When the festive season comes round, I love nothing more than the social side of visiting pretty places, eating yummy treats and doing activities like ice skating and shopping at Christmas Markets. But now, visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour* in London is up there as one of my favourite things to do around Christmas. Known as their Hogwarts In The Snow event, running until January 27th, the castle is of course covered in snow, but the rest of the tour has plenty of festive touches. The mix of magic, extra attention to detail and the final snowy castle is enough to make anyone feel festive!
I’ve been three times now but i’s been two years since I did the tour last and I was very surprised to find lots of new elements. The Forbidden Forest, Whomping Willow, ability to go inside 4 Privet Drive, costumes from the Yule Ball and Fantastic Beasts, Magical Trophies and so much more!
For Hogwarts In The Snow, they really go all out. Decorating The Great Hall just like the Yule Ball as seen in Harry Potter and The Goblet Of Fire, you can find snow-covered Christmas trees, icicles, and an orchestra of magical instruments that have been painted by the Prop-making Department to match the silver of the Yule Ball. Along the dining tables are seasonal feasts seen in the films, including roast turkeys, hams studded with cherries and don’t miss the Christmas puddings surrounded by real flames!
As well as The Great Hall and snow sprinkles on the model of Hogwarts, you can find The Gryffindor Common Room and Boys’ Dormitory decorated with the original props including handmade Christmas cards, some of which were created by the cast members during production.
I was very lucky to be invited to a VIP evening with many of my pals, where we shared dessert in The Great Hall and Butterbeer in the Backlot cafe. They even had edible bubbles! Although I am lucky to have these experiences, I have paid to visit before and cannot recommend it enough. Every time I go I learn something new, it takes around three hours to complete and seeing it decorated is 100% my highlight. The Christmas Trees and snowy stage in The Great Hall really are so beautiful.
Leave a Comment