Hi! Well done for getting tickets, you'll have a brilliant time!

We were validated and able to leave by 12.30 however we were very close to the front of the queue having got there early. When we went the queue was really long so if you were near the back it would have been much later. We arrived back at about 4.45pm and the queue was long to get in through security and into the holding area. I think they just had opened the gate when we arrived so getting there earlier would only mean more standing around! You're called into the studio in number order so in theory it doesn't matter once you've been validated. There have been comments though to say that this process does not fun particularly smoothly so keep near the entrance /exit of the holding area to get out as soon as you are called.

Were the two shows both pre recorded ? I love reading about behind the scenes. Thanks

No both shows were live. Although the pro dance that was at the start of the Saturday show was filmed on Friday.

From now on, the Saturday show will be live but the results show will be pre-recorded (later on Saturday) and sometimes a group or pro dance to start of the live shows will have been pre-recorded (ie about half an hour before going live).

thanks for the info !

Thank you, I am so excited, Strictly will get a few more viewers this Saturday with me and the OH going....

This is such a useful thread with so much great advice and so many tips.

Have been able to pass on all your good advice to friends of mine.

Thank you all.

Have a wonderful time, let us know how it was.

I will do!

One of these years I might actually get tickets!

I've got tickets for the 12th can't wait. What time would you recommend you get there? And to confirm you can go away once you have your tickets validated to glam up as don't fancy standing in the queue early with my posh cloths on lol.

Have a fabulous time... i'm not at all jealous... honest . If you get the time afterwards maybe you could put a bit on this thread as to how the queuing went & whatnot. Some of the procedures may have changed since they've moved studios.

how early in the year do you have to apply for tickets and it is a ballot or first come, first served?

Of course I will, posters on here that have been before have been so help with tips, I will return the favour!

I have been applying for the past 3 years. I applied as soon as I got the BBC email, which it memory serves me right was only about a month before the first show, might even have been later than that, need to check my emails, so I am sure its a ballot, not a first come first served.

The ballot was open during late August I believe this time. For a 2 week period.

Have a feeling that the ballot for the main shows ended on the evening they filmed the launch show.

Remind me next year Sara so I can try.

I'd much rather go now it's out of London.

Heavenly (lovely name btw) - has someone already asked you if will be the official spoiler representative this week?

If not, I am quite happy to receive a text from yourself once you have your phone back (or return to your car).

Or if anyone else is going this weekend - happy to receive texts.

Would definitely be appreciated if you are able to give the spoiler Heavenly

I haven't been asked yet but ooooh I would be SO honoured!!

Message me your number Sara.

I might lie and say Natalie has gone in a twist!!! Just for a laugh....sorry....

Oooh and have checked the weather forecast and its going to be sunny...so no wellies with my lovely vintage red dress.

You are a star and BIB- yes, it would be funny

Thanks so much for your help Ninetypee. I'm hoping we can find somewhere nice to have lunch in between being validated and (fingers crossed) returning as we won't be eating again until much later.
To those who have asked about tickets - I went on the bbc website and got added to the mailing list. http://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/tickets/ You can specify which kind of shows you are interested in. I have also been to a couple of radio recordings - The Now Show and The Unbelievable Truth. These are much easier to get tickets for! The strictly mailing came out about 23 August, to apply for all the shows in the series, but they are only letting you know week by week (2 weeks ahead of recording) if you are successful.

I hope you have a great time

I'm "well jell" of those who have tickets but it sounds like a really long day - must be absolutely knackering for those who live further away and have to get up at stupid o'clock to start queueing.

Yes, the queuing does put me off a bit, but on the other hand I bet it is worth it.