Universal Orlando is getting set to open Epic Universe on May 22nd (and you can check out our preview here), but the company isn’t slowing down in bringing new theme parks to the WORLD.
Universal Orlando
Universal is busy constructing Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, for example. Plus there’s a whole new Universal horror experience coming to Las Vegas. But the company isn’t close to done — a new Universal theme park was recently announced for a theme park just outside of London, and according to the BBC, it looks like that theme park could have a Lord of the Rings land. WAIT? WHAT?
That’s right. A new Universal theme park is coming to Bedford, U.K. (pending some final approvals), just about 60 miles outside of London. The BBC is reporting that sources have informed it that one of the properties that will be represented in the new park will be Lord of the Rings. Wait…will we get a Smaug meet and greet? Will we get to drink with hobbits in a pub? Will there be an animatronic version of Golem? The possibilities are endless!
©New Line Cinema
However, we don’t know much more than that. Universal Destinations has stated that it’s too early in the process to know what kind of attractions the new theme park will have. However, the BBC is also reporting that James Bond and Paddington may also be represented in the new park, per a source close to Universal. Universal also revealed new concept art for what looks a lot like a James Bond stunt show.
©Universal
Other properties you can expect to see in the new park could be inspired by Back to the Future, Jurassic Park, and Minions. More concept art was released, showing an area that could be dedicated to Jurassic Park.
©Universal
U.K. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said the theme park would be an opportunity to show off “great British creations to the world.” This would set this theme park apart from other Universal destinations around the world. Interestingly enough, though, the park will not include a Harry Potter-themed area because the U.K. rights to Harry Potter belong to Warner Bros. However, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London isn’t too far away.
The new park is expected to open in 2031.
Stay tuned to DFB for more.
One MAJOR Thing Is Missing from Epic Universe
What do you think? Would you be interested in visiting a Universal theme park in the U.K.? Let us know in the comments!
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