ONE of my fondest childhood holidays was going to Legoland Windsor, feeling like a real pirate as I sifted for gold while struggling to remember my left and rights in the driving school.
But as an adult, I recently visited the new Legoland theme park which has become the world’s biggest – and was blown away by the sheer scale of it.
Legoland Shanghai recently celebrated its first birthday, having opened just outside of the city in July 2025 and celebrating two million visitors already.
But how does it compare to Legoland Windsor?
It has 75 attractions, compared to the the UK’s 55.
Not only that, but it has already broken some world records outside of its size.
It is home to the world’s largest Mini Figure, nicknamed Dada and measuring 85ft.
It also has the world’s only land dedicated to Monkie Kid, with rides including the park’s log flume.
And I was so surprised about how great it was for adults as well.
The Miniland is the central attraction and well-worth a visit, not just for Lego-enthusiasts.
It’s made up of an insane 20million bricks, with fantastic displays including the Shanghai skyline, Beijing and water villages Suzhou.
Kids will have fun though, where they can build their own cars to race or spaceships to shoot rockets.
But there are definitely enough rides to keep adults busy.
It has the Big Lego rollercoaster, the longest coaster at any Lego park at 1,379ft.
Created by Bolliger & Mabillard (behind Nemesis and Oblivion at Alton Tower), it was a thrilling ride that threw me around the tracks, having amazing views of the park until hitting speeds of 53mph.
It’s safe to say I went on this ride a few times…
Otherwise it also has the Dragon Coaster, which is bigger and faster than the UK version.
It even has a unique boat ride which goes through Chinese water villages, and is a welcome break from the heat.
Of course, kids will love the eight themed lands – there is the world-exclusive Lego Monkie Kid land, with the main water flume ride (don’t worry if you get wet – there is a full-sized dryer right next to it).
LEGO City is where they can get their driving license, as well as go on rides based on firefighters, pilots and police officers, and the NINJAGO land has fantastic live performances.
Come with an empty stomach – you can enjoy brick-shaped sandwiches, burgers and even ice cream.
Ticket prices are usually similar to Legoland Windsor, which is around £31.
However, tickets are currently 50 per cent off due to it being Shanghai Tourism Week, meaning £16 tickets until September 27.
Even if you aren’t planning a trip to Shanghai, you can visit Legoland if you are travelling through on a stopover.
The theme park is around one hour from Pudong International Airport, or 25 minutes from Hongqiao International Airport.
Or you can stay longer and stay at the on-site Legoland Hotel.