This March, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter will unveil a 20,000 square-foot expansion to include the original Hogwarts Express steam engine.

As well as giving visitors the chance to climb aboard the train's carriage, the new permanent section will hold a recreation of Platform 9 3/4.

Throughout the Harry Potter film series, British steam train no. 5972, 'Olton Hall', was used as the Hogwarts Express, and was filmed on a track running the full length of the Studios' 100-acre backlot. The 78-year-old red engine will now return and be displayed on a realistic set of tracks, with steam billowing out as visitors step onto the platform.

Visitors will also be able to walk along the train's adjoining carriage and sit in the interior carriage set that was used during filming. A selection of prop luggage will be on show and visitors can find out which character owned which items by turning an interactive dial.

A train-themed souvenir shop will also be open on the platform.

Stuart Craig, Production Designer on all eight Harry Potter films, said: "The Hogwarts Express was the setting for many iconic scenes, from Harry, Hermione and Ron's first meeting in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone to the moment the trio's children embark on their first journey to school 26 years later."

Sarah Roots, Vice President of Warner Bros/ Studio Tour London, added: "We can't wait to open our first expansion, Platform 9 3/4, just before the Studio Tour's third anniversary in March.

"The Hogwarts Express is the piece that visitors have most requested to see and we're expecting a fantastic response."

The new feature will officially open on Thursday, March 19.