Government 5% VAT Reduction for Summer 2026

What it means for your visit between 25 June and 1 September 2026

The UK Government has announced a temporary reduction of VAT from 20% to 5% on a defined range of family‑focused activities as part of the Great British Summer Savings initiative. This reduced rate applies only to visits taking place between 25 June and 1 September 2026, regardless of when tickets were purchased. GOV.UK

This national scheme aims to make summer days out more affordable for families during the school holiday period. It applies across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. GOV.UK

What the reduced 5% VAT rate covers

Under the Government’s rules, the 5% VAT rate applies to admission to qualifying family attractions, which includes zoos and wildlife parks. GOV.UK The Guardian

Industry guidance confirms that qualifying attractions such as theme parks, zoos, museums, soft play centres and similar venues fall within the scope of the reduced rate.

This means that eligible admission tickets for visit dates within the scheme window will attract 5% VAT instead of the standard 20%.

Key dates you need to know

Reduced VAT rate period: 25 June – 1 September 2026 (inclusive)
GOV.UK

Standard VAT rate (20%) applies:

Before 25 June 2026

From 2 September 2026 onwards

The VAT rate is determined by the date of your visit, not the date you book.

How this affects your booking

If your visit date falls within 25/06/26 and 01/09/26

Your admission will qualify for the temporary 5% VAT rate, provided it meets the Government’s criteria for family attractions.

If your visit date falls outside this period

Your admission will be charged at the standard 20% VAT rate, even if you booked during the reduced‑rate window.

This approach is consistent with HMRC guidance, which states that the reduced rate applies only to supplies provided during the qualifying period.

Which tickets will be reduced?

The following tickets will be reduced for visits during the VAT reduced-rate dates: 

• WSP Last Minute Admission Tickets 
• WSP Promo Advance Single Admission Ticket
• WSP Gate Single Ticket (availble to buy on arrival only)

Why the Government introduced this scheme

The temporary VAT reduction is designed to:

• Support families with the cost of summer activities
• Encourage visits to attractions during the school holidays
• Boost the leisure and tourism sector during its busiest season

How VAT will appear on your receipt

Because VAT is determined by visit date, your receipt will show a VAT code that reflects the rate applicable to the day you attend.

To keep this transparent, we use a neutral VAT description such as:

“VAT applied based on visit date.”

This ensures clarity whether your visit falls inside or outside the reduced‑rate period.

If you would like an additional VAT receipt, or have any queries at all please contact info@woburnsafari.co.uk