Good news for fans of the universe created by JK Rowling: the cinematographic saga on the adventures of the famous wizard celebrates this year the twentieth anniversary of the first film, released in 2001. In the wake of this anniversary, the special program "Harry Potter: Return to Hogwarts ”, available on HBO Max and Salto and which brings together a large part of the actors who have played in the eight films. For this plunge into their memories of filming, Emma Watson (Hermione), Daniel Radcliffe (Harry), Rupert Grint (Ron) or even Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy) gathered to share anecdotes. To immerse yourself further in the saga, visit the Warner Bros. studios. Studio Tour London is ideal. You will find the sets and filming locations there. This studio tour is particularly enchanting in winter;we tell you why. But beforehand, do not forget your PCR tests (find here all the instructions for traveling to England).
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Harry Potter's
20 years
in the British capital
To see the studios under the snow
The model of Hogwarts, covered in snow. Press Photo / Warner Bros Studios
During the holiday season, the Warner Bros. Studio covers part of the sets and sets used in the filming of the eight films of the saga with snow, plunging visitors into the often winter atmosphere of the wizard's adventures. There is nothing like crossing the Forbidden Forest shrouded in snow or browsing Diagon Alley and its shops covered with a white coat. Not to mention a visit to Harry and Ron's bedroom, decorated with garlands - as well as the Gryffindor dormitory, where a Christmas tree stands. We believe it! Outside, the Magicobus waits under heavy falling snow. As for the Great Hall, an iconic place in Hogwarts castle, it hosts Christmas trees and other seasonal feasts for the occasion, which give it an extra touch of magic. Finally,the model of the castle is also covered with snow.
The studios in the snow, it's until January 16.
To take a picture on a Quidditch broom, with Hogwarts as a backdrop
To stick to the winter season, consider taking a photo of yourself with the snowy Hogwarts castle in the background.
To do this, climb on an authentic Quidditch broom, placed halfway up in front of a green background.
The team on site will take care of the photo.
The result could not be nicer: the protagonist of the shot seems to fly above the snow-capped pine forest, with the castle below.
Photo price: 18 euros.
Also in London, 13 filming locations and magical places in the Harry Potter universe
To find gifts (even late)
A deliciously Potteresque table decoration!
Press Photo / Warner Bros Studios
For those who did not have time to do their Christmas shopping (it happens) and spoil their loved ones, or who were sick during the holidays, here is the opportunity to make up for it with dignity.
At Warner Bros. Film Studios, multiple shops and other colorful stalls will provide cool gift ideas.
Notebooks, gadgets, magic wands, capes, Hogwarts uniforms, candies, stuffed animals (including the adorable Hedwig owl) and surprise dragees from Bertie Crochue are spread out endlessly over yards and yards of attractive shops.
You just have to choose!
To see London shine brightly
Is there a more sparkling time than early January to travel to London? On the sidelines of the studio visit, a detour through the English capital is essential, where the magic of the holidays can be prolonged. For now, the entire city is still full of festive garlands and other seasonal illuminations, generously distilling an atmosphere conducive to celebration. From the well-known Regent Street to Oxford Street, via the opulent Bond Street and New Bond Street, the very lively Carnaby Street, Covent Garden or even Sloane Square and Burlington Arcade ... London's streets and arteries compete with each other in illuminations . Do not miss the decorations of the department stores, including the iconic Fortnum & Mason (where festive tables are carefully set from one floor to another) or even Harrods and Liberty.The hotels are not left out: at Claridge's, a palace, appreciated by Churchill, a Christmas tree signed Kim Jones, the artistic director of Dior, was unveiled on the morning of December 24. At the Goring, the only hotel in the world to have received the Royal Approval from Queen Elizabeth II, the holiday spirit hangs in the air. Finally, the winter period is particularly suitable for tea time, ideal for warming up. Note, most of the formulas offered by hotels customize their little Christmas-themed pastries until the beginning of January.holiday spirit soars with happiness. Finally, the winter period is particularly suitable for tea time, ideal for warming up. Note, most of the formulas offered by hotels customize their little Christmas-themed pastries until the beginning of January.holiday spirit soars with happiness. Finally, the winter period is particularly suitable for tea time, ideal for warming up. Note, most of the formulas offered by hotels customize their little Christmas-themed pastries until the beginning of January.
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And also ... to see a bewitching play
The period being especially suited to musicals, and to stay in the theme until the end, consider going to see
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
.
Back at the Palace Theater in Covent Garden, this play by JK Rowling shows unmistakable success.
For families whose children are fans of other magical characters, Disney's Frozen
musical
is being played just yards away at the West End at Theater Royal Drury Lane.
Last but not least
: the Natural History Museum ice rink returned to South Kensington again this year, until January 16.
It is topped by a huge Christmas tree.
Practical notebook
The Glasshouse, the restaurant at The Grove hotel.
The Grove / Photo press
HARRY POTTER STUDIOS TOUR
Price: single visit from 55 euros.
Group formulas and formulas with journeys are also available.
Advance reservations mandatory, on wbstudiotour.co.uk/
GO
The studios are located just under an hour by car (excluding traffic jams) from central London.
They are also accessible by public transport, in particular via a customized bus (price of the bus package + entrance ticket: 104 euros per adult, 98 euros per child).
All the info and options here: wbstudiotour.co.uk/fr/getting-here/
Studio Address: Warner Brothers Studio, Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR
OR SLEEP
For those wishing to spend the night not far from the studios,
The Grove
hotel has it all.
Located 8 minutes by car (count between 10 and 14 € by Uber), it is spread over a vast area, including a golf course, a well-equipped spa and its heated swimming pool, tennis courts and several restaurants (including the Glasshouse, where a buffet provided combines practicality and good quality cuisine).
Price for a classic double room from 434 euros (breakfast not included).
From 479 euros for 2 people for a Classic King Room, breakfast included and access to the swimming pool and other hotel services.
From St Pancras to The Grove: Take the train to London Euston, then to Watford Junction (30 min journey).
Then 8 min by taxi.
The Grove.
Chandler's Cross, Hertfordshire, WD3 4TG.
Phone.
: +44 (0) 1923 807 80.
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GOOD TABLE
The Grove restaurant The Glasshouse is a good address, with its
varied and quality
food stations , and the attractive decor of the place, spacious and cozy.
Good service too.
Breakfast: 33 euros for hotel guests, 41 euros for outsiders.
Lunch: 88 euros from Thursday to Sunday.
Dinner: 66 euros from Monday to Thursday, 88 euros from Friday to Sunday.
The Glasshouse.
Phone.
: +44 (0) 1923 296 010.