time to make your way towards the attraction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That distinction matters. The Ride Access Pass is still a <strong>queuing adjustment<\/strong>, not a way of skipping the wait altogether.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Purpl Insight:<\/strong> For someone who struggles with standing, crowded spaces, sensory overload, anxiety, fatigue or another barrier to conventional queuing, being able to serve the waiting time somewhere more suitable could make the day considerably easier to manage.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-how-will-the-new-virtual-queue-work\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How will the new virtual queue work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Merlin&#8217;s announced process is straightforward:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Choose the ride you want to use through the Ride Access Pass app.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You enter a virtual queue based on the attraction&#8217;s current standard queue time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You can spend that waiting period somewhere else in the park rather than standing in the main queue.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The app will notify you when you are getting close to the front.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make your way to the ride&#8217;s designated RAP entrance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A <strong>merge host<\/strong> will help you join the attraction from the RAP entrance.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Merlin says it is also investing in <strong>separate queue lines for RAP guests<\/strong> at rides to make this part of the process more consistent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There may still be some waiting when you reach the attraction. The intention is not to provide immediate access, but to remove the need to spend the main waiting period standing in a conventional queue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Purpl Tip:<\/strong> When the new system reaches the park you are visiting, make sure your phone is charged and that you can receive app notifications. A portable power bank could become a particularly useful addition to your theme park bag.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-which-merlin-theme-parks-are-getting-the-new-system\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Which Merlin theme parks are getting the new system?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Merlin has confirmed that the new RAP system will be introduced across its <strong>UK resort theme parks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/brand\/alton-towers\">Alton Towers Resort<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/brand\/thorpe-park\">Thorpe Park<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/brand\/chessington\">Chessington World of Adventures Resort<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/brand\/legoland\">LEGOLAND Windsor Resort<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Official accessibility pages at these resorts now carry notices confirming that the Ride Access Pass system is being updated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-when-will-it-start\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">When will it start?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first stage is due to begin at <strong>Alton Towers towards the end of 2026<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Merlin then plans to roll the system out more widely, with full implementation targeted for <strong>before the peak summer season in 2027<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means visitors should not assume that every Merlin park will be using the new process immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Purpl Tip:<\/strong> Check the accessibility page for the specific resort shortly before you visit. During a phased rollout, the process could differ depending on the park and date of your trip.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-is-ride-access-pass-eligibility-changing\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is Ride Access Pass eligibility changing?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>No. Merlin has specifically confirmed that the eligibility criteria for Ride Access Pass will remain unchanged.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ride Access Pass exists for guests who cannot use a conventional ride queue because of a disability or long term health condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Merlin currently works with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/brand\/access-card\">Nimbus Disability<\/a><\/strong> for access verification. Guests can apply for the free Merlin Digital Access Pass for use at Merlin&#8217;s UK resorts, or use an eligible Access Card. The resort accessibility pages continue to direct guests through this process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So this announcement is about <strong>changing the way RAP operates inside the parks<\/strong>, not reducing who can qualify.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Purpl Insight:<\/strong> This is an important distinction because any announcement about changes to an access scheme can understandably worry people who rely on it. Merlin has been unusually explicit on this point: the eligibility criteria are staying the same.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-Do-you-need-to-pay-for-an-Access-Card-to-use-Merlin-Ride-Access-Pass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do you need to pay for an Access Card to use Merlin Ride Access Pass?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. You <strong>do not need to buy a full Nimbus Access Card<\/strong> to use Merlin\u2019s Ride Access Pass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Merlin offers a <strong>free Merlin Digital Access Pass<\/strong>, which is specifically for use at Merlin UK attractions. Nimbus Disability handles the application and assesses the barriers you face.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If approved, you receive a Merlin Digital Access Pass ID that you can use with the Merlin Ride Access Pass app. Merlin currently says people with one or more of these Nimbus symbols can qualify for RAP:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Level Access<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Urgent Toilet Needs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty Standing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty with Crowds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can alternatively choose to upgrade to a full <strong>Nimbus Access Card<\/strong>, currently \u00a315 for three years, which can also be used at many other participating venues around the UK.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.accesscard.online\/apply\/merlin\/form\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Apply for the free Merlin Digital Access Pass<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.accessibility.merlinentertainments.biz\/ride-access-pass\/registration-faqs\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.accessibility.merlinentertainments.biz\/ride-access-pass\/registration-faqs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Read Merlin\u2019s Ride Access Pass registration FAQs<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Purpl Tip:<\/strong> If you only need access verification for Merlin attractions, you do not have to pay for the full Access Card. The Merlin Digital Access Pass application is free.