Review: A Hogwarts-Themed Getaway in the Enchantment Chamber
If you’ve ever longed to experience a night at Hogwarts, with your own four-poster in your House’s dormitories, spending your free time cozying up next to the fire in the common room (and let’s face it, who hasn’t?), you need yearn no more.
Tucked away in a converted Victorian mill, the Enchantment Chamber offers self-catered accommodation for two in the heart of one of England’s most historic cities, York. The creation of husband-and-wife duo Miles and Katie, the apartment is designed to look like a Hogwarts-esque wizarding residence. Featuring a four-poster bed, wood-paneled walls, an ornate mantelpiece, and a cauldron coffee table, the place has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
I was greeted by Miles on my arrival, who led me through the modern apartment complex to perhaps the most unique one in the building: the Enchantment Chamber. The entrance to the apartment is decorated in blue, with wizarding portraits on the walls. Two doors lead off it – one leads to the bathroom; the other, signposted “Platform 9 ¾,” leads to the rest of the apartment. The bedroom, living room, and kitchen are open plan, which makes the space feel bigger (or is it an Undetectable Extension charm…?).
The décor includes lots of nods to the Harry Potter series, such as the Deathly Hallows symbol carved into the table and magical plant pots on the windowsill. I won’t spoil everything there is to find, but I will mention that it’s worth taking a close look at the Roman numerals on the bed.
Even if you’re not an avid Harry Potter fan, there are plenty of magical features that you’ll appreciate. The roaring fire in the grate? Actually the TV. Fancy a night under the stars? Just switch on the “stars” in the bed canopy.
Beyond the wizarding theme, the apartment is full of modern comforts. While some people might be slightly disappointed that the magical décor doesn’t extend to the kitchen and bathroom, this didn’t bother me, and I appreciated that it kept the areas for food preparation and hygiene separate from the rest of the apartment. The kitchen is fully furnished with equipment, utensils and cutlery, a microwave, a coffee maker, a kettle – and complimentary tea, coffee, and biscuits (greatly appreciated!). There are also great-quality toiletries provided in the bathroom. And, yes, there is of course free Wi-Fi.
If you have young witches and wizards, this unfortunately won’t be the place to take them for a holiday, as there is only one double bed. This is a more high-end getaway and would suit anyone looking for an unusual place to stay for an anniversary or weekend away. There is elevator access but no on-site parking. However, the nearby public carpark was a very convenient two-minute walk away, although it does mean you have to pay to park if you arrive by car.
On a personal note, my stay here was a lovely way to spend one of my last nights in York before my university graduation, especially as a Harry Potter fan. It was very comfortable, and despite having to sleep with the windows open because of the hot weather, there wasn’t any disruptive noise from the city or traffic.
The location of the Enchantment Chamber is perfect for Harry Potter fans looking to do some tourism. A ten-minute walk away is the Shambles shopping street, allegedly part of the inspiration for Diagon Alley, and home to multiple wizard-themed shops. If you’re interested in visiting filming locations, the Enchantment Chamber is not far from York Railway Station (used as King’s Cross Station), and Goathland Railway Station (used as Hogsmeade Station). This makes it an ideal place to stay to make a Potter-themed trip more magical, or if you just feel like spending the night in an awesome apartment, the lovely location of York is an added bonus. Miles was always quick to respond to my messages and so enthusiastic and accommodating – it’s clear he takes great pride in the apartment. Overall, I’d give it 9 ¾ out of 10 (because no one has EVER made that joke before).
To find out more about the Enchantment Chamber, visit its website.