Everything You Need to Know About the UK Universal Theme Park

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you will have heard of the biggest theme park news there ever was for the UK – that Universal Studios might be opening here!!

You all know Universal Studios… a place where fans can step into the heart of their favourite films and experience magic firsthand. Where you can soar through the skies with superheroes, dive into epic fantasy worlds, or explore the sets of iconic movies! This immersive theme park is a place for the kids to let loose and the big kids to embrace childhood nostalgia. And the best thing is… Universal Destinations & Experiences has proposed to open the very first European theme park right here in the UK!

You can expect a perfect blend of thrilling rides, interactive experiences, and behind-the-scenes looks at the movie-making magic. Whether you’re visiting with family and friends or flying solo, this major theme park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Since having announced the new proposal in 2023, Universal Studios will be set to get the final green light for their brand new and Europe’s largest theme park in Bedfordshire.

Universal bought a 450-acre site and plot of land in Kempston Hardwick, Bedfordshire in December 2023, which will be 45 miles from London. In the next few weeks, it’ll be confirmed whether it’s a go-ahead or not!

Estimated to cost £14 billion, it is said to bring 8,000 jobs at first, and then 10,000 in the next 20 years – plus huge economic benefits to the UK. Not only will it bring popular films into a thrilling landscape, but it will also help improve local facilities like slip roads from the A421, upgrades to Manor Road, a new train station, and so much more. With a huge boost to the British tourism industry and the economic growth it’ll bring, it’ll be an exciting adventure for the UK!

They are still awaiting a final decision on whether this huge project can move forward. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for this one, though!

If the new Bedford-based theme park gets the green light, it’s expected to hold a 500-room hotel, huge entertainment zones, jam-packed attractions with thrilling roller coasters and, of course – FOOD. Nothing has been confirmed yet, as they’re still awaiting the final decision, but anyone whose anyone is eager to know what the theme park will truly hold.

If there’s a clear go-ahead for the new endeavour, you can expect a minimum of 6 years to build the entire theme park. So, it’s likely it’ll be open after 2030 – which seems so far away, but it really isn’t!

You’ll find FIVE more Universal Studios theme parks. From Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan, Universal Beijing Resort and Universal Studios Singapore.

They’re each super exciting and filled with immersive experiences that everyone will enjoy. From Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios Japan, to the BRAND NEW and upcoming extension to Universal Studios Orlando. Find out more about it with our Epic Universe blog.