It’s official! The UK government has confirmed that plans to build Europe’s first Universal theme park in the United Kingdom will be going ahead, and the resort is set to open in 2031.

This news comes after a few years of speculation following Universal’s parent company, Comcast, acquiring almost 500 acres of land in Bedfordshire in 2023. And according to current plans this land is set for a resort that includes: 

• A theme park
• A 500-room hotel
• A shopping, dining and entertainment complex (think Universal CityWalk)

This will be the sixth theme park from Universal Destinations and Experiences, joining those currently in Florida, California, Japan, China, and Singapore. 

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the UK Universal Studios open?

• The Universal park is currently set to open in 2031, although this is subject to planning permission. Construction is said to be starting in 2026.

Where will the Universal theme park be in the UK?

• The new Universal theme park will be just south of Bedford town centre. The site is approximately 1 hour’s drive from London and less than 2 hours from Birmingham. It is currently easily accessible by Thameslink, West Midlands Railway, and East Midlands Railway trains, and the plans include transport upgrades, including a new train station near the resort.

What attractions will be at the park?

• We don’t know yet what lands or attractions will be in the UK Universal theme park, but there are definitely plenty of films and franchises to choose from! The current Universal theme parks have areas dedicated to Harry Potter, Minions, Nintendo, The Simpsons, Jurassic Park, and more, and we can’t wait to see if these beloved lands and their rides will be coming to the UK or if we’ll be getting all brand-new attractions! 

Are tickets on sale for the Universal UK theme park? 

• Not yet! It will likely be a few years before any tickets go on sale for the Universal theme park in Bedford, but we'll have all the details as soon as they're announced!

Can't wait until 2031?

If you don’t feel like you can wait another six years before experiencing a new Universal theme park, then you’re in luck! The brand-new Universal Epic Universe park is opening at Universal Orlando Resort on May 22nd 2025, transporting guests to worlds inspired by Harry Potter, How To Train Your Dragon, Universal Monsters, and Nintendo.