Harry Potter Lego came back with a bang in 2010 to coincide with the release of the last two Deathly Hallows movies, but in 2011 production slowed a little, resulting in the release of only four sets.
Although there were only four complete models, those sets came with a wonderful selection of minifigures and gave fans first-time Lego versions of Fred and George Weasley, Olivander, Gregory Goyle, Professor Sprout and Narcissa Malfoy as well as updated versions of Neville Longbottom, Remus Lupin and more.
So put on Alexandre Desplat’s score of the final movie (or John Williams if you are a purist) and let’s take a look at “The boy who lived” in bricks.
Best Harry Potter Lego Set of 2011
The standout Harry Potter Lego set for 2011 was of course Diagon Alley, set 10217, discussed in more detail below.
You would expect the size, level of detail and range of minifigures in this collector’s set would cast all before it in shadow, but despite their comparatively small size, the three other 2011 releases held up quite well.
Hogwarts, Knight Bus and The Forbidden Forest, all have their strengths and to be honest it is hard for me to pick between them. So I won’t even try 😉
They are all unique, full of character and have high appeal for fans of the series. If you are to choose one, pick the one that most appeals on a personal level as they are all worthy additions to the theme.
In the mean time, let’s check out Diagon Alley.
1. Lego Diagon Alley Set 10217
I am buying Lego Diagon Alley as a Christmas present to myself this year- that’s how much I love this set 🙂
I did dither for a while because it is a bit pricey but when I was able to purchase it at US retail (rather than inflated AUS prices) I jumped at the chance. I have a feeling this will be a set that will be hard to find in another year or so.
The Diagon Alley is aimed at older Lego fans ages 14 + but as with most Lego sets we believe younger children can build the set if they are used to building in the Lego style.
The set comes with no less than 11 minifigures: Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, Rubeus Hagrid, equipped with his umbrella; Fred and George Weasley; 2 Gringott’s goblins; Mr. Ollivander; Lucius Malfoy (in Death Eater disguise); Fenrir Greyback as well as 4 new painted owls.
Three separate buildings make up the balance of the set, Gringotts Wizarding Bank, Olivander’s Wand Shop and Borgin and Burkes. The last is a strange addition to the set (in more ways than one!) as fans of the series will know that this creepy shop is actually on Knockturn Alley, not Diagon Alley. But that is a very small con.
The details on the buildings are beautiful. Older Lego kids will discover new building techniques in this set and it really is a gem parents and kids can build together (preferably while watching the films in the background) and hang onto for many years.
Where To Buy Diagon Alley
- US – Amazon.com
- Australia – Amazon.com or Outer Rim Trading Co
- Canada – Amazon.com
- UK – Lego Shop At Home or Amazon.co.uk
Lego Diagon Alley Video
What about Hogwarts Castle!? Much better to me then Diagon Alley but then again we all have our favorites 🙂
I agree – I love Hogwarts Castle and it is top on my list of sets to get next but it was released in 2010.
So given the 4 sets that were released this year Diagon Alley is the top for me.
But yes I agree Hogwarts Castle is one of the best HP sets ever.