Katapult, the international guest experience design agency, in partnership with Live Nation, MGM, Floor-Jon Films Inc., and Patrick Doherty Design, is creating a brand new Gladiators Experience in the UK.
The Gladiators Experience is set to open at the NEC Birmingham in May 2026. For the first time, fans of the popular BBC show can take on the role of contenders, testing their speed, strength, and skill across the show’s famous challenges.
Contenders, ready!
A collaboration between Live Nation, MGM & Flor-Jon Films Inc., the large-scale immersive event will cover more than 10,000 square metres at the NEC Birmingham.
The Katapult team and Patrick Doherty Design have crafted every detail of The Gladiators Experience to bring the excitement of the beloved show to life, with authentic props, museum exhibits, and state-of-the-art, low-touch physical activities.
Visitors will be able to try some of the show's best-known challenges, including Hang Tough, Duel, the Wall, and the Eliminator. The experience will also feature behind-the-scenes family attractions, a Gladiators Training Facility, and an extensive store featuring exclusive merchandise.
The Gladiators Experience reflects the resurgence of one of the UK’s most beloved franchises and follows The Gladiators Live Tour, which is taking place at sold-out venues in Liverpool, London, Manchester, Glasgow, and Birmingham this winter.
Dom Bird, senior vice president at MGM Alternative Television, says: "We are incredibly proud to see how Gladiators continues to delight huge audiences on BBC One, and thrilled that our 2025 Gladiators Arena Tour sold out in record time.
"Now, fans young and old will get one step closer to walking in the footsteps of their heroes, as we announce our brand new Gladiators Experience.
"Based at the NEC Birmingham, everyone finally has the chance to test their skills on the iconic games - from Duel and Hang Tough, to The Wall, and of course the legendary Travelator. Come and see if you've got what it takes!"
Katapult will be participating in IAAPA Expo in Orlando, which is taking place from 17 to 21 November, with the show floor open from 18 to 21 November.
Attendees can meet the Katapult team at booth #1375.
Additionally, Dawn Foote, co-founder and CEO, will speak on the panel session, Shared Balance: Work-Life Integration in the Attractions Industry, on 17 November at 12.30 pm, and Alex Tyrrell, project producer, will be on the IDEA Roundtable on 18 November at 4 pm.
Recently, Katapult presented its work on the Pirate Cove theme park resort project at IAAPA Expo Europe 2025. This is a hypothetical theme park, and the masterplan project has been created to showcase the Katapult team's knowledge, skills, and creativity.
