LEGO 71040 - Disney The Disney Castle

This was such a fun build! I received this for Christmas, and I spent a solid month working on it little by little. All of the elements are so detailed and intricate making the finished product that much more stunning. The pieces all fit together well for the most part, and I was only missing one piece from the set. It was pretty sturdy when being moved, and I did not have any trouble with it breaking easily. Overall, very fun build if you are looking to spend some money on a Lego.

71040 The Disney Castle

The Disney Castle is a huge set of 4080 pieces, and as the name so elegantly suggests, the pieces can be used to build a large, Disney-themed castle. Inside the enormous printed box are 18 numbered bags, one unnumbered bag with varicolored plates inside, a plastic-wrapped thick instruction manual along with a reflective sticker sheet of 17 stickers, and another rather large white box which, in turn, contains 15 numbered bags. Unlike with the set 75827 Firehouse Headquarters, the bags are distributed inside the boxes in a seemingly random fashion, so I had to open also the white box before starting my build. The build is divided into 14 stages, which just means that the bags are printed with numbers from '1' to '14'. Most of the stages include two bags of bricks, but ... MoreThe Disney Castle is a huge set of 4080 pieces, and as the name so elegantly suggests, the pieces can be used to build a large, Disney-themed castle. Inside the enormous printed box are 18 numbered bags, one unnumbered bag with varicolored plates inside, a plastic-wrapped thick instruction manual along with a reflective sticker sheet of 17 stickers, and another rather large white box which, in turn, contains 15 numbered bags. Unlike with the set 75827 Firehouse Headquarters, the bags are distributed inside the boxes in a seemingly random fashion, so I had to open also the white box before starting my build. The build is divided into 14 stages, which just means that the bags are printed with numbers from '1' to '14'. Most of the stages include two bags of bricks, but some as many as four (such as stage 1) or as little as just one (such as stage 2). The manual is a 492-page tome and there are a total of 758 steps from start to finish.I want to quickly describe how the build proceeds: The four bags numbered '1' build the very base of the castle, which is mainly dark gray when viewed from the front, and this stage also consumes most of the pieces from the only unnumbered bag. There are quite a few technic pieces in this stage, some repetition (although in mirror image fashion) and also upside-down building, which I do not like at all. Stage 2 builds two identical columns and two wall sections that are repeated again in the mirror image style. Stage 3 builds the brown front doors and their mainly white surroundings, front railing and some arches, and by stage 4, the build has advanced to adding the ground floor interior complete with knight statues, a vase, a clock, and a chandelier. The first stickers are applied at stage 5, which reveals the bricks for the mostly light gray outer left-hand side tower bases and wall, and I have to say that, at least in my manual, step 291 shows a wrong positioning for for the sticker, which will most likely result in some of it being covered by other pieces. I suggest being extra careful also with step 338 and its sticker. I decided to play it safe and ended up adding the stickers only after completing most of the stages 5 and 6. Stage 6 builds the outer right-hand side tower bases and wall which are again mainly gray. Bags with number '7' printed on them contain the pieces to finish off the outer wall and the earth blue roof over the front door. Stages 8 and 9 add to the height of the outer towers and give them earth blue roofs. Stage 10 uses up the last piece from the unnumbered bag and is also the stage where one begins to build the first detachable section of the castle (the prevailing color being brick yellow or tan with white trimmings) with a kitchen and a curtained room with a table and a glass case for a rose. Stage 11 adds two more rooms on top of the structure: a room with a spinning wheel, and one with mops and buckets and a trunk. Stage 12 builds a bedroom and some earth blue roofs for the towers in this section of the castle. Stage 13 starts the build of the tallest and detachable tower (also brick yellow) with a couple of small rooms in it, and the final stage 14 finishes the tower off with some more height and a gilded roof.The five minifigures lurk in bags numbered 2 (Mickey), 5 (Minnie), 8 (Donald), 10 (Daisy), and 13 (Tinkerbell). Thus far, four