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Launch of latest Harry Potter novel set to increase interest in English locations and attractions this summer.
This week's release of 'Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix' is set to spark an upsurge in interest in English locations used in the films' Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone' and 'Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets' this summer.
Many of the locations used in the films have seen a dramatic rise in the level of visitors, such as Alnwick Castle in Northumberland (better known as Hogwarts) where visitor figures have doubled in the last two years, and London Zoo, which has seen increased visitor interest in the Reptile House and between 21,000 and 27,000 people visiting during Harry Potter themed weeks, as opposed to an average of 33,000 each month at other times.
VisitBritain has put a list together of the top five Harry Potter-inspired locations in which to read the new book undisturbed:
1. Alnwick Castle in Northumberland
Used as the location for Hogwarts School, Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited castle in England (the first is Windsor Castle) and has been home to the Percy's, Earls and Dukes of Northumberland since 1309. It has regularly been featured in films and television productions, including 'Elizabeth' and 'Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves'. Visitors can hide away undisturbed with their book in a quiet corner of the castle gardens, close to the imaginary Quiddich pitch.
2. Goathland Station in the Yorkshire Moors
Better known as Hogsmeade Station where the students arrive on the Hogwarts Express, this village station, which has barely changed since it opened in 1865 and has also featured in the ITV series Heartbeat. It has become a major local attraction among overseas visitors who make a special trip to see the platform featured in the film. Then escape to the scenic nearby Yorkshire Moors, with wild, rugged landscapes and dramatic, green valleys - perfect for a spot of leisurely walking… or reading!
3. London Zoo in Regents Park
Visit the Reptile House where Harry discovered he could speak to snakes during a family outing to London Zoo in 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Since the release of the film, children repeatedly enquire as to the whereabouts of the 'Harry Potter snake'. The Zoo is located within Regent's Park, one of the most historic open spaces in London. The Park offers a wide range of facilities including gardens, a lake, herons and wildfowl, children's playgrounds and an open air theatre. An oasis in the capital city.
4. Christ Church in Oxford
Christ Church is Oxford's largest college and its Great Hall was used as the location of Hogwarts' dining hall. Christ Church is the only college in the world with a cathedral within its walls and it previously served as the inspiration for Lewis Carroll while writing 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland'. The Duke Humfrey's Library and the Divinity School, both part of the nearby Bodleian Library, were also used to recreate some of the interiors at Hogwarts. Take a punt along the Cherwell and enjoy the tranquillity of Oxford's waterways.
5. Outwoods in Loughborough
Harry and Ron followed the spiders through magical woods similar to Outwoods in Loughborough. This natural woodland area has a nature trail where you can recreate the scene, as well as take part in orienteering, cross-country running and rock climbing. Combine a tasty picnic with one of the leisurely walks through the woods which are home to wild deer.
For a free 48-page brochure on holiday ideas in England this summer call 0845 456 3456 or visit www.visitengland.com
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