Ending your Lego Magazine membership made easy

About Lego Magazine

Lego Magazine is the official publication from the Lego Group, distributed in the UK through a subscription service managed by Immediate Media Company. This colourful magazine has been delighting young builders and Lego enthusiasts for years, offering a mix of comics, puzzles, building challenges, and exclusive content featuring popular Lego themes like Ninjago, City, Friends, and more.

Each issue typically arrives with a free Lego gift attached to the cover, which is often the main draw for subscribers. The magazine caters primarily to children aged 5-9 years old, though different Lego themes appeal to various age groups. Published monthly, it provides activities, competitions, and insider news about upcoming Lego sets and themes.

The subscription model makes it convenient for parents who want regular entertainment for their children without making trips to newsagents. However, as children's interests evolve or families look to reduce recurring expenses, many subscribers eventually need to cancel. Understanding the proper cancellation process is essential, particularly because Lego Magazine subscriptions in the UK must be cancelled through postal correspondence rather than online or by phone.

Most importantly, Lego Magazine operates under UK consumer protection laws, which means subscribers have specific rights when it comes to cancelling their subscription. The service is managed by Immediate Media, one of the UK's largest magazine publishers, which handles numerous children's magazine subscriptions with similar cancellation procedures.

Plans, features and pricing

Lego Magazine subscriptions in the UK are straightforward, with pricing that reflects the inclusion of free Lego gifts with each issue. Let me break down what you're actually paying for and the various subscription options available.

Subscription options and costs

The standard subscription typically offers better value than purchasing individual issues from shops. Here's what the pricing structure generally looks like:

Keep in mind that promotional offers frequently appear, especially around Christmas and back-to-school periods, where you might get additional issues free or receive a special starter gift. These promotional subscriptions often come with slightly different terms, so always check the small print.

What's included with your subscription

Every issue comes with several components that justify the subscription cost. You'll receive the magazine itself, which contains approximately 36 pages of content including comic strips, puzzles, building ideas, and reader submissions. Additionally, each issue includes a free Lego model or mini-set attached to the cover, which typically contains 30-50 pieces.

Subscribers also get access to exclusive competitions and the opportunity to see their own Lego creations featured in future issues. The magazine arrives by post directly to your door, usually within the first week of each month, though delivery times can vary depending on your location.

Auto-renewal considerations

Here's something critical that catches many subscribers off guard: most Lego Magazine subscriptions automatically renew unless you actively cancel them. This is standard practice in the magazine industry, but it means you need to be proactive about cancellation if you don't want to continue receiving issues and being charged.

The renewal typically happens seamlessly using the payment details you provided when first subscribing. You should receive a renewal notice approximately 4-6 weeks before your subscription expires, but in my experience processing cancellations, these notices sometimes get overlooked or arrive later than expected.

Terms of service and cancellation policy

Understanding the legal framework around your Lego Magazine subscription is absolutely essential before you attempt to cancel. The UK has robust consumer protection laws that work in your favour, but you need to follow the correct procedures to benefit from them.

Your legal rights under UK law

As a UK consumer, you're protected by the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013. These give you specific rights when cancelling subscriptions. Most importantly, if you've recently subscribed, you have a 14-day cooling-off period during which you can cancel for any reason and receive a full refund for undelivered issues.

After the cooling-off period expires, you can still cancel your subscription at any time, but the refund policy becomes more restrictive. Typically, you'll need to provide notice before your next billing cycle, and you may not receive refunds for issues already dispatched or for the remainder of your current subscription period.

Official cancellation policy requirements

Lego Magazine, managed by Immediate Media, requires written notice for all cancellations. This isn't just company policy—it's a standard practice that protects both you and the publisher by creating a paper trail. You cannot cancel by phone, email, or through an online form. The cancellation must be submitted by post to be valid.

The notice period is typically 28 days, meaning you need to send your cancellation letter at least four weeks before you want the subscription to end. This allows time for processing and ensures you're not charged for additional issues. However, I've seen cases where cancellations sent with less notice were still honoured, particularly when sent via recorded delivery.

Refund expectations and timeline

If you're entitled to a refund—either because you're within the cooling-off period or because you've been charged incorrectly—expect the process to take 14-21 days after your cancellation is confirmed. Refunds are typically issued to the original payment method.

