Bricking it: The Universal Studios UK Podcast

Bricking It inc

Bricking It: The Universal Studios UK Podcast is a discussion-based podcast hosted by Andy (Project Universal), Lawrence (Universally Bedford), and Mike (Universal Studios Great Britain Updates). The show covers the latest Universal Studios UK news and rumours, alongside broader Universal and theme park discussion, including informed speculation, future wishes and wants for the park, and general industry chat. Featuring relaxed round-table conversations, regular guest appearances, and passionate yet informed debate, Bricking It explores what the future of Universal in the UK could look like.

Subscribe Listen in podnod RSS feed Show website

21 episodes
Updated Yesterday
Explicit

Episodes21

Newest first

Yesterday · 1 hr 26 min
Universal Studios UK Construction, Back to the Future & John Wardley
Universal Studios UK construction is accelerating—and the Back to the Future coaster debate is getting serious. This episode covers the latest work around Manor Road, the core zone, new haul routes, tree clearance and the huge quantities of soil being moved across the Bedford resort site. The team also examines Universal’s environmental plans, including new ponds, wildlife crossings, wetlands, habitat restoration and a management commitment stretching across 50 years. Then the speculation shifts to attractions: will a Back to the Future launch coaster genuinely reach 88 mph, could modern Universal technology create a cinematic DeLorean launch, and would spinning ride vehicles actually make sense? The hosts also debate whether the UK park will feel more like Islands of Adventure, Universal Beijing or Epic Universe—and whether the central lagoon wastes valuable space. John Bunyan returns with River Festival stories, ghostly stomach problems and a fear of church bells. Plus, John Wardley is coming to Bedford to discuss designing iconic roller coasters, Andy shares his Norwegian cruise highlights, and the podcast finds time for kebabs, Pringles, theme park beer and Mickey Mouse behaving like a psychopath. Chapters: 0:00 Take 53 Begins 4:32 Burgers, Kebabs and Pringles 9:46 Construction Site News 19:38 Trees, Lakes and Wildlife 29:27 The Site Opens Up 31:40 Launch Coaster Anxiety 38:47 Back to the Future Rumours 51:23 Bunyan Returns 58:58 Listener Question and Layout 1:11:11 John Wardley Comes to Bedford
July 22 · 1 hr 26 min
Universal Studios UK 2031 Predictions: Prices, Rides & Opening
Universal Studios UK 2031 predictions get specific: opening day, ticket prices, roller coasters, themed lands, queue times, Express Passes, Butterbeer, merchandise and even the likely cost of a churro. Mike, Lawrence and Andy create a 20-question time-capsule quiz that they will revisit when the Bedford resort opens. Their guesses cover the exact opening date, adult and child admission, annual passes, beer prices, the number of rides, the tallest coaster, top speed, restaurants, shops and single-rider queues. They also debate rumors surrounding Jurassic World Adventure, Pokémon attractions and the Back to the Future coaster. Away from the predictions, Lawrence's recurring John Bunyan persona returns to discuss Elstow Brook and the Universal development, the group remembers BBC Ghostwatch and Most Haunted, and Andy shares stories about ghost hunting, World of Warcraft and repeatedly riding Nemesis. It is a mix of Universal Studios UK news, theme park speculation and chaotic comedy—with predictions preserved for the ultimate fact-check in 2031. Add your own answers and see whether you can beat the hosts when the resort finally opens. Chapters: 0:00 Cold Open and Introductions 3:23 Pokémon, Merch and Japan 17:13 John Bunyan Returns 23:15 Ghost Hunts and Ghostwatch 27:27 Five-Year Quiz Setup 31:54 Twenty Predictions 50:39 Prices and Opening Day 1:00:37 Rides, Lands and Queues 1:23:12 Voicemail and Farewell
July 14 · 1 hr 5 min
750 Trucks a Day, Road Closures, Project Horizon - with Bex from Parkcast
Lawrence, Andy and Mike host Bex from ParkCast for a wide-ranging episode about Universal Studios UK construction updates, on-site diggers and deliveries, coaster rumours (Intamin / launch coaster talk), and industry culture. We cover Manor Road closures, Wixam station tree clearance, the animated podcast experiment, and a spicy conversation about leaked Project Horizon slides and the fallout in enthusiast communities. Expect quick-fire opinions on standout attractions, what might disappoint (looking at Minions), plus a surreal John Bunyan cameo and plenty of banter. If you search for "Universal UK construction", "Project Horizon leak", "Universal coaster rumours" or "ParkCast interview", this episode has the clips and quotes people are sharing. Chapters: 0:00 Intro & Banter 3:00 Meet Bex from ParkCast 11:03 Newsflash & Site Updates 30:44 Animation & Jingles 41:48 Coaster vs Dark Ride 48:00 John Bunyan Sketch 54:40 Leak, Ethics & Toxic Fans 1:02:13 Wrap & Where to Find Bex
July 8 · 1 hr 23 min
Universal Kids Resort, Fast and Furious: Hollywood Drift, Scary Movies and Your Questions
In Episode 5 of Bricking It: The Universal UK Resort Podcast, Andy, Mike and Lawrence unpack: Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas Hollywood Drift: Could this be the blueprint for our Back to the Future rollercoaster? The Scariest Movie Ever Your Questions And more! Thanks for following, subscribing and dropping us a five star review!
