Some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site.
It’s Official: Universal Studios Great Britain Is Coming—and It’s the UK’s Biggest Theme Park Ever!
Start planning your trip across the pond, theme park fans—because Universal is heading to Britain in the biggest way possible. After months of speculation, leaked concept art, and a whirlwind of excitement online, the news is official: Universal Studios Great Britain is real, it’s happening, and it’s shaping up to be the largest visitor attraction in the UK!
Related: Universal Helios Grand Hotel Now Open for Early Reservations During Epic Universe Previews
The Hollywood Reporter recently unveiled a full, unedited version of the park’s concept art, which had previously made waves thanks to a leak from The Daily Mirror. The colorful artwork, now shown in its entirety, gives fans a tantalizing glimpse at what might be in store for this massive theme park destination. Imagine a grand central lagoon, themed lands spiraling out from its shores, and familiar Universal icons potentially taking center stage—including Jurassic World and Waterworld (yes, really). But eagle-eyed fans are asking… where’s Harry Potter?
Despite the UK being the magical homeland of the Wizarding World, the leaked artwork didn’t show any obvious signs of a Potter-themed land. That said, Universal does hold the rights to the franchise in its theme parks, so we wouldn’t count out a wand-waving, butterbeer-sipping experience just yet.
And if the concept art wasn’t enough, Universal dropped the mic with a massive announcement: the UK government, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, along with the Bedford Borough Council, has officially greenlit the project. A multibillion-pound deal has been struck to bring Universal Studios Great Britain to Bedford, a town about 60 miles northwest of London. Construction is set to begin next year, and the park is scheduled to open its gates in 2031.
We’re not just talking about a few rides and a gift shop—this is going to be a full-blown resort. The plans include a 500-room hotel, a massive retail and dining complex, and one of the most advanced theme parks in Europe. It will also be Universal’s first branded theme park on the continent.
“This landmark investment is fantastic news for our economy, for U.K. tourism and for the British public,” said U.K. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy. And it’s hard to argue with that. The development is expected to bring nearly 20,000 jobs during construction, with an additional 8,000 permanent jobs once the resort opens. Universal also estimates the project will inject nearly £50 billion (that’s $64 billion) into the economy by 2055. Not too shabby for a theme park!
Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast, couldn’t contain his excitement either: “We could not be more excited… to create and deliver a fantastic new landmark destination.” His team at Universal Destinations & Experiences is promising thrilling rides, immersive storytelling, and next-gen technology.
Related: Epic Universe Delivers a Portal-Powered Masterpiece
So, what do you think? Which franchises must be included in Universal Studios Great Britain? Is it finally time for a Fast & Furious land to hit 88 MPH? Will Minions rule the streets of Bedford? And is the Wizarding World just lying in wait? Will the Doctor make an appearance in his legendary TARDIS? Let us know what you’d love to see when the gates swing open in 2031!
For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. Don't forget to check out the Chip and Company Radio Network too!
Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.
Click Here for your FREE No Obligation Quote.
