UK Set To Lead European Tourism As Universal Studios Resort In Bedford Brings Iconic Attractions Thrilling Rides And A Fifty Billion Pounds Economic Impact

Published on December 22, 2025

The UK is poised to become a major player in European tourism with the arrival of Universal Studios’ first-ever theme park in Bedford. This groundbreaking development promises to bring world-class attractions, including record-breaking rollercoasters, while generating a significant economic boost. With an estimated £50 billion contribution to the UK economy, the project is expected to create thousands of jobs, attract millions of visitors annually, and transform the region into a top destination in Europe.

In a monumental step forward for UK tourism, the government has officially granted planning permission for the country’s first-ever Universal Studios theme park. Set to begin construction in 2026, the park will be located in Kempston Hardwick, near Bedford. This new development, tentatively named the Universal Destinations & Experiences Entertainment Resort Complex, is set to become a premier destination for both local residents and tourists from around the world.

Spanning 476 acres on Broadmead Farm, the resort will offer a thrilling mix of rides and attractions, inspired by some of Universal’s most beloved franchises, including Jurassic Park, Minions, and Jaws. The park’s design also includes a 500-room hotel, retail outlets, and entertainment complexes, transforming the area into a complete holiday destination for visitors of all ages.

One of the park’s most highly anticipated features is its record-breaking rollercoaster, which is expected to reach a height of 377 feet (115 meters), making it the tallest in Europe. This would surpass the current record held by the Red Force rollercoaster at PortAventura World in Spain, which stands at 112 meters. The proposed height is not only a bold design choice but is also intended to help the park compete with other major European theme parks, maximizing space efficiency in an area with limited land availability.

This world-class resort is expected to draw in 8.5 million visitors annually, with peak days potentially seeing up to 55,000 guests. The economic impact is predicted to be substantial, with an estimated 28,000 jobs created – 20,000 during construction and 8,000 once the park is operational. By 2055, the park is expected to contribute nearly £50 billion to the UK economy, making it a significant driver of tourism and local growth.

Preparatory work for the project has already begun. Fields at Broadmead Farm were harvested over the summer, clearing the way for construction. Recent drone footage shows vehicles beginning the groundwork, marking the start of what will be an extensive and ambitious development.

To facilitate the influx of visitors, a new railway station is being proposed at nearby Stewartby. This station would be part of the East West Rail (EWR) project, which is designed to link Oxford, Cambridge, Milton Keynes, and Bedford. The integration of the new station is a key part of Universal’s plans to ensure sustainable access to the park. Once completed, the station will provide direct access to local roads, educational facilities, and the broader rail network, helping to manage the anticipated increase in visitors.

The East West Rail project, in collaboration with Universal, is slated to be completed by 2031, providing a modern and efficient transport link to the resort. This development is expected to greatly enhance connectivity between the park and surrounding areas, making it even more accessible for both domestic and international travelers.

As construction on the park gets underway, this new Universal Studios resort is poised to reshape the tourism landscape in the UK. By combining cutting-edge attractions with a strong focus on sustainability and accessibility, the park is set to become a key player in the country’s tourism industry. With its promise of thrilling experiences, job creation, and economic growth, the Universal Destinations & Experiences Entertainment Resort Complex will not only boost local economies but also solidify the UK’s position as a leading destination for global travelers.