Big news for theme park fans and travel lovers: Universal Studios is coming to Europe! For the first time ever, Universal is building a full-scale theme park in the United Kingdom — just outside London.
If you’re planning a European bucket list for the 2030s, this massive project needs to be on your radar. With an opening targeted for 2031, the new Universal Studios Great Britain promises thrilling rides, immersive lands, and beloved movie franchises — all easily accessible from London.
Here’s your full guide to what we know so far — and why this park will become one of Europe’s top attractions.
Location: Where Will Universal Studios Great Britain Be?
Location: Where Will Universal Studios Great Britain Be?Universal has chosen a 476-acre site near Bedford, a town located about 50 miles (80 km) north of London. The location offers:
- Easy access to London Luton Airport (25 mins away)
- Quick train connections to central London (expected to be 35–40 mins by 2031)
- Major highway access via the M1 motorway
The Bedford site is strategically placed to attract both UK-based and international visitors — within day-trip range from London and major airports.
When Will Universal Studios UK Open?
When Will Universal Studios UK Open?Universal announced in April 2025 that they are aiming to open the park in 2031, pending approvals. Construction is expected to start in 2026.
A six-year build is in line with other major Universal parks, including the current Epic Universe project in Orlando.
What Attractions Will It Feature?
What Attractions Will It Feature?While full ride details haven’t been revealed, early reports and concept art hint at:
Multiple “themed lands” (similar to Universal Orlando)
New immersive attractions based on British and global IPs
A 500-room resort hotel on property
A large retail and dining complex
Some rumored IPs include:
James Bond — potential for a major headline ride
Paddington Bear — family-friendly themed area
Lord of the Rings — speculation on immersive experiences
Note: It is not expected to include Harry Potter lands — those remain exclusive to Warner Bros Studio Tour London and Universal’s other existing parks.
Why Is Universal Investing in the UK?
Why Is Universal Investing in the UK?Universal’s parent company, Comcast, is making a huge bet on European tourism:
- The project is expected to generate £50 billion (€58 billion) in long-term economic value
- It will create 20,000 construction jobs and 8,000 permanent jobs
- Projected 8.5 million visitors per year — placing it #2 in Europe behind Disneyland Paris
Universal also sees the UK as under-served for full-scale theme parks compared to continental Europe and the U.S.
The park will also complement Universal’s global network:
- Universal Orlando (U.S.)
- Universal Hollywood (U.S.)
- Universal Japan
- Universal Singapore
- Universal Beijing
- Epic Universe (Orlando 2025)
Universal Studios Great Britain will fill the “missing piece” in Europe — and give European visitors a closer alternative to Florida.
How to Get There
How to Get ThereBy 2029–2030, major transport upgrades will connect Bedford to London & Europe:
By Air
- London Luton Airport → 25 mins to Bedford
- London Heathrow → ~1 hour drive
By Train
- Bedford station will have East-West Rail upgrades and faster links to London (35–40 mins expected)
- Direct connections from London St. Pancras International
By Road
- Easy access from London & Midlands via M1 motorway
- ~60–75 mins by car from central London
Where to Stay
Where to StayThe park will include an on-site 500-room hotel, but there will also be demand for nearby options:
Bedford town centre hotels (great for budget & mid-range)
Luton area hotels
London hotels for visitors wanting to combine a London city break with park visits
When Can You Book Tickets?
When Can You Book Tickets?Expect ticket sales to start in late 2030 or early 2031, if timelines hold.
Pro tip: Bookmark this blog and subscribe — we’ll update this post as soon as advance tickets or pre-sale offers go live.
Why This Is BIG for European Theme Park Fans
Why This Is BIG for European Theme Park FansFor decades, Disneyland Paris has been Europe’s most-visited park. Universal’s new UK park will bring next-level competition:
- World-class Universal rides & tech (think Transformers, Fast & Furious, Jurassic World)
- British-themed attractions (James Bond, Paddington, LOTR?)
- Easy flight/train access from across Europe
- Close to London, Europe’s #1 city destination
Theme park fans in Germany, France, Netherlands, Spain, Scandinavia — and of course the UK — will finally have a Universal experience closer to home.
Current Timeline
Current Timeline| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Public announcement (April) |
| 2026 | Construction begins |
| 2028 | Major ride reveals expected |
| 2030 | Hotel & ticket booking opens |
| 2031 | Official opening of Universal Studios Great Britain |
Final Thoughts: Universal UK on Your Bucket List?
Final Thoughts: Universal UK on Your Bucket List?Whether you’re a rollercoaster lover, a movie fan, or a parent looking for Europe’s best new attractions — Universal Studios Great Britain is one to watch.
With travel planning cycles often 12–18 months in advance, now is the perfect time to start planning your future trip. If you’re already booking London or UK holidays for 2030+ — pencil this park into your plans!
