Universal Destinations & Experiences is preparing to bring some of the world’s most iconic entertainment franchises to life in the UK, with a major theme park planned for Bedfordshire.
According to a source close to the project who spoke to the BBC, the ambitious development will include attractions based on James Bond, Paddington Bear, The Lord of the Rings, Back to the Future, Jurassic Park, and Minions.
The theme park is set to be built at Kempston Hardwick near Bedford and, if planning permission is granted, construction could begin as early as next year. The park is projected to open by 2031.
Notably absent from the plans is Harry Potter, despite its British heritage and global popularity. A source confirmed that due to “watertight exclusivity contracts” held by Warner Bros — which operates the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Leavesden, just 40 minutes away — the franchise will not be featured in the new Universal park, at least initially.
While Universal has stated on its website that “it is too early” to confirm specific attractions, the BBC’s source indicated that most key elements are already in place and unlikely to change. “Contracts have been signed,” the source said, suggesting only minor design tweaks may occur before opening day.
Early concept art shows themed buildings and landscapes, with zones evoking the aesthetics of Jurassic Park, The Lord of the Rings, and more. Most rides are expected to be indoors, a strategy also employed at Universal’s Epic Universe park in Florida.
However, rollercoasters based on Back to the Future, Jurassic Park, and Minions are among the few expected to be outdoors. A major highlight will be a James Bond stunt show, designed in the style of the Bourne Stuntacular attraction in Orlando.
The project is being hailed by UK officials as a celebration of British cultural exports. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said, “These are things like James Bond, Paddington Bear… We’ve got so much to be proud of.”
Bedford’s Conservative Mayor Tom Wootton welcomed the investment: “Bedford is the perfect place for this – well-connected, full of talent and ready to grow. We’re proud to be chosen as the home of Universal in the UK.”
Universal expects the park to attract 8.5 million visitors annually. To accommodate this influx, significant transport infrastructure improvements are planned. The nearby Wixams station, expected to open next year, will be upgraded with additional platforms.
Universal also plans to add new slip roads on the A421 and is working alongside government plans to enhance access via Luton Airport and the East West Rail line, which is currently under construction.
While the inclusion of Harry Potter remains off-limits for now, the source hinted that Universal may explore adding other major brands such as Nintendo or Wicked in future expansions.
As Universal’s plans unfold, anticipation is building around what could become one of the UK’s most significant entertainment developments of the decade.
