Fan Builds 1983 TARDIS Console Room Replica in Backyard Adventure

Brendan Sheppard, a devoted Doctor Who fan, has turned his childhood dream into reality by constructing a full-scale replica of the iconic Tardis console room from 1983 in his back garden. Living in South Kyme, Lincolnshire, Brendan and a small team spent two years carefully recreating the classic set, making sure every detail matched the original as seen in the TV show. He explained that this is the first time in nearly four decades that the console room has been rebuilt so accurately. Visitors to Brendan's home can step through a life-size police box, which is the famous exterior of the Tardis, and enter the console room. Inside, they can interact with the controls, dress up in costumes from different eras of Doctor Who, and immerse themselves in the world of the show.

The experience was officially opened by Sophie Aldred, who played Ace in Doctor Who. At the heart of the room is a hexagonal console, complete with recreated buttons, switches, and a scanner screen, all designed to look just like the ones from the 1983 version. The walls are decorated with grey panels and yellow circles, and props such as K-9, the Doctor's robot dog, and costumes like Tom Baker's scarf, Peter Davison's coat, and Sylvester McCoy's umbrella are on display. Peter Davison even recorded a special audio episode for visitors, adding to the immersive experience. Brendan, who previously worked as a director for the BBC and contributed to the Doctor Who DVD range, said that this is the only replica of its kind in the country, and the building was custom-made for the project.

Brendan believes that being able to touch and use the controls helps fans connect with the show in a unique way. He wanted visitors to be able to press the buttons, hear the sounds, and feel like they are really inside the Tardis. The original console room was designed by Mike Kelt and first appeared in the 1983 episode 'Five Doctors. ' Brendan worked with Simon Nash, who built the police box, and Darryl Harrison, who handled the electronics and interactive features. Reflecting on the project, Brendan said he feels proud and emotional, as it was his childhood dream. The experience is open to visitors on weekends, with a 45-minute session costing £25, which Brendan said is the lowest price possible considering the effort involved. The replica has become a special place for Doctor Who fans to enjoy and relive the magic of the show.