of the five minifigures are exclusive to this set, the only exception being Donald Duck in his blue sailor's shirt and hat. Both Mickey and Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck are also available through the Disney Collectible Minifigure Series, but it looks like they have been to the tailor shop for new outfits after the release of the series. Mickey is wearing a black tuxedo with detachable cloth coat-tails and red trousers with white buttons. Minnie is attired in a red dress with white polka dots and white ruffled pants and has a similarly polka dotted bow on her head while Daisy sports a dark pink short sleeved top with lavender ruffles, lavender shoes, and a lavender bow on her head. The only minifigure not available through any other set is the green-clad blue-winged fairy, Tinkerbell, who is wearing a lime green strapless top and a separate cloth leaf skirt. Her hairpiece is a very light shade of yellow and is completely new, and, unfortunately, her head is only one-sided. If the two gray and silver knight statues with blue plumes and gray spears are also counted as minifigures, their pieces can be found in the two bags marked with a '4'.Much to my delight, the set has an abundance of either rare or rarish parts or new recolors of existing ones, and almost all of the printed pieces, such as the brown Unikitty tail (element ID 6158006), the round cookie tile (6161541) and the brown book cover (6157932), are new and so far exclusive to this set. Some of the earth blue pieces that are used in the tower roofs are also on the rarer side, such as the earth blue 2x2x2 cone (6144754), the 4x4x2 cone with an axle hole (6144755), the 6x6 radar dish (6116265) and the 75° angled 2x2x3 slope (6144751) all of which are currently available in this color only in this set. Similarly, other recolored pieces thus far available only in this set include the double concave 3x3 dark stone gray slope (6153582), the small titanium metal pot (6153593), the reddish brown crown with four spikes (6153584), the brick yellow mop (6153596) and the ornamental 1x4x2 white fence (6097236).I thought the build was quite challenging, which mainly manifested in my adding wrong pieces to right places. An example of this are the brightly colored bricks behind the large clock in front of the castle: I built the structure completely wrong and had to think for a few moments before I realized my glaring error. There is a lot of repetition in this set, and tons of small fiddly bits which fall to the floor all the time and get sucked up by the vacuum cleaner or swallowed by a pet. All the above mentioned adds to the length of the build, which I guarantee will take hours and hours. However, the end result is a beautiful and an exquisitely detailed castle. I even noticed that there are not that many exposed studs marring the completed castle, as most of them seem to be covered by smooth tiles. There are also very clever references to various Disney movies, such as Fantasia, Brave and Aladdin, just to mention a few.For easier transport, the finished castle can be divided into three sections (the gray bottom floor, the brick yellow second floor, and the tallest tower). Because the side towers and the walls connecting the towers are attached to the castle base from their underside only by large turntables (element ID 6045718), the walls and towers tend to feel a little wobbly when touched, so I suggest not using those parts of the for handholds when moving the set around.Some of the insides are a bit cramped and some accessories are hard to use or at least hard to put back to where they belong, and some of the accessories are loose and might fall off the castle (such as the reddish brown bow for shooting arrows). Some of the rooms have unpleasant-looking exposed pins and also some strikingly colored bricks in the walls and when seen from the outside, the bedroom window is not very beautiful to look at. Some images of the instruction manual are a bit vague, or the angle shown is wrong and a top view of the build would made the build easier. However, in my opinion, these are minor flaws and all in all the castle still remains breathtakingly beautiful. Some of the building techniques are very interesting and new to me, and there are oodles of play features included. What more can one ask? A hinged back for the castle would have been a fantastic addition, but I believe this would have driven the price of the set through the roof. Perhaps 1-2 more minifigures and a few more printed tiles, but that is about it.A highly recommended set for both Disney and castle fans and those who really enjoy complex and time-consuming builds!

