Witchcraft and Wizardry Summer School

Beyond Boundaries Travel offers its School of Witchcraft & Wizardry experience in Scotland’s historic Ford Castle – built in 1338. Attend classes like Harry Potter did, such as Astronomy, Magical Creatures, Potions, and Divination. This “school” offers a living literature program that immerses guests with professional award-winning storytellers that transport them to a magical place. This summer school only offers one session during the summer. For 2008, the session runs from July 23-27, 2008, at a cost of $1399 per person (based on 4-5 person “school dormitory” style rooms) plus airfare (Single Supplement: $150).

Itinerary:

There is a little something for everyone; featuring adult classes, children’s classes, and family classes where everyone can hang out and explore together.

Image courtesy of the Northumberland County Council

July 23 (Day One) – Arrive in Edinburgh, Orientation, Castle Tour, Stories

Meals – Dinner

Your adventure begins upon your arrival at Edinburgh Airport. We will provide two courtesy transfers for the group from the airport to Ford Castle, Berwick-upon-Tweed. (For fans just finishing any of the regular HP Fan Trips™ tours, hop on the included courtesy shuttle to join up with the school group at the airport.)

After arriving at the castle, we will gather in the afternoon for an orientation and distribution of final documents. To get your bearings, we’ll take a tour of the castle. Ford Castle, in its prominence, protected the area during the times of Border Reivers, hosting King James IV of Scotland and his court on the eve of the fateful Battle of Flodden Field in 1513.

Tonight we will enjoy a Welcome Dinner together so you can get to know your fellow classmates for the trip. Here you will be sorted into your houses and will meet the staff of HPFT’s School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Our storytellers may share a tale or two with us this evening.
July 24 (Day Two) – Four Classes, Evening Storytelling

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our term begins with two classes in the morning which may include Potions, Divination, Astronomy, Magical Creatures, Herbology, History of Witches, Mystical Materials and more.

After lunch (included), students will engage in two additional classes.

The balance of the afternoon can be spent on optional activities such as canoeing, rock climbing, cliff scrambling, orienteering, a visit to Holy Island or take a boat trip to see bird life and seals at Farne Islands. (Additional fee applies.)

After dinner (included) we’ll gather for more stories in the dungeon (for older students only) or in the library where we may hear tales of fantastical creatures or characters from England and Scotland’s colorful past.
July 25 (Day Three) – Four Classes, Pajama Party

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, our term continues with two classes in the morning which may include Potions, Divination, Astronomy, Magical Creatures, Herbology, History of Witches, Mystical Materials and more.

Classes dismiss for lunch (included).

After lunch students will engage in two additional classes.

The balance of the afternoon can be spent on optional activities such as canoeing, rock climbing, cliff scrambling, orienteering, a visit to Holy Island or take a boat trip to see bird life and seals at Farne Islands. (Additional fee applies.)

After dinner (included) we will enjoy a fun-filled pajama party with lots of exciting activities.
July 26 (Day Four) – Field Trip to Alnwick Castle, Land Based Wizarding Game

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Banquet

Field Trip! A morning departure for a fun adventure at Alnwick Castle, a film location for the first two Harry Potter movies. Your coach will whisk you in comfort to the historic village of Alnwick. Here you will gaze upon the scenery used for Harry’s first flying lesson.

Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited such structure in England after Windsor Castle, and has been home to the Percys, Earls and Dukes of Northumberland since 1309. If you wish, you may explore the gardens at your leisure. Alnwick Garden has free admission for those under 16 years of age – admission not included for adults.

An early afternoon return to Ford Castle, our home base. Competitions will be held throughout the afternoon as fans play HP Fan Trips’ very popular Land Based Wizarding Game, inspired by Harry’s favorite sport.

Tonight we gather for a Farewell Banquet, toast the winners of the Wizarding Games, and share memories of our fantastic adventure!
July 27 (Day Five) – Journey Home

Meals – Breakfast

After breakfast our private coaches will provide one courtesy transfer to Edinburgh Airport and central Edinburgh.