Exclusive: Block-building game to appear in theme parks, hotels and stores, starting in UK and US

The global gaming phenomenon Minecraft is coming to the real world for the first time in a global deal to open themed rides, attractions, hotel rooms and retail outlets, starting with the UK and US.

Minecraft has struck a deal with UK-headquartered Merlin Entertainments – Europe’s largest theme park operator and the second biggest globally after Disney – which runs more than 135 attractions in 23 countries including Alton Towers, Legoland, Peppa Pig World, Sea Life, Madame Tussauds and the London Eye.