From Safari Park to LEGO Kingdom: 30 Years of LEGOLAND Windsor

On 17 March 2026, LEGOLAND Windsor celebrates a huge milestone, 30 years since the park first opened its gates in 1996. Over the past three decades, the park has become one of the UK’s most beloved family theme parks, welcoming millions of guests and creating countless memories built brick by brick.

Before it became the colourful LEGO world we know today, the site had a very different history. From 1969 to 1992, the land was home to Windsor Safari Park, a 144-acre drive-through animal attraction located on St Leonard's Hill in Berkshire, England. Visitors would drive through large enclosures to see animals from around the world. However, the park eventually closed due to financial difficulties and controversies surrounding animal welfare. A few years later, the site was transformed into a brand-new attraction LEGOLAND Windsor.

Even though the safari park disappeared, a few fascinating remnants remain today. St. Leonard’s Mansion, located on the estate, survived the transition and still stands as part of the park’s heritage. Another lasting feature is the Funicular Railway, now known as the Hill Train, which still carries guests between The Beginning entrance area and the central part of the park.

To celebrate its 30th birthday, LEGOLAND Windsor has created a spectacular giant LEGO birthday cake display. Built entirely from LEGO bricks, the cake features miniature scenes inspired by many of the park’s iconic attractions.

Included in the LEGO cake are:

• Miniland, featuring the famous London skyline


• The Helicopters ride


• LEGO NINJAGO The Ride


• The Fire and Ice Freefall Towers and the lion from LEGO MYTHICA


• The LEGO Hill Train


• Roxy, the LEGO Minifigure from Minifigure Speedway


• The LEGOLAND Express train


• The Dragon roller coaster and its castle


• The LEGO gift shop from The Beginning area


• A boat from Fairy Tale Brook


• Laser Raiders


• Atlantis Submarine Voyage


• The diving lighthouse


• The LEGOLAND Hotel and the Woodland Village accommodation

It’s a brilliant tribute to the park’s most loved rides, attractions, and places to stay.

Thirty years of LEGOLAND Windsor have brought laughter, adventure, and creativity to generations of families. From its unexpected beginnings as a safari park to becoming a world of LEGO imagination, the site has a rich and unique history.

And while the park celebrates this amazing milestone, one thing is certain: the next 30 years of LEGOLAND Windsor are sure to bring even more exciting rides, incredible LEGO builds, and unforgettable memories.