July 1 · 1 hr 19 min
Bricking It – The Universal United Kingdom Resort Podcast | Season 2, Episode 4: Big Machines, Universal Trivia & A Good Old Bloke Chat
Welcome back to Bricking It – The Universal United Kingdom Resort Podcast! This week, Andy from Project Universal is joined by Lawrence from Universally Bedford and Mike from Universal United Kingdom GB Updates for another relaxed chat in the shed about everything happening at the Universal United Kingdom Resort construction site. The team discuss the arrival of some impressive new machinery, look back at the latest activity across the site, and share their thoughts on what it all could mean as work continues to gather pace. To finish the episode, things get competitive as everyone takes part in a Universal history quiz to find out who really knows their theme park facts! If you enjoy listening, please take a moment to follow the podcast, leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ five-star review, and share it with friends and family who are just as excited about the future of the Universal United Kingdom Resort. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode!
June 24 · 1 hr 27 min
Bricking It – Season 2 Episode 3: New Diggers, Broadmead Road & a Good Old Bloke Chat
Join Andy, Mike and Lawrence for another episode of Bricking It: The Universal United Kingdom Resort Podcast as we catch up on the latest developments at the future Universal resort site in Bedford. This week we discuss the ongoing works around Broadmead Road, new machinery arriving on site, archaeology progress, and what the latest activity could mean for the months ahead. We also take a moment to reflect on the recent train crash in Bedford and the impact it has had on the local community. As always, the conversation doesn't stay on the rails for long, and before you know it we're doing what three blokes do best – solving the world's problems from behind a microphone while sharing our thoughts on all things Universal UK and beyond. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider leaving us a rating and review on your favourite podcast platform. It really helps more people discover the show. You can also follow our latest updates and join the conversation on social media: 📱 Project Universal 📱 Universally Bedford 📱 Universal Studios GB Updates New episodes available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. #UniversalUK #UniversalStudiosUK #UniversalUnitedKingdomResort #Bedford #ThemeParks #BrickingItPodcast #UniversalNews #ProjectUniversal #Podcast #UniversalResortUK
June 17 · 1 hr 19 min
Bricking It! Season 2 Episode 2 – From Japan to Orlando… and Andy Went to Work
This week on Bricking It! – The Universal United Kingdom Resort Podcast, the team reunites to compare notes from opposite sides of the globe. Mike shares highlights from his recent trip to Japan, including his experiences visiting some of the world's most impressive theme parks, while Lawrence reports back from Orlando with plenty of stories, observations, and theme park adventures from the entertainment capital of the world. As for Andy? Well... he went to work. Somebody had to keep an eye on Bedford. Expect the usual mix of theme park chat, Universal UK discussion, friendly banter, questionable opinions, and the occasional beverage-fuelled tangent. Whether you're following the progress of Universal UK, planning your own theme park adventure, or just fancy spending an hour with three enthusiasts talking all things parks, we've got you covered.
