Playtime as Lego castle is installed at Winchester's Great Hall (From Andover Advertiser)

Playtime as Lego castle is installed at Winchester's Great Hall

9:53am Monday 7th January 2013 in Winchester By Joseph Curtis

IT'S a classic children's toy that has recreated famous landmarks, spaceships and people.

But now a Lego model of a Tudor castle has gone on display in Winchester Great Hall.

The model of Basing House is 1/40th its original size, is made of 150,000 bricks, took almost 220 hours to complete and covers 12.5 square metres featuring four main sections: the Norman castle; Tudor extension; the Great Barn; and the walled grounds.

It was built by Duncan Titchmarsh, the only certified Lego builder in the UK, and was created in spring last year for display in the county council's Milestones Museum in Basingstoke.

So far it has had a good reception from visitors who have been in awe of the likeness.

Lois Price, a primary mental health worker of Chaundler Road, Abbotts Barton, said: “I'm extremely impressed with the model, especially as it was only built by one man. It's a shame it's only around for two weeks.”

Stewart Morland, 51, of Thatcham, added: “It's a lot different from how I remember Lego!”

Basing House was one of England's most important historic sites, and rivalled Hampton Court Palace in the 16th Century before it was destroyed in the English Civil War.

It now encompasses ruins and restored buildings along with a visitor centre, museum and Great Barn.

The model will be on display until Friday, January 18. Entry is free.