Keep in mind that you won't receive refunds for issues already sent to you, even if you haven't opened them. The company considers an issue "delivered" once it's been dispatched, regardless of whether you've received or read it. This is why timing your cancellation correctly matters so much.

Cancelling by post - the complete guide

Right, let's get into the practical steps for actually cancelling your Lego Magazine subscription through the post. This is the only officially recognized method, and I'll walk you through exactly how to do it properly to avoid any complications.

Why postal cancellation is the most reliable method

First, let me explain why Immediate Media insists on postal cancellations. Written cancellation creates a legal record that protects both parties. Unlike phone calls, which can be disputed, or emails, which might end up in spam folders, a posted letter with proof of delivery provides undeniable evidence that you've requested cancellation.

Additionally, using Recorded Delivery or Signed For post gives you tracking information and proof of receipt. In my years handling subscription cancellations, I've seen countless cases where people claimed they cancelled but couldn't prove it. Those subscribers ended up paying for unwanted issues. Don't let that be you.

The postal method also ensures your cancellation goes to the correct department. Customer service phone lines often can't process cancellations directly, and online contact forms may not reach the subscriptions team. A letter addressed to the subscriptions department goes exactly where it needs to go.

Preparing your cancellation letter

Your cancellation letter doesn't need to be lengthy or complicated, but it must include specific information. You'll need to provide your full name exactly as it appears on your subscription, your complete delivery address, your subscription number (found on the magazine wrapper or on any correspondence from Immediate Media), and a clear statement that you wish to cancel.

Additionally, include the date you're writing the letter and the date from which you want the cancellation to take effect. Be specific—saying "immediately" isn't as effective as stating "please cancel my subscription from [specific date]." Also mention how many issues you've received if you're within the cooling-off period.

Most importantly, request written confirmation of your cancellation. This single sentence has saved countless subscribers from being charged for additional issues. Without confirmation, you're relying on the company's internal processes, which occasionally fail.

The correct postal address

This is absolutely critical—you must send your cancellation letter to the correct address. Here's the official address for Lego Magazine subscription cancellations:

• Lego Magazine Subscriptions
• Immediate Media Company
• PO Box 3320
• Colchester
• CO2 8AU
• United Kingdom

Double-check you've written this address correctly on your envelope. A single mistake could delay your cancellation or send your letter to the wrong department entirely. I've seen cancellations fail simply because someone abbreviated "Subscriptions" or missed the PO Box number.

Sending your letter with proof

Never send your cancellation using standard post. Always use Royal Mail Recorded Delivery (Signed For 1st Class) or Special Delivery. Yes, it costs a few pounds extra, but this small investment provides tracking information and proof that your letter was received.

When you send via Recorded Delivery, you'll receive a reference number. Keep this number safe along with your proof of postage receipt. If any disputes arise about whether you cancelled, this tracking information is your evidence. Take a photo of your letter and the envelope before posting as additional backup.

Alternatively, services like Postclic streamline this entire process. Postclic allows you to send tracked letters digitally—you provide the content and recipient details, and they handle printing, enveloping, and posting with full tracking. This saves you trips to the post office and automatically provides digital proof of sending. It's particularly useful if you're busy or uncomfortable drafting formal letters.

Following up on your cancellation

Once you've sent your cancellation letter, track its delivery using your Royal Mail reference number. The letter should arrive within 1-2 working days if sent First Class Recorded Delivery. After delivery, wait approximately 5-7 working days for Immediate Media to process your cancellation.

If you don't receive written confirmation within two weeks, follow up with another letter. Reference your original cancellation letter, include the date you sent it and the tracking number, and request immediate confirmation. Keep copies of all correspondence.

Check your bank statements or credit card bills to ensure no further charges appear after your cancellation date. If you are charged incorrectly, you have grounds to dispute the payment with your bank, particularly if you can provide proof of cancellation via your Recorded Delivery receipt.

Common mistakes to avoid

Don't assume that stopping payment will cancel your subscription. If you cancel your direct debit or block charges without formally cancelling, you'll technically still be subscribed, and the company may pursue payment or send your account to collections.

Additionally, don't forget to cancel with enough notice. Sending your cancellation letter two days before your next billing date probably won't prevent that charge. Remember the 28-day notice period and plan accordingly. If your subscription renews on the 15th of the month, send your cancellation by mid-month of the previous billing cycle at the latest.

