ellie

Choose London for a school holiday to remember

August 14, 2015 by ellie

When you hear the words ‘summer holiday’, do you immediately think of whisking your family away to an exotic destination far away from home with the sun shining bright, comfortable loungers waiting for you and lots of fun activities to keep the kids busy? Let’s be honest, many of us imagine these wonderful things and it is a great experience for children to explore the world and the cultures within. However, what we sometimes forget, is that the perfect summer holiday can even be spent in a vibrant city, just like London! Our blog this week is to help find you some exciting plans with your family for the summer before it flies away and the clouds start to creep their way back over our skies.

Pop the question in style

August 6, 2015 by ellie

Proposals are unsurprisingly quite a common thing in London and thanks to its picturesque beauty and its unbeatable charm; you could take your special someone to a wide variety of unforgettable places and ask that life-changing question. However, this blog is dedicated to those who have most likely seen lots of cliché proposals in Hollywood movies (ring hidden in the cake kind of thing). We agree the idea is deliciously romantic, but this week we’re looking at ideas that will guarantee the special moment to be the most memorable of your life (until you get married, of course).

Love inter-cultural London

July 21, 2015 by ellie

London is one of the most culturally vibrant cities on Earth with an estimated over 300 different languages being spoken and 37% of its population born outside of the UK. What’s more, 84% of Londoners see the city’s cultural scene as essential for quality of life and we totally agree! London wouldn’t be the fascinating and thrilling location it is without the remarkable diversity it holds. Whether you’re a resident in or out of the city or if you are a tourist charmed by the capital, trust us when we say, there’s nowhere else like London. So, how can you immerse yourself into the cultural capital of the world this summer? Check out these exciting events happening in the city centre that absolutely anyone can be a part of.

Where to go for a top afternoon tea

July 10, 2015 by ellie

Before we begin with this week’s blog, let’s take a moment to be thankful for the 7th Duchess of Bedford, who back in the 1800s when two meals a day was the norm, she decided to set a daily time to have an afternoon snack. And behold, afternoon tea was born. Now, this English tradition is becoming even more popular than ever in restaurants, hotels and beautiful tea rooms offering all kinds of delightful treats. So, fancy something quirky? Here are or recommendations for London’s top afternoon tea locations.

3 ways to make travel matter

June 30, 2015 by ellie

Fascinating fact of the day: More than 8 million people fly to another destination every single day. Back in 2013, the number of air passengers remarkably set the highest record in history, standing at 3.1 billion people. This astonishing figure is one of many that can show in an instant how important travel and tourism are as a part of our modern-day lives and technology is only becoming even more advanced, allowing us to be anywhere in the world, whenever we want. To some, this is an amazing thing, but to others it can be shocking. Global ethical/eco-tourism organizations are consistently keen to encourage particularly frequent travellers to consider how their participation in tourism is benefitting the physical surroundings and the society of the destination being explored. Can tourism offer favourable income to local families and hard workers? Can events mean development of an economy? Can hospitality help to reduce carbon emissions? The answer is yes! So, what can you do to travel, with the world in mind?

Warner Bros. Studio Tour: Go Behind the Scenes of the Harry Potter Phenomenon

June 15, 2015 by ellie

For those now in their twenties, it’s hard to believe that Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone first hit cinemas in 2001. Fans who grew up with the books and films can now relive that childhood magic at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – an immersive behind-the-scenes look at one of the most beloved film series of all time.

Since the final instalment of the saga, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, wrapped in 2011, the studio preserved hundreds of intricate sets, props and costumes. These are now on display for fans to explore, offering a magical experience like no other. And it’s only 20 miles from central London – perfect for a magical day trip.

Step Onto Platform 9 ¾

A major highlight is the stunning recreation of Platform 9 ¾, which was added in 2015 as part of a 20,000ft² expansion. This area features the original Hogwarts Express steam engine, a photo opportunity with a disappearing luggage trolley, and even a themed gift shop with train-inspired memorabilia. The detail and scale of the platform bring to life the iconic scene where Harry first sets off for Hogwarts.

Explore Diagon Alley, Dumbledore’s Office and More

Walk through Diagon Alley, complete with Ollivanders Wand Shop, Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes, and Mr. Mulpepper’s Apothecary. Peer into the jars and cauldrons, many of which were created by hand to add authenticity to the films. Then head into Professor Dumbledore’s office, first introduced in The Chamber of Secrets, and featured throughout the series.

Other fan-favourite locations include the Gryffindor Common Room, the Great Hall, and The Weasleys’ Kitchen – each filled with original props and special effects that shaped the magical world.

Creature Effects and Visual Effects Secrets

Want to know how Dobby, Aragog or the goblins came to life? Visit the Creature Effects Department to see more than 200 fantastical creatures used across the films. From animatronics to green-screen illusions, you’ll discover how the visual effects team brought the wizarding world to life.

You can also learn about the mechanical magic behind iconic sets like the Chamber of Secrets entrance and enchanted feast scenes, with practical demonstrations of how these illusions were created on set.

Private Events and Afternoon Teas

The Studio Tour also offers exclusive event packages, including Christmas banquets and corporate dinners inside the actual Great Hall set. If you’re visiting in a group, don’t miss the afternoon tea or lunch packages at the Studio Café or the outdoor Terrace – complete with butterbeer, scones, and sandwiches. A green-screen broomstick photo is practically mandatory, and ideal for visitors of all ages.

Details on packages, seasonal events and group bookings can be found at: https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk

Stay in the Wizard Chambers at Georgian House

Your magical experience doesn’t have to end at the Studio Tour. Located just a short walk from London Victoria, the Georgian House Hotel offers spellbinding accommodation in our Wizard Chambers and Enchanted Chambers – immersive, themed rooms inspired by the world of magic. Designed with hidden details, stained glass, archways and four-poster beds, they’re perfect for fans seeking a truly enchanted stay.

Each booking includes a Wizard Breakfast, featuring options like the Forbidden Feast or Toffeedukes Pancakes. It’s a truly unforgettable experience, ideal for couples, families or birthday surprises.

Learn more and book your stay

Please note: The Wizard Chambers and Enchanted Chambers at Georgian House Hotel provide a unique, magical experience and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Warner Bros., J.K. Rowling, or any associated entities.