Be very careful of replicas for a different reason. The UK has a very rigorous system of approvals for all aircraft designs, and replicas are no exception. Unless you are a retired airworthiness engineer looking for a challenge, don't even think of buying something abroad without ensuring it has UK approval already, and PFA (/CAA / BMAA) will be happy with getting a permit to fly on that individual airframe.
Unless, as you say, it's for static display only - like that gorgeous SE5a replica hanging in the shopping mall in Farnborough !
G