Merlin Entertainments has opened its new £2.3 million Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse attraction in Blackpool, UK.
The magical indoor world of play was created in partnership with Magic Light Pictures and includes six of writer Julia Donaldson’s and illustrator Axel Scheffler’s children’s stories.
The new venue brings to life popular characters from The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo’s Child, Zog, The Snail and the Whale, Room on the Broom and The Highway Rat.
Ideal for children under the age of 10, the attraction is located next to Sea Life on Blackpool’s seafront and features six different zones dedicated to each book.
Magical indoor world of play
Kate Shane, regional director for Merlin, said the Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse “provides young explorers and families with a magical day out”.
“Just like little brown mouse, guests will brave the ‘deep dark wood’ and climb, crawl and slide their way to the life-sized Gruffalo.”
An adventure play and soft play area is inspired by The Gruffalo‘s ‘deep dark wood’, a toddler play zone is based on Room on the Broom, and a ‘dragon school challenge’ can be found in a Zog-themed area.
The Gruffalo’s Child has inspired a sensory room, while a ‘seaside play’-style room is based on The Snail and the Whale. Additionally, children can enjoy a meet and greet experience with the Gruffalo.
Children’s stories brought to life
“The unique and immersive experience is ideal for families with children aged 10 and under, neurodivergent children and toddlers, too,” Shane added.
“Visitors can even meet the Gruffalo himself and check out his terrible-teeth in his terrible jaws, knobbly knees and turned-out toes.”
The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse joins Merlin’s seven other attractions in Blackpool, including the Blackpool Tower, Sea Life, and Peter Rabbit: Explore and Play.
In more news, Merlin and Sony Pictures have discussed plans for more rides, attractions and lands based on Sony’s intellectual property (IP).
Images: Merlin
