Non-Executive Director Appointment

Final

18 September 2015

Merlin Entertainments appoints new Non-Executive Director

The Board of Merlin Entertainments plc, a global leader in branded, location-based family entertainment, has confirmed the appointment to the Board of Trudy Rautio as a Non-Executive Director with effect from 1 October 2015.

Trudy Rautio has extensive experience in the travel and hospitality sector, most recently as President and Chief Executive Officer at Carlson, which operates more than 1300 hotels across over 100 countries. Ms Rautio has also previously held senior executive roles within Jostens Inc. and Pillsbury Company.

Commenting on the appointment, Sir John Sunderland, Chairman of Merlin Entertainments said:

"I am delighted to welcome Trudy to the Merlin Entertainments' Board. Her extensive global experience in the travel and hospitality industry and particular knowledge of the North American market will be a valuable addition to our Board."

For further information please contact:

Merlin Entertainments plc

+44 (0) 1202 440 082

Alistair Windybank, Investor Relations

Simon Whittington, Investor Relations

Tulchan Communications

+44 (0) 207 353 4200

Stephen Malthouse

Chris Hughes

About Merlin Entertainments plc

Merlin Entertainments plc is a leading name in location-based, family entertainment. Europe's Number 1 and the world's second-largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin now operates over 100 attractions, 12 hotels and 4 holiday villages in 23 countries and across 4 continents. The company aims to deliver memorable and rewarding experiences to its more than 60 million visitors worldwide, through its iconic global and local brands, and the commitment and passion of its circa 26,000 employees.

Trudy Rautio, Independent Non-Executive Director

· Career history:

o Carlson

§ President & Chief Executive Officer (2012-2015)

§ Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (2005-2012)

§ President & Chief Operating Officer, Americas, Carlson Hotels Worldwide (2003-2005)

§ Executive Vice President & Chief Administrative Officer, Carlson Hotels Worldwide, and Chief Financial Officer, Carlson Consumer Group (2002-2003)

o Jostens Inc.

§ Senior Vice President of Finance (1994-1997)

§ Vice President & Corporate Controller (1993-1994)

o Pillsbury Company, Vice President of Finance and other positions (1982-1993)

o Boise Cascade Corporation, Accounting positions (1975-1982)

· Current Board affiliations:

o Donaldson Co Inc (2015)

o Cargill Inc (2015)

o Rezidor Hotel Group AB (Chairman; 2012)

o Securian Financial Group, Inc. (2003)

· Former Board affiliations:

o Carlson (2012-2015)

o Carlson Wagonlit Travel Inc (2005-2014; Chairman; 2012)

o Imation (2010-2014)

o Select Comfort Corporation (2002-2004)

o Mrs Baird's Bakeries (1995-1998)