Universal Reveals Plans for Europe for the Next 100 Years
What This Means for Guests and Fans
What if the next Universal global tourism titan wasn’t nestled in Orlando or Osaka—but quietly taking root in the English countryside?
That’s exactly what Universal Destinations & Experiences is betting on as it unveils bold plans for a sprawling 476-acre entertainment resort just outside Bedford. A move that’s not only set to transform the region—but potentially rewrite the European theme park playbook altogether.
At first glance, it’s a story about a theme park. But dig a little deeper, and it’s clear: this is about legacy, economics, and the future of global tourism. So, what exactly is Universal building—and why is everyone watching?
Universal UK: Not Just a Park—A 100-Year Vision
Universal’s President of New Ventures, Page Thompson, has revealed that the UK resort is “just the start” of a much larger ambition. In his first public remarks since the project’s announcement, Thompson confirmed that this development represents a century-long commitment, not a flash-in-the-pan attraction.
“We look at these projects as really long-term,” he explained. “We try to think about the next 100 years.”
That long view begins with phase one: a major theme park, a 500-room hotel, and a cluster of restaurants open to the public—no ticket required. But the company holds additional land in the region and plans to roll out more developments in future phases.
Why Bedford? The Hidden Goldmine of Europe
After scouting several sites across Europe, Universal landed on Kempston Hardwick, a former brickworks near Bedford. At first, it might seem like an unexpected location. But Thompson said the area’s existing infrastructure, flat topography, and strong local support made it ideal.
“It’s just a fantastic location,” he said, citing nearby East West Rail plans and the recent approval for London Luton Airport’s expansion as game-changers. Even though East West Rail won’t fully connect to Oxford until around 2030, Thompson remains optimistic: “That’s right around when we’re looking to open.”
Universal is projecting 8.5 million annual visitors by 2031, with 30% expected to come from outside the UK. This could make it one of Europe’s most visited attractions and a significant driver of international tourism to Britain.
A Boon for Jobs, Education, and Local Business
Construction on the resort is expected to begin in 2026, and with it, a massive wave of employment: up to 20,000 jobs during construction and thousands more once the park opens. Universal estimates that 80% of these roles will be filled by workers from Bedford, Central Bedfordshire, Luton, and Milton Keynes.
But it’s not just about numbers. Thompson emphasized Universal’s commitment to local development, especially youth education.
“We’re already working with Bedford College and Kimberley College,” he shared, “to develop curricula that create pipelines for local careers.”
The executive also noted that half of Universal Orlando’s management team started out as hourly workers—a stat he hopes to replicate in the UK.
And beyond direct employment? A ripple effect. Universal plans to outsource services to local tradespeople and vendors, from bakers and electricians to security and construction teams.
What Attractions Are Coming? The Mystery (and Hype) Builds
While official plans haven’t been released, fans and industry insiders are already speculating about which blockbuster franchises might anchor the new resort. From Harry Potter to Jurassic World, Universal’s portfolio is loaded.
Thompson didn’t confirm or deny any specific lands or properties but smiled when asked.
“We’ve seen a lot of speculation, and it’s always entertaining,” he said. “But we won’t be revealing what’s inside the park until we get much closer to opening.”
A New European Destination—And Just One
One thing Thompson did make clear: this will be Universal’s only park in Europe.
“This is probably our real destination in Europe,” he said. “We expect to draw visitors from all over the continent.”
It’s a strong statement in a market that currently has no theme parks ranked in the global top 25—something Thompson says is long overdue.
“With the UK’s population and tourism numbers, it should have at least three,” he said. “Right now, it has none.”
Universal’s smallest existing park draws 9 million visitors annually. In that context, the confidence is understandable.
Final Thoughts: Why This Universal Park Matters
While the rides and shows will undoubtedly bring thrills, the deeper story is one of regional transformation and international investment. If all goes according to plan, Bedford won’t just be a dot on the map—it could become one of the most important entertainment hubs in the Western Hemisphere.
As Thompson put it: “We want people to come for the park—and stay for the community.”
And as planning documents prepare to hit government desks in the coming months, all eyes will remain on this corner of England, where fantasy meets foundation—and where a century of dreams may be just beginning.
