The newly opened permanent expansion to The Making of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London invites visitors into the enchanted Forbidden Forest that surrounds Hogwarts — a key setting in the Harry Potter books and films. This immersive area recreates the forest’s shadowy paths and ancient trees, home to the magical creatures cared for by Hagrid, Hogwarts’ beloved Care of Magical Creatures professor. Among the inhabitants are Buckbeak the Hippogriff and Aragog the Acromantula, both recreated to scale for the new exhibit.
Located in a former aircraft factory that once produced Halifax bombers and Mosquitoes, the studio has transformed its industrial space into a cinematic woodland. Giant, twisted roots and full-size set trees create a dramatic canopy visitors walk beneath, while detailed creature models — including the towering Aragog in his lair — bring the forest’s atmosphere to life. The design and construction honor the original film work, with many members of the production team returning for the expansion.
The life-size Buckbeak model was crafted with painstaking attention to detail; each feather was attached by hand to achieve a realistic look and texture. Guests can approach the Hippogriff and observe the craftsmanship up close, experiencing a sense of scale and presence similar to what the films portray. The exhibit’s realism reflects the expertise of the creative team, including production designers, creature and makeup effects artists, and special effects supervisors who contributed to the Harry Potter film series.
Beyond the Forbidden Forest expansion, the studio tour continues to offer a range of authentic sets and behind-the-scenes features that appeal to fans and film enthusiasts. Visitors can explore Diagon Alley and the Great Hall, view the distinctive props and costumes used throughout the series, and step into Professor Dumbledore’s office to see the unique collection of artifacts displayed there. The tour blends carefully preserved original elements with new installations to create a comprehensive look at the filmmaking craft behind the beloved saga.
The expanded attraction emphasizes hands-on detail and cinematic scale. By combining original film craftsmanship with newly constructed environments, the studio provides a seamless transition between the familiar sets and the forest’s immersive landscape. Whether observing the delicate feather work on Buckbeak, taking in the looming presence of Aragog, or wandering through iconic locations such as Diagon Alley, visitors encounter a thoughtfully curated experience that celebrates both the storytelling and technical artistry of the Harry Potter films.
With its permanent status, the Forbidden Forest expansion enhances the overall tour, giving fans more opportunities to revisit pivotal moments and discover the techniques used to create them. The exhibit complements the studio’s existing displays of props, costumes, and special effects, offering deeper insight into the collaborative effort behind the series. Together, these elements make the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London a must-see destination for those interested in cinematic production, fantasy worlds, and the enduring magic of J.K. Rowling’s creation.