Hogwarts doesn’t really exist outside of the Harry Potter books and films – but the kind of architecture that inspired its design is to be found all over Scotland, not least at Paisley’s Coats venue.
A product of the gothic revival, that converted old church looks remarkably like the famed wizarding school, a fact that caught the imagination of local artist Lisa Cunningham, who is staging a series of festive events there to bring the magic alive for Potter-obsessed parents and kids.
The events are over the weekend of December 13, 14 and 15 and will see Coats – which is operated by a preservation charity and is most often employed as a wedding venue – decorated in a Hogwarts style, with specially themed food and drinks, photo opportunities and even a real live owl.
Lisa said: “We ran an event a few weeks ago and we were blown away by the response.
“Demand has been crazy for some more themed brunches so we are definitely looking at other ideas too.
“But the big news is we are doing three more Hogwarts inspired events just before Christmas.
“The venue is perfect, it’s just beautiful, and everyone really got into the spirit of it all, coming along in costumes and stuff.”
While these family brunches at Coats are inspired by the world of Hogwarts, they are not officially endorsed Potter events.
“It’s all a bit of fun really,” said Cunningham. “We’re all fans and it’s about giving local families something fun to do together in these tough times.
“Transforming a space like this really gets the creative juices flowing which makes for such a special atmosphere and capturing the real magic that we look to emulate in every event we do.
“From the set design to the actors, magicians to the owls and even the food elements, everything’s thought through thoroughly to create a wow factor for the guests.
“We have some really exciting things planned for 2025 exploring different interests and passions. It’s such a gift having this beautiful venue to play with.”
