Entertainment site owner Merlin (LON:MERL) said trading had been subdued in 2018 so far, impacted by the ‘seasonally quiet’ period as well as weaker demand in the wake of the 2017 terrorist attacks.

Its major London sites, Madame Tussauds and the London Dungeon, reported weaker visitor numbers than the year before, with Merlin saying it reflected “the strong trading in the comparative period and continued impact from the 2017 terror attacks.”

Its major theme parks, including Alton Towers and Chessington World of Adventure, were also impacted by adverse weather conditions in February and March. However, the group confirmed that overall trading within the Theme Parks Operating Groups was in line with expectations.

The company added that its 2018 new business development programme is on track, with all 644 accommodation rooms and one of the nine planned new Midway attractions now open.

The group said that it “remained confident of a recovery over time”.

Shares in Merlin Entertainments (LON:MERL) are currently trading up 0.72 percent to 349.20 (0834GMT).