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Universal Teases Major ‘Back to the Future’ Project — Fans Are Losing It!

In the world of theme parks, some announcements are big enough to make waves across the globe. Universal Studios, a company that has thrilled audiences for decades with its immersive experiences, has done it again with a new project that’s setting the fandom ablaze.

Fans who have longed for a revival of their favorite franchise, Back to the Future, are now on the edge of their seats after hearing the latest news.

Christopher Lloyd and Michael J Fox in Back to the Future Part II
Credit: Universal Pictures

Related: No Sequel, No Problem: ‘Back to the Future’ Creator Slams Fans’ Demands

Universal’s newest theme park is taking shape, and it’s already stirring up plenty of excitement. The news first broke in December 2023 when Universal confirmed it had purchased a sprawling 500-acre plot of land in Bedford, England. Located just a short drive from London, this new location had fans speculating about what Universal might have in store.

With the acquisition came the registration of the domain names UniversalStudiosGreatBritain.com and UniversalGreatBritain.com, further hinting at the possibility of a massive theme park.

After over a year of speculation, on April 9, 2025, Universal confirmed that a new theme park is indeed on the way, set to open in 2031. The official construction for Universal Studios Great Britain will begin in 2026, and with it comes the promise of brand-new lands based on beloved film franchises.

Concept art for Universal Studios Great Britain
Credit: Universal

As thrilling as the announcement is, it’s the details about what lands will be included that have really captured fans’ attention.

While some of the lands in the new park are familiar—Jurassic Park and Minions are no strangers to Universal fans—there are several brand-new additions that have sent fans into overdrive. The new theme park will feature lands dedicated to James Bond, Lord of the Rings, Paddington Bear, and most importantly for many fans, Back to the Future.

It’s been years since the beloved Back to the Future ride was removed from Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, and with it, the hopes of many fans that this iconic franchise would return to Universal’s parks. Now, it looks like Back to the Future is making a major comeback in Universal Studios Great Britain, and fans are losing their minds.

Michael J Fox and Christiooher Lloyd in Back to the Future
Credit: Universal Pictures

The idea of a Back to the Future land has sparked a wave of excitement across social media. If the rumors are true, fans are hoping for a Back to the Future roller coaster, something that could bring the franchise back to the forefront of Universal’s theme park experiences. It’s a bold move, but one that fans are eagerly awaiting.

It’s been over 40 years since the release of the first film, yet the love for the franchise remains as strong as ever.

The thought of a thrilling new ride dedicated to the films is enough to get any fan excited for the park’s grand opening.

If the rumours of a back to the future coaster are real for the new universal theme park in the uk..

..then I’m there mon day 1.. that would be stunning.

The movie franchise hasn’t gone down in popularity.. I think this is a great choice.

Hope it’s true.

Anyone agree/disagree?

Fans are already envisioning what the Back to the Future land might look like. For some, the idea of walking through Hill Valley in 1985 is enough to get their imaginations racing. The possibility of a fully immersive experience where guests can step into the world of the films is incredibly exciting.

And for those of us on this side of the Atlantic, the hope that this could lead to Back to the Future returning to U.S. parks one day is even more thrilling.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Another fan shared their thoughts on what the new Back to the Future land could bring:

If this is indeed Hill Valley 1985 in the newly announced Universal Studios Great Britain, this will be the greatest timeline we are living in. Even though I don’t do roller coasters, this will be amazing. Also, the potential of new Back To The Future coming stateside. Exciting!

Related: New Update Hints Universal Is Taking Aim at Disney’s Weak Spot in Europe

One of the most interesting aspects of the new park is that it will not feature a land dedicated to Harry Potter, something many assumed would be a given. Just 40 minutes away from the new park lies the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Leavesden, which offers an extensive Harry Potter experience. Universal has confirmed that exclusivity contracts are in place, but there’s hope that Harry Potter may be added to the park in the future.

With Back to the Future now making its return to Universal’s parks, fans are hopeful that this is just the beginning of even more exciting additions. The park’s opening may be years away, but the buzz surrounding it has already sparked a wave of excitement that shows no signs of slowing down.

Universal Studios Great Britain promises to be a game-changer in the world of theme parks, and Back to the Future is sure to play a huge role in that transformation.

Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!

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