Minecraft theme park to open in UK and US after deal with Alton Towers owner - Merlin previously struck a deal with Lego to buy its Legoland theme parks

Mojang Studios, the Microsoft subsidiary in charge of the Minecraft franchise, has teamed up with Merlin Entertainments, the operator of UK theme parks including Alton Towers and Legoland, to bring Minecraft experiences to reality across the globe.

‘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,’ Merlin Entertainments chief executive Scott O’Neil said.