Universal UK theme park in Bedford set to become nation’s biggest tourist attraction

The upcoming UK theme park in Bedford, officially announced by Universal Destinations & Experiences, marks a major milestone for both the company and the UK tourism sector. It will be Universal’s first-ever theme park in Europe, and it’s set to dramatically reshape the local economy, job market, and entertainment landscape.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed the announcement as a cornerstone of his economic growth strategy, stating:

“This is our plan for change in action—creating jobs, opportunities, and a stronger economy for everyone.”

What we know about the Universal UK theme park in Bedford

This landmark project will be Universal’s seventh global destination and its first venture into Europe. The Universal UK theme park in Bedford is projected to welcome over 8.5 million visitors annually, instantly making it the largest attraction of its kind in Britain.

Universal UK theme park location

The park will be built on a 192-hectare (476-acre) site at the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks, located near Bedford in Bedfordshire, about 50 miles north of London.

This strategic location offers:

• Easy transport links to and from the capital

• Proximity to major motorways like the A421

• Future connections to international travel via Luton Airport, which is undergoing expansion

• A relatively open and underutilized industrial site that offers space for major development

The choice of Bedford underscores a broader push by the UK government to redistribute growth beyond London and to tap into the economic potential of the Midlands and surrounding regions.

For those seeking extended stays or specific permissions, visa options include the UK Visit Visa for tourist or business visits, the UK E-Visa for digital processing, the UK Settlement Visa for residency, the UK Sponsorship License for employers hiring foreign workers, and the UK Student Visa for education. Additionally, individuals may apply for a Self-Sponsorship Skilled Worker Visa to work independently or a Spouse Visa to join a UK-based partner.

What will the Universal UK theme park include?

While Universal has not yet revealed specific rides or themed lands for the UK park, we can expect a world-class offering based on attractions seen at its existing locations in the US, Asia, and China. Likely highlights may include:

• Minions-themed attractions (e.g., Loop-Dee Doop-Dee)

• Transformers Megabase Decepticoaster

• Kung Fu Panda Land of Awesomeness

• Cutting-edge VR and AI-enhanced experiences

• Family-friendly zones, thrill rides, and immersive cinematic worlds

In addition to rides, the complex will feature:

• A 500-room hotel to accommodate guests

• A shopping, dining, and entertainment district

• Themed restaurants, retail stores, and live shows

• Infrastructure to host year-round events, possibly seasonal festivals and movie tie-ins

Economic impact and job creation

According to the UK government, the Universal UK theme park in Bedford is expected to:

• Generate £50 billion in economic value over its lifespan

• Create around 20,000 construction jobs

• Provide 8,000 permanent operational roles once the park opens

• Support growth in tourism, hospitality, retail, AI, and tech

Prime Minister Keir Starmer described it as a "transformative" project and a central part of the government's economic strategy. The goal is to not just boost tourism, but to regenerate the region, upskill workers, and modernize surrounding infrastructure.

Why does this project matter?

This is a landmark investment not just for Bedford, but for the entire UK:

• It will be Universal’s only park in Europe, competing with Disneyland Paris

• It gives the UK a high-profile international tourism destination outside London

• It supports the government’s "levelling up" agenda, promoting economic development beyond the capital

• It diversifies Britain’s post-Brexit economy by attracting foreign investment and global tourists

“Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and is part of our strategy to introduce the Universal brand and experiences to new audiences around the globe. We appreciate the incredible support for our proposed project and look forward to bringing it to life in the years ahead.”

-Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences

The project also sends a message globally: the UK remains an attractive, innovative place to do business, even amid economic and political shifts.

What comes next?

As Universal and local authorities move toward the planning and construction phase, key updates to watch for include:

• Design reveals: Expect teaser announcements about themes, lands, and partnerships

• Infrastructure upgrades: Likely improvements to roads, public transport, and regional airports

• Job creation programs: Training initiatives for local residents and university partnerships

By 2031, if all goes according to plan, the UK theme park in Bedford could rival Europe’s top destinations—and redefine what entertainment looks like in Britain.