Minecraft theme park experience to open in UK as part of £85m deal

A new "immersive real-life" experience based on the best-selling video game Minecraft is set to open in the UK.

The company behind Legoland, Alton Towers and World has secured a significant deal with Mojang Studios — the creators of the hugely popular game — to construct the attraction. Dorset-based theme park operator which also manages Madam Tussauds and Sea Life, announced that it would be one of two such experiences, with the other located in the US. If successful, the firm plans to expand the concept globally.

The exact location of the UK experience remains under wraps, but the company intends to invest £85m into the project, dubbed 'Adventures Made Real'. It will feature a hotel, retail spaces, food and drink outlets, and a ride.

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While specific timelines have not been disclosed, the experience is slated to launch in the US and the UK between 2026 and 2027. The attractions will be constructed within existing theme parks or city centre locations. According to Merlin, 'Adventures Made Real' will offer "new and exciting ways" for visitors to immerse themselves in the Minecraft universe, including interactive touchpoints enabling guests to unlock exclusive in-game content, reports .

The chief executive of Merlin Entertainments, Scott O'Neil, stated: "Minecraft is the best-selling video game of all time, and this world-first will see fans experience its thrill and creativity in real life, at theme parks and city-centre attractions in leading tourist destinations. This initial investment is just the beginning, replicating Merlin's tried-and-tested approach to globally launching new concepts and platforms, as we have with LEGO, Peppa Pig, Sony Pictures, and others.

"This is an exciting opportunity for our Merlin Magic Making team, working collaboratively with Mojang Studios to bring cross-reality experiences, themed accommodation and other elements to life for the largest community in the ."

According to Merlin, the collaboration aligns with its strategy to engage and work with leading intellectual property and brands across its estate. Kayleen Walters, vice-president franchise development for gaming at said: "Partnering with Merlin Entertainments is an incredibly exciting step for us at Mojang Studios.

"Our vast and diverse community is always looking for new opportunities to explore and engage with Minecraft, and we are thrilled to build touchpoints around the globe that will surprise and delight them. These new real-life Minecraft experiences will not only grow our community but also offer fans many more opportunities to immerse themselves in the world of Minecraft in ways they've never imagined."

Mr O'Neil and Ms Walters will be discussing the partnership and the worldwide launch of these real-life experiences at the IAAPA Expo 2024 in scheduled for 4pm (EST) on November 19.