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-will-you-still-have-to-pre-book-ride-access-pass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Will you still have to pre-book Ride Access Pass?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>For now, yes.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Merlin currently requires RAP users to pre-book their Ride Access Pass for the date they plan to visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The bigger long-term change is that Merlin says it <strong>intends to phase out that requirement<\/strong> once the new virtual queuing system has been shown to work effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That could be a significant improvement for disabled people and families who find advance planning difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the moment, RAP availability for a particular date can run out. Merlin&#8217;s current guidance states that if there is no RAP availability for your chosen date, you cannot use the pass during that visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Removing that separate reservation requirement could therefore make spontaneous trips easier, but Merlin has <strong>not yet given a firm date<\/strong> for when pre-booking will end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not turn up assuming you no longer need a reservation until Merlin officially confirms the change has taken effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Purpl Tip:<\/strong> Continue pre-booking RAP exactly as you do now unless your resort confirms otherwise. The intention to remove pre-booking is a future plan, not the current rule.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-can-companions-still-use-ride-access-pass-with-you\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can companions still use Ride Access Pass with you?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under the new system, a RAP user will still be able to include <strong>up to three companions<\/strong>, allowing a group of up to four people to receive the same ride time slot through the RAP app.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is particularly important for disabled children, people who need physical support and anyone who needs a family member or carer with them to use the attraction safely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Existing Merlin terms also state that at least one accompanying person must be aged 14 or over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Purpl Insight:<\/strong> Keeping companions within the system matters because accessible queuing is not simply about the physical act of waiting. Many disabled visitors need another person with them for communication, regulation, mobility or practical support.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-why-is-merlin-changing-the-rap-system\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is Merlin changing the RAP system?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Merlin says demand for Ride Access Pass has increased and that feedback from RAP users showed the existing system does not always provide the flexibility and comfort people need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before finalising the new approach, Merlin says it consulted disability organisations and industry partners including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Disability Rights UK<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scope<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ADHD UK<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>National Autistic Society<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nimbus Disability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>other accessibility and attractions-sector organisations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The National Autistic Society has welcomed the fact that eligibility will remain unchanged, while Scope described the changes as a step towards removing unnecessary barriers for disabled visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is important because queues can create very different barriers depending on someone&#8217;s disability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The problem may be standing for a prolonged period, but it could equally involve pain, fatigue, temperature regulation, needing immediate toilet access, sensory overload, distress in crowded environments or difficulty remaining within a confined queue line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A virtual system cannot remove every accessibility barrier within a theme park, but it potentially gives people <strong>more control over where they spend the waiting period<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Purpl Insight:<\/strong> The real measure of the new system will be how it works on busy days. The idea of virtual queuing is promising, but disabled visitors will understandably want to see whether app reliability, merge-point queues and ride availability work well in practice.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-happens-between-now-and-2027\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens between now and 2027?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Merlin is taking a phased approach rather than changing everything across every resort at once.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first stage is planned for Alton Towers at the end of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During that initial rollout, Merlin says it will collect feedback from RAP users through <strong>the RAP app and email surveys<\/strong>. That feedback will be used to refine the system before wider implementation in 2027.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That makes the trial period particularly important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Issues such as accessibility of the app itself, notifications, mobile signal, battery life, the distance between different areas of a park, how long guests wait at merge points and how staff manage the new RAP entrances could all affect the real-world experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Purpl Tip:<\/strong> If you&#8217;re spending all day managing virtual queues on your phone, bring a power bank! You can also use the free <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/piptracker.co.uk\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/piptracker.co.uk\/\">Purpl PIP Tracker app<\/a><\/strong> while waiting in quiet areas to log daily symptoms or review your benefit evidence.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-does-this-mean-for-disabled-visitors\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does this mean for disabled visitors?