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Legoland |
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Legoland |
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A theme park dedicated to all things Lego, including models of famous landmarks and themed rides |
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In 1934, a Danish toy maker decided to call his new company "Lego". The name came from a phrase in his native language that meant "play well". A few years later, in 1949, this company began to design and manufacture a series of interlocking bricks, of all different shapes and sizes. These pieces could be snapped together, and then easily taken apart again. |
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The design of the bricks took a bit of work, but in 1958 they were finalised. Bricks made in this year are still compatible with those made here in the 21st century. Following this achievement, the fortunes of the Lego group really took off. Their new product really caught the imagination of the world's children, and sales shot through the roof. Today, pieces are manufactured at the rate of about 600 per second. It's estimated that there are about 60 times more Lego bricks in the world than there are people. |
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Thanks to this success, the Lego Company was able to expand their product range. They produced films, video games - and even theme parks. |
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The first Legoland was built in Denmark in 1968, but it wasn't until 1996 that they opened a second, in Windsor, England. The park is close to Windsor Castle, not far from London. It contains models, rides, and workshops, all of which use Lego heavily in their design. Even the rollercoasters look like they've been made from the stuff! |
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The park is divided into different areas, each with a different theme. "Miniland" is a great start, as it contains some spectacular examples of Lego construction. Around 40 million bricks are used to make models of famous landmarks, such as St. Paul's Cathedral, the London Eye, and Loch Ness. There are even some people and creatures that have been rebuilt, including Yoda, a Dalek, and Her Majesty the Queen! A similar attraction is Lego City, which is a whole town made entirely from Lego bricks. |
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In other areas of the park, there are full-size rides to go on. The Wild Woods, for example, contain a log flume, which is one of the park's most popular attractions. The Knight's Kingdom, meanwhile, has a rollercoaster called "The Dragon". Other sections have Egyptian and Viking themes, each with associated rides, shops and restaurants. |
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Legoland is mainly open during the summer months, during the daytime. On some occasions though, the park holds a few special events. Around Easter time, it's open late, with projections and lasers being used after night falls. In September, an event called "Amazing Machines" features all kinds of vehicles, from classic cars, to monster trucks and motorbikes. The most popular events though, are the fireworks displays. These shows are among the largest in the south of England, and they regularly draw in enough people to fill the park to capacity. |
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Legoland has big plans for the future, including new areas, new rides, a new hotel, and even an aquarium. The plan is that before too long, you'll have to stay for a few days to see it all! |
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Legoland is open daily mid-March to end-October, 10am to 5pm (open later in summer). Entry costs around £40 per adult, £30 child. Legoland, Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY. Tel: 0871 2222 001 |
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