Finally, never throw away your proof of postage until you've received confirmation and verified that charges have stopped. I recommend keeping cancellation documentation for at least six months after cancellation, just to be safe.

Tips from former members

Why people cancel their subscriptions

Understanding why others cancel can help you make informed decisions about your own subscription. The most common reason I hear is that children simply outgrow the magazine. What captivated a five-year-old may not interest them at eight or nine. Lego itself remains popular, but the magazine's content becomes too young for older children.

Cost is another significant factor. At around £50-55 annually, the subscription represents a meaningful expense, particularly for families with multiple children or those managing tight budgets. While the free Lego gifts add value, parents often realize they can buy Lego sets more selectively and economically without the magazine commitment.

Some families find that magazines pile up unread. The monthly delivery seemed exciting initially, but busy schedules mean issues accumulate. When parents notice six unopened magazines stacked up, cancellation becomes the logical choice. Additionally, children's interests shift toward digital entertainment, making physical magazines less appealing.

Timing your cancellation strategically

Here's an insider tip: if you're planning to cancel anyway, consider timing it for right after your subscription renewal date rather than just before. This might seem counterintuitive, but hear me out. If you cancel just before renewal, you lose access immediately. If you let it renew and then cancel within the 14-day cooling-off period, you can often negotiate a better outcome.

However, this strategy requires careful attention to dates and prompt action. You must send your cancellation letter within 14 days of the renewal charge appearing on your account. This approach works best if you're unsure about cancelling—it gives you a fortnight to decide while maintaining your rights.

Alternatives to full cancellation

Before cancelling completely, consider whether pausing might suit your situation better. While Lego Magazine doesn't officially offer subscription pauses, you can sometimes arrange to skip a few months by contacting the subscriptions team in writing. This works well if you're going on extended holiday or if your child has temporarily lost interest.

Another option is gifting your remaining subscription to another child. Contact the subscriptions department by post to request a recipient address change. This way, someone else benefits from the issues you've already paid for, and you're not wasting money on unwanted magazines.

What to do if cancellation fails

Occasionally, despite following all the correct procedures, cancellations don't process properly. If you continue receiving magazines and being charged after sending your cancellation letter with proof of delivery, escalate immediately.

First, send a second letter marked "URGENT: CANCELLATION NOT PROCESSED" to the same address. Include copies of your original cancellation letter, your proof of postage, and bank statements showing continued charges. Clearly state that you expect an immediate refund for any charges incurred after your original cancellation date.

If this doesn't resolve the issue within 14 days, contact your bank to dispute the charges. Provide them with your cancellation proof. Banks typically side with customers who can demonstrate they've attempted to cancel properly. Additionally, you can file a complaint with the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), which regulates magazine publishers in the UK.

Managing expectations after cancellation

After your cancellation is confirmed, you might receive one or two additional issues. This happens because of the production and delivery timeline—magazines are printed and posted weeks in advance. Don't panic if an issue arrives after your cancellation date; this is normal and doesn't mean your cancellation failed.

You may also receive marketing materials inviting you to resubscribe, sometimes with attractive promotional offers. These offers can be genuinely good value if your circumstances have changed or if your child has renewed interest in Lego. However, remember that resubscribing means going through the entire cancellation process again when you eventually want to stop.

Keep all your cancellation documentation filed safely even after the subscription ends. Occasionally, administrative errors occur months later, and having proof of cancellation protects you from unexpected charges or collection attempts.

Learning from the experience

Use this cancellation experience to inform future subscription decisions. Before subscribing to any magazine or service, always check the cancellation policy first. Look for subscriptions that allow online cancellation or have shorter notice periods—these are significantly more consumer-friendly than postal-only cancellation requirements.

Consider setting calendar reminders well before subscription renewal dates. A reminder 6-8 weeks before renewal gives you plenty of time to decide whether to continue and to cancel properly if needed. This simple habit prevents the rushed, last-minute cancellations that often go wrong.

Finally, remember that while the postal cancellation process seems old-fashioned and inconvenient, it's actually there to protect your rights. The paper trail ensures you can prove your cancellation if disputes arise. Embrace the process rather than resenting it, and you'll find it's actually quite straightforward when you follow the steps correctly.