How do you make a tour of the Harry Potter film set, props and special effects even more exciting? Just add snow! Well, film industry quality, special effects, crunch under foot snow that is. And how about an array of magical Christmas decorations and spectacular icy film sets that will make the festive season feel even more Christmassy than you can imagine?
When Junior attended a special launch night of the newly launched Hogwarts in the Snow with kids in tow, we were utterly entranced. From the moment you approach the studios, passing huge Christmas trees accompanied by that familiar spine tingling Harry Potter theme tune, you cannot fail to feel full of festive cheer and excitement.
The dazzling foyer complete with hovering Gringott’s dragon overhead, is the beginning of a magical adventure and our tribe of Harry Potter heads were buzzing with anticipation as we began our tour. For serious HP enthusiasts this outing is the ultimate way to connect with the much loved family franchise but even mildly curious film fans will enjoy this in-depth insight into film making, set building and special effects.
Hogwarts Great Hall is spectacular at any time of year but at Christmas the table is laid with an incredible feast and there are magical candles floating above.
From quaffing Butterbeer and riding on a broomstick (thanks to green screen technology) and treading the hallowed cobbles of Diagon Alley, there is so much to see and do here – and let’s not forget the magnificent scaled model of Hogwarts, now covered in a blanket of snow and the swirling mists of an icy spider- filled forbidden forest for anyone feeling extra daring. The Junior team was so impressed with the food and drink offering, the incredible gift shop (set yourself a budget before you go) and a special mention must be given to the extremely helpful, friendly and knowledgable staff.
A fabulous day out that we cannot recommend more highly for Harry Potter fans and anyone looking for a magical festive experience that the whole family will love.
A trip down snowy Diagon Alley, complete with its incredibly detailed shopfronts and a spooky tour of The Forbidden Forest are just a couple of the tour’s winter themed highlights. Don’t forget to bow to Buckbeak!
At the launch of this year’s Hogwarts in the Snow, Abbey Clancey and family were just some of the guests excited to see all the Harry Potter props and sets. Seen here in the actual Gryffindor common room!
Tickets to Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter, are on sale now and must be pre-booked, with all extra features included in the ticket price. All tickets can be purchased from: www.wbstudiotour.co.uk