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On paper, there are several potentially useful changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The biggest is the move away from having to ride first and then serve a waiting period afterwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the new approach, the waiting period happens before your ride, just as it does for people in the standard queue, but you can spend that time somewhere better suited to your access needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That could mean sitting down, finding shade, moving somewhere quieter, accessing a toilet, getting food or simply avoiding a long, crowded queue line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The future aim of removing RAP date reservations could also remove one of the frustrations people have experienced when trying to plan a visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But there are still unanswered practical questions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We will need to see how the system deals with very busy days, ride breakdowns, poor mobile connectivity, visitors who cannot easily use a smartphone and the amount of physical queuing that remains once someone reaches the RAP entrance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For now, the key message is that <strong>RAP is not being removed and its eligibility criteria are not being tightened as part of this announcement<\/strong>. The way the waiting system works is what is changing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Purpl Insight:<\/strong> We will be watching the rollout closely. A good accessibility adjustment should reduce barriers in practice, not simply move them somewhere else, so feedback from disabled visitors during the Alton Towers trial will be particularly valuable.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions-about-the-new-merlin-ride-access-pass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently asked questions about the new Merlin Ride Access Pass<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1789814233111\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">When does the new Merlin Ride Access Pass system start?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The first stage is planned for <strong>Alton Towers towards the end of 2026<\/strong>, with wider rollout across Merlin&#8217;s UK resort theme parks during 2027 and full implementation planned before the peak summer season.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1789814252151\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is Merlin replacing or canceling the Ride Access Pass?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No. Merlin is changing how the queuing element of Ride Access Pass works. It has also confirmed that RAP eligibility criteria will remain unchanged.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1789814265534\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Will I still have to wait with the new Ride Access Pass?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. RAP is a queue adjustment rather than a Fast Track system.<br>Under the new approach, your virtual waiting time will reflect the standard queue time for the ride, but you can wait somewhere else rather than standing in the main queue.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1789814292751\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Do I still need to pre-book Ride Access Pass?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, under the current rules.<br>Merlin intends to remove the requirement to pre-book a RAP slot in future, but only after the new system has been tested successfully. No firm date for removing pre-booking has been announced.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1789814314828\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Which Nimbus symbols qualify for Merlin Ride Access Pass?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No. Merlin has said there will be <strong>no change to the existing eligibility criteria<\/strong> as part of the new virtual queuing system.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1789814372994\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How many people can use RAP together?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The RAP holder can continue to ride with <strong>up to three companions<\/strong>, creating a group of up to four people on the same time slot.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1789814385802\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Which parks will use the new Merlin virtual queue?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The system is being introduced across <strong>Alton Towers Resort, Thorpe Park, Chessington World of Adventures Resort and LEGOLAND Windsor Resort<\/strong>.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1789814410302\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can you use Merlin Ride Access Pass without a smartphone?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The announced system is app based, so smartphones are central to how Merlin currently describes it. Merlin has not yet published enough detail about what alternative arrangements will be available for visitors who cannot use the app, so this is something we will be looking for as the rollout develops.<br><\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-in-summary\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">In summary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Merlin&#8217;s Ride Access Pass is getting a significant overhaul.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From late 2026 and through 2027, the new system will:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Let RAP users <strong>queue virtually before riding<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Base virtual waits on the current standard queue time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allow guests to spend that waiting period somewhere quieter or more accessible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Introduce designated merge hosts and investment in separate RAP queue lines.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Continue allowing up to <strong>three companions<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep the <strong>existing RAP eligibility criteria<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Potentially remove the need to pre-book RAP for a specific park date once the system has been proven to work.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first stage is due to take place at <strong>Alton Towers at the end of 2026<\/strong>, so we should know much more once disabled visitors begin using it in real-world conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For anyone visiting before their park moves onto the new system, <strong>continue following the current RAP booking and access rules<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-about-the-author\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">About the author<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Georgina is the Founder of Purpl, a disability expert and someone with lived experience of the barriers and additional costs that can come with disability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Purpl helps disabled people and people with long term health conditions save money through exclusive discounts, practical guides and useful information designed to make everyday life a little more accessible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-other-articles-or-links-you-might-find-useful\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other articles or links you might find useful<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/blog\/access-cards-how-to-apply-and-why-they-help-disabled-people\"><strong>Nimbus Access Card: what it is, who can get one and how it works<\/strong><\/a>: Our guide to the paid Nimbus Access Card, the access symbols and how it can be used beyond Merlin attractions.