Merlin Entertainments (the operators of Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, Chessington World of Adventures and LEGOLAND Windsor) also run several of the most popular attractions in London, four of which are all together at County Hall on the Southbank. We went beyond the theme parks, to see what they all offer.

When combined, these attractions include four rides, a 4D experience, 28 live shows, 500 marine species in 14 zones, immersive theming and state of the art special effects. If you experience them together, Merlin's attractions in London offer a full day out as a genuine alternative to a theme park.

We're looking beyond the theme parks, for even more great days out in the UK, so we recently visited Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter.

All eight of the Harry Potter movies were filmed at Leavesden Studios near Watford, a former aerodrome and factory that was converted into film studios and is still fully functioning today, with many blockbuster movies shot here every year. It's easily reached by car from the M25 and shuttle buses run from Watford Junction, which is a 20 minute train journey from London Euston. Admission is pre-book only, and demand is high, so make sure you plan in advance. It's an all-weather attraction, suitable rain or shine. 

This Halloween, Dreamland Margate, the UK’s original pleasure park transforms into a world of nightmares as it launches its first ever, major scare festival Screamland.

Dreamland Margate is working with AtmosFear! Scare Entertainment, winners of multiple awards, including the only European attraction to win Excellence in Design award in 2013, to produce an actor lead, theatrical festival of fear.

A brand new Kong ride has opened at West Midland Safari & Leisure Park.

The Zamperla Mega Disk'O ride joins other attractions including the Rhino Rollercoaster, Twister Coaster, Venom Tower Drop, Wild River Rafting, Pirate Ship, Black Fly and Zambezi Water Splash.

We are giving you the chance to win a family pass to Paultons Park - Home of Peppa Pig World.

Paultons Park is a popular theme park in the New Forest, Hampshire. A theme park for families with more than 60 wonderful rides and attractions included in the admission price. Paultons Park is of course home to the world’s first and UK exclusive Peppa Pig World.

Find out more about Paultons Park.