A blockbuster woodland light trail, inspired by the Forbidden Forest in Harry Potter, will open less than two hours from Birmingham for a limited winter run

What exactly can you expect at Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience?

The one-kilometre light trail is spread across Bolesworth Castle, Chester, and will see visitors venture through different worlds, inspired by Hagrid’s love of unique magical creatures, the Dark Arts, and even a rambunctious Quidditch finale. Lovers of the Harry Potter series will encounter many familiar elements – you’ll be able to cast a Patronus and visit Aragog’s lair (if you dare) – while all guests will surely marvel in the enchantment of the light and music that guide you along your way. There are some picture-perfect photo ops, like the lantern walkway and Thestral Carriage, that will charm your Instagram followers, no matter their familiarity with the world of Harry Potter.

The trail is estimated to take around 90 minutes to complete, which sounds like hungry work to me. Thankfully, you can fill your stomach much like the characters do in the Great Hall, as there’ll be a variety of food and drink spots in The Village. Alongside more substantial grub, there’s a marshmallow cart and a fire pit to roast them; a pretty magical Muggle activity, dontcha think?