Comcast NBCUniversal is bringing a Universal theme park to the United Kingdom.
Universal Destinations & Experiences is developing a theme park, hotel and entertainment complex just south of Bedford, about 35 minutes north of London by train.
The theme park will have "several themed lands featuring Universal's distinct style of immersive and thrilling rides, innovative attractions and exciting entertainment," according to a release.
An on-site hotel will have 500 guestrooms. There will also be a retail, dining and entertainment complex.
The Bedford campus sits on 476 acres of land purchased in 2023. Comcast estimated more than 80% of England's population, and half of the U.K.'s population, live within two hours of the site. It also expects to draw guests from continental Europe.
"Bringing the Universal brand to the United Kingdom is another exciting step forward in generating future growth," said Mark Woodbury, chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences. "Expanding into Europe presents us with a significant opportunity to reach new fans and share the incredible experiences our team creates."
The project is subject to planning approval, Comcast said. The company plans to submit a proposal to the government "in the months ahead," with construction projected to start in 2026.
The U.K. park is the latest in a string of projects under development from Universal. Epic Universe in Orlando is opening May 22, the Universal Horror Unleashed horror experience in Las Vegas is opening later this year, and the Universal Kids Resort is expected to open next year in Frisco, Texas.
Comcast said its investment in Epic Universe has generated "tens of thousands of jobs" and stimulated $11 billion in economic impact. Meanwhile, it has invested more than $10 billion in new and existing projects in the U.S. from 2018-2024.
"This is a special and historic milestone moment for our company as we continue to accelerate the growth trajectory of our theme parks business and delight audiences around the world," said Mike Cavanagh, president of Comcast Corp. "The unparalleled storytelling and technological innovation that the incredible team at Universal Destinations & Experiences brings to life is a perfect complement to the British creative arts and tourism industries."