The upcoming UK Universal theme park in Bedfordshire is steadily moving from concept to reality, with construction expected to begin in 2026 ahead of a projected 2031 opening. The resort — set to become one of Europe’s largest theme parks — will feature multiple themed lands and cutting-edge attractions comparable to Universal’s parks in Orlando, Japan, Singapore and Beijing.

While Universal has yet to confirm specific ride suppliers, looking at the company’s recent global projects and technology partnerships gives us strong clues about which manufacturers could play a major role in Universal UK.

Here’s a breakdown of the ride manufacturers most likely to appear — and why.

Mack Rides – A Universal Favourite for Story-Driven Coasters

One of the clearest candidates for Universal UK is Mack Rides, whose relationship with Universal has strengthened significantly in recent years.

At Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe, Mack Rides is responsible for Curse of the Werewolf, a launched spinning coaster combining family thrills with immersive storytelling.

This aligns perfectly with Universal’s current design philosophy — attractions that blend coaster elements with narrative scenes and show control.

Why Mack Rides fits Universal UK

• Proven Universal partner on major recent projects
• Wide portfolio including launch coasters, powered coasters and water coasters
• Strong reputation for family-thrill attractions suited to IP-driven lands

Mack’s flexible ride systems could easily anchor mid-tier thrill rides or immersive dark-ride-coaster hybrids expected in the UK park.

Intamin – High-Tech Thrill and Family Innovation

Another likely contender is Intamin, a manufacturer known for pushing technological boundaries across both thrill and family attractions.

Recent UK installations such as Gold Rush at Drayton Manor demonstrate Intamin’s modern “Lift & Launch” family coaster approach, which delivers dynamic layouts without extreme height restrictions.

Universal frequently utilises Intamin for advanced ride systems globally, particularly where complex layouts or innovative motion technology are required.

Why Intamin could feature

• Expertise in launch systems and high-capacity coasters
• Proven family-thrill models suited to broad audiences
• Track record with large-scale, technically ambitious projects

If Universal UK includes a signature multi-launch coaster or family thrill centrepiece, Intamin is a strong possibility.

Vekoma – The Modern Family Coaster Powerhouse

Over the past decade, Vekoma has undergone a dramatic reputation shift, emerging as a go-to supplier for smooth, highly themed family coasters and next-generation thrill rides.

Although historically associated with earlier UK installations, the company’s modern portfolio now dominates many new themed lands worldwide.

Reasons Vekoma makes sense for Universal UK

• Cost-effective yet highly customisable coaster models
• Excellent capacity for family-oriented IP attractions
• Strong global presence in modern immersive lands

Universal’s parks often feature multiple family coasters across different lands — an area where Vekoma excels.

Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M) – Iconic Headline Thrill Coasters

For a potential headline thrill attraction, Bolliger & Mabillard remains one of the most realistic candidates.

The manufacturer recently delivered Mandrill Mayhem in the UK — a launched wing coaster highlighting B&M’s expanding technological range beyond traditional lift-hill designs.

Universal has historically used B&M for visually striking, high-capacity attractions that serve as skyline icons.

Why B&M could appear

• Industry-leading reliability and throughput
• Visually imposing designs suited to park marketing
• Expanding portfolio including launch systems and wing coasters

If Universal UK aims for a “must-ride” steel coaster visible across the resort, B&M would be a logical partner.

Dynamic Dark Ride Specialists – KUKA and Beyond

Universal’s biggest technological leaps often occur within dark rides rather than roller coasters.

At Epic Universe, Universal is deploying robotic-arm ride technology using KUKA systems for the Monsters Unchained attraction — demonstrating the company’s ongoing investment in advanced motion-based experiences.

Implications for Universal UK

• Expect at least one next-generation robotic dark ride
• Motion-base vehicles and trackless systems likely
• Multiple specialist suppliers may collaborate

Universal UK will almost certainly feature several dark rides, meaning a diverse range of ride-system manufacturers beyond traditional coaster builders.

The Bigger Picture – A Multi-Manufacturer Resort

If Universal’s global strategy continues, the UK resort will not rely on a single manufacturer but instead utilise a multi-vendor approach.

This allows each attraction to use the best available technology for its creative goals — whether that’s:

• A flagship thrill coaster
• A family storytelling coaster
• A high-tech dark ride
• A water or immersive motion attraction

With the park expected to attract millions annually and compete with Europe’s largest resorts, Universal UK is likely to showcase a broad cross-section of the world’s top ride suppliers.

Based on recent Universal developments and global theme park trends, the manufacturers most likely to appear at Universal UK include:

• Mack Rides
• Intamin
• Vekoma
• Bolliger & Mabillard
• Robotic and dark-ride system specialists such as KUKA

While official announcements may still be years away, the direction of Universal’s recent investments provides strong clues about what British guests could experience when the gates finally open.