As a family who thrives on friendly competition—whether it’s golf, bowling, or darts—we were excited to try out the newly opened Carnival Golf and Games at Merry Hill. Located in part of the former Debenhams store, this vibrant venue offers a mix of activities including two 12-hole crazy golf courses, a laser tag arena, arcade games, electric darts, and escape rooms.
We started our visit with laser tag at the impressive Laser Station arena. The space exceeded our expectations with its multi-level battlegrounds and maze-like layout. After a helpful video briefing full of tips and tricks, my two stepsons and I took the first turn, followed by my partner and me for the second round. The 15-minute games were exhilarating, packed with strategy as we hid around corners and aimed to tag opponents while scoring bonus points by hitting base stations and targets. It was so much fun and definitely an activity we look forward to repeating. Prices start at £7.99 per person for one game or £12.99 for two.
Next, we enjoyed a round of crazy golf on the Volcano Falls course. The theming was outstanding—featuring animatronic dinosaurs, volcanoes, waterfalls, and ancient terrain that truly brought the experience to life. With our 15-month-old happily exploring nearby, we took our time navigating the course at a leisurely pace. Each hole offered unique challenges and surprises, making it an engaging experience. We’re excited to return soon to try the carnival-themed course.
The arcade was a hit for all ages, blending nostalgic favorites with modern games. We loaded up a token card and enjoyed Mario Kart, grabber machines, and Connect 4 basketball. The standout was Pixel, an interactive digital floor game projecting fun challenges onto the ground, which had us running, jumping, and dodging lights. We only managed one game but are eager to go back for more.
Overall, our morning at Carnival Games was fantastic. Merry Hill’s transformation from a traditional shopping center into a vibrant entertainment destination is exactly what was needed. With dining and fun activities like these, it turns a simple outing into a memorable family experience.
We can’t wait to return and try the electric darts and escape rooms. Crazy golf starts at £12 per person, while electric darts cost £25 per lane for up to six players. Book your visit on the Carnival Golf and Games website and prepare for some family-friendly fun!