Universal Studios first UK theme park will rival Disneyland Paris.
Step aside Thorpe Park and Alton Towers, there's going to be a new kid on the block. Universal have confirmed that their first UK-based theme park will be built just 40 minutes outside of London, and it's set to be one of the most advanced of its kind in Europe.
The plans were whispered about back in 2023, when Universal Destinations and Experiences announced that they had bought a 476-acre piece of land near Bedford. Now this dream might be coming a reality, here's everything we know so far about the first Universal Studios theme park in the UK.
Universal Studios Theme Park UK
What Do We Know About The UK's First Universal Theme Park Opening So Far?
The main thing we know is...it's actually happening. Scrap the spenny plain tickets to Orlando, you'll have all the theme park enjoyment you'll ever need just outside of London. The £50 billion investment is set to generate more than 20,000 jobs, and that's not including the 8,000+ hospitality roles.
Universal have also stated that they're committed to hiring locally, meaning approximately 80% of the open positions at the park will be offered to the people of Bedfordshire and surrounding areas. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, if government approval is granted.
What Will Open At The New Theme Park?
Here's an idea of what's expected to open at the new theme park:
- Rides based around massive film franchises (including Shrek, Harry Potter, Minions, Paddington, James Bond and Lord of the Rings)
- A 500-room hotel
- Plenty of retail outlets to get all your favourite merch
- A mixture of different dining venues
- An array of entertainment complexes
It's also rumoured that the site will feature a Back to the Future ride, but that has yet to be confirmed.
Where Will The New Universal Studios Theme Park UK Be Built?
It's set to be built at the former Kempston Hardwick Brickworks near Bedford, which is around 40 minutes from London.
When Will Universal Studios’ Theme Park Open In The UK?
Hold off from booking your annual leave, as the new theme park won't be opening it's doors until around 2031. If the government approved the proposed plans, then construction will start next year.
Read more about amazing days out with the kids in the UK.
