Theme Park Review

Our first stop during our time in London was the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter. We'd had little samples of this experience at the Celebration of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando, but with my wife being a huge fan of all things Potter and me being a fan of the films and the moviemaking process, there was no question about us visiting while in Europe.

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter is a giant collection of soundstages and outdoor spaces playing host to set pieces, props and practical effects big and small that were used in the creation of the Harry Potter films. The experience continues to evolve with new additions and seasonal overlays of portions of the tour. The experience is self guided, though you have the option to pay for a deeper-level guidebook and/or a VIP tour with a guide (this is definitely something we'll get the next time we visit).

Many tour companies recommend three hours in the experience, but it is my recommendation for you to allow more time than that... We were only half way done as of three hours in. Depending on your degree of fandom/interest, you could easily spend closer to six hours there like we did. There are some interactive elements and a few neat photo/video ops (some free and some up-charge). But what is truly amazing about this place is just how much detail is revealed, not only in the making of these films, but in the attention to detail that was put into the design. In theme parks, we recognize the outstanding achievements of parks that bury little details in the background to be discovered... But in film, it almost seems gratuitous to take the time, money and effort to layer detail into the background of scenes that a viewer will never get close to... And yet, it is without question a feat that those involved in the making of these films gone the extra mile to pour writing, labels, background effects and overflowing detail in every corner. That is what makes this experience so surprising--the level of discovery to be had within.

(Continued)

(Continued)

I f ckin loved the Harry Potter tour when I visited England in June! Glad to see you did too! Great photos

Awesome report! Will definitely have to visit this place whenever I eventually get to England.

Great report as always Adam, I'm not the biggest Potter fan but I'd love to check that out if I'm ever in London. I wonder if the expansion is going to be just more of the same type of exhibits or if they're going to add anything else.

After our time at the Harry Potter Studio Tour London and Matilda, it was time to begin the portion of our trip dedicated to exploring London... While throwing in a few touristy attractions and lots of good food! We started with The London Dungeon and were off!

Great report! I've always wanted to try one of these dungeon attractions.

Also thanks for reminding me that Silver Surfer movie exists.

Great report as always, I remember visiting the London Dungeon as a kid (maybe not the best attraction for a 10 year old but I think I turned out okay) and just being blow away by it. Would love to experience it again as an adult and see if it's as much fun as I remember.

That is a fantastic day in London! All the noms look amazing!