After a year of preparation, Drusillas Park in East Sussex, UK, will open Europe's first Hello Kitty attraction on May 18.

Drusillas Park is widely regarded as one of the best small zoos in the UK. The family business was acquired by Laurence and Christine Smith in 1997. Since then, the husband and wife team have invested heavily in the park and seen visitor numbers increase.

The introduction of Hello Kitty Secret Garden follows a recent trend within several prominent UK visitor attractions to open areas dedicated to the most celebrated children's characters.

Park director Christine Smith explains the background to the deal: "We noticed the Hello Kitty brand about three years ago when we spotted lots of children coming to the park wearing Hello Kitty t-shirts and hats.

"After investigating the brand, we decided to approach owners Sanrio directly to suggest a venture to bring Hello Kitty to Drusillas. We completed the deal in July 2013."

The new attraction is billed to include three specially designed Hello Kitty children's rides: a teacup ride, a hopper ride and a car ride. There is also a Hello Kitty House and Parlour, as well as regular meet-and-greet opportunities with Hello Kitty herself.

Hello Kitty Secret Garden is Drusillas Park's biggest investment to date, and is expected to top £1m ($1.7m).