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On a quiet cul-de-sac, there’s a three storey pebbledash townhouse that looks very much like its neighbours – but inside is another story entirely. Upon opening the door to the light-flooded hallway, you’re greeted by a mini replica of the famous Platform 9 ¾, made famous by author JK Rowling in her smash hit Harry Potter series.
The story of the boy wizard was told over seven books which were adapted into eight blockbuster films, which were created at Leavesden Studios in London. Since the films concluded production, a studio tour was created, giving fans insight and access into how the films were made, alongside a detailed look at numerous sets and official props.
For my niece’s 10th birthday, we planned a surprise trip to London to complete the tour and let her live her Hufflepuff dreams.
My sister-in-law found The Wizarding House on Airbnb, a town-house which has been impeccably transformed into a stylish, chic tribute to all things Harry Potter.
The faux Platform 9 ¾ in the entryway is just the start but it sets the tone brilliantly. It’s even complete with suitcases disappearing halfway through the wall as they enter the magical, wizarding world.
The ground floor comprises a large kitchen-diner. A calming place with pale grey floor tiles, light grey cupboards and a blue kitchen island, the nods to the iconic franchise are a little more subtle but no less effective.
There’s a chunky wooden table which seats eight flanked by fabric flags of the Hogwarts Houses, and a large framed print of the legendary school.
A replica of the Hogwarts Express – the red and black train which takes students to their studies in the giant castle – is ensconced in a glass case. Under the stairs, there’s a cupboard which perfectly mimics Harry Potter’s unfortunate excuse for a bedroom while he lived with his cruel aunt and uncle, the Dursleys. It even has potion books and Harry’s little army figurines.
The attention to detail is impressive – the melamine cups come in the colours of the Hogwarts houses – Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, and Slytherin – and even the plates and utensils storage jar are Harry Potter-themed.
Patio doors onto a spacious, serene garden complete the ground floor. Heading upstairs, the hallway is kitted out with paintings, wands and signage reminiscent of the hallowed halls of Hogwarts.
On the first floor is the living room, styled after Sirius Black’s ancestral home at 12 Grimmauld Place, complete with a wallpaper copy of the Black family tree tapestry – even down to certain members’ faces being scrubbed out in black. There’s a large, cosy corner sofa, spellbooks, lego models and more to delight any Harry Potter fan.
The bedroom on this level is designed in the style of Slytherin – think moody black and dark green colours with lots of nods to the serpent.
On the top floor, there’s two more bedrooms – one in the style of Gryffindor and the other in the style of the ‘avis’ spell which conjures birds – and both are delightfully charming. In the Gryffindor room, there’s a box of wands and countless props which nod to the magical world.
The shower room on this level has been designed in the style of the Ministry of Magic, with forest green tiles and black grout, and ‘wanted’ posters galore.
We were blown away by how well thought out the decor and styling was, while my niece was utterly amazed at every single detail and turn. I don’t think I’ve ever seen her quite so excited.
The hosts even arranged for balloons and a message in the style of the Hogwarts acceptance letter to welcome her to the property, which was a really sweet touch that helped enhance her experience.
The Airbnb is just a 15 minute walk to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Leavesden, making it well positioned for those keen to have a home away from home while completing the tour. I’d definitely recommend making a booking for the Harry Potter fans in your life.