Beautiful but broken

If any set deserved to have lights installed its the Disney Castle, and I opted to get the remote version so that I could have more control over the lights. The end result was worth the hours invested and made the set even more beautiful!As nice as it made the set I do have several issues with the set:- All three light chains for the fireworks have defective lights at the end of the chains, making the fireworks look odd when lit up- The spotlight construction bag was missing two Lego pieces so the light strips are not securely fixed down- Some of the cables are only just long enough to reach the board it needs to plug into, which makes plugging them into the board very fiddly- The Disney Castle is already a very delicate and fragile set, I had several ... MoreIf any set deserved to have lights installed its the Disney Castle, and I opted to get the remote version so that I could have more control over the lights. The end result was worth the hours invested and made the set even more beautiful!As nice as it made the set I do have several issues with the set:- All three light chains for the fireworks have defective lights at the end of the chains, making the fireworks look odd when lit up- The spotlight construction bag was missing two Lego pieces so the light strips are not securely fixed down- Some of the cables are only just long enough to reach the board it needs to plug into, which makes plugging them into the board very fiddly- The Disney Castle is already a very delicate and fragile set, I had several accidents when trying to fix the lights onto the set resulting with at least half of the castle needing to be reconstructed numerous timesDon't be put off getting this set though, despite the issues I had it really does add that bit of magic to the set!

Cool overall but some challenges.

I absolutely love having the Disney Castle light up; it looks really cool and I really like having the ability to change the colors and pair it with the music. The set-up was a bit challenging; instructions are just pictures (the icons to help describe what each step is asking you to do are not helpful or accurate). Some of the wires were difficult to connect because they were just barely long enough, while others are too long and are difficult to hide.Cleaning up and hiding some of the wires and circuit boards is really difficult and actually just looks like a mess in the back of the castle (I haven't figured out how they made it look so clean/tidy in the pictures). The battery pack that came with my set is different than the one in the instructions, which made ... MoreI absolutely love having the Disney Castle light up; it looks really cool and I really like having the ability to change the colors and pair it with the music. The set-up was a bit challenging; instructions are just pictures (the icons to help describe what each step is asking you to do are not helpful or accurate). Some of the wires were difficult to connect because they were just barely long enough, while others are too long and are difficult to hide.Cleaning up and hiding some of the wires and circuit boards is really difficult and actually just looks like a mess in the back of the castle (I haven't figured out how they made it look so clean/tidy in the pictures). The battery pack that came with my set is different than the one in the instructions, which made it a little confusing to set-up. Once you switch the battery pack on, you should see a quick flash of some of the lights... but the only way to actually turn the lights on is with the remote (each remote uses one CR2025 battery, not included).There were no instructions or information explaining the different light and music functions, which was disappointing.

Disney Castle 71040 light kit

Went through tons of options before landing on this one. Pros love that the middle tier and spotlights lights change color slowly not flashing in a strobe light. Easy to use- instructions are pictures assuming you have already built the castle but still showed how to hide the wires as much as possible. Found them a little hard to follow at first but once you started it all made sense. Great customer service asked a question on website and received a reply very quickly. One wire was broken so they sent a replacement right away. Cons: The picture display on the website is not exactly as I received it - they show lights attaching to the tower which are not in the kit and it looked like those where also color changing so I wish I had them. The battery pack mentioned is ... MoreWent through tons of options before landing on this one. Pros love that the middle tier and spotlights lights change color slowly not flashing in a strobe light. Easy to use- instructions are pictures assuming you have already built the castle but still showed how to hide the wires as much as possible. Found them a little hard to follow at first but once you started it all made sense. Great customer service asked a question on website and received a reply very quickly. One wire was broken so they sent a replacement right away. Cons: The picture display on the website is not exactly as I received it - they show lights attaching to the tower which are not in the kit and it looked like those where also color changing so I wish I had them. The battery pack mentioned is great to test the one wire but you need to purchase some sorta usb powersupply to have the four light chains light up all at once (found a nice one on Amazon for only 10 dollars but keep this in mind) all in all I do love this kit and was. Satisfied with my purchase and if I where to buy another light kit I would go with them again.

How about some Disney Magic...

