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Universal announces first European theme park — coming to the UK in 2031

As the initial artist images are released of the UK’s new Universal theme park – the first in Europe – Hannah Cornish gives us the lowdown on what to expect.
Hannah Cornish
Written by Hannah Cornish Edited by Chantal Welch 10 April 2025
artist rendering of a theme park with CGI drawings of roller coasters, pop-up circus tents, attractions and bright lights
An artist rendering of what the Universal theme park in the UK will look like when it opens. Image courtesy of NBC Universal/Universal Destinations and Experiences.

Everything we know about the first European Universal theme park so far:

  • Where: Planned for the site of a former brickworks near Bedford.
  • When: Estimated to open in 2031.
  • How to get there: Bedford is one hour and 11 minutes by train from London St Pancras International.

Exciting news for theme park enthusiasts! Universal has been given the green light to build its first European theme park and resort right here in the UK.

Set in Bedfordshire, the resort promises to be one of the largest and most advanced in Europe, attracting an estimated 8.5 million visitors in its first year.

The news brings unparalleled excitement to the UK, though thrill-seekers will need to be patient as the park is estimated to open in 2031.

With the release of the first artist impressions of what the theme park and resort will look like, here is everything we know about the planned attraction so far.

Where will it be?

The first Universal-branded theme park and resort in Europe is set to be constructed on a 500-acre former brickworks site in Bedfordshire.

The location, chosen for its convenient and fast rail links, is approximately 55 miles north of London and 20 miles from Luton Airport.

What will be in the park and resort?

The details of the theme park are yet to be revealed, but it’s expected to be immersive and have different experiences for thrill-seekers to enjoy.

Alongside the theme park, there are plans to build a 500-room hotel and a retail and entertainment complex.

When will construction start?

A proposed start date for construction has been set for 2026, with an estimated open date of 2031.

Other theme parks you can visit near London

Two big Lego figures with a big Lego building in the background and a group of children in front facing the figures and confetti in the air.

Want to get your theme park fix sooner? Check out theme parks you can visit near London and discover the thrilling rides and attractions that await, including:

  • Thorpe Park: As the ultimate destination for thrill seekers, Thorpe Park has a whole host of adrenaline-pumping rides such as Stealth, The Swarm, and the highly anticipated Hyperia, the UK’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster of its kind.
  • LEGOLAND: Live out your LEGO-themed dreams at LEGOLAND Windsor. Explore the magical destination packed with family-friendly rides and the LEGOLAND Miniland, depicting model scenes from around the world using nearly 40 million LEGO bricks.
  • Chessington World of Adventures: Perfect for families and thrillseekers alike, Chessington World of Adventures offers an adrenaline-packed day out with rides and attractions, a SEA LIFE centre and zoo with more than 1,000 animals to see.