June 10 · 1 hr 16 min
Back From The Future! 🍻 | New Names, New Details & Universal UK Keeps Moving | Season 2 Episode 1
Season 2 is finally here, and after what feels like a trip through time, the Bricking It crew is back behind the microphones! In this first episode of the new season, Andy from Project Universal joins Lawrence and Mike to catch up on everything that's happened while we've been away. With Universal officially revealing the name Universal United Kingdom Resort, there's plenty to talk about as the project continues to gather momentum. We dive into the latest announcements, discuss what the new branding could mean for the future of the resort, and take a look at what's been happening on site around Bedford. From construction progress and infrastructure works to rumours, speculation, and community reactions, nothing is off the table. As always, this isn't a formal news bulletin. Think of it more as pulling up a chair in the pub, grabbing a pint, and chatting all things Universal with friends who are just as obsessed with the project as you are. So whether you've been following since the earliest Project Nectarine rumours or you've only recently discovered the UK's biggest theme park development, pull up a seat and join us for the start of another season. In this episode, in no particular order: • Our return after the break• Universal United Kingdom Resort – the new official name• Latest construction and site updates• Infrastructure, roads and transport developments• Community reactions and discussions• Rumours, speculation and what we're watching next• Plenty of laughs, tangents and the usual pub-style chat Grab a drink, get comfortable, and welcome back to Bricking It. #UniversalUK #UniversalUnitedKingdomResort #UniversalStudiosUK #ThemeParks #BrickingItPodcast #ProjectUniversal #Bedford #UniversalDestinations #ThemeParkNews #ConstructionUpdate
May 1 · 1 hr 23 min
Episode 15: Season One Finale - Our Universal Travel Plans for May 2026!
Welcome back to Bricking It: The Universal Studios UK Podcast! In this, the finale of our first season, we cover off the latest news from the site - and what we can expect over the next few weeks before construction hits another gear in June 2026! After that, we cover off Mike's upcoming trip to Universal Studios Japan (and other Japanese parks), as well as Lawrence's trip to Orlando - and Epic Universe. We'll be taking a month's break through May 2026, but will be returning, with a full contingent, from June - when the site updates will be coming thick and fast! Take care of yourselves until then!
April 10 · 1 hr 10 min
Episode 14: A site drive-by, construction latest, new jobs, and HHN news! PLUS: Your Questions!
On this episode, we cover the ramp-up in groundwork at the site, which is preparing for 750 deliveries a day starting in July or August. We discuss the new access point from Manor Road, the appearance of more fencing and temporary roads, and the stripping of topsoil as archaeological works slow down and prepare to wrap up in May. Plus, a heads-up on road closures, including the total closure of Broadmead Road from April 20th to May 22nd for a new site entrance. In Industry News, we delve into the drip-fed announcements for Halloween Horror Nights (HHN), including the Jack vs Oddfellow house celebrating HHN 35, and speculate on Universal's land clearing near Epic Universe. Finally, we review new job postings like Civil Engineer and Show and Set Designer, asking for listener input on their dream roles at Universal, and we call for your travel tips for Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Japan ahead of our upcoming trips.
March 27 · 1 hr 38 min
Episode 13: Unearthing the Future – Archaeology, Floods, and the 2026 UK Park Landscape
Welcome back to another episode of Bricking It: The Universal Studios UK Podcast! Grab your hard hats and your wellies, because this week we are diving deep into the gritty, on-the-ground reality of the Universal Studios Bedford project. In this jam-packed episode, we’re looking at what it actually takes to get a world-class resort out of the mud—literally. Here is what we're covering this week: The Big Archaeological Update: We break down the massive archaeological digs happening right now. What are they uncovering on site, and how is it impacting the master timeline? Roadblocks & Road Closures: Navigating the local logistics is becoming a ride in itself. We discuss the latest road closures, traffic management, and what it means for the surrounding community. Battling the Elements: Flooding on site! We talk about how the recent weather has thrown a spanner in the works and what the construction teams are doing to manage the waterlogged grounds. The 2026 UK Theme Park Landscape: With the looming shadow of Universal getting closer to reality, we take a step back to look at the big picture. How are the current UK heavyweights reacting, and what does the theme park scene look like as we push through 2026? Plus, as always, we’ve got your listener questions, the latest rumors, and much more! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an update, and leave us a review if you are enjoying the show. Have a question or a rumor you want us to investigate? Hit us up on our socials!
