Mum's Ingenious Hack for £1 Cinema Tickets This Half Term
With half term in full swing and the Easter holidays fast approaching, parents across the UK are grappling with the annual challenge of keeping children entertained without breaking the bank. Official Google data reveals a staggering 550% surge in searches for 'rainy day activities for kids' over the past month, as families seek affordable options amidst unpredictable spring weather. However, one resourceful mum has uncovered a clever deal stack that allows up to five people to enjoy cinema outings for just £1.09 per ticket.
The Budget-Friendly Cinema Solution
As a self-proclaimed movie enthusiast, this mum has long aimed to instill a love for cinema in her children. Yet, with ticket prices steadily rising, finding cost-effective ways for family trips has become an ongoing struggle. Over the years, she has experimented with various savings methods, such as using Tesco Clubcard vouchers, Kids Pass deals, Meerkat showings, and family screenings, but these often come with restrictions on days or film selections.
Now, bargain hunters can leverage a massive cinema ticket bundle available this half term. Wowcher is currently offering Odeon 5-ticket bundles for £20.99, providing access to standard and recliner seats at 93 locations nationwide, seven days a week. This deal alone can save up to 68% compared to walk-up ticket prices, but there's a way to slash costs even further.
How to Stack Deals for Maximum Savings
By combining the Wowcher offer with TopCashback, a money-saving website, families can reduce the cost dramatically. TopCashback provides a free £15 sign-up bonus for new members, along with cashback on online purchases from thousands of brands. When applied to the Wowcher purchase, this effectively brings the total for five tickets down to £5.47, or £1.09 per ticket.
The tickets are flexible, usable all at once or across multiple visits, as long as they are redeemed by February 26. Note that small surcharges may apply for IMAX or 3D screenings, depending on the venue. This timing is perfect for half term, coinciding with a wave of new releases hitting screens this month.
New Film Releases to Enjoy
For younger audiences, GOAT is a hot ticket, especially after the popularity of Zootropolis 2. Families looking for classic entertainment might opt for The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie. Teens and adults have Wuthering Heights as a must-see, despite mixed reviews, while action fans can enjoy Shelter, Iron Lung, and Marty Supreme.
The Wowcher deal has already been purchased over 3,400 times this school holiday, highlighting its popularity among cost-conscious viewers. Additionally, discounts on selected screenings at Cineworld, Odeon, and Vue are available through Kids Pass, an app for parents offering savings on various activities. Signing up costs £1 for the first 30 days, with cancellation options thereafter, and includes discounts on theme parks, restaurants, and more.
Alternative Savings for Future Holidays
For those with a bit more to spend and an eye on upcoming school breaks, Merlin has unveiled a significant deal. Booking a night at selected resort hotels, such as Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, Chessington World of Adventures, Warwick Castle, or LEGOLAND Windsor, includes free Merlin Annual Passes for all guests. Prices start as low as £95 per person, compared to the usual £139 per pass, offering substantial long-term savings.
This mum booked a stay at the Legoland Resort's Woodland Lodges for a Saturday in April, costing £526 with breakfast and park access. The passes alone for four people would have been £556, making it a worthwhile investment. Plus, passes can be activated anytime before the hotel stay, allowing for immediate use during half term for attractions like Warwick Castle and the London Eye, which would otherwise cost £214 for a family of four.
Step-by-Step Guide to Secure the Deal
- Sign up as a new member on TopCashback and claim the £15 bonus.
- Search for Groupon and click 'Get Cashback Now'.
- Purchase the Odeon five-ticket bundle on Wowcher and complete checkout as usual.
- Cashback will track and appear in your TopCashback account within seven working days.
- After cashback and bonus are applied, five cinema tickets will total £5.90 for new TopCashback members.
This hack not only provides an affordable entertainment option but also empowers families to enjoy quality time together without financial strain. As half term continues, savvy shoppers can make the most of these deals to create memorable experiences.
