The Great Hall

Upon entering the Great Hall, we were greeted by the sight of dragons holding flaming bowls and long oak tables set for Hogwarts' four houses.

Looking up, however, we noticed scaffolding and lighting rigs instead of the magical ceiling depicted in the films. We learned that the ceiling was digitally created from a smaller scale model and seamlessly integrated into the movie scenes.

The floating candles that grace the dining tables were also created using visual effects after initial attempts with real candles proved hazardous.

At the far end of the hall stood a statue of Professor Dumbledore, positioned behind an ornately designed podium, flanked by Professor Snape and Professor McGonagall, all contributing to the hall’s enchanting ambiance.

Beyond the Great Hall, we discovered props from the Yule Ball featured in The Goblet of Fire, where an extensive transformation of the hall took place, including shimmering decorations and mistletoe to create a winter wonderland.

Wigs, Wardrobe, and Wizarding Wonders

Next, we admired a display showcasing wigs, costumes, and makeup. We were drawn to the grand entrance gates of Hogwarts, adorned with majestic winged boars, originally created for The Half-Blood Prince.

A unique hallway leading to The Leaky Cauldron was designed with a visual technique known as ‘forced perspective’ to create an illusion of length.

Gryffindor Boys’ Dormitory

We then entered the Gryffindor Boys’ Dormitory, an intimate circular room crafted in 2000 for The Philosopher’s Stone. Over the years, the set was modified to reflect the characters' growth, with the beds eventually becoming too small for the actors.

Adjacent to the dormitory stood the Mirror of Erised, an enchanted mirror that reflects one's deepest desires. As Vic and I gazed into it together, we saw only each other.

The Potions Classroom

We ventured into the Potions Classroom, tucked away in Hogwarts’ dungeons, where figures of Professor Snape and Professor Slughorn were surrounded by numerous bottles of peculiar ingredients. The enchanted cauldrons stirred themselves, adding to the classroom's magic.

Originally filmed at Lacock Abbey, the set has since been expanded within the Warner Brothers studios to accommodate the growing popularity of the films.

The set features over 500 potion bottles filled with various materials, all with unique, handcrafted labels, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail that went into the production.

Props

As we made our way toward Dumbledore’s office, we were captivated by the Goblet of Fire and other iconic props, including the Time Turner from The Prisoner of Azkaban and the Philosopher’s Stone.

The stunning giant clock, illuminated in deep blue lighting, added to the magical ambiance of the set.

Professor Dumbledore’s Office

Dumbledore’s office was a marvel, filled with gothic columns and an array of magical artifacts displayed in glass cabinets. Astronomy-themed elements adorned the room, including portraits of previous headmasters.

The room’s atmosphere was enhanced by purple lighting, and the library was stocked with faux ancient books, adding to its scholarly charm.

Gryffindor Common Room

Approaching the Gryffindor Common Room, we noticed a figure of Harry Potter donning his invisibility cloak—though it seemed to have developed a fault that day.

The common room was richly decorated in Gryffindor’s signature red and gold, with a historical feel achieved through the aging of fabrics over three months of careful work.

Weasley Burrow

We continued to explore, peeking into Hagrid’s Cottage on our way to the Weasley Kitchen, which featured enchanted utensils that moved independently.

The original set of the Weasley Burrow stood 44 feet tall, designed to look like a quirky DIY project, complete with misaligned walls.

Visitor Participation

Next, we learned about the mechanics behind the flying broomsticks and encountered various magical props, including Hagrid’s flying motorbike.

I got to ride Hagrid’s bike, while Vic indulged in his own wizarding adventure, donning a Hogwarts gown and flying on a broomstick for the camera.

Ministry of Magic

The tour continued to the Ministry of Magic, which drew inspiration from Victorian design. Initially, seventeen fireplaces were constructed, but only two remain on display.

The Atrium, with its vibrant red and green tiles, is a favorite among visitors, including Daniel Radcliffe, who appreciates its grandeur.

Home Sweet Home

We reached 4 Privet Drive, Harry’s home, where visitors can snap a photo on the porch, although entering isn’t permitted.

Originally filmed on a street in Berkshire, the house was recreated in the studio after the film's success.

The Knight Bus, a magical triple-decker, stands outside, crafted from parts of three vintage buses.

Finally, we walked along Hogwarts Bridge towards the Creatures Shop.

The Creatures Shop

The Creatures Shop showcased the fascinating technology behind character transformations. For instance, a robotic version of Hagrid was used for full-size shots, while animatronics played key roles in various scenes.

The Creature Shop was responsible for creating various magical beings, from elves to the formidable Dementors, employing both physical and digital effects.

Diagon Alley

Stepping into Diagon Alley was a breathtaking experience, with familiar shops lining the cobbled street, including the wand shop and the toy store.

Vic noted that the experience would be even more immersive with witches and wizards strolling about, but I found it magical enough as it was.

Hogwarts

The grand finale of the tour was a stunning 1:24 scale model of Hogwarts, a breathtaking sight that spanned nearly 50 feet in diameter.

As we walked around the model, we marveled at the intricate details and craftsmanship that brought it to life.

Constructed for the first film, it has evolved over time, requiring an impressive amount of time and effort from numerous artists.

There are even more sets and attractions to explore, and I can’t wait to return for another adventure!

www.wbstudiotour.co.uk

© Susie Kearley 2024. All Rights Reserved.

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