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The English town of Bedford could be a surprising contender for Universal’s next theme park and resort development, with the operator confirming plans are ‘at the early stages’ for what would be a landmark attraction destination for the UK
Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | 19 Dec 2023
A Universal Studios park could be making its way to Bedford Credit: Asso Myron on Unsplash
Universal is eyeing its first UK destination with the English town of Bedford set to be the unlikely destination for the would-be attraction.
According to the Bedford Independent, a spokesperson from Universal Destinations & Experiences confirmed that the operator recently acquired land in Bedford, with the company “at the early stages of exploring its feasibility for a potential park and resort at this site”.
Universal’s parent company, Comcast, has purchased a 240-acre (970,000sq m) parcel of land for the would-be Universal theme park site, with the park likely to feature more indoor attractions so it can act as a year-round operation in the colder British climate.
While Bedford may seem a strange location for a Universal theme park, the operator has a huge fanbase in the UK, with many travelling overseas to visit the likes of Universal Orlando and Universal Hollywood. The site is also closeby to London and the popular Harry Potter Studios in Watford, making it an ideal location for tourist visits.
Universal has been significantly expanding its attractions operations in recent times, with the launch of the multi-billion dollar Universal Beijing in 2021, the ongoing development of Epic Universe in Orlando, the development of Universal Kids Resort in Texas and Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas.
According to Universal it will be “many months” before a decision is made on whether or not to proceed with Universal Studios Bedford (not its official name), with the project still in the very early stages. The spokesperson added that they would “look forward to engaging with all relevant stakeholders and the local community.”
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