The BBC is thrashing out ideas for a new £2bn theme park in Kent which could turn popular dramas such as Doctor Who and Sherlock into major attractions.


The BBC’s commercial arm BBC Worldwide has signed a preliminary agreement over the use of its shows at the theme park and holiday resort, which is due to open in north Kent in 2020.

A BBC source said that the discussions were in the early stages but that hit shows including Doctor Who, Top Gear and Sherlock were all being considered as subjects for rides or other attractions at the park, which is backed by Hollywood studio Paramount.

The move is not without precedent. Earlier this year CBeebies’ Land opened as an attraction at Alton Towers, and has proved popular with parents and under-sixes alike.

The new park is to be built on the Swanscombe Peninsula in north Kent and is due to open by Easter 2020.

Stephen Davies, BBC Worldwide’s director of Live Events, said: “We’re always looking for opportunities to extend fans’ enjoyment of their favourite shows and the idea behind this resort is a really exciting way of celebrating the very special place the BBC has in British culture.”

A statement from the developers said that the resort will “combine the glamour of Hollywood with the best of British culture”.


Mike Bartok, executive vice president of licensing at Paramount – which makes Mission Impossible and Star Trek – added: “It is outstanding to be working with a globally recognised brand with such a rich, respected history.”

What do you think of the potential theme park? We have had a few ideas for rides.