Someplace pretty magical has opened up, and it is sure to be a hit with Harry Potter fans up and down the country.
Warner Brothers have opened up an official Harry Potter experience - Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest - recreating the dreaded but iconic scene from JK Rowling's blockbuster books.
Jam packed with jaw dropping special effects, the majestic forest is set to open its doors this week, reports Manchester Evening News.
But how do you bag tickets? Do you need to board at platform 9 and 3/4 to get there?
Here is everything you need to know about the new wizardly wonder.
What is it?
The Muggle countryside has been transformed into the out-of-bounds woods near Hogwarts - complete with magic, monsters and dazzling effects.
No expense has been spared as famous scenes and characters from the books and Hollywood spin-offs are recreated along a series of mature woodland pathways.
Working with a number of respected outdoor theatre and special effect companies, the Harry Potter studio has used Arley Hall, near Northwich, to create the themed trail featuring centaurs, unicorns and all other creatures from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films.
What can you do?
As you’d expect with the official franchise, everything about this has been carefully planned right down to the last detail. It’s no tacky winter wonderland.
The lighting and immersive sound effects are second to none and help transport you from woodland into the fabled world of witches and wizards.
Everything you would expect from the Potter franchise is here to enjoy - from Mr Weasley’s temperamental flying car, to Buckbeak the Hippogriff (he actually bows his head thanks to clever animatronics), through to eerily lifelike replicas of Hagrid and Fang all to be found spread out over the trail.
And it’s not just exhibits. There are a number of clever hands-on games to play: You can conjure a patronus, engage in a wand battle with a friend, and ‘enjoy’ a close encounter with a family of oversized spiders.
And - as a grand finale - don’t miss the dramatic light show recreation of Harry’s epic battle against an army of Dementors.
Where is it and how do you get there?
The attraction is based in the grounds of Arley Hall, a 19th century stately home and garden, around a 30-40minutes from Manchester.
On the way, you can pass through Potter-like traditional villages in the Cheshire countryside. The picturesque scenery makes the long journey from Scotland even more worth it.
It is definitely not one to miss for Harry Potter superfans around the country.
Full details of how to get there, how to park and sat nav instructions are available on the official website.
How long does it take to walk?
Walking the trail can last between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on how fast you are and how often you want to stop to admire all the details.
There's also plenty of time to spend afterwards in the Hogsmeade-style 'village', with plenty of food, drink and merchandise options.
Is this a permanent exhibition?
In a word, no. Much time and effort has been put into creating this immersive experience and it will remain in place for a number of months. Currently tickets are on sale until December - but time will tell if more dates are added. The plan is to take the format on the road to different UK, and possibly even European locations, over the next few years. So don’t miss out on the chance of seeing it while it’s nearby.
How can I get tickets?
Tickets are already on sale from the official website - and fast disappearing! Prices vary according to the day and time slot.
At peak times, adult tickets are £39, children £29 or group family deals can be purchased at £29 per person (max 2 adults) - but cheaper ‘off peak’ tickets are also available, priced from £19 upwards.
What ages is it suitable for?
There are a few (mildly) scary moments and it’s also not the shortest of walks for little legs - so this may not be suitable for very young children.
What food and drink is available?
Expect flagons of Butterbeer (somewhere between toffee and cream soda) as well as an ample choice of hot food and drink.
There are stalls selling luxurious hot chocolates, fish and chips, roast meat muffins, and enough sweet stalls to put Honeydukes to shame. We particularly enjoyed the chance to toast your own marshmallows (of course, you need to buy them first of all).
There are stalls situated at the start of the route and a large ‘village’ at the end and - if you need a pick me up - there’s even stalls at the mid-way point.
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