Not to be outdone by the Wizarding World, the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London is planning a major expansion – which will include the original Hogwarts Express steam train!
When the Harry Potter Studio Tour opened in 2012, fans were amazed at just how much detail had gone into replicating sets from the movie (most impressively the Great Hall), and how many props, costumes and concept art pieces were featured.
Hypable.com visited the set, and were able to give a detailed account of the incredible experience.
Now, as the Studio Tour celebrates its third anniversary, Warner Bros. has announced a major expansion:
This March we’re unveiling an expansion featuring the original #HogwartsExpress steam train! http://t.co/rUoR59YrLf pic.twitter.com/iR10WHag5P
— WarnerBrosStudioTour (@wbstudiotour) January 26, 2015
The new 20,000-square foot section of the Studio Tour will feature the original Hogwarts Express steam train – otherwise known as “Olton Hall” – and the display will be set up like the actual Platform 9 3/4 in King’s Cross Station.
Guests will not only be able to walk alongside the train (which will be billowing steam as though it’s about to depart), but will also have the option to go inside the interior compartment set used for filming the Harry Potter train scenes.
Related: J.K. Rowling hosts Lumos fundraiser at Harry Potter Studio Tour with Alan Rickman, Emma Watson
The luggage trolley (as seen in the actual King’s Cross Station in London) will be present on the platform, allowing visitors to pose on their way through the barrier.
And finally, a new Hogwarts Express-themed gift shop is scheduled to open, too, featuring items inspired by the train.
“The Hogwarts Express had a starring role in the films, so we’re excited that it will be taking centre stage in the new area,” says vice president of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London Sarah Roots. “It’s the piece that visitors have most requested to see and we’re expecting a fantastic response.”