Harlaxton 2017: British History, Jane Austen and Harry Potter!

By: Callie Freeman

And they’re off! Today, on our first day of official touring, we Kentuckians relished some true British classics. After an English breakfast at the Nutford House, Dr. Rutledge presented a “crash course” on British History. Beginning with the arrival of Julius Caesar in 55 B.C. and concluding with the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, Dr. Rutledge left no historical stone unturned and gave us an excellent frame of reference for our three weeks’ studies. Following his history lecture, Dr. Rutledge delved into perhaps one of my very favorite British literary topics. Drum roll please… The life and works of none other than Jane Austen! As a proud member of the Jane Austen Society of North America and long time Jane enthusiast, I am happy to report that Dr. Rutledge’s presentation didn’t disappoint. Empire waists, English country dancing, love, marriage, Anne Elliot, Captain Wentworth… Need I say more? The morning lecture was a delight.

Following a brief lunch break in the beautiful garden of the Nutford House, we began our journey to the Harry Potter Studio Tour site. For Harry Potter die-hards as well as those who are less familiar with J.K. Rowling’s beloved series, the tour was magnificent – complete with flying cars, wands, wizards and even the iconic butter beer. A tribute to the actors, screenwriters, makeup artists, designers, production assistants and all of those who work on the classic movies, the tour showcases all of the hard work and talent that really makes the movies come to life. And a quick walk through the exhibits, which display thousands of props, lifelike sets and dazzling costumes, shows that making a Harry Potter film truly does take a village – or, more accurately, a city! A trip to the Harry Potter Studio will prove that the Harry Potter series really is a British classic, loved by those of all ages and from all parts of the world.

By the end of our “magical” afternoon, we all were ready for dinner, and a quick Google search of “good food near the Nutford House” gave us plenty of scrumptious choices. After eventually settling on the “Spaghetti House,” we sat down to some delicious mozzarella, calamari, olives and other authentic Italian food. A viewing of Jane Austen’s Persuasion and a trip back out into the city for some gelato completed a day filled with some of the great British icons. That nine hour plane ride really was worth it!