Universal Confirms Plans for New Theme Park in Bedford, England

Written by Joshua Posted April 8th, 2025

Universal is one step closer to opening a theme park in the United Kingdom. Earlier today, the company reached an agreement with the UK government to bring their brand to Bedford, England. Keir Starmer, the UK’s Prime Minister, announced the deal: “Today, we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe, firmly putting the county on the global stage.”

Universal’s park in Bedford will include “themed lands featuring Universal’s distinct brand of immersive storytelling, thrilling rides, innovative attractions and exciting entertainment.” Plans also call for a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining, and entertainment complex. The company estimates 8.5 million guests will visit in the first year of operation, making it the largest park in the UK.

Universal released concept art for the new park but isn’t ready to announce specifics about lands or attractions: “We recognise the tremendous excitement our developments bring; however, it is still too early in the process to know the possibilities of featured attractions and experiences. Should we secure the necessary planning approvals, we would confirm the exact details at a later stage.”

Concept art for a Universal resort in Bedford, England — Copyright Universal. Click or tap for a larger view.

The rendering shows Universal’s signature globe and archway entrance situated near the resort hotel. The park’s themed lands circle a central lagoon, with one of three outdoor roller coasters featuring a track that stretches over the water. A large outdoor amphitheater is located at the rear of the park. The overall layout resembles that of Orlando’s Islands of Adventure.

We first heard about Universal’s UK plans in late 2023. Since then, the company has done “feasibility and due diligence work,” which included working with local and national officials to make the park a reality. The government has pledged infrastructure investments around the project site. A few days ago, officials approved a plan to expand Luton Airport, which is located 20 miles south of Bedford.

Proposed site of a Universal resort in Bedford, England — The yellow area is the proposed site for Universal’s resort in Bedford, England.

Next, Universal will submit a planning proposal to the UK Government. They hope to start construction in 2026 (subject to planning approval) and open the park in 2031. That’s similar to Epic Universe’s development, which was announced in 2019 and is set to debut next month. You can learn more about Universal’s Bedford plans on the company’s project website.