Harry Potter Tours for Visually Impaired Fans
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London has unveiled a groundbreaking new experience tailored specifically for Harry Potter fans with sight loss or visual impairment. In collaboration with Guide Dogs, the renowned tourist attraction in Leavesden, Hertfordshire, has introduced Tactile Tours, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to touch authentic props, fabrics, and magical creatures from the beloved film series.
Immerse in the Magic
Imagine walking through the enchanting world of Harry Potter, feeling the intricate details of costumes worn by Death Eaters and other iconic characters. Picture yourself running your fingers over the fabrics from Professor Trelawney’s Divination classroom, or stroking a section of Aragog’s prickly leg. With Tactile Tours, visitors can now explore the wonders of Gringotts bank and get up close to the famous Hogwarts castle model, all through touch.
A New Perspective
The introduction of these tactile tours marks a significant step towards inclusivity and accessibility in the entertainment industry. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London has dedicated itself to creating a space where individuals with sight loss can fully immerse themselves in the magic of Harry Potter. Through a year-long partnership with Guide Dogs, the tour staff has undergone comprehensive training to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for all visitors.
Personal Touch
Penny Hefferan, a lived experience officer at Guide Dogs, visited the Studio Tour with her guide dog Questa to provide feedback on the accessibility of the new experience. She expressed her excitement about the tour’s potential to offer more choices for individuals with sight loss. Ms. Hefferan’s infectious enthusiasm shone through as she described the joy of being able to feel the costumes and props, truly experiencing the magic of the tour.
Looking Towards the Future
Geoff Spooner, senior vice president at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, expressed his enthusiasm for the Tactile Tours, emphasizing the studio’s commitment to inspiring lasting change and providing a magical experience for all visitors. Alex Pepper, head of accessibility at Guide Dogs, highlighted the impact of the partnership in driving accessibility initiatives across the UK attractions industry. Together, they aim to create a more inclusive environment where individuals who are blind or partially sighted can explore and enjoy the wonders of the Studio Tour.
In Conclusion
The launch of Tactile Tours at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London represents a significant milestone in the quest for inclusivity and accessibility in the entertainment industry. By offering a hands-on experience for visitors with sight loss, the tour opens up a world of magic and wonder for all Harry Potter fans. As Penny Hefferan aptly put it, initiatives like this pave the way for a future where accessibility is the norm, not the exception. With the unwavering dedication of the Studio Tour team and Guide Dogs, the magic of Harry Potter can now be experienced by everyone, regardless of sight.