Minecraft World Theme Park Set to Transform Chessington World of Adventures in 2027
In a groundbreaking announcement, Chessington World of Adventures has revealed plans to launch the world's first Minecraft-themed land in 2027. The ambitious £50 million project, developed in partnership with Mojang Studios and Merlin Entertainments, promises to bring the iconic video game to life through immersive attractions and interactive experiences.
Unprecedented Investment and Innovative Attractions
The £50 million investment will fund the creation of Minecraft World, featuring the world's first Minecraft-inspired rollercoaster alongside shops and dining areas designed to mirror the game's distinctive blocky aesthetic. Visitors can expect to encounter popular characters like Creepers and pigs, as well as explore playscapes based on beloved biomes and items from the game.
Angela Jobson, senior vice president of global brand at Merlin Entertainments, expressed excitement about the project: "We're absolutely thrilled to be bringing Minecraft's creativity, bold adventures, and ridiculous fun to life at a theme park for the first time at Chessington World of Adventures. Minecraft World will allow friends and families to play, explore and craft together on a truly epic scale."
Strategic Location and Global Appeal
Merlin Entertainments, which also operates Legoland and Thorpe Park, selected Chessington for its proximity to London—just 35 minutes from Waterloo station—to attract both international tourists and local visitors. This strategic decision aims to capitalize on Minecraft's massive global fanbase, with millions playing the game daily since its 2011 launch.
Torfi Frans Olafsson, senior creative director of entertainment at Minecraft, highlighted the collaboration's significance: "Minecraft World represents a meaningful milestone in our ongoing journey to expand the Minecraft universe. We're thrilled to have partnered with Merlin Entertainments to realise a place where you can literally be in the Minecraft Overworld and have an adventure of your own with your family and friends."
Authentic Experience and Cultural Impact
The development team has worked meticulously to ensure an authentic experience that resonates with Minecraft's community. This theme park expansion follows the success of A Minecraft Movie, starring Jack Black and Jason Momoa, which became the highest-grossing film in the UK and Ireland in 2025.
Meanwhile, Universal Studios has announced plans for its first UK theme park near Bedford in 2031, potentially featuring attractions based on franchises like James Bond and The Lord of the Rings. However, Chessington's Minecraft World sets a precedent as the first major video game-themed land in the UK, marking a significant shift in theme park entertainment trends.
