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Harry Potter Potions Classroom I Warner Bros Studio Tour Set

The Potions Classroom set captures the eerie charm of Hogwarts' dungeons, with hundreds of hand-labeled jars, elaborate arches, and authentic props. Originally used in the films, it features a self-stirring cauldron and Snape’s mannequin, making it a fan favourite.

An overview of the Potions Classroom at the Warner Bros Studio

Potions classroom with cauldrons and shelves of bottles, Harry Potter London tour.
  • The Potions Classroom set sits in the shadowy depths of Hogwarts, with stone walls, flickering lanterns, and shelves packed with strange jars and ancient bottles straight from the films.
  • Over 950 potion jars line the shelves, each filled with curious props like baked animal bones, dried herbs, and shrunken heads. Every label was individually designed by the graphic duo MinaLima.
  • A self-stirring cauldron built by the special effects team takes center stage, while golden archways inscribed with mysterious alchemical ingredients add to the room’s eerie beauty.
  • Though first filmed at Lacock Abbey, the classroom was rebuilt at Leavesden Studios and updated across the films to match shifting storylines and the teaching styles of Snape and Slughorn.
  • Life-sized mannequins wearing original costumes of Snape and Slughorn stand among real props from the films, creating the feeling of being right inside a lesson at Hogwarts.

The filmmaking magic behind the Potions Classroom

  • Mechanical effects: The self-stirring cauldron is powered by hidden motors and gears, engineered by John Richardson’s team to create lifelike movement without relying on visual effects.
  • Aged by hand: Props like potion jars and furniture are sanded, painted, and dusted with Fuller’s Earth or coffee to achieve a convincingly aged, lived-in classroom appearance.
  • Moody lighting: LED lights hidden inside cauldrons and jars create bubbling effects, while overhead lights are adjusted to cast dramatic shadows across shelves and stone walls.
  • Subtle visual effects: CGI enhances select scenes with glowing potions, floating particles, and magical auras, layered digitally using tools like Adobe After Effects in post-production.
  • Layered sound design: Ambient sounds like bubbling, glass clinks, and quiet stirring are added in post to make the classroom feel active, magical, and completely believable.

Moments from the films recreated here

Snape’s first lesson

In Philosopher’s Stone, Snape introduces the magical discipline of potion-making while glaring at Harry from behind his desk. The classroom’s jars, smoke, and candlelight add to the oppressive and mysterious atmosphere of this early Hogwarts moment.

Snape’s interrogation

In Chamber of Secrets, the Potions Classroom transforms into Snape’s office. Surrounded by ingredients and artifacts, Snape questions Harry and Ron about the dueling club disaster in an atmosphere thick with unease and accusations.

Slughorn’s potions classroom

During Half-Blood Prince, Professor Slughorn teaches advanced potion-making in a redressed classroom. Harry follows the Half-Blood Prince’s notes to brew Draught of Living Death, winning a prize and surprising everyone with his potion skills.

Fluffy’s hidden closet

In Philosopher’s Stone, the entrance to Fluffy’s chamber was filmed using a redressed area of the Potions Classroom, helping maintain visual continuity and mystery within Hogwarts’ underground levels.

What to know before entering the Potions Classroom?

  • Lighting in the Potions Classroom is dim with flickering effects. Guests with vision sensitivity may prefer standing toward the front where visibility is slightly brighter.
  • Photography is allowed but lighting is low, so increase ISO settings or use Night Mode for sharper shots of jars, cauldrons, and costume details.
  • The cauldron moves periodically, so wait a few moments to catch it in action. It makes for a great photo or video opportunity.
  • Snape and Slughorn’s costumes are placed at adult eye level. Lift younger children slightly if they want a better view of the details.
  • If you're short, taller visitors may block your view of upper shelves. Wait for a clearer space or ask staff where best to stand.
  • Mobility aids are welcome. The classroom is accessible but space between props is slightly narrow, so take it slow around corners and display areas.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Potions Classroom

Yes, the set was redressed for Slughorn’s tenure. Props, lighting, and layout were adjusted to reflect his personality and the advanced nature of his classes.