Looking for inspiration before your stay? Here on our blog, we share local guides, travel ideas, and insider tips to help you discover the very best of Oxfordshire and beyond, from world-famous sites like Bicester Village and Blenheim Palace to hidden gems and peaceful countryside walks.
The announcement of Universal Studios UK is one of the biggest tourism stories Britain has seen in years. As the UK’s first Universal theme park moves closer, millions of visitors will soon be planning where to stay.” “While many people will naturally look for hotels close to the resort, others may prefer a more relaxing countryside escape with excellent transport links and plenty of attractions to enjoy. That’s where Bicester comes into the picture.”
Universal Studios is one of the world’s best-known entertainment brands, and its new UK resort near Bedford will be the company’s first theme park in Europe. Construction began in 2026, with the park expected to open in 2031. Once open, it’s expected to welcome around 8.5 million visitors each year, making it one of the UK’s largest tourist destinations.
One of the biggest developments reshaping access to Central England is the East West Rail project, expected to connect Bicester and Bedford in around 44 minutes. That could make Bicester one of the most convenient places to stay while avoiding the crowds around the resort itself.
A stay in Bicester offers far more than a single day at a theme park. Visitors can combine a day at Universal Studios UK with shopping at Bicester Village, exploring Blenheim Palace, or wandering through Oxford’s historic streets. Just a few minutes away, The Windmill Blackthorn Hill offers a different experience. A beautifully restored 300-year-old adults-only windmill, with luxury accommodation, stunning countryside views, and a peaceful setting to unwind after a busy day exploring.
Universal Studios UK is still several years away, but the combination of East West Rail, Bicester’s excellent location, and Oxfordshire’s outstanding attractions make this one of the most exciting areas to watch. “We’ll keep this page updated as new announcements are made, helping you plan your perfect future getaway.”
The announcement of Universal Studios UK is one of the biggest tourism stories Britain has seen in years. As the UK’s first Universal theme park moves closer, millions of visitors will soon be planning where to stay.” “While many people will naturally look for hotels close to the resort, others may prefer a more relaxing countryside escape with excellent transport links and plenty of attractions to enjoy. That’s where Bicester comes into the picture.”
Universal Studios is one of the world’s best-known entertainment brands, and its new UK resort near Bedford will be the company’s first theme park in Europe. Construction began in 2026, with the park expected to open in 2031. Once open, it’s expected to welcome around 8.5 million visitors each year, making it one of the UK’s largest tourist destinations.
One of the biggest developments reshaping access to Central England is the East West Rail project, expected to connect Bicester and Bedford in around 44 minutes. That could make Bicester one of the most convenient places to stay while avoiding the crowds around the resort itself.
A stay in Bicester offers far more than a single day at a theme park. Visitors can combine a day at Universal Studios UK with shopping at Bicester Village, exploring Blenheim Palace, or wandering through Oxford’s historic streets. Just a few minutes away, The Windmill Blackthorn Hill offers a different experience. A beautifully restored 300-year-old adults-only windmill, with luxury accommodation, stunning countryside views, and a peaceful setting to unwind after a busy day exploring.
Universal Studios UK is still several years away, but the combination of East West Rail, Bicester’s excellent location, and Oxfordshire’s outstanding attractions make this one of the most exciting areas to watch. “We’ll keep this page updated as new announcements are made, helping you plan your perfect future getaway.”

The Windmill
Blackthorn Hill
Oxon, OX25 1TJ
Nr Bicester - M40 jct 9
stay@thewindmillblackthornhill.co.uk
07973 202313

