UNIVERSAL APPEAL

From gamers to horror buffs and Harry Potter fans, a new Florida theme park has something for everyone.

- By ADAM MAIDMENT

BUCKLE up for more thrills - Universal Orlando’s £7billion Epic Universe is set to open on May 22, and it will be Florida’s first new major theme park in 26 years.

Universal Orlando's fourth park is a sprawling 110-acre attraction that includes more than 50 rides, rollercoasters, shows, shops and restaurant experiences.

It’s centred on the main hub of Celestial Park and guests are trans-ported into five “portals” based on franchises such as Super Mario and Harry Potter.

I visited last month for a sneak peek before it opens and here's what you need to know...

HERE BE DRAGONS

My visit started with a trip to How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons happily co-exist.

The largest of the portal worlds, the area is stunning, with huge, soaring landscapes and vast waters. The best ride in this area has to be Hiccup’s Wing Gliders - a launched rollercoaster that is one of the smoothest of its kind. Roaring through the skies as if you're on a dragon yourself, it’s fast (but not frightening), exciting and will be a big hit thanks to the seriously impressive animatronics.

Another knockout in the Isle of Berk is the Untrainable Dragon stage show. It’s singers, dancers, performers and, of course, dragons, it blew me away. No spoilers, but be prepared to spend the entire time in awe and amazement.

MINISTRY OF MAGIC

For Harry Potter fans, Epic Universe expands on the offerings already at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure with a new 1920s Parisian-themed world taken right out of the Fantastic Beasts film series.

It's incredibly detailed and full of whimsy. It’s also somewhere that can be appreciated by both the die-hard fans and those less familiar with the wizarding world.

The Place Cachée area features shops, street performers, hidden alleyways and plenty of magic.