The largest set of this original line of Harry Potter lego sets definitely afford great playability, buildability and hours of fun for those who love a good set to look and pose. Great tricks and hidden compartments, height and width and detail make this a must have set for any lovers of HP!

Build

The build is simple mainly a stacking kinda job, which I found relatively harmless as you know it'll create something pretty spectacular. You start with the small castle bridge in which the boat sails beneath, nothing taxing. Secondly you build small owlry and what seems to be a small classroom featuring a folding out staircase (I wish there was a stopper that would fix the stairs in one position when extended). The classroom features a bookshelf that tips, a desk with storage for a small book; and a clever fireplace with rubber band mechanism that when turns reveals a transparent chest with jewels; it's really charming!
Third stage of the build is my favourite section, it has the revolving Fat Lady panel, a balcony, the revolving knight statue with hidden jewel and a pulley system that when used opens a secret key safe (another great trick). In the tower above the observatory with telescope is super cool.
The next stage of the build is the great hall. It's pillars, arches and gargoyles make this feel really grandiose and capture the essence of the hall with its floating candles and smart revolving banner. The hidden compartments within this section again offer really nice playability, along with gadgets such as the crystal ball, letter and holographic chocolate frog card add some HP magic .

Minifigures

Classic yellow faced minifigures with the core characters make this set feel right. You can add others in as your collection builds to make this more comprehensive. The uniforms of the students are all matching which I appreciate, and the three professors feel the right choice, Snape with his glow in the dark face is a nice touch. Lots of animals complete this set nicely and add character. Peeves ghost is really plain and boring and is the worst minifig in my opinion, the knight is by far the standout minifigure! Super cool armour!

Pros:

Playability, hidden compartments, mechanised gadgets, the knight. Core minifigures.

Cons:

Peeves, stairs could do with a stopper to stop them spinning. Other than that. Love this.