On Sunday 20th September, over 3,000 Blue Light Card and Defence Discount Service members arrived at Twycross Zoo for a Member Day. The sun was out, the monkeys were cheeky, and one very familiar face from the telly made an appearance.
Here's how it went down.
Member Days are events where we book out big UK attractions and open the doors just for the Blue Light Card community. Last Sunday, that meant a whole zoo, just for you. Tickets were heavily discounted, parking was free, and there were all sorts of surprises to keep everyone on their toes.
Once members started arriving through the gates, Twycross was buzzing. Families made their way around the enclosures, admiring animals from mighty Sumatran tigers to tiny meerkats. Kids had their faces painted, and the soft play jungle (half price on the day) kept the little ones going for hours. Plus, members had the chance to explore Gruffalo land and even catch a glimpse of the Gruffalo himself.
One of our members put it this way:
“The atmosphere was lovely from start to finish."
Food, drinks, and the gift shop all came with 10% off, meaning nobody had to think twice about grabbing lunch or picking up something to take home. And perhaps the best bit? Every ticket included a 12-month return pass, so the day out didn't end at the exit gates.
Children's TV legend Andy Day joined us for the day – a special treat for those who know and love him from the telly. Andy gave several shows throughout the day (even performing some of his iconic dinosaur raps) and stopped to meet and greet members and their families.
For a lot of our younger attendees, special guest Andy was the highlight of the day and meeting him was a memory they’ll treasure for a long time.
One of our members shared exactly how powerful it was to have Andy Day join us at Twycross Zoo:
“My children are both on the autism spectrum, and my youngest has been the biggest Andy fan since he was 2. He's just turned 5 now. The fact that he met his biggest hero at one of his favourite places honestly feels out of this world. He felt safe and so happy. Everyone was so happy, engaging and friendly. I will forever sing Twycross Zoo's praises.”
Member Days are just one of the ways that Blue Light Card says thank you beyond offering discounts. A full day out, reserved for the frontline community, with perks that actually make a difference to families.
For a lot of people there, it was a proper day off and a chance to treat their kids. One of our members told us:
“The main reason we have a Blue Light Card is for the brilliant Members Days, which we attend every year. They never feel overcrowded, which is our main reason for attending as our son is autistic. Thank you Blue Light Card. Please continue to limit tickets to a sensible number – it makes all the difference.”
Member Days are open to all Blue Light Card members, and tickets are available to book as soon as each event goes live.
To stay up to date with upcoming events, head to the Member Days page on Blue Light Card app or website. New dates are added throughout the year, so it's worth checking back regularly.
A Member Day is an event where a top UK attraction opens its doors exclusively for Blue Light Card and Defence Discount Service members. Alongside discounted tickets, Member Days often include extra perks like free parking, special offers on food and shopping, and unique experiences you won't find on a standard visit.
Head to the Member Days section in the Blue Light Card app or check the Member Days page on our website. New events are listed as soon as tickets go on sale.
Yes. All active Blue Light Card members are eligible to book tickets for Member Days. Just keep an eye on the app or website so you don't miss when they go live.
Did you have an unforgettable day out at a Blue Light Card Member Day? We’d love to hear all about it – get in touch at yourstories@bluelightcard.co.uk to share your story.
