Harry Potter fans the world over have been grieving for the lack of new boy-wizard stories since those Deathly Hallows sealed the deal, leaving them clutching boxsets and rereading J. K. Rowling’s timeless tales in consolation.

Enter the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, an utterly unmissable opportunity for Harry-starved fans to get closer to the world of Hagrid, Hogwarts and the Ministry of Magic than they ever thought possible …

You’ll begin your day in central London, approaching the double-decker Harry Potter bus along a Victoria Coach Station walkway. Vibrant purple and flaunting the iconic logo, the waiting vehicle is only one deck and a sprinkle of magic away from the haphazard Knight Bus. Despite an absence of supernatural speed, the tour bus saves you the hassle of negotiating twisty Tubes and train changes, crawling through M25 traffic or enduring an extortionate taxi ride. The Harry Potter theming is sure to get your toes tingling before you even set foot inside, and then it’s simply a convenient and relaxing drive out to the Studios near Leavesden, where the wonder really kicks in.

From the moment you’re ushered through the rope queue and into the holding chamber, you know this is a world absolutely designed for hardcore Potterites. The lights cut out and videos flash up of the stars, producers, designers – every facet of the team who helped bring J. K. Rowling’s beloved series to life. Then the focus shifts to devoted fans queuing for premieres, squeezing up to railings to nab a signature, clamouring for a touch of Emma Watson’s arm, and it’s not long before the ultimate fan’s paradise opens up before you for a majestic welcome to the Great Hall.

Walking past the tables where Gryffindor and Slytherin ate and chatted and feuded throughout the franchise is an awe-inspiring experience, and that’s just the beginning – after soaking up the Hall’s grand architecture you’re let loose on the main section of the walking tour, featuring uncountable authentic props, models, costumes and breathtaking sets used in the films. Wander up Diagon Alley’s cobbled street, where you’ll spot Ollivander’s wand shop, the safe-haven of Gringotts Wizarding Bank and even the Weasleys’ gleefully prankish joke shop. Witness the gigantic Magic is Might monument, held aloft by pained stone Muggles, then minutes later stare goggle-eyed at the ceiling where overgrown spider Aragog stares from the rafters. You’ll see special vehicles, from swooping bikes and brooms to the Knight Bus itself, plus meet a wealth of furry friends in Hagrid’s disheveled hut and stand just inches from He Who Shall Not Be Named’s infamous Horcruxes.

Got a question? Don’t hesitate to ask the chirpy ‘interactors’ scattered about the tour, armed with Potter lore and always eager to share a fact or ten to ensure you get the most from your experience. For instance, while admiring Dumbledore’s office with its helical design spiraling up and away, portraits lining the upper walls and cabinets of vials and potions nestling beneath them, I was advised to crouch behind the back wall of the set and peer through the glass for an unbeatably filmic view of the wise professor’s office.

Before long you’ll be exhausted from repeatedly picking your jaw up off the floor, but save some amazement for the make-up and special effects exhibits: from goblin-face prosthetics to animatronic Buckbeak the Hippogriff, the diligent detail and incredible workmanship poured into each part of the Potter puzzle is on display and truly astounding. You’ll spy a moving electronic Hagrid-head worn by Robbie Coltrane’s taller double, the Weasleys’ self-washing frying pan, and even the terrifying, squirming Inferi – corpses reanimated to do the Dark Wizard’s bidding.

Wherever you turn there are multiple treats to discover, and it’s no exaggeration to say your gaze will often be drawn to several spots at once – that sky-high leaning tower of books; those gorgeous cakes from the Yule Ball – which makes the tour’s three-hour running time ideal for exploring at your leisure. Cameras are permitted throughout, so take plenty of souvenir snaps of your one-off journey to the world beyond Platform 9 ¾. Plus there’s extra dollops of fun on-hand as you keep your eyes peeled for hidden Golden Snitches and fly a broom via the movie-magic of green screen. All this and a taste of the famous Butterbeer, a sickly favourite of our Hogwarts heroes available midway through the tour.

The unforgettable walkthrough is capped by a stunning 50ft 1:24 scale model of Hogwarts used for aerial photography, viewable from every imaginable angle as its 2,500 lights twinkle through a beautiful day-to-night cycle every four minutes. It’s the perfect end to a magical day, guaranteed to get you gasping in awe at the art, talent and dedication behind such spectacular sights onscreen.

