If you were the type of Harry Potter fan who found Hedwig a hoot or Scabbers a scream, then look no further.

A myriad of animals that were featured across all eight films in the acclaimed Warner Bros. franchise will be showcased in an exclusive experience, under the tutelage of animal trainer Julie Tottman; this will form a series of presentations exploring the experiences of the teams and the journeys that critter and trainer alike were guided on in preparation for the big screen debut.

Beloved scenes from the films will be reinvented as visitors pose with the animals on sets which recall favourite scenes from each movie: from the Owl Emporium in Diagon Alley to the wistful sequence in which Hedwig was first unveiled on Privet Drive, in the opening moments of the saga’s premier entry.

For those who aren’t particularly squeamish, there will be the opportunity to get up close and personal with the rats and toads which were used in filming, though the successful handling of pet toad Trevor will be no small feat for fans who think their courage exceeds that of Neville Longbottom.

Familiar felines Mrs. Norris and Crookshanks have pledged to stand guard in the Gryffindor Common Room, but it is hoped that those who fail to do justice to the House of Gryffindor in their courageous approach to Scabbers will show some restraint and not make a meal out of the resident rodent.

The secrets behind Dolores Umbridge’s porcelain kitten plates from Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix will also be revealed, but don’t be disappointed if it transpires that their souls weren’t actually trapped inside those plates... as a blue screen reconstruction will make clear.

With more old friends set to put in an appearance, such as Ron’s pet Pigwidgeon, the cute and cuddly corner of the franchise will be well represented. Which is why Aragog will be nowhere to be seen.

Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, Aerodrome Way, Leavesden, Hertfordshire, from Saturday, May 25 to Sunday, June 2. Details: 08450 840900, wbstudiotour.co.uk

Paul Outram