Just finished building this amazing set and I am just in awe! For context, I purchased the light kit with remote and sound...because why wouldn't you want some Disney Music with your lights?Let me share my experience with you:The Delivery: When I ordered my set, the website had a message apologizing that deliveries may be delayed by as much as 8 days. However, I found the shipping to be quick given this was an international delivery.The Packaging: The first thing you will notice is how nice the box is. I know it seems odd for me to be talking about the quality of a box that you don't need once you install your lights, but it really is impressive... a solid cardboard all in black with a sticker showing the set you have chosen. Inside the box, the lights are ... MoreJust finished building this amazing set and I am just in awe! For context, I purchased the light kit with remote and sound...because why wouldn't you want some Disney Music with your lights?Let me share my experience with you:The Delivery: When I ordered my set, the website had a message apologizing that deliveries may be delayed by as much as 8 days. However, I found the shipping to be quick given this was an international delivery.The Packaging: The first thing you will notice is how nice the box is. I know it seems odd for me to be talking about the quality of a box that you don't need once you install your lights, but it really is impressive... a solid cardboard all in black with a sticker showing the set you have chosen. Inside the box, the lights are divided across numbered baggies that correspond with the online instructions. By the way, don't freak out that there are no instructions in the box...they are all online.The Build: Well...now it is time for you to put on your favorite Disney Entertainment and dive in (I chose to have 4K WDW playing on YouTube they do Disney Park Walkthroughs) . This build took me a handful of hours to complete. Now keep in mind, I went slow and methodical to ensure I got everything right...your results may be faster. Be sure to have your Lego Brick Separator handy and maybe some tweezers to help maneuver wires into tight spots. The instructions are online, as I mentioned. The instructions are step by step photos of what you need to do, but no words. At first I thought this would be problematic, but it actually works rather well.TIP: When you are starting the instructions for a new wire...look ahead a few steps before jumping in. There were points where I was holding a wire in place and needed to advance to the next photo...not enough hands! Had I just read ahead first, I would have been in good shape!Speaking of not enough hands...arrange for a second set of hands toward the end of this build. There is a point where you need to connect the wire from the tower to a connector in the base. Well, to do that you need to hold the tower in the air with two hands as you connect the wires with two hands. My math skills may not be great, but there seems to be a shortage of hands!I managed to do it solo because I live on the edge like that. If you want to reduce the drama in your life...phone a friend for this step...you will know it when you get to it!The Result: Such an amazing finish as you have read in the other reviews! The music with the light show adds a lot to the finished product...my wife teared up when she saw it; how cool is that! The lights are bright and the animations are lovely. The little speaker outperforms for its size...don't expect Dolby Surround Sound, its just a 1-inch speaker after all...but the music and audio are magical.Everything can be powered by two battery packs that connect via USB. However, keep in mind this is a big set and if you get the remote version, the set is constantly sending a signal out which will drain power as well. Long story short...you either need to remember to disconnect your battery packs when not in use or just be prepared to change batteries often.HOWEVER...since it has a USB connection, you can also use a USB Plug Adapter (Think iPhone Charger) to have constant power. That is the route I went! In fact, I found out they now make PowerStrips with USB connections you can plug right into...no need for an adapter! You may also want to get a USB Extension Cable (Male / Female) to provide you with more flexibility when placing your set. This way...lights can always be on if you like...and I do like!The Service: This group is so quick and personable with their responses. I had a few questions and not only did they get back to me within 24-Hours, I really felt they were as excited as I was to get my set lit up! I have been so impressed by their service and the quality of their product, that I have now purchased a handful more of their sets!Next up...I think I will build out the Diagon Alley set...with Sound, of course!

Incredible Disney Castle Build!!

So glad I was able to snag this one before it sold out everywhere as it will retire this year. The pictures don’t do it justice!! It’s an incredibly meticulous and clever build that left me in awe of how the Lego design team was able utilize various techniques and methods to construct a Disney masterpiece! When it is complete, it is as if you are peering at the actual Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World! My only complaint was that there was a single 4-stud rectangular white Lego piece missing from the set, but thankfully I had enough single stud square extras to place 4 of them together in lieu of the one missing piece. However, for the premium price paid, there really should have been zero missing pieces. Overall, a legendary classic Disney Lego build that will ... MoreSo glad I was able to snag this one before it sold out everywhere as it will retire this year. The pictures don’t do it justice!! It’s an incredibly meticulous and clever build that left me in awe of how the Lego design team was able utilize various techniques and methods to construct a Disney masterpiece! When it is complete, it is as if you are peering at the actual Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World! My only complaint was that there was a single 4-stud rectangular white Lego piece missing from the set, but thankfully I had enough single stud square extras to place 4 of them together in lieu of the one missing piece. However, for the premium price paid, there really should have been zero missing pieces. Overall, a legendary classic Disney Lego build that will surely stand the test of time!

