Universal Studios is developing its first branded theme park in Europe with a major new resort planned for Bedford, England. Located about 60 miles north of London, the 476-acre site is set to become one of the continent’s largest and most technologically advanced entertainment destinations.
What to Expect from the Universal Bedford Resort
The future resort is designed to deliver the signature Universal experience, blending immersive storytelling with cutting-edge technology. Plans include multiple themed lands inspired by Universal’s vast movie and entertainment franchises. In addition to rides and attractions, the project will feature:
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A 500-room hotel
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Dining, shopping, and entertainment venues
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Advanced infrastructure designed to handle millions of visitors
The resort is expected to welcome 8.5 million guests in its first year of operation. It aims to combine family-friendly experiences with high-thrill attractions and interactive entertainment in a state-of-the-art setting.
Construction Timeline and Development Plans
Pending planning approvals, construction is expected to begin in 2026, with the resort aiming for a public opening in 2031. The project is a long-term investment in the UK entertainment and tourism sector, with estimated contributions of up to £50 billion ($64 billion) to the British economy by 2055.
The site was originally acquired by Comcast NBCUniversal in December 2023. Since then, Universal has been working closely with local authorities and government bodies to advance the planning and development process.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The project promises to generate significant employment opportunities.
20,000 jobs during the construction phase
8,000 operational jobs once the resort is open
28,000 total jobs across sectors such as tourism, AI, construction, and hospitality
These numbers reflect Universal’s commitment to long-term regional development, with government and local council support for necessary infrastructure upgrades around the site.
A Strategic Step in Universal’s Global Expansion
With successful theme parks already established in the U.S., Japan, Singapore, and China, the Bedford project represents Universal’s sixth global park and its first in Europe. The development highlights the company’s strategic push into the European market and reinforces the UK’s role as a growing hub for global tourism and entertainment.
Universal Studios Theme Park – Bedford, UK: Project Factsheet
Project Overview
Developer: Universal Destinations & Experiences (a division of Comcast NBCUniversal)
Location: Bedford, England (approximately 60 miles north of London)
Site Size: 476 acres
Planned Opening: 2031 (subject to planning approval)
Construction Start: Targeted for 2026
Economic Impact
Estimated Economic Contribution: £50 billion ($64 billion) by 2055
Expected First-Year Attendance: Approximately 8.5 million visitors
Job Creation
During Construction: ~20,000 jobs
Post-Opening Operations: ~8,000 permanent roles
Total Jobs Supported: ~28,000 (across tourism, AI, construction, and hospitality sectors)
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Upcoming Universal Studios Theme Park in Bedford: Key Features
Large-scale theme park with multiple immersive, movie-based lands
Cutting-edge ride technology and interactive attractions
500-room onsite hotel
Integrated dining, retail, and entertainment district
Strategic transportation and infrastructure enhancements for accessibility
Development Milestones
Site Acquisition: Completed by Comcast NBCUniversal in December 2023
Official Project Confirmation: Publicly announced in 2025
Planning Support: Backed by the UK government and Bedford Borough Council
Linked Developments: Aligned with regional projects, including the expansion of Luton Airport
Strategic Importance
Marks Universal’s first branded theme park in Europe
Sixth Universal Studios park globally, joining locations in the U.S., Japan, Singapore, and China
Positioned to be one of Europe’s most ambitious entertainment infrastructure projects
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