I visited on Friday and it was my first visit to the park since June 2015. To say I was surprised at what I saw was an understatement. I knew things had got worse, but I didn't realise just how bad things actually are.
First of all the shambolic organisation outside the entrance for the reduced ERT line up was crazy and I hate to think what it was like over the weekend. It did however work to my advantage AND many others who were literally able to walk up to the gates and scan online / Tesco and tickets bought at the booths. So all these people were able to access ERT who were not eligible for it. Not that anything of note was open during ERT that is) Are the cuts so deep that they have to do it this way now?
The Wicker Man is a well themed experience and probably has the best theming in the park. I truly hope that they manage to keep on top of the maintenance for it. The ride doesn't do it for me, but it will be a popular addition to the park once its teething issues are ironed out.
However the rest of the park just feels dead. The lack of attractions is significant and there just isn't enough variety to keep me interested. It just became coaster after coaster, interspersed with a ride on Hex and Duel.
Before I do go on, I must say its nice that the park have carried out enhancements on Duel and Hex, alongside the conservation work on the conservatory in the gardens, however there are many areas which still look grotty and run down.
The lack of thrilling flat rides and other indoor attractions was obvious and Clock Cuckoo Land was so sad to see with Charlie / Twirling Toadstool boarded up and the 4D cinema closed. The area may be getting redeveloped next year, but that's not the point. Same with Sub Terra, food outlets closed and even the Oblivion shop boarded up. its just so sad seeing the park like this.
You then of course have the elimination of the Single Rider Queues and the frustration of seeing empty seats on rides. That coupled with reduced trains on the coasters was frustrating to say the least.
On a final note, as I don't want to bore everyone (I could go on much longer than this), the lack of entertainment was significant. No shows outside of CBeebies, no roaming characters, no fun.... No magic.
What has Alton / Merlin become? Is money so important to the Merlin group that they have actually forgot that parks are supposed to be fun, well unfortunately I think we all know the answer.
My visit left me with a very sour taste in my mouth and sadly I have no intention of revisiting any time soon. Very sad to see.