So many updates since I last had the chance to blog!
First, my class went on a walking tour to explore London and see some filming locations from the Harry Potter movies. We got to visit the Leaky Cauldron, 12 Grimauld Place, Gringotts, and see even more within London. Personally, the most exciting aspect of the excursion was going to the Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio Tour that evening. Walking around the corner and seeing Platform 9 3/4 complete with the Hogwarts Express billowing steam really was like walking into another world! Going into the room surround the model of Hogwarts lead to so many overwhelmed reactions from jaws dropping, smiles, and even tears of joy. Seeing the studio tour gives an idea as to just how much work and talent went in behind the scenes of these films as well as the number of sets and props.
Also, totally recommend trying butterbeer if you get the chance! Delicious
Another film location we had the chance to visit is Gloucester Cathedral. The hallways there were used as the 3rd floor corridor of Hogwarts and are amazingly detailed! Our tour guides showed us the prop panels they used for writing on the wall, which was very neat.
We learned about the history of the church and the way of life for its members on the first part of the tour. We also saw one of the world's largest stained glass window and visited the crypts underground. Eventually, we walked up the tower through a very intimidating, narrow stairwell to get a great view of the cathedral and city from the top. On the way, we saw the bell rooms and timed it to hear them chime.
Another opportunity I had was going on an excursion to another cathedral, Salisbury, and Stonehenge. Both cathedrals are fascinating with incredible architecture. I loved being able to roam around the cathedral and see of the different images and monuments.
Right before visiting Salisbury we were able to see Stonehenge. The history and speculation of the stones just give a really unique, historical atmosphere! Traveling there was the first time since being in London we were surrounded by farms and countryside. There was even a small replica neolithic village on site. It ended up being a pretty cold day but it was great to get out and explore the stones. We had a great time taking photos and trying to guess what smaller stones and meant before listening to the audio.
Outside of class trips and excursions I've been loving the chance to go to a few plays! There aren't many large scale theatre productions around home so being able to get affordable tickets and hop on the tube is something I'm enjoying as much as possible while I'm here. The first play a friend and I went to was Guys and Dolls with Rebel Wilson.
The play was at the Phoenix Theatre, which is an awesome venue. Our seats were in the back row of the top balcony but I still felt very close to the stage. The set was really bright and decorative so it fit perfectly with the play. The show itself was wonderful! We were smiling, dancing in our seats, and nodding in approval for the whole show. Afterwords we went to stage door with many other excited fans. Rebel was super nice and stopped to chat with everyone waiting!
Also, one of the things I'd been most excited for this trip was going to see Cursed Child! Can't give any spoilers but it was DEFINITELY worth the effort to get tickets and I would have flown here just to go to the play and back. The amazing thing about seeing the play is that all the magic you read about and see on screen seems to happen right before your eyes! The music and choreography is incredible too. Can't wait for the book release now!
Also, the cast is super talented and enthusiastic. Went to stage door and even got to chat with cast and crew after at a pub. We went to find the design shop since we realized how we missed it during intermission and had decided to stop for drinks. Probably the first time I'm glad we got lost. Looking forward to going back!
P.S. Went to Camden market and it's a great place to find handmade jewelry and souvenirs then grab lunch on weekends. Finally got to try authentic fish and chips! I've heard the gondola ride is fun too. Check it out if you get the chance!