With a real behind-the-scenes vibe, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London offers rare firsthand insights into the making of Harry Potter that could never be gleaned from even twenty hours of DVD extras. Fans are spoiled rotten as the most iconic sets and phenomenal props are unveiled before their eyes, while even Potter newcomers will enjoy the fascinating filmmaking facts, and with so much to see, everyone is sure to have their own favourite sights and exhibits to share with friends and family.

Experience the magic with an enchanting break from Play and Stay, including return travel to the Tour, the unmissable Studio Tour itself and a convenient overnight hotel stay in London.

LEGOLAND® Windsor

LEGOLAND Windsor is now open for the 2012 season and it promises to be a jam-packed Easter with the opening of the new LEGO® Star Wars™ Miniland Experience, featuring six of the most iconic Star Wars scenes plus one from animated hit Star Wars: The Clone Wars. The attraction is a first in the UK, using 1.5 million LEGO bricks in an atmosphere of authentic sounds and lighting effects, and special event Star Wars™ Invasion celebrates its arrival at LEGOLAND from a galaxy far, far away on 24th and 25th March. Enjoy a child-friendly break to the unique family attraction this Easter.

Paultons Park

Lurking beneath the smouldering volcano is Paultons’ blazing new ride MAGMA, opening for sizzling thrills in time for Easter when the Park reopens on 23rd March. Brave adventurers will delve into the red-hot caverns in a bid to unearth the deeply buried Jurassic secret – but look out, because when MAGMA erupts you’ll be sent into a dizzy spinning rise 25 metres into the air overhead – then feel your stomach plummet as you drop back into the mountain! This fiery journey promises to be a real family treat for all riders over 1.10m.

Chessington World of Adventures

Join the exotic fun this Easter at Britain’s wildest adventure with brand new live show DreamWorks Madagascar Live! Prepare to Party. From 23rd March the little ones will love singing and dancing along with Alex, King Julien, The Penguins and all their favourites in this amazing new extravaganza. Meet the gang in their brilliant Jungle surroundings, plus pose for photos and check out the new African Trading Co. shop and Coffee Hut café.

Alton Towers

Everyone’s favourite prehistoric trio and acorn-chasing squirrel arrive at Alton’s Cloud Cuckoo Land in time for Easter for an immersive 4D encounter. Using a combination of fun-filled 3D footage and eye-popping physical effects that reach right into your seat, this Dawn of the Dinosaurs 4D Experience transports you straight to loveable Sid and Scrat’s ultra-cool world from 24th March.

As if that wasn’t enough, Alton also unleashes the fury of Nemesis: Sub-Terra, an underground lair of hair-raising horrors based on the mysterious backstory of the original corkscrewing classic Nemesis. Dare you embark on the nerve-shattering journey? Courageous explorers can step up for this scarefest from Easter.

THORPE PARK

Bag a white-knuckle break to the nation’s Thrill Capital this Easter, whether you’re a hardened thrillseeker or fun-loving family. Get twisted with the THORPE PARK Mash Up on 6th and 9th April, an explosion of Easter insanity featuring awesome live acts and a few breathtaking surprises. You’ll be among the first brave riders to get your adrenaline pumping on THE SWARM, Europe’s tallest winged rollercoaster, boasting a unique head-first inverted drop from a stomach-churning height of 127ft. For families with a taste for extreme thrills with their chocolate eggs, THORPE makes an epic Easter getaway.

Warwick Castle

Easter is an ideal time to explore the eventful grounds and historical activities of Britain’s Ultimate Castle, where families can enjoy recreations of the great siege and treacherous jousting contests with the coming of spring. The Witches of Warwick have arrived in the creepy Castle Dungeon, cooking up supernatural spells and mischievous mayhem in a bid to avenge their curse. Plus until 15th April you can catch a range of exciting shows throughout the day, offering sights of everything from majestic birds of prey and weapons of war to battling knights and the legendary tale of The Sword in the Stone.

With so much going on at the UK’s theme parks over the Easter holidays, you’ll want to treat your family to some unmissable seasonal fun this April. Book a Play and Stay ticket and hotel package today.

Star Wars and all characters, names and related indicia are © 2012 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All rights reserved.

Madagascar Live! Prepare to Party © 2012 DreamWorks Animation L.L.C

What’s new at Alton Towers in 2012?

Ice Age Dawn of the Dinosaurs – the 4-D Experience
This family-friendly immersive Ice Age experience will open in Cloud Cuckoo Land on 24 March. Fans of the hit Ice Age series will love the amazing combination of 3D footage based on the third Ice Age film and fun physical effects which transport you straight into the super-cool world of Sid and Scrat.

