Big things are happening at Universal Destinations & Experiences, and now, the spotlight shifts across the Atlantic. Universal has officially confirmed its intent to open an all-new theme park resort in Bedfordshire, United Kingdom.
On June 25, 2025, the company shared a letter detailing its ambitious vision: a resort featuring multiple themed lands, immersive entertainment offerings, guest accommodations, and a variety of retail and dining experiences. The project, still in its early phases, could deliver nearly £50 billion in economic impact and add 28,000 new jobs, many sourced directly from surrounding communities.
According to Universal, approximately 80% of its team members would be hired from Bedford, Luton, Milton Keynes, and Central Bedfordshire, further rooting the development in the local landscape.
Guests familiar with Universal’s presence in the U.S. have already seen this momentum in action. In Florida, Universal’s Epic Universe recently welcomed its first guests, featuring themed areas inspired by Nintendo, DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon, and classic monster films. Over in Texas, Universal Kids Resort is under construction in Frisco, and the horror-focused Universal Horror Unleashed is expanding from Las Vegas to a newly confirmed site in Chicago.
Universal’s UK endeavor first came to public attention in late 2023, when Comcast purchased land in the Bedford area. Local outlets like Bedford Independent and Orlando Park Stop were among the first to report on the development. Since then, Universal has remained open about the process, creating a dedicated website complete with aerial views and FAQ sections.
Community feedback has played a pivotal role. Universal reported that thousands participated in consultations in 2024, with 92% showing support. Alongside economic promises, Universal has pledged a strong environmental ethic, noting its efforts to protect and enhance the natural environment wherever it builds.
In a statement shared with Bedford Independent, the company said, “We support Bedford’s vision of becoming a prosperous place to live, work, and visit,” and underscored its goal of collaborating with local leaders such as the Bedford Borough Council.
Though details about specific rides or lands remain tightly held, online speculation has stirred excitement. Fans are wondering whether Universal might bring global properties like James Bond, Paddington, Back to the Future, or even Lord of the Rings to life. Still, the company has not made any official announcements on what guests can expect in terms of attractions.
Another key aspect of the development involves nighttime entertainment. A recent report indicates that fireworks will be limited to no more than ten shows a year. These would be reserved for holidays like Diwali, Chinese New Year, Bonfire Night (November 5), and New Year’s Eve. Most evenings would instead feature drone performances, with clearance requested up to 50 meters. All drone activity would take place within Universal’s property limits.
The new resort is poised to join Universal’s impressive international portfolio, which includes resorts in Hollywood, Orlando, Singapore, Japan, and Beijing. In 2023 alone, Comcast invested $271 million in acquiring new land for themed entertainment projects around the globe.
As Universal’s plans take shape, fans are encouraged to visit the Universal UK Project website for the latest news, community engagement updates, and future reveals.
Would you miss nightly fireworks in exchange for cutting-edge drone shows? Tell us what you think in the comments!
