What does the next decade look like for the UK theme park industry?

Nick sits down with theme park commentator and analyst Shawn Sanbrooke for a wide-ranging discussion about the biggest developments shaping Britain’s attractions landscape. We explore the latest progress on Universal Studios Bedford, what the arrival of a major new resort could mean for the UK market, and how existing parks may respond.

We also look at what’s on the horizon for Alton Towers, Chessington World of Adventures, and Paultons Park, discussing recent investments, rumoured projects and how each park is positioning itself for the future.

With new rides, expanding resorts, and international competition on the way, how will the UK theme park scene evolve over the next six years — and beyond? Will Universal change everything, or will Britain’s established parks rise to the challenge?

Join Nick and Shawn as they dig into the opportunities, risks, and exciting possibilities ahead for UK theme park fans.

Nick is joined by Serena from CoasterForce for a passionate deep dive into the legendary Halloween event Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida.

A huge fan of the event, Serena shares what makes Halloween Horror Nights so special – from the immersive storytelling to the unforgettable haunted houses that have defined the event over the years. Together, Nick and Serena count down some of their favourite houses, the ones they’d love to see created in the future, and even a few they hope never return. They also talk about the houses they regret missing and the legends of the event that have become part of Horror Nights folklore.

The conversation also explores how video game properties are increasingly influencing the event’s haunted houses, and what that might mean for the future of Horror Nights. Finally, Nick and Serena look ahead to the arrival of Universal Studios Great Britain, discussing how Halloween Horror Nights could evolve when it eventually reaches the UK – and how the event might need to adapt for British audiences when the park is expected to open in Bedford in 2031.

A must-listen for Halloween Horror Nights fans, theme park enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the future of immersive seasonal events. 

TSPP returns in 2026 celebrating the life of a good friend and a legend in the Themed Entertainment Industry, Eddie Sotto. Christopher Merritt (Creative Director-Universal Creative/Author of Knott’s Preserved, The Happiest Place on Earth) joins Doug, Brent, and Robert to look back on the incredible legacy of Eddie. Enjoy.

Links:

Chris Merritt & Don Hahn’s The Happiest Place on Earth (Amazon Books)

Walt Disney Birthplace 

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© 2026 Season Pass Podcast

Nick is joined by Adam for a packed episode of Nick’s ERT, diving deep into the latest theme park news from the UK, Europe, and beyond.

Adam is gearing up for his second visit to Epic Universe, and the pair discuss what makes a return trip so exciting — and what Adam is most looking forward to experiencing again.

Back on home turf, they break down Paultons Park’s brand-new Viking land, discuss the arrival of Paw Patrol at Chessington World of Adventures, and speculate on what the future might hold for Chessington — including rumours of a potential Minecraft-themed area.

Elsewhere in the UK, they chat about Bluey’s continued theme park expansion at Alton Towers Resort, and take a look north to Blackpool, where a dramatic new Gyro Swing ride is set to change the skyline.

Internationally, Nick and Adam discuss the newly announced LEGO Space coaster planned for California and Florida, and ask the big question: should something similar come to Windsor to help compete with Universal’s expected UK arrival around 2031?

They also touch on guest experience concerns at Busch Gardens, questioning locker charging policies, before finishing in Paris with thoughts on Disney Adventure World at Disneyland Paris — including excitement around its upcoming Frozen-themed ride.

Nick welcomes back return guest Mike for a timely and fascinating conversation about two huge pieces of Universal news. Fresh from a visit to Epic Universe, Mike shares his on-the-ground impressions of Universal’s newest theme park and how it’s shaping expectations for the future of immersive entertainment.

The discussion then turns much closer to home with the announcement of Universal Studios UK — a development that’s especially personal for Mike, who lives within walking distance of the proposed site. Together, Nick and Mike unpack how the news broke, what the reaction from local residents has been like, and Mike’s own evolving views on what the project could mean for the area, the UK theme park industry, and fans alike.

Mike also talks about his work covering the story in depth through his own shows, including his Universal-focused podcast BRICKING IT, and his YouTube channel Universal Studios Great Britain Updates, which tracks every rumour, update, and planning development surrounding the park.

A must-listen episode for anyone excited, curious, or cautiously optimistic about Universal’s future in the UK — and what it feels like when a world-class theme park might be coming to your literal doorstep.