I was there a couple of days ago. Admittedly, the reason was because my daughter’s such a big fan. I personally know little of the Potter stories, but I’ll answer what I can.
The castle physically was very impressive. It’s huge and daunting and formidable and gives you something to stay focused on as you wind your way along the path in. And what a path… our wait was about 70 minutes, which probably is below average. They do sell beer along the way and being a gardener I was fascinated by all the tropical foilage along the route, lush and verdant. But it does wind around for a fair piece. I thought it pretty cool that real crows were fighting for a spot atop the tallest points of the castle, just like what I understand is in the story.
Inside the castle are a number of elements that I understand were crucial to the stories (no spoilers here). Even for neophytes like myself though it stayed interesting.
The ride: okay, shoot me but I did not enjoy it at all. Not that it was too violent, I’d just ridden The Incredible Hulk three times (now that’s a ride), The Tower of Terror, Thunder Mnt., Rock n’ RollerCoaster, etc and really all it did was make me nauseous. You’re being swung around in the seat while different scenes are displayed on a screen in front of you and it’s more than a little disconcerting. Think Disney’s Soaring on acid while someone flings sweat on you. I’m afraid the best way I found to deal with it was to shut my eyes and judging by the photos for sale displayed at the end I wasn’t alone. If though you’re into that kind of thing, well, it was easily the longest ride I could remember.
We did thoroughly enjoy the restaurant. It’s a large, medieval inn replete w/ fireplace and there’s fish n’ chips, ribs, chicken, shephard’s pie, beer, butterbeer, etc.
The wand shop I skipped because of the hour wait but my kid was tres impressed and proudly showed me the custom, made to fit wand they crafted for her. I think it was around 30 US.
That part of the park was pretty crowded compared to the rest but I think if you’re into Potter there’s a lot to see. If you’re not then Jurassic Park is just next door if your group finds it best to split up.