For those who still haven’t visited the Warner Bros Tour then we have to recommend it and the doors are open at the studio where it all began. You are now able to step into the original Great Hall, first built for HARRY POTTER AND THE PHILOSOPHER’S STONE, experience green screen technology and marvel at the breathtaking miniature scale model of Hogwarts castle. The attraction allows you the the chance to see firsthand the sheer scale and detail of the actual sets, costumes, animatronics, special effects and props that have been used in all eight films!
We may have only visited this time last year but since then, a number of other THN writers have grabbed their own Butterbeer whilst standing next to 4 Privet Drive, plus explored Dumbledore’s office, Diagon Alley, the Ministry of Magic, the Gryffindor common room and the famous kitchen of the Weasley’s. That, my friends, is to name just a few of the stunning things you get to see.
The sheer scale, love, production and hard work is evident everywhere that’s run by a highly efficient team giving you an introduction to a couple of short films and then, before you know it, you’re walking into the Great Hall at Hogwarts. For Christmas, they’ve worked for hours to transform it into a giant seasonal party, complete with Turkeys, Christmas cakes, trees and decorations that all make you feel like you’re part of the film.
The dedication to detail is what makes this remarkable and you’re advised to give yourself about 3 hours once you leave the Great Hall, as you’re then free to roam the exhibits and sets. There are obviously secrets to discover about filming, so I don’t want to give away things I saw and quite frankly, it’s almost impossible to list them all but this isn’t a bad thing. Whereas some tours and events can falter and disappoint with things missing that you want to see, I think every fan of Harry Potter will find their personal favourites from any of the eight films.
The Big Room compromises of practically endless sets, paintings, props with informative background information on how it all came together. You’ll marvel at Hagrid’s Hut, the Weasley Kitchen, the Potions classroom plus Dumbledore’s office and even the famous Gryffindor common room. You’ll even get the chance to jump on a broomstick and have your picture taken flying in your favourite house colours and then onto the Ministry of Magic. We’re not finished yet either, as you can explore 4 Privet Drive and whilst there, why not grab yourself a genuine Butterbeer that’s a completely unique flavour and then hang out around the Knight Bus.
There’s an outstanding look at the animatronics and creations in the Creature Shop, plus walk down Diagon Alley, see original concept art work in the Art Department and finally, the awe-inspiring Model Room where Hogwarts itself is re-created in large scale and it frankly took my breath away. It had to be seen it be believed. I can’t recommend highly enough the value of the tour for all ages and even if you don’t know Harry Potter as well, there’s no way you won’t appreciate the details, the heart, soul and time that’s gone into making these now timeless classics.
So, what you waiting for? BOOK NOW! Secrets Are Revealed!
Here’s some teasers below and you can find all the information about ticket prices and when you’d like to book, by clicking this link. For all things THN Christmas, including both recommendations and reviews, just click here!
Dan loves writing, film, music and photography. Originally from Devon, he did London for 4 years and now resides in Exeter. He also has a mild obsession with squirrels and cake. The latter being more of a hobby. Favourite movies include HIGH FIDELITY, ALMOST FAMOUS, ROXANNE, GOOD WILL HUNTING, JURASSIC PARK, too many Steve Martin films and Nolan's BATMAN universe. He can also be found on www.twitter.com/danbullock
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