Minecraft to become real-life destination in deal with Merlin

Merlin said the attractions will include ‘first-of-its-kind concepts’ for Minecraft-themed accommodation, retail and restaurants plus a Minecraft-themed ride. Picture: Merlin Entertainment/Mojang Studios/PA

The best-selling virtual building game Minecraft is to become a real-life destination in a deal with UK-based theme park owner Merlin.

Merlin, the owner of Legoland, Alton Towers and Thorpe Park, has agreed on a deal with Mojang Studios, the creator behind the globally popular sandbox game, to invest more than £85 million (approx €102 million) in the first two Minecraft attractions in its existing UK and US parks between 2026 and 2027.