<br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/blog\/free-carer-entry-uk\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/blog\/free-carer-entry-uk\"><strong>Free carer entry in the UK: attractions, cinemas, theatres and days out<\/strong><\/a>: How companion and carer ticket policies work, what evidence venues may ask for and where you can access free or reduced price companion tickets.<br><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/brand\/alton-towers\"><strong>Alton Towers<\/strong><\/a>: Current Purpl offers include <strong>up to 15% off standard day entry<\/strong> and <strong>10% off eligible B&amp;B stays<\/strong>. <br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/brand\/thorpe-park\"><strong>Thorpe Park<\/strong><\/a>: Current offers include <strong>up to 15% off standard day entry<\/strong> and <strong>10% off B&amp;B stays<\/strong>. <br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/brand\/chessington\"><strong>Chessington World of Adventures<\/strong><\/a>: Purpl members can currently save <strong>up to 15% on standard day entry<\/strong> and <strong>10% on eligible B&amp;B stays<\/strong>. <br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/brand\/legoland\"><strong>LEGOLAND Windsor Resort<\/strong><\/a>: Current Purpl offers include <strong>up to 15% off standard day entry<\/strong> and <strong>10% off B&amp;B stays<\/strong>. <br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/brand\/tiqets\"><strong>Tiqets<\/strong><\/a>: Purpl members can get an <strong>exclusive 12% off UK and worldwide tours and attractions<\/strong>, including museums, landmarks, theme parks and other days out.<br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.purpldiscounts.com\/disabled-days-out-discounts-uk-attractions\"><strong>Browse all Purpl days out discounts<\/strong><\/a>: This includes current savings across theme parks, zoos, aquariums, cinemas and other attractions.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Merlin is rolling out a new virtual queuing system for Ride Access Pass users. Here\u2019s what is changing, when it starts and what disabled visitors need to know.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":8569,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[12,35,3,33],"tags":[41,125,194,189,192,187,195,186,191,190,188,196,193],"class_list":["post-8564","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-all-articles","category-disability-cards","category-guides-and-advice","category-disability-news","tag-accessible-days-out","tag-alton-towers","tag-chessington","tag-disabled-days-out","tag-legoland-windsor","tag-merlin","tag-merlin-digital-access-pass","tag-merlin-ride-access-pass","tag-nimbus-access-card","tag-ride-access-pass","tag-theme-park-accessibility","tag-thorpe-park","tag-virtual-queue"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v25.4 (Yoast SEO v28.1) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Merlin Ride Access Pass Changes: New Virtual Queue 2026<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Merlin is changing its Ride Access Pass with a new virtual queuing system. See what changes, when it starts and what disabled visitors need to know.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Merlin Ride Access Pass is changing: what disabled visitors need to know\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Merlin is introducing virtual queuing for Ride Access Pass users across its UK theme parks. Find out how it will work, when it starts and what stays the same.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Purpl\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/purpldiscounts\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-09-21T00:08:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-09-21T09:14:11+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-disabled-visitors.jpeg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"773\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"516\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Georgina, Founder of Purpl\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:title\" content=\"Merlin Ride Access Pass changes: new virtual queuing system coming to UK theme parks\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@purpldiscounts\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@purpldiscounts\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Georgina, Founder of Purpl\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Estimated reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"12 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Georgina, Founder of Purpl\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/b30b90514209cc151d5c250a919ffe6d\"},\"headline\":\"Merlin Ride Access Pass changes: new virtual queuing system coming to UK theme parks\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-09-21T00:08:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-09-21T09:14:11+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":3041,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-disabled-visitors.jpeg\",\"keywords\":[\"accessible days out\",\"alton towers\",\"Chessington\",\"Disabled Days Out\",\"LEGOLAND Windsor\",\"Merlin\",\"Merlin Digital Access Pass\",\"Merlin Ride Access Pass\",\"Nimbus Access Card\",\"Ride Access Pass\",\"Theme Park Accessibility\",\"Thorpe Park\",\"Virtual Queue\"],\"articleSection\":[\"All Articles\",\"Disability Cards\",\"Guides and Advice\",\"Purpl &amp; Disability News\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\\\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\\\/\",\"name\":\"Merlin Ride Access Pass Changes: New Virtual Queue 2026\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/09\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-disabled-visitors.jpeg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-09-21T00:08:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-09-21T09:14:11+00:00\",\"description\":\"Merlin is changing its Ride Access Pass with a new virtual queuing system. 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start?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The first stage is planned for <strong>Alton Towers towards the end of 2026<\\\/strong>, with wider rollout across Merlin's UK resort theme parks during 2027 and full implementation planned before the peak summer season.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\\\/#faq-question-1789814252151\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/wp.purpldiscounts.com\\\/merlin-ride-access-pass-virtual-queue-2026\\\/#faq-question-1789814252151\",\"name\":\"Is Merlin replacing or canceling the Ride Access Pass?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"No. Merlin is changing how the queuing element of Ride Access Pass works. 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