Harry Potter Potions Classroom I Snape’s Dungeon Class

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

Can you see differences in the classroom between Snape’s and Slughorn’s teaching periods?

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.

Do any of the potion instructions on the blackboards come from actual alchemical texts?

Yes, some notes are inspired by historical alchemy. Set designers consulted real recipes to add depth and authenticity to the writing and symbols used.

Are the potion jars sealed, or can visitors smell or touch any of the ingredients?

All jars are sealed and behind barriers. They're not interactive, but close-up viewing reveals incredible details like handmade labels, dusting, and unique contents.

Were any props inside the Potions Classroom reused in other sets during filming?

Yes, several jars, books, and shelves were repurposed across sets like Snape’s office and the hospital wing to maintain continuity and reduce production costs.

Can you identify which version of the classroom was used in specific scenes from different films?

You can spot changes across films. For example, Slughorn’s setup in Half-Blood Prince has added benches, brighter lighting, and unique props like crystal vials.

Is the Potions Classroom wheelchair accessible, and are there viewing angles for all heights?

Yes, the set area is accessible. Lower props and wide angles allow good visibility, though upper shelf details may be harder to view from seated height.

Was the Potions Classroom a permanent set or rebuilt for each film?

It was originally filmed at Lacock Abbey, then rebuilt and modified at Leavesden Studios. Its layout evolved across films to suit changing characters and storylines.

Can you take flash photography inside the Potions Classroom?

Flash is discouraged, as it can disrupt the lighting design and reflect off glass jars. Use natural or night mode settings for better results.

Are there any replicas of Potions Classroom props available in the Studio Tour shop?

Yes, the shop often stocks themed items like mini cauldrons, potion bottles, and notebooks styled after props seen in the classroom set.