Universal Studios has recently made waves with its surprise announcement of a massive theme park resort coming to the United Kingdom (UK), but could Disney follow suit by bringing a Disneyland — or Disney World — to the shores of the British Isles?
While UK theme park fans are receptive to the idea of a Disneyland Great Britain — a concept that’s floated around for years — one big question remains: will it ever happen?
Disney continues to expand internationally with resorts in the U.S., Japan, Paris, Hong Kong, and Shanghai, and soon, Abu Dhabi. But the prospect of the UK getting its own Disneyland is more complicated than it might seem.
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Disneyland Paris, which opened in 1992, is already Disney’s biggest international investment in Europe, and having another Disney resort so close could present serious logistical challenges. Universal Studios GB in itself will make for some huge competition.
Disneyland Paris is less than 300 miles away from London, meaning any potential “Disneyland GB” would essentially be competing with the well-established Paris park (just remember that, while Disneyland California and Walt Disney World Florida are both in the U.S., they’re separated by the best part of the entire continent).
There’d also be the concern of over-saturation in the region. Disney would have to consider whether there’s enough demand to justify such a large investment, especially when guests can easily hop on a train or plane to visit Paris.
That said, Disney has shown a willingness to challenge conventional thinking, particularly with the upcoming Disneyland Abu Dhabi. The announcement of a new park in the UAE (United Arab Emirates), set to open within the next few years, is clear evidence that Disney is actively seeking to broaden its global reach.
In the meantime, Universal Studios Great Britain will certainly be keeping the UK theme park scene exciting. For now, the idea of Disneyland GB is but a dream.
What are your thoughts on a Disneyland GB? Or even Universal Studios GB for that matter? Let us know in the comments!
