Universal Studios to Build First European Theme Park Near London

U.S. media giant Comcast Corp is building its first Universal theme park and resort in Europe—located in Bedford, north of London—with plans to open in 2031, the British government announced, Paul Sandle reported for Reuters.

Universal Studios already operates five resorts and parks in the U.S. states of California and Florida, as well as in Singapore, Japan, and China. I Photo: Universal Studios Facebook

According to Comcast, the project will create 20,000 jobs during construction and another 8,000 permanent jobs in hospitality and creative industries once it opens. It’s expected to attract 8.5 million visitors in its first year—a number exceeded in Europe only by Disneyland Paris.

Universal Studios already operates five resorts and parks in the U.S. states of California and Florida, as well as in Singapore, Japan, and China.

These locations feature rides and attractions themed around Jurassic Park, Harry Potter, and other major film franchises.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised the investment, calling it a “multi-billion-pound investment” that would make Bedford home to one of Europe’s largest entertainment parks.

Current plans for the site include a theme park with several themed lands, a 500-room hotel, and retail, dining, and entertainment complex

Comcast President Mike Cavanagh, who showed Starmer the plans, said he “could not be more excited” to bring a Universal theme park and resort to the heart of the United Kingdom.

Comcast acquired a 500-acre former brickworks in Bedfordshire—about 55 miles north of London—in 2023. The U.S. firm also owns Sky, Europe’s largest pay-tv business.

Nearby Luton Airport, located about 20 miles from the Universal site, will be expanded to improve international access to the area. The Labour government, which came to power last year pledging to drive infrastructure investment, has approved the expansion.