Could a New Historical Theme Park Come to Oxfordshire?
Picture this: rustic villages, wildflower meadows, forest strolls – and not a single scream-inducing drop. That’s because Puy du Fou, France’s beloved historical extravaganza, has just pitched its tent (and drafting pens) in Oxfordshire. They want to bring live theatre, lakes, and 13 epic historical shows to a 370-acre site near Bicester.
Since opening in 1978 in Vendée, Puy du Fou has wowed over 2.8 million visitors in 2024, firmly claiming its spot as France’s second-most popular theme park, just under Disneyland Paris. It’s less about flashing lights and more about spectacular live performances, elaborate reenactments from Roman gladiators to WWI trenches, and a theatrical flair that leaves even the kids wide-eyed.
Their UK address? A leafy slice of Oxfordshire between Bicester and Bucknell, just off the M40. The ambitious £600 million proposal, submitted to Cherwell District Council on September 1, 2025, includes four themed period villages, 13 live shows, three on-site hotels, and a conference centre. Think medieval banquets, Roman amphitheatres, and maybe an evening of WWI trench poetry – all within strolling distance.
A Plant-Lover’s Delight
Nature lovers (and meadow enthusiasts) will be thrilled: the plans boast 40 acres of wildflower meadows, 20,000 new trees, lakes, gardens, and new hedgerows – basically a botanic spectacle disguised as a theme park. They’re even aiming for half of their daytime guests to arrive via public transport, with a free shuttle to the nearest station. Sustainability meets strolls in dramatic settings? Yes, please.
Jobs, Joys (and Maybe a Few Debates)
If all goes smoothly, Puy du Fou UK could open its first phases in 2029, eventually drawing up to 1.47 million visitors annually. That’s a hefty £500 million boost to the local economy, with 2,000 direct jobs and up to 6,000 more in hospitality and suppliers – a serious win for Bicester and beyond.
But it’s not all frills and forest trails: some locals have raised eyebrows at links between the park’s founder, Philippe de Villiers, and past far-right political associations, including previous overtures toward Putin-linked projects. The company insists these associations won’t influence anything in the UK venture.
READ MORE: Best Day Trips from Oxford
A Gentle Nod to the Past
CEO Olivier Strebelle says Puy du Fou UK aims to transport guests “out of the 21st century” and into “Britain’s rich, colourful and exciting history.” In other words: ditch your mobile reception, don your robes, and let history—and maybe a charging knight—take the wheel.
This could soon be one of the best days out in Oxfordshire!
Final Curtain…or Just Act One?
While the show isn’t set in stone – Cherwell District Council still needs to sign off – one can already imagine strolling through mythic villages, floral meadows brushing ankles, and the whimsy of spur-of-the-moment jousting at every turn. And let’s be honest, who needs a loop-the-loop when you can have a sword-fight under a willow, right?
So, foodies, history buffs, garden lovers, and those who demanded “more theatre, less treadmill rides” in their Theme Park Bingo – you might just have a new favourite day-out waiting in Bicester. Stay tuned – and maybe dust off your tunic, just in case.
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