A new Universal theme park near Bedford - the first in Europe - was announced to much fanfare earlier this week. Set to open in 2031, construction is to begin at the 476-acre (1.9-sq-km) site, where attractions are likely to feature James Bond, Paddington and The Lord of the Rings.

Universal Horror Unleashed, a year-round horror entertainment experience, will open in Las Vegas, Nevada later in 2025. Then Universal Kids Resort, the company’s first theme park designed specifically for families with young children, will open in Frisco, Texas in 2026.

Universal’s latest theme park, Epic Universe, is mere weeks from opening its gates but the company already has its sights set on its next project. The company announced it’s getting ready to start construction on a multibillion pound Universal Studios theme park in Bedford, England, with an aim on opening in 2031.