As the weather begins to turn colder and wetter, we found ourselves pondering over how to spend the last few days of summer with our young toddler.
Naturally, a trip to the local soft play or park is an easy and enjoyable day out, but we were in search of something a bit more special and unique.
So, when the chance arose to review Legoland in Windsor and take our nearly two year old on a day trip, it was an obvious choice.
In fact, we had already planned a visit earlier this summer and even made it as far as the Legoland car park one day around 3pm while we were in the area. However, we decided to head home as we knew we wanted to dedicate an entire day to the experience.
So, needless to say, this trip was eagerly anticipated! There’s often debate about whether it’s worthwhile taking such a young child to a theme park where they’re unable to go on most of the rides.
Despite my daughter being only 23 months old and her height restricting her from many rides, we discovered there were plenty of activities and options suitable for younger toddlers like her, reports the Mirror.
For us, it was a one-hour drive and we timed it so that she would nap in the car and wake up just as we arrived at the theme park.
This plan worked perfectly because as soon as she woke up at 1pm, we were ready to enter and let her explore for as long as she wished.
There are numerous reasons why I would personally recommend taking your little one to Legoland, which I’ve listed below for convenience.
8 reasons to take your kids to Legoland
1. Their ticket is FREE
The cost may be a deterrent, particularly if you believe your child won’t recall the day. However, the silver lining is that children under 0.9m are admitted free of charge.
When it comes to adult tickets, using your Tesco ClubCard vouchers can significantly reduce the price. Additionally, you can find 2 for 1 vouchers in Kelloggs cereal boxes, allowing an adult to enter for free.
More information about tickets can be found here.
2. The Hill Train
We immediately boarded The Hill Train upon entering LegoLand as we noticed the next one was due in four minutes and there was no queue!
We were fortunate with this.
Our toddler was overjoyed by the train ride down the hill into LegoLand. It saved us from walking down and simultaneously provided a fantastic activity for our transport-loving toddler.
3. The FairyTale Brook
Duplo Valley is a part of LegoLand designed for younger toddlers. We spent the majority of our time here because it offered so many choices.
We took our toddler on her first ever theme park ride, which created some truly special memories. The FairyTale Brook in Duplo Valley is a gentle boat ride ideal for little ones.
The ride lasts approximately five to six minutes, and along the way, you can spot Lego figures such as Hansel and Gretel, Snow White, and Aladdin. Our toddler thoroughly enjoyed identifying all the different things she saw.
The queue was around 20 minutes, which was made more enjoyable for the children with activities scattered along the way. Handing our toddler an ice lolly also helped to make the wait more bearable.
4. Duplo Express
Duplo Valley is home to the Duplo Express, a train ride designed for little ones. The waiting time was approximately 15 minutes, and the visible train kept our toddler entertained during the wait.
The train ride lasts about one minute, but if the queue is short, you can always go for another round!
5. Duplo Playtown
Duplo Playtown is an excellent addition for toddlers who aren’t particularly fond of rides. It provided a great opportunity for our toddler to unwind and run around.
Inside, there are multiple slides, climbing frames, and park activities. We spent a good 30 minutes here as there was so much to do!
6. Drench Towers and Splash Safari
Although we weren’t prepared for this section as we didn’t bring swimming costumes or swimming nappies, it’s a fantastic option for those who are better organised, especially on a hot day.
This area is a water play area for toddlers and kids, complete with interactive water features!
7. MiniLand
MiniLand is suitable for all ages. This section features a range of iconic landmarks from different countries, all created using Lego pieces.
As you wander around, you can spot representations of various countries – our personal favourite was London, where our toddler delighted in spotting all the moving London buses on a track.
There’s also a meticulously crafted London underground tube station, complete with a tube train pulling into the platform!
Among the landmarks, you’ll find the Taj Mahal, Canary Wharf and Sydney Opera House. For toddlers, it’s a fantastic activity as they can spot boats, buses, cars and trains amongst the different landmarks.
8. Toddler and baby facilities/pushchair friendly
Another reason to bring your little one to LegoLand is its accommodating nature. The theme park has designated areas across the park for parking your pushchair if you wish to enjoy the rides.
Moreover, the walkways are pushchair-friendly, with ramps provided for access to certain sections.
Additionally, if you decide to explore the Drench Towers at the splash park, you can even purchase toddler swimming items!
Baby changing facilities are conveniently located throughout the park, with every toilet equipped with a child seat.
In conclusion, LegoLand is a destination I would happily revisit with my toddler. Despite not managing to explore even half of the toddler-friendly options, we still had an incredible day.
On our next visit, we plan to check out Lego City Deep Sea Adventure, Duplo Valley Theatre and The Magical Forest.
How to get there and ticket prices
Entry to Legoland starts from £29, depending on the package you choose. More information can be found here.
Legoland Windsor Resort is conveniently located just two miles from Windsor town centre, on the B3022 Windsor/Ascot Road at Winkfield Road, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 4AY.
For those planning to drive, further details can be found here.
Alternatively, if you’re considering public transport, here is some more information.