“Aggh! Mind that tree” my sister screams as we spiral further and further out of control, rolling hills coming to meet us as we plummet to earth. “I think this is the end!” she announces dramatically, squeezing her eyes shut for the inevitable crash. I gently remind her that we’re in Canberra. In the middle of a shop. And am rewarded with a withering eye roll.
It was Dumbledore who said, “Of course it is happening inside your head, Harry, but why on earth should that mean it is not real?”
We really are sitting in the Flying Ford Anglia that Ron and Harry unceremoniously crashed into Hogwart’s Womping Willow, at least a replica of it, so it is unsurprising my kooky sister is waging a war against reality as she nudges me out and shuffles over for her turn in the driver seat.
One of the biggest surprises in Canberra, Quizzic Alley brings the magical world of Harry Potter to life, with a magical vibe oozing mystery and fun, reminding me why Harry potter and his magical world filled me with a sense of wonder and awe in the first place.
Home to Australia’s largest collection of Harry Potter merchandise, Quizzic Alley’s shelves are so stuffed with wizarding wares I feel like I’ve stumbled into Diagon Alley. Wannabe witches and wizards can stock up on spell books, wands, costumes and charm pins. You’ll also find books, board games and broomsticks, and plush Hedwigs and Fantastic Beasts’ adorable nifflers amongst the magical merch. And you can sip on butterscotch flavoured QBrew, nibble on chocolate frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every Flavoured Beans (my tip is to avoid the vomit flavour) while you do.
You can even take a potions class (bookings only) and try out the sorting hat. I’m Gryffindor, of course!
Basically, if it is Hogwart’s-hued, you’ll find it here.
Our visit to Quizzic Alley Canberra has reignited a spark and I leave eager to re-read the books and watch the movies all over again. Only this time my sister is old enough to join me for the ride. With a hit of Hogwarts and her wild imagination, who knows what magical adventures might ensue?
Written by Raff – 12
Quizzic Alley Canberra
Hours: Wednesday to Friday 10am-5.30pm. Weekends 10am-4pm5 Pyrie St,
Fyshwick, ACT
PH: (02) 6179 8856
The boy in BoyEatsWorld, Raff is an experienced travel television presenter, published travel writer, and an award winning public speaker who is as obsessed with eating as he is with travel. 