Universal’s latest theme park, Epic Universe, is mere weeks from opening its gates but the company already has its sights set on its next project. The company announced it’s getting ready to start construction on a multibillion pound Universal Studios theme park in Bedford, England, with an aim on opening in 2031.
“We could not be more excited to take this very important step in our plan to create and deliver an incredible Universal theme park and resort in the heart of the United Kingdom, which complements our growing U.S.-based parks business by expanding our global footprint to Europe,” Comcast president Mike Cavanagh said in a news release. He promised to “create and deliver a fantastic new landmark destination.”
Construction is set to start in 2026 and while the company didn’t announce anything specific about what the park would contain, it’s expected to be in the mold of Universal theme parks everywhere else. It’ll feature “thrilling rides, innovative attractions, and exciting entertainment, all utilizing sophisticated and advanced technology.”
Epic Universe, which opens May 22 in Orlando, Florida, has themed lands based on Nintendo, Harry Potter, How to Train Your Dragon, Universal Monsters, and more. It seems like a good bet that this new park, which does not yet have a name, would be similar. Harry Potter, for example, is obviously based in the United Kingdom and was filmed there, so that seems like a natural fit. Universal also holds the rights to Wicked which is rising in popularity thanks to the movie. Maybe this is where Shiz University pops up.
All that is still under lock and key, though. What we know is, over the next six years, fans will be anxiously awaiting news as to what the latest and, potentially, greatest theme park in Europe will hold.
“From Wicked to Minions, Universal is behind some of the biggest blockbusters of recent years. This landmark investment is fantastic news for our economy, for U.K. tourism and for the British public, who will be able to enjoy the biggest and best theme park in Europe on their doorstep,” U.K. culture secretary Lisa Nandy said.
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