The UK is officially getting its first Universal Studios theme park, with a grand opening set for 2031. The landmark project, backed by the UK government, is expected to bring in a staggering
£50 billion to the national economy.
Located just outside Bedford — a market town nestled between Cambridge and Northampton — the massive new attraction will make the UK the seventh global location for a Universal park, joining Hollywood, Orlando, Beijing, Osaka, Singapore, and Frisco, Texas.
Set on a 476-acre former brickworks site, the park will include a variety of thrill rides, a retail and entertainment district, and a 500-room hotel.
During a visit to Downing Street, Mike Cavanagh, president of Comcast (Universal’s parent company), revealed a stunning artist’s rendering of the proposed park. The concept art showcased iconic entrance gates opening to a central plaza with a fountain featuring Universal’s globe logo. A wide street leads guests toward themed areas that wrap around a central lake, including at least three dramatic roller coasters—one of which loops over the water.
As Universal’s first theme park in Europe, the Bedford location is expected to offer attractions inspired by some of the studio’s most beloved franchises. While final details are yet to be confirmed, rides may include experiences based on Harry Potter (though Warner Bros. Studio Tour is nearby in Watford), Jurassic Park, Despicable Me’s Minions, The Fast and the Furious, and Universal’s classic monster films like Frankenstein, Dracula, and The Mummy.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the announcement, highlighting its potential to generate around 28,000 jobs — 20,000 during construction and 8,000 once operational.
“It’s not just about the numbers,” said Starmer. “It’s about creating real opportunities for people across the country.”
Universal projects the park will contribute £35.1 billion to the UK economy over the course of its construction and first 20 years, with an additional £14 billion in tax revenue during the same period.
The announcement comes at a crucial time for the UK government, offering a much-needed boost following a week of economic challenges triggered by global tariffs introduced by Donald Trump. Photo by Gary Houston, Wikimedia commons.