March 11 · 1 hr 27 min
From Lift Hills to Universal – Talking Thrills with Sean from Lift Hills and Thrills!
We’re honoured to be joined by Sean from Lift Hills and Thrills, the hugely popular theme park YouTube channel and website, to talk all things coasters, creativity, and the future of Universal Studios UK. In this episode, Sean shares his journey through the world of theme parks — how it all began, what fuels his passion, and what it’s like building a respected voice in the enthusiast community. We also dive into what excites him most about Universal Studios UK and what he’s personally hoping to see when the park opens its gates. If you love theme park talk, big ideas, and hearing from passionate creators in the community, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
March 4 · 1 hr
Dirt, Diggers & Decisions – Things are moving at Universal Studios UK!
It’s Episode 11 and things are officially getting serious at Universal Studios UK in Kempston Hardwick! 🚜 In today’s catch-up, we dive into the latest comings and goings from the construction site — and trust us, it’s BUSY. From diggers and dumper trucks to bulldozers carving out the future of the park, the amount of work now taking place is incredible. The site is absolutely alive with activity, and yes… there are archaeologists everywhere too. We chat about the fascinating (and surprisingly important!) topic of dirt placement, the sheer scale of equipment now on site, and of course… the big question of the week — what is Mike calling his YouTube channel this time? 😄 If you love following the journey of Universal Studios UK from the ground up, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
February 25 · 1 hr 20 min
Brickin’ It: The 1980s Universal Studios Movie Quiz Episode
Welcome back to Bricking-It: The Universal Studios UK Podcast! This week, we’re hopping in the DeLorean and hitting 88mph as we head back to the most tubular decade of them all. Are you a true 80s movie buff or are you just "brickin it"? We’ve put together the ultimate 1980s Movie Quiz featuring the heavy hitters of Universal and beyond. From the clock tower in Back to the Future to the spooky streets of New York, we’re testing your knowledge on the films that defined a generation. The Ultimate 80s Quiz: Can you beat the hosts? Back to the Future Trivia: Only for the real Hill Valley experts. Iconic Universal Classics: How well do you remember the golden era? How to play: We’ll give you the clues, you provide the answers in the gaps! Drop your score in the comments below—no cheating or we'll send a Terminator back to find you. 🤖 Subscribe for more Universal Studios UK news, rumors, and retro fun! #UniversalStudios #80sMovies #BackToTheFuture #MovieQuiz #BrickinItPodcast #UniversalUK #RetroGaming #PodcastLife 🧠 IN THIS EPISODE:👇 JOIN THE COMMUNITY
February 18 · 1 hr 9 min
Massive Construction Update!
The "bricks" are officially moving! In Episode 9 of Bricking It, Andy, Lawrence, and Mike dive into the most significant construction update since the project was announced. Following the official activation of the Special Development Order (SDO) in January, the Bedford site has transformed into a hive of activity. We break down the latest drone footage showing the "Diggertron 330" in action, the arrival of the 30-ton heavy hitters, and why there’s so much orange-jacketed activity in the Core Zone.
February 11 · 1 hr 25 min
What Should Universal Studios UK Sound Like? Interview with Nick Hutson
Episode Summary: If you close your eyes at a theme park, the music tells you exactly where you are. In Episode 8, we are joined by the incredible Nick Hutson, a composer whose work has graced everything from Alton Towers' Scarefest to the legendary Theme Park Fan: The Musical. As construction continues on the Bedford site, we ask the big question: What is the "sound" of Universal UK? Nick breaks down the difference between scoring a dark ride and an outdoor plaza, how to blend different intellectual properties (IP) into a cohesive park-wide atmosphere, and his theories on the musical score for the rumored Pokemon and Harry Potter lands. Key Discussion Points: * The Composer’s Craft: Nick’s journey from enthusiast to professional theme park composer. Atmospheric Immersion: How music bridges the gap between the "real world" and a movie-based theme park. IP Soundscapes: Integrating iconic film scores (John Williams, etc.) into a physical environment. Bedford Speculation: What instruments and tones define the "Great Britain" aesthetic for Universal?
