A lifelong Doctor Who enthusiast in South Kyme, Lincolnshire, has realised a long-held dream by building a full-scale replica of the TV series' 1983 TARDIS console room in his garden. The replica, carefully recreated over a two-year period, opened to the public this week with actor Sophie Aldred — who played Ace — cutting the ribbon.
Hands-on piece of television history
The experience allows visitors to step through a police box into the interior, operate recreated controls and interact with a variety of props. At the heart of the room sits a hexagonal console fitted with replica buttons, switches and a scanner screen modelled on the 1983 design originally seen in the episode Five Doctors.
"This is the first time in nearly 40 years that it has been completely remade, 100% accurate," said Brendan Sheppard, who led the project.
Sheppard, a former BBC director who also worked on the Doctor Who DVD range, collaborated with a small team on the build. The physical police box entrance was made by Simon Nash, while other contributors supplied props and detailing. Among the on-display items visitors can see are K-9, replicas of the Doctor's enemies and several iconic costumes.
What visitors will find
- Full-size police box entry giving access to the console room
- Operational replica controls with authentic sounds
- Costume displays, including a replica of Tom Baker's scarf and Peter Davison's coat
- A specially recorded audio episode by Peter Davison to enhance the experience
Sheppard emphasised the importance of being able to touch and use the items rather than merely viewing them behind glass. He said this tactile access makes the connection to the objects stronger for visitors, and that the building was custom-made for the project.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Build time | Two years |
| Era recreated | 1983 console room |
| Official opening | Sophie Aldred |
| Notable items | K-9, replica costumes, hexagonal console |
The replica is said to be the only one of its kind in the country. For fans and curious visitors across Lincolnshire and beyond, it presents a rare chance to engage directly with a piece of television heritage and step into a carefully reconstructed slice of the show's past.
Practical details such as visiting times, admission and booking arrangements were not included in the information provided; prospective visitors should check local listings or contact the organisers in South Kyme before travelling.
