The world-renowned Puy du Fou, famous for its immersive historical experiences, has officially announced plans to open a new park in Oxfordshire, bringing its unique blend of storytelling and spectacular performances to the heart of England.
The new attraction, set to open in 2026, promises to be a game-changer for tourism in the region.
A new chapter for Puy du Fou
Puy du Fou is no ordinary theme park. With its roots in France, the park has gained international acclaim for its breathtaking shows, which combine history, drama, and cutting-edge technology.
From Viking battles to medieval jousts, Puy du Fou transports visitors through time with an unmatched level of detail and authenticity. The Oxfordshire location will mark the brand’s first venture in the UK and its third park worldwide.
The decision to establish the new park in Oxfordshire was no coincidence. The county’s rich history, picturesque countryside, and proximity to major cities like London make it an ideal setting for Puy du Fou’s historical narratives. The park is expected to feature original productions inspired by British history, celebrating iconic moments and figures from the nation’s past.
Why Oxfordshire?
Puy du Fou has long sought to establish a presence in the UK to bring the country’s rich and colourful history to life through its immersive experiences. After an extensive search, the company identified Oxfordshire as the ideal location.
The chosen site needed to meet several criteria, including excellent transport links, proximity to London, and a connection to British history. Oxfordshire’s historical significance and closeness to other heritage attractions made it a strong candidate.
The park’s development also prioritised ecological considerations. Puy du Fou aims to create beautifully landscaped and planted parks, requiring a site where thousands of trees could be planted. The location also needed to support enhancing and building upon the existing habitat to ensure a positive ecological impact.
According to a Puy du Fou statement, Bucknell, near Bicester in Cherwell, met all these requirements, making it the perfect location for Puy du Fou UK.
What to expect
While details of the Oxfordshire park’s attractions remain under wraps, Puy du Fou has hinted at its ambition to create a truly British experience.
Visitors can anticipate large-scale performances, immersive walk-through experiences, and stunning recreations of historical settings. The park is also expected to include dining and retail options designed to complement its historical themes.
The Oxfordshire project represents a significant investment, with plans to create hundreds of jobs in the local area. Olivier Strebelle, Puy du Fou’s Chief Executive, said the park, which would be based close to the M40, could employ up to 700 people once open.
“We are not an attraction like you have ever experienced before,” he said. “We do not have any rides or rollercoasters; there are no neon flashing lights.
“Instead, we create an authentic, natural and historical environment set within beautiful gardens, which become the setting for world-class shows and immersive cultural and historical experiences for the whole family to enjoy.”
The park aims to attract visitors from across the UK and beyond, boosting the local economy and solidifying Oxfordshire’s reputation as a cultural and tourist destination.
Community and environmental commitments
Puy du Fou has pledged to work closely with local communities and authorities throughout the development process. The company is known for its commitment to sustainability and plans to integrate environmentally friendly practices into the park’s design and operations. This includes measures to preserve the natural landscape and promote biodiversity.
To ensure transparency and gather local input, Puy du Fou has announced a series of consultation events. These events will provide an opportunity for residents and stakeholders to learn more about the project, share their feedback, and voice any concerns.
A boost for Oxfordshire tourism
The announcement has been met with excitement from local officials and tourism organisations. It is said the attraction could employ 700 people and create 2,000 new jobs at hotels, suppliers and other local businesses from its first year of opening.
With its grand opening still a few years away, anticipation for Puy du Fou Oxfordshire is already building. As the project develops, it promises to deliver not just a park, but a portal to history that will captivate visitors of all ages.
Stay tuned for updates as this exciting new chapter unfolds.
Editorial update:
The consultation events were held in Bicester’s Weyland Hall on 18 July 2024 and at Wesley Memorial Church in Oxford on 19 July 2024.
At the time of these discussions, a spokesperson for Cherwell District Council said: “We are aware that Puy du Fou is consulting with local communities as they prepare their plans.
“We wait with interest to see what proposals emerge. They will of course need to be submitted to us for consideration through the planning process.
“We encourage residents to take the opportunity to engage with the promoters to hear more and provide their input.” A further round of formal public consultation is planned for early 2025.
