It just occured to me that I haven't actually written a post about my trip to the Harry Potter Studios last month: which, I have to say, was hands down one of the favourite memories of my life so far.

Having grown up mesmerized by the books and transfixed by the films, I always felt a sense of belonging in the world of Harry Potter. I don't know if JK did this on purpose because of the loneliness and burdens she was feeling at the time of writing, but either way she developed something that evoked comfort and a place to escape for millions of readers, whether they were seeking these things or not. It helped.

Because of the connection I had to the narrative, I was always avid and overly-determined in getting my parents to take me to the sets, so I could explore the world physically after doing so both mentally and emotionally. When I was around eight years old, my family finally took me to a castle in Northumberland where scenes from the first and second movies were filmed. A very unusual coincidence was that we bumped into JK Rowling herself just outside of the castle when we arrived. (She was visiting the set as they were still filming on occasional days) I don't remember saying much because I was so young, but I remember her smiling a lot and me staring at her, speechless. She was lovely. I also remember being severely disappointed that the staircases didn't move, but I reminded myself that imagination is the source of extraordinary power.


It was a truly wonderful experience, and definitely made me feel happier than I have ever felt. When it comes to pleasure, warmth, happiness and that 'fuzzy feeling' inside, I'm very difficult to please. But this was different. This was easy. It was also the time when I first learnt to ride a bike! This may seem off topic, but I was adamant that the magic from the castle helped me to obtain this skill. (And I still believe that theory secretly!)

I digress: The Studio Tour! Indescribable. I had to wait a little longer than other 'Potterheads' because it was difficult to get to Leavesden Studios considering I live in the Northwest of England. But the opportunity arose and I couldn't say no. I was astonished at the detail that went into each and every set; props and iconography that you probably wouldn't have even noticed in the films. Amazing. We were only there for five hours, but I would have spent longer - there was so much to see. I just didn't want to leave.

I also learnt so much - I thought I knew everything about the Harry Potter films: I knew the films off by heart and re-read the books so much I've lost count! And yet here I was learning 1000 new things...that's something I love about the series, that no matter how many times you read the books or watch the films, there's always something new to discover. Just like the real magical world.

It seems that I've wandered off on a slight tangent in this post. Maybe I'll write another one soon with more emphasis on the actual warner bros studio tour. With pictures. We'll see.

Speak to you soon.