February 4 · 1 hr 7 min
Is Pokemon Coming to Bedford? Universal’s Global Deal & Site Progress Revealed
Episode Summary: The "bricks" are finally moving! In Episode 7, the team dives into a massive month for Universal Destinations & Experiences. Following the official groundbreaking on January 12, 2026, we take a look at the heavy machinery now active in the Core Zone and what those archaeological surveys actually mean for the 2031 opening timeline. Plus, the news the internet has been waiting for: Universal and The Pokémon Company have officially announced a "bold new global project." We speculate on what this means for the UK park—could we see a real-life Pallet Town in Bedfordshire? Key Discussion Points: * The Groundbreaking: Analyzing the latest drone footage of the Bedford site. Pokemon x Universal: Breaking down Mark Woodbury’s global announcement and its implications for the UK. Infrastructure Watch: Updates on the Wixams railway station and the new haul roads. Listener Q&A: Will Pokemon replace other rumored lands like Harry Potter or Shrek?
January 28 · 1 hr 25 min
Are you a Universal Theme Park Nerd? Universally Bedford vs Project Universal
Can a theme park superfan be defeated by a casual observer? In this high-stakes episode of Bricking It, the tables are turned! Our resident quizmaster Mike (Universal Studios GB Updates) puts the boys to the test with 25 grueling questions spanning the entire globe of Universal Destinations & Experiences. From the fog of Halloween Horror Nights in Orlando to the high-tech marvels of Universal Studios Japan, no stone is left unturned. Lawrence, known for his deep-dive expertise at Universally Bedford, enters the arena as the heavy favorite. Meanwhile, Andy from Project Universal—who claims he’s "not a theme park nerd"—is looking to pull off the ultimate underdog upset. Global Trivia: 25 questions covering Hollywood, Orlando, Japan, Singapore, and even early whispers of Universal Studios Great Britain. Expert vs. Amateur: Can Lawrence’s encyclopedic knowledge hold up under pressure, or will Andy’s "common sense" approach win the day? Play Along: We challenge YOU to keep score. Are you a "Team Member" in training or a "Creative Director" level genius? The Results: Stick around until the end to see who takes home the (imaginary) trophy and the ultimate bragging rights in the Bedford brickworks. "It’s not just about what you know—it’s about how you handle the pressure when Mike starts digging into the obscure 90s history of the parks!"
January 21 · 1 hr 33 min
Universal Studios UK EXPOSED?! ft. Alicia Stella (Theme Park Stop)
This is a BIG one. In this very special episode of Bricking It, the Universal Studios UK podcast, we’re joined by none other than Alicia Stella from Theme Park Stop — one of the most trusted voices in the theme park community. Alicia has been at the forefront of Universal Studios rumours, analysis, and breaking news, and today she joins us to talk through everything we know so far about Universal’s UK plans. From land use and ride speculation, nothing is off the table. We also dive into Alicia’s journey — how she got started, how Theme Park Stop became such a go-to source for fans, and what it’s really like covering an industry where rumours can move faster than roller coasters. Whether you’re obsessed with Universal Studios UK, fascinated by theme park development, or just want an insider-level conversation with one of the best in the business, this episode is not to be missed. 🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to follow Bricking It for more Universal Studios UK updates, speculation, and deep dives. #UniversalStudiosUK #ThemeParks #AliciaStella #ThemeParkStop #UniversalStudios #BrickingItPodcast #ThemeParkNews #ThemeParkPodcast #UKThemeParks #UniversalCreative
January 14 · 1 hr 12 min
Theme Park Rides, Concept Art & Universal Studios UK Discussion
In the latest episode of Bricking It, the Universal Studios UK podcast, the core trio — Universally Bedford, Project Universal, and Universal Studios Great Britain Updates — dive into another wide-ranging discussion on Universal Studios UK and the wider theme park industry. We talk about theme park rides at other parks, revisit the concrete crushers back on the concrete slab, and dig into the ongoing conversation around concept art — including artwork appearing upside down and the circulation of fake concept art. The episode also brings real-world perspective, with Project Universal sharing insight from experience working at a theme park and how that shapes expectations around design, construction, and operations. From industry rumours to practical realities, this episode blends speculation, experience, and honest discussion as we continue to break down everything surrounding Universal Studios UK and beyond.