Speaking of Sid and Scrat, be sure to keep an eye open for them, as they’ll be wandering around Alton Towers Resort to meet you and your family.

Nemesis Sub-Terra
Buried deep beneath Alton Towers Resort, a brand-new attraction is waiting patiently for the first brave explorers to step foot inside. The new subterranean scarefest is named Nemesis Sub-Terra and will take visitors on a heart-stopping journey through a network of catacombs. The attraction is based on the back story of the smash-hit Nemesis rollercoaster, which opened in 1994.

The new attraction’s scare factor is being carefully controlled by the Park’s new Director of Fear, death-defying adrenaline junkie Jack Osbourne. Be the first to experience Nemesis Sub Terra, book an Alton Towers ticket and hotel package with Play and Stay.

Coming soon to UK theme parks: Magma, Nemesis Sub-Terra, Ice Ice 4D Experience and The Swarm

What’s New at Thorpe Park in 2012?

The Swarm
Experience The Swarm – the UK’s first Wing Rider rollercoaster – at Thorpe Park in 2012. The new rollercoaster promises a thrilling flight through an apocalyptic wasteland on the wings of an invading swarm of planet-destroying baddies.

You’ll experience heart-stopping near misses and adrenaline-pumping inversions as well as a unique, head-first 127ft drop. War is coming…are you ready?

What’s New at LEGOLAND Windsor in 2012?

The LEGOLAND Windsor hotel
A brand-new hotel is opening on-site at LEGOLAND Windsor in 2012 and it’s certainly shaping up to be an incredible destination for family short breaks.

With child-friendly features including secret whoopee cushions, exploding toy boxes and treasure trails as well as Pirate, Adventurer and Kingdom themed rooms, there’s plenty to keep the family busy at the LEGOLAND Windsor hotel. Play spaces, a splash pool and regular children’s entertainment complete the package.

LEGO Star Wars Miniland Experience
The Force is coming to LEGOLAND Windsor in 2012. Seven of the most famous scenes from the six live-action Star Wars movies and one from the animated Star Wars: The Clone Wars have been recreated in 1:20 scale using 1.5 million LEGO bricks.

What’s new at Paultons Park in 2012?

Magma
The mysterious Magma is due to open at Paultons in 2012. Very little is known about it other than its name and the fact that it will be volcano-themed. Some suspect that Magma is more likely to be a thrill ride since Paultons recently added Peppa Pig World for the younger guests, but nothing is confirmed.

Want to try out any of these new attractions for yourself? Book a Play and Stay ticket and hotel package today.

Luckily, an enterprising stay-at-home dad named Scott Wegner has put together an iPhone app and book to keep the kids busy while you wait in line and provide theme park-loving families with handy tips to make the most of your visit.

Scott’s website promises that you’ll find all this inside the book:

 Tips to help you maximise your theme park fun, including advice for: 

• Building excitement

• Hints for happiness

• What-to-carry checklist

• Bring-your-own games

• Avoiding queues

• Conquer coaster fear

• Taking coaster photos

Loads of activities to keep the whole family busy. Categories include:

• Who goes first?

• Front vs back

• Riding techniques

• Practical activities

• Guessing games

• Word/number activities

• Dreamy ideas

• Action activities

• Measuring games

• Sound ideas

• Brain teasing conundrums

• iPhone / mobile internet activities

An impressive collection of roller coaster trivia, includes: 

• Theme park attendance figures

• Rollercoaster records (tallest, fastest, steepest etc)

• Rollercoaster variations (types of: layouts, powers, inversions etc)

• Rollercoaster milestones

It’s unlikely that the new attraction will be a white-knuckle thrill ride; Paultons is, after all, a family park. Perhaps some sort of indoor ride? I have no idea, but any new attraction is alright by me.

No matter what the new attraction is, it won’t be open until 2012. While we wait to find out exactly what Paultons are planning, here are some other rides and attractions that feature volcanoes for theme park fans to seek out.

Dino Safari – LEGOLAND Windsor

Dinosaur – Disney’s Animal Kingdom

George’s Dinosaur Ride – Peppa Pig World

Jurassic Park River Adventure – Universal Studios

Dinosaur Adventure Park – Norfolk

Ticket and hotel packages for Paultons Park and LEGOLAND Windsor are available from Play-and-Stay.co.uk

Combination safe

Everyone has their little cache of precious things, their personal treasures. No matter if your treasures are interestingly-shaped rocks and weird feathers, