Waverly has been super into Harry Potter for the last 3 years. Halloween the last 3 years has been Harry Potter, Harry Potter, and this year Luna Lovegood. She also went as JK Rowling for historical Halloween in 2019. All that to say when we told her we were going to London she was so excited that we would get to see some Harry Potter stuff. She didn’t know we would be going the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour. I don’t generally like this type of things; long lines, over priced everything, every moment set up to sell for park themed junk, and lots of “it sounded way better when I booked”. I was more than skeptical when I booked the tour bus that started in London and talked about Harry Potter themed ride to the studio. I was wrong and today was awesome. The day could not have gone better.
We started our with a 40 minute walk to meet the bus for the ride to the Studio. The walk was lovely and the kids again impressed with their consistent walking and happy spirits. The double decker bus was harry potter themed and waiting for us when we arrived. Each seat had its own TV screen so the kids played video games (except Waverly who watched Harry Potter of course!)
The ride was just over an hour. Elza and I enjoyed riding through neighborhoods and envisioning moving to London! (If I haven’t made it clear Elza is living her best life. Loving every minute of being here in London!) The ride was nice except that Sage got a little bus sick (candy crush and bumpy bus ride doesn’t suit her). We arrived at the Studio around 10:30 and right away the kids were so excited. It was so cool to see what once was the studio that for 10 years made the 8 Harry Potter Movies (7 books 8 movies for those keeping track at home), turned into an exhibit that highlights all the amazing things that went into making the movie franchise so special. From the life size wizard chess pieces that stand outside the entrance to the larger than life dragon that hangs in the main hall the studio was truly amazing. The kids were excited to see things they remember from the movies (they have all seen 1,2 and 3) and also to learn how movies are made. Elza and I were so impressed with all the detail and artistry that went into making the movies.
The studio was dressed in its winter best for it Hogwarts in the Snow season. A Christmas tree in the great hall and snow covering Diagon Alley made it truly magical. Halfway through the tour we enjoyed lunch and Butter Beer! (Sort of Cream Soda with whipped Cream). I really was blown away by the entire day. The story of 8 epic movies over 10 years and all the people that went into making them special and authentic to the books. For the record I have not read the books (sorry Liz and Glory), but I have seen all the movies and they are awesome! The level of detail of it all is incredible. One example that stood out is that all the goblins that work in Gringots Bank (mostly extras in a regular movie) have such incredibly detailed masks down to individually inserted hair follicles for he eyebrows (picture below).
The ride home was filled with naps and enjoying our souvenirs. It was truly a great day. When we got home we all went to the Christmas market at Trafalgar Square (yes the one with the sad Norway tree) for some sweets before watching Harry Potter 3! The kids had noodles for dinner and mom and dad got food from The Real Greek (I asked if they new Panos). It was a magical day!
It has been a lovely first few days in London. The kids are amazing and London is magical. We are so happy to be here.
Sending all love and happiness! – Mike
