Universal Theme Parks 2024 & Beyond: 10 Reasons To Be Excited

1. A UK Theme Park?

The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Hogsmeade Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando

The biggest news in the theme park world of recent months is the possibility that Universal might be opening a future theme park in the UK.

Once again, Orlando Park Stop's Alicia Stella was on the case to investigate recent acquisitions made by the company through her marvellous detective skills.

Purchasing a large piece of land in Bedford and domain names for a "universalstudiosgreatbritain," the theme park expert uncovered that the company were seriously investigating the possibility of building a new park in the area. The huge plot of land is home to a former brickworks and is located just over 40 miles from London. An easy commutable distance with trains and recent road improvements in the area.

It turned out Alicia's investigation was spot on, with Universal themselves confirming that land had been acquired to see if "feasibility for a potential park and resort at this site" was possible. The company have even sent letters to local stakeholders and residents.

Universal Orlando Harry Potter Dark Arts Hogwarts
Universal Orlando Resort

Being based in the UK we are incredibly excited to see Universal look into building a new resort here. As much as we love their Hollywood and Orlando parks, it would be fantastic to see what Universal would do with a UK park. Especially given the climate changes that would need to be accounted for.

Could we get reimagined versions of our favourite properties from the US or will Universal look into more UK centric brands for a park based in England? Alicia suggests that the team are considering the park will not feature an cross over attractions, which seems a logical way not to impact the desire for UK tourism at Universal Orlando Resort.

We can't wait to see what becomes of this developing story. If Universal do decide their new land is viable for a park it will likely be a few years before we will step through the gates, but the thought of a HHN in the UK is nothing short of thrilling.

Contributor

Jen has been a writer and video editor at WhatCulture for over 10 years. She has a BA Hons in History from Newcastle University and in a past life worked at Beamish Open Air Museum and was a corporate trainer (BTC Award in Education and Training). Jen joined WhatCulture to discuss all things Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World, as well as her love of all things movies. She has worked closely with Universal and Disney, giving WhatCulture readers breaking news and exclusives. Her knowledge of Disney parks has lead her to be published by The Sun. If you've ever completed a Disney movies or Friends quiz on WhatCulture it was probably written by Jen. Jen's love of all things Universal's Halloween Horror Nights brought her to WhatCulture's Horror Channel as a video editor. Her video edits can be found across WhatCulture's Film & TV and Horror channels, along with WhatCulture's Facebook, Instagram and TikTok accounts.