Comcast NBCUniversal has confirmed that Universal Destinations & Experiences’ first theme park in Europe, officially named Universal United Kingdom Resort, will soon begin construction in Bedford.
*All details correct at time of publish (4 June 2026)
Located just 45 minutes from London, the 540-acre development will feature a theme park with immersive lands, attractions and story-driven experiences, alongside a 500-room hotel and a retail, dining and entertainment complex.
The project marks a significant milestone for Universal’s expansion strategy and follows more than two years of due diligence and engagement in the UK. The company said Bedford was selected for its strong rail connections to London and accessibility across the UK and Europe.
Universal United Kingdom Resort will become the first Universal-branded theme park and resort in Europe, bringing one of the world’s best-known attractions operators into the UK market and further strengthening the country’s appeal as a short-break and family holiday destination.
The development joins a growing portfolio of Universal Destinations & Experiences projects worldwide, as the company continues to invest in new parks, resorts and attractions.
Brian Roberts and Mike Cavanagh, Co-CEOs of Comcast Corporation, said: “This is a proud moment for our company as we bring the first Universal theme park and resort to Europe.
“The United Kingdom is a highly attractive market and builds on the significant investments we’ve made elsewhere around the globe to create extraordinary experiences for millions of guests that are rooted in the stories and worlds only Universal can deliver.”
Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said: “We have a bold ambition to bring Universal’s innovative and immersive experiences to new audiences.
“Universal United Kingdom Resort reflects that long-term strategy focused on key markets while continuing to enhance our existing parks and strengthen our position as a destination of choice for guests.”
Universal United Kingdom Resort joins several other major developments driving growth for Universal Destinations & Experiences, including the award-winning Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, the company’s most ambitious and technologically advanced theme park, which recently completed its first year of operations with strong results.
On July 1, the company will also debut Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, the first theme park designed specifically for families with young children, featuring seven themed lands with some of Universal’s most successful kids’ franchises and an integrated 300-room hotel.
For more information, click here or visit universalukproject.co.uk.
