LEGOLAND Windsor

Have just come back from a two-day LL session, with overnight stay at Berystede Hotel and Spa (booked through Play and Stay) in nearby Sunninghill. We were slightly nervous having read the various horror stories - both here and elsewhere, but overall had a great experience. On the second day we bought the Q-Bots (virtual queuing device-L10 a head) and this transformed the day really (9 plus major rides, versus 4 the day before) . We have five year old twins and the great thing was that there were so many thrilling (and sometimes challenging!) rides that were safe for children of this age.

The best bits were the Pirate Falls log flume, Dragon rollercoasters (both Apprentice and full fat!), Miniland (fascinating) and the Rat Trap play area. Where it really lets itself down we thought is the food, particularly pricing vs quality. Given the broader interest in healthy eating for kids I'm really don't surprised they don't take this aspect of things much more seriously.

The queuing isn't great and as mentioned above the Q-bot really changes things (but that's a lot of extra money for a family of four). On the first day we found that a low expectation on the number of high profile rides we were going to get on and a positive approach whilst waiting really worked (you get chatting to people from all over the country in the queues and there's maybe a bit of "Dunkirk spirit" in evidence amongst the long waits and sweltering heat (very, very hot this weekend).

Overall it's a great (if expensive) day out, and probably benefits from realistic expectation about what you'll be able to do.

Shabby for the L30+ ticket prices. A lot of walking and very little excitement. Our 6 and 4 children were noticeably sad, compared to say Paulton's Park. Very close to London to attract the Americans' money who can't seem to spread megative word enough to make Legoland change.

Food expensive so take a rucksack.

Not a great day.

We have just returned from a two day visit to Legoland which was very enjoyable and one which the family all enjoyed. Reading some of the previous reviews, we think that they are a little harsh and families shouldn't be turned off.

We went to Legoland with a great Lego fan (8 this week) and a 4 and 1/2 old. We have recently been to Disney in Florida so have experience of big theme parks and rides. Legoland didn't disappoint.

We booked our deal through the Legoland site and stayed in the McDonald hotel near Ascot where we had access to great facilities. When we checked in the kids were given their own set of Lego which they were delighted about. The rooms were clean and the beds comfy. There is a great swimming pool and spa too although the hours for childrens' access are slightly limited.

Legoland itself is lots of fun. We liked that our 4 year old was able to go on every ride except one (height restriction). Unlike previous reviewers, we didn't experience huge lines partly due to the weather (it was raining) and that the school holidays had just finished the week before. We also splashed out for the Q-bot which we probably didn't need to have but it was handy. If you have been to Disney then the concept of 'jumping the queue' is not something unfamiliar and just part of park life. The same goes for food...of course it is overpriced. That's how they make money. That being said, we didn't feel that the prices were any more expensive than other 'tourist trap'. If you want to avoid this, bring your own picnic.

Legoland is interesting particularly if you are Lego fans. It is so interesting to see the way that things are put together using the bricks particularly in Mini land. We were amazed at everything and we enjoyed the rides and looking at all the creations. If you plan your visit for off peak times and get there early, crowds shouldn't be a problem. Enjoy!