Legoland’s Windsor Resort has long been home to its own miniature version of London, reimagining its iconic skyline brick by brilliant brick. But, having been around as long as I have, it was due a bit of a revamp – after all, the city is constantly evolving. Over two million Lego bricks and 10,800 hours have gone into the attraction’s makeover, building the likes of City Hall, 30 St Mary Axe (otherwise known as The Gherkin), and 122 Leadenhall Street (or The Cheese Grater).
There are seven new buildings in total, which have all joined existing sights such as The London Eye, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge. The creation of each building was no mean feat – The Cheese Grater alone weighs 395kg and stands at almost 5.4 metres tall. It took around 120 hours to design, well over 1,000 hours to build, and required 12 pairs of hands.
The revamped mini city also features 25 animated boats and houseboats, along with 174 new buses, taxis and trains – all to replicate the hustle and bustle of the London we know and love.
Ramesh Ganeson, Vice President at LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, said: “Miniland London continues to wow our guests since it first opened almost 30 years ago. Our continued investment in the Resort has meant the iconic buildings have been updated for a new generation. Our talented team of model makers have skilfully refreshed and maintained the intricate details of the London city skyline, which is set to be a towering success.
We are so excited to see the final models of these architectural gems in time for the new theme park 2025 season opening.”
To mark the makeover, Legoland Windsor Resort is on the search for its first Mayor of Miniland. Open to young Lego enthusiasts aged five to 12, a nationwide competition is now open where they can submit ideas for what they would add or change to the miniature city. Whoever is chosen as Mini Mayor will see their winning design brought to life in Lego, and it will go on display throughout the summer holidays. They will also receive a free overnight stay at one of the three hotels on site, tickets to the park, and a goodie bag.
For more information and to enter, head to the Legoland website. Submissions can be written ideas, drawings, a short video, or even a mighty Lego build of your own. Competition closes on April 15, 2025.