Comcast Bets Big On UK Tourism With First Universal European Theme Park

Comcast Corp CMCSA owned NBCUniversal on Tuesday announced it is heading to Europe with plans to open its first-ever theme park and resort on the continent, marking a major expansion of its entertainment footprint.

The new complex will be located just south of Bedford in the United Kingdom, roughly 35 minutes by train from London.

The ambitious project is being developed by the Universal Destinations & Experiences division. The resort will include a full-scale theme park with multiple immersive worlds, a 500-room hotel, and a dedicated retail and dining area.

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Comcast purchased the 476-acre property in Bedford in 2023. The area has strong transportation connections, allowing more than 80% of England's residents and around half of the entire U.K. population to reach it within two hours.

"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," said President of Comcast, Mike Cavanagh.

The strategic location near mainland Europe is also anticipated to attract significant tourist traffic, positioning it as a likely contender for one of the most visited destinations in the area.

The proposed U.K. development is still in its preliminary phase and depends on securing planning permission from government authorities.

A detailed application is set to be filed in the next few months, with construction likely to commence in 2026 if approved. This move comes after over a year of research, including feasibility assessments and market evaluations.

"Expanding into Europe presents us with a significant opportunity to reach new fans and share the incredible experiences our team creates," said Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, Mark Woodbury.

As Universal looks to broaden its global presence, it is simultaneously growing its footprint within the United States. Over the next two years, the company intends to launch three new theme parks across the country.

Leading the lineup is Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida, set to debut this May. Touted as the company's most innovative development to date, the park has already generated $11 billion in nationwide economic impact and supported the creation of tens of thousands of jobs.

Next on the calendar is Universal Horror Unleashed, a horror-focused attraction set to launch in Las Vegas in late 2025. That will be followed by Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, in 2026, the company's first park tailored specifically for families with young children.

Price Action: CMCSA shares traded higher by 0.33% at $32.95 at the last check on Wednesday.

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