Universal Studios has confirmed the construction of its first theme park in Europe, a project that will not only mark a milestone in the company’s global expansion but also position the United Kingdom as a new entertainment hub. The Universal Studios Park U.K. is set to become the largest theme park in Europe, surpassing even Disneyland Paris in size and ambition. It is expected to be completed by 2031.
The announced investment exceeds US$63 billion, placing it among the largest projects in the history of the entertainment industry on the continent. Beyond its direct economic impact, the development is expected to transform the Bedford region into an unprecedented center for tourism and urban growth.
Details of the first Universal Studios in the UK
The choice of Bedford as the location is based on several key factors: Its proximity to London, the availability of large, well-connected land areas, and the vision of creating an integrated complex that goes beyond a conventional amusement park. The master plan includes a main park with multiple themed zones inspired by iconic Universal franchises — such as Jurassic Park, Harry Potter, Minions, and Fast & Furious — as well as additional leisure areas, retail spaces, restaurants, and complementary services.
The planning also includes a hotel with more than 500 rooms, designed to accommodate international visitors and encourage longer stays. The projected infrastructure features transportation and connectivity plans to facilitate access from different parts of the U.K. and Europe.
British authorities have welcomed the news with optimism, highlighting the project’s potential to attract international tourism, generate jobs, and stimulate the local economy. Construction and operation of the park are expected to create around 28,000 jobs, both direct and indirect, providing a significant boost for Bedford and the surrounding areas.
Economic and cultural Impact
The announcement comes at a time when major theme parks are competing to attract increasingly global audiences. Disneyland Paris, which has long been Europe’s leading destination of this kind, now faces the prospect of new competition promising immersive experiences based on some of the world’s most popular film franchises.
Industry analysts suggest the project could reshape the map of entertainment tourism in Europe. The scale of the investment and the focus on advanced technological experiences position Bedford Park as an attraction capable of rivaling the world’s most important entertainment centers.
However, the project is still in the development phase, and details about specific attractions and transportation logistics to support visitor flow have yet to be defined. Even so, Universal has stated that more information will be shared as the design and construction process moves forward.