BOAT HOUSE

The first part of Hogwarts Castle that a new first year student sees is the Boathouse. As they make the journey across the lake from near Hogsmeade within enchanted boats, the full size and grandeur of their new home becomes apparent. Hogwarts itself sits upon a high spur of rock overlooking the lake and the grounds around. Anyone in one of the boats would wonder: how are we going to get all the way up there from down here?

That way becomes apparent soon enough! As the boats float along an opening in the massive rock comes into view! A small valley, really, over which a stone viaduct crosses. It is here where the boathouse stands. The Boathouse itself is but the grand entryway into the underground harbour. It is a high steeply roofed structure, airy and spacious inside with a number of interesting places that can be explored from the main boat launch, with its many boat slips and stone steps leading down into the water to a gallery up in the rafters where one can observe the doings below without themselves being easily observed. A small tower perched atop the high peaked roof serves as a sort of light house, illuminating the water and the stone quays on either side of the entry portal. One might also find here a quiet place for contemplation or observation of the lake beyond.

The Boathouse’s ivy covered walls hide the ancient stone and brickwork, and indeed a curtain of ivy conceals the entryway itself! Yet the boats seem to know what they're about! As they pass under the thick curtain of ivy tendrils, the boats enter the castle proper and make their way past the outer hall where a variety of equipment is kept. Here, one will find a variety of interesting boats, oars, ropes, as well as supplies for repair and maintenance of the small fleet. One is also likely to find a variety of fishing gear as well.

Towards the back, an archway leads to a dark tunnel and the underground harbour where new first years disembark before being led up into the castle high above. Keeping at least one eye on any goings on down here, there are a couple portraits hanging upon the walls, tucked away among coils of rope, nets and other paraphernalia. Outside, one will find long stone quays on either side of the Boathouse with ramps leading into the water at one end, and the long and winding stone stair that leads from the quay up to the Courtyard high above. The stair seems to follow the natural curves of the rock and its many quirky twists and turns are lit at odd intervals by enchanted lamps.