We Finally Know Which City Is Getting Universal's Next Theme Park

Many Americans know the fun that comes from a visit to a Universal theme park. But Universal parks aren't just limited to Florida and California; Asia is home to three locations (and counting) in Osaka, Beijing, and Singapore. 

Now, a third continent is about to join the party. On Dec. 19, Universal confirmed that it was looking into building a new theme park in England just 60 miles north of London in the town of Bedford. 

"We recently acquired land in Bedford and are at the early stages of exploring its feasibility for a potential park and resort at this site," a Universal Destinations & Experiences spokesperson told Travel + Leisure. "It will be many months before we are ready to make a decision to proceed and we look forward to engaging with all relevant stakeholders and the local community."

While other theme parks have expanded into Europe with ventures like Disneyland Paris, the potential Universal park in the U.K. would be the first of its kind. Placing it outside one of the most populous cities on the continent makes it an ideal destination for locals as well as tourists. The 240 acres in Bedford is accessible by public transportation from London in approximately 45 minutes. 

By being so close to the big city, it will undoubtedly bring in visitors from across the continent looking for a fun day trip outside the city. Bedford, located in the middle of the country with proximity to several cities, is within two hours from more than half of the U.K.'s entire population. 

As for when fans can expect to see it or what characters will be a part of the park, the company affirmed the talks were in early stages and nothing was confirmed. So while there may already be a Harry Potter attraction at the Warner Bros. Studios Tour London, it remains up in the air if England will get its own Wizarding World of Harry Potter.