A Journey Through the Excitement of Universal Studios
When I was 13 years old, I embarked on a family trip to Orlando, Florida, and the theme parks there left an unforgettable impression on me. Anyone who has visited Busch Gardens or Walt Disney World can attest to the magic these places hold. However, for my brothers, cousins, and me, the standout experience was always Universal Studios. The immersive rides and experiences that transport you into the world of film were truly remarkable.
The announcement that a Universal theme park would soon be coming to the UK sparked excitement among attraction enthusiasts across the country. Universal Destinations and Experiences has positioned this new park as the only European hub in their network, as other locations are already established in the United States, China, Singapore, and Japan.
The good news is that this exciting new destination will be located just under two hours from London, making it accessible for many visitors. But what exactly do we know about this upcoming theme park? Let’s explore everything from its features to its location and timeline.
When Will Universal UK Open?
One of the most anticipated questions is when the park will open. Universal UK is targeting a 2031 opening, with construction set to begin in 2026. The park will span a massive 476 acres of land, offering a vast area for guests to explore.
Page Thompson, president of new ventures at Universal Destinations & Experiences, shared with the BBC: “We look at these projects as really long-term projects. We try to think about the next 100 years.” By the time it opens, the company estimates that it will attract 8.5 million annual visitors. Like most major theme parks, it will be developed in phases and will likely continue evolving even after its official opening.
Where Will Universal UK Be Located?
Universal UK will be situated in Bedford, a location that offers convenient travel options for those coming from London. Page described Bedford as the “perfect” choice due to its direct links to London airports and Oxford via the East West Rail. He also noted that the site is flat and already planned for development, with strong local support from the community.
Phase one of the project will include a 500-room hotel, providing accommodations for visitors traveling from further afield. This addition ensures that guests can enjoy a full day of adventure without worrying about where to rest their heads.
What Attractions Will Be Available?
While many details remain a mystery to maintain the element of surprise, there is plenty of speculation online about what might be included in the park. Page acknowledges that this growing buzz is exciting for the team. “We think it’s very entertaining to see what people would like to see and what they expect to see in the park,” he said. However, specific attractions or themed areas will not be revealed until closer to the opening date.
To give fans a sense of what to expect, the Florida-based Universal Studios features popular attractions such as the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, E.T. Adventure, Revenge of the Mummy, and numerous rides based on major motion pictures likeJaws,Back to the Future,Men in Black, andDespicable Me.
Economic Impact of Universal UK
Beyond the entertainment value, Universal UK is expected to have a significant economic impact on the region. It is estimated to boost the UK economy by £50 billion. Additionally, the park will create between 2,000 and 5,000 local jobs on-site, with potentially 28,000 more jobs created in the lead-up to its completion. This development promises to bring prosperity to the Bedford area and beyond, making it a valuable addition to the UK’s tourism landscape.