This was a wonderful build

This was a fantastic experience. I inventoried every piece and rebuilt this set for a good friend. Her daughter fell on the castle and broke it. Due to health and injury my friend was unable to fix it. Lego was wonderful in helping me obtain a new manual and with shipping all the missing pieces. Wonderful customer service. Unfortunately, I don’t remember the names of the CSRs that helped but thank you, thank you for all of your wonderful help.My only grievance is that it’s retired, and I can’t afford to buy this set on eBay. It is to date one of my all-time favorite builds. Sadly, it went home today, and my friend was excited to have it back fully built. I’m hoping Lego brings it back so I might have a chance to purchase the Castle.

Very Well Worth It

I've had my eye on this set ever since it was announced however I was very hesitant to purchase or even ask for it as a gift due to it's hefty price tag. After selling off some older sets, I decided to go ahead and take the plunge and finally buy the set and have not regretted it since.Yes, it is a lot to spend on Lego set however I have found it worth every cent. I spread the build out over a couple of days but actual build time I say would have taken about 16hrs for me. The build was super exciting and less challenging than expected. It was amazing to see it come together and as the castle is divided into three sections, I found it easy to move upstairs once complete. I love the detailed interior and bought some of the other Disney Princess bricks like Cogsworth ... MoreI've had my eye on this set ever since it was announced however I was very hesitant to purchase or even ask for it as a gift due to it's hefty price tag. After selling off some older sets, I decided to go ahead and take the plunge and finally buy the set and have not regretted it since.Yes, it is a lot to spend on Lego set however I have found it worth every cent. I spread the build out over a couple of days but actual build time I say would have taken about 16hrs for me. The build was super exciting and less challenging than expected. It was amazing to see it come together and as the castle is divided into three sections, I found it easy to move upstairs once complete. I love the detailed interior and bought some of the other Disney Princess bricks like Cogsworth to put in the castle too. The exterior looks identical to Magic Kingdom and Tokyo Disney's Castles and is a wonderful display piece especially along side the collectable Disney minifigure series.I bought this set mainly to display for years to come as I am both an avid Lego and Disney fan. If you have been contemplating buying this set, I highly recommend getting it as I know I would have regretted it if I didn't.

just Amazing

I really love this light set, it is giving such a living feeling to it. speechlessI took the classic version which is good enough for me,The subtle change of the color is not distracting but really smooth and nice as it stand as a display next to the tv.Easy manual, at some points i the cables were not tugged away that nice , so they were visible which i changed a bit which was challenging at some point but by taking the castle bit more apart it was good.There is one thing that I didn't really like, but can live with it, is where the cables all join together, it's kinda mess because the cables do not come out the same lengthand also for cleaning the castle it's kinda hard to remove the top, because you have to unplug the cable and those plugs are small.as of ... MoreI really love this light set, it is giving such a living feeling to it. speechlessI took the classic version which is good enough for me,The subtle change of the color is not distracting but really smooth and nice as it stand as a display next to the tv.Easy manual, at some points i the cables were not tugged away that nice , so they were visible which i changed a bit which was challenging at some point but by taking the castle bit more apart it was good.There is one thing that I didn't really like, but can live with it, is where the cables all join together, it's kinda mess because the cables do not come out the same lengthand also for cleaning the castle it's kinda hard to remove the top, because you have to unplug the cable and those plugs are small.as of the daily bugle has the wireless connection that would be great with this one too (which also makes the cabling easier and probably better tugged away.)But overall I'm really satisfied with my purchase and would recommend this store and light set for sure.also with the good service they deliver, responding within 24 hours on e-mails.