HARRY POTTER STUDIO TOUR

For my boyfriend's birthday, we decided (okay, I decided) that it would be a treat to go to the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Watford. I've been a couple of times before, but attractions change and whatnot, and I was still as excited as a child expecting their first Hogwarts letter.

After a lengthy queue, and a quick cinema-trip down memory lane, we were greeted by the Great Hall entrance and the predictable question whispered by everyone - "who is going to open the doors?" Cue the Warner Brother's guide, who very enthusiastically asked "Now, it is anyone's birthday?" My poor boyfriend was humiliated by my very exuberant 'Yes!' and even further mortified when I dragged him to the front, and elbowed a small child out of the way. (Okay, the last part was a slight exaggeration. Slight). Anyways, doors swiftly opened by my ever-so-grateful boyfriend (you're welcome, Rees), we began to explore the various sets from the Harry Potter films; one of my favourites being the potion classroom. Did you know that all of those jars are actually filled with various ingredients, and every label is hand-written? The attention to detail is absolutely amazing.



I think my favourite part of the tour overall is seeing the intricate thought and design that go into every prop. Most of the details you can't even see on film, and yet they're still included just incase. The Black Family tapestry, for example, is so extensive but you would have no idea from the short scene in the Order of the Phoenix film. (I love that Sirius and Tonks have been burnt off!)

One of the aspects of the tour I was most excited about seeing was the Hogwarts Express and King's Cross station. It wasn't built last time I visited, and it was so magical to see the big scarlet engine on Platform 9 3/4! 

I have to admit, I did almost start crying when the engine 'tooted'- (not sure what the technical term is...). Call me lame, but the Hogwarts Express is so iconic and symbolic that I felt slightly emotional seeing it in person.

If it's not already evident, I would recommend the Harry Potter Studio Tour to anyone who is a big fan of the books and films. It's a no-brainer, really. Get your tush to Watford and drink Butterbeer, fly a broomstick and knock on Number 4 Privet Drive. Such a shame the Dursleys weren't in. Next time, eh?