Outdoor event
Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience: Tickets And Details
Tickets & More Info
- Book Now, 10 Dec 2026 - 24 Jan 2027, Bolesworth Castle, Tattenhall (opens in a new tab) Bolesworth Castle, Tattenhall
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Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience is an outdoor woodland light trail at Bolesworth Castle in Cheshire is a must do for any Harry Potter fans in the UK. Returning to the UK after an absence of 4 years this is more than a light-trail, you can cast a Patronus and see lit-up scenes including your favourite characters in a forest setting, to create those Forbidden Forest vibes this winter.
Why Disney & Orlando Fans Will Love Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience
Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience opens in a new tab is an experience for anyone who loves the franchise and spends hours thinking about a trip back to Orlando Universal Resort for a wander around the world of Hogwarts. This evening experience is one of those short-time opportunities here in the UK to feel a bit of the wonder you feel when walking around the Orlando theme parks, without needing to pay to go on holiday.
This is definitely something to consider if you are looking for a family evening out on the run up to Christmas or during the school Christmas holidays. It'd be a great place to meet up or event to add to a festive Disney-inspired weekend away in Chester this Christmas.
What To Expect?
Expect to experience the world of Harry Potter brought to life in a glowing woodland setting lit by over 4,000 lights. You'll walk a 1.95km trail around the forest finding over 20 life-sized creatures from the Harry Potter universe, along with film recreations and 6 interactive spell moments.
Expect your experience to be more involved than just a walk with photo opportunities, and it will take around an hour to complete. the organisers suggest this is a 60-90 minute evening outdoor walking trail, but your walking pace, how busy it is and the temperatures on the night will affect how long it really takes you to see everything.
You'll find Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts themed food and drink along with exclusive merchandise on sale.
Note that you'll also need to pay for car parking at this event, and booking it early at the same time as your tickets will save you £3. Parking booked in advance costs £9.50, while paying for your parking on the day costs £12.50
The Experience Returns: Why Go Again?
If you did the Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience at Arley Hall the last time it was in the UK in 2022, you may be wondering whether it is worth doing it again? This is the returning attraction but it's at a new UK venue, with some new features.
The previous UK season took place at Arley Hall & Gardens near Northwich from 15th October 2022 to 15th January 2023, following its 2021 debut. At Bolesworth, organisers have announced additions new to UK audiences, including the Golden Egg and a Death Eater.
After four years, the experience has changed a little and I think it's still probably worth an evening out this winter, even if you have experienced it before.
What Should You Wear For Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience?
This is an outdoor experience, so dressing for warmth is key, and wearing some durable shoes you don't mind getting a bit muddy is also wise. If you're nesh like me, this evening experience calls for thermals and possibly even a warming body warmer underneath so you can enjoy the experience rather than shivering with cold.
I'd suggest picking up some hand warmers to keep in your pockets too, and don't forget the hat, scarf and gloves. You could even get a Slytherin, Gryffindor, Ravenclaw or Hufflepuff set for the occasion.
How To Get There: Travelling To Bolesworth Castle
Bolesworth Castle is located in Tattenhall, near Chester in Cheshire. This event is easiest accessed by car.
The organiser's arrival guidance says to use postcode CH3 9JJ and follow event signage. Aim to arrive 15 minutes before your booked session to allow time to get checked-in.
Questions About Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience
Do children need a ticket to enter?
Children under three go free, but all children under the age of 16 need to be accompanied by an adult. The event is in the dark, so younger children who scare easily may not enjoy it as much; parental discretion advised.
Is it the same experience that was at Arley Hall?
It is the returning attraction at a new UK venue, with some new features. The previous UK season took place at Arley Hall & Gardens near Northwich from 15th October 2022 to 15th January 2023, following its 2021 debut. At Bolesworth, organisers have announced additions new to UK audiences, including the Golden Egg and a Death Eater.
What happens if it rains, and what should I wear?
Wear warm, waterproof clothing if it is forecast to rain and comfortable waterproof footwear suitable for woodland paths. The experience normally goes ahead in the rain, but if weather conditions prevent it from opening, the organiser says ticket holders will be contacted by email.
Nearby Events And Things To Do
Where to go next
Looking to make a day of it, or even a weekend? Take a look at what other Disney and Universal inspired events are on in Cheshire and the surrounding area
Listings are for informational guidance only. Events are operated independently, and schedules, pricing, or lineups can change without notice. We have no control over, and accept no liability for, cancellations, travel expenses, or the overall standard and delivery of any event. Please verify all details directly with the official organiser before booking.