The Announcement That Shook the Gaming World

The biggest announcement of Minecraft Live 2026 was precisely this: the opening of a new theme park called Minecraft World, for which construction has already begun. 

Mojang Studios and Merlin Entertainments revealed plans for this $70 million project at Minecraft Live, in March 2026.  It's a collaboration between two heavyweight names: the game's creator and one of the largest theme park operators in the world.

Where Will It Be Built?

Minecraft World will be located at Chessington World of Adventures, in Greater London. Mojang Studios and Merlin Entertainments made the official announcement at Minecraft Live 2026, backing the decision with concept imagery, creator tours, and a budget that leaves little doubt about the seriousness of the project. 

The resort is just 35 minutes by train from London's Waterloo station — a deliberate choice to ensure maximum accessibility. 

What Will the Park Offer?

The park will feature a roller coaster, "interactive adventures," and "play areas built from epic blocks," alongside Minecraft-themed retail and dining spaces. 

The concept images presented to the public show wooden cottages, Creepers, TNT blocks, and even a Nether-inspired dining area. 

Torfi Frans Ólafsson, Creative Director of the Minecraft franchise, stated that they want "a truly immersive, authentic and welcoming experience," where visitors can literally be in the Minecraft Overworld and live out their own adventure alongside family and friends. 

A Massive Investment

The project has a reported budget of £50 million (approximately $70 million) and represents one of Merlin Entertainments' largest investments in a theme park in recent times. Merlin operates as one of the world's largest theme park operators, with Alton Towers and Thorpe Park among its UK attractions. 

More Than Just One Park

The plans don't stop at London. The BBC noted that Merlin had previously announced an American version of Minecraft World as part of the broader deal, though no new details were provided at Minecraft Live 2026. A US location has not been officially confirmed, but the partnership agreement does cover a build on American soil. 

Additionally, in May 2026, Minecraft Experience: Moonlight Trail will launch in Buenos Aires, Argentina — the first interactive outdoor night-time adventure, where participants will walk through iconic Minecraft biomes, craft equipment, mine diamonds, battle monsters, and help restore an ancient lighthouse. 

An Unprecedented Cultural Phenomenon

Minecraft World is not just an amusement park — it's proof that a video game can become a fully-fledged cultural universe. Just as Nintendo achieved with Super Mario World, Minecraft is now positioning itself as a standalone cultural universe, with theme parks, films, and animated series in the pipeline. 

Fans can follow updates and ticketing information at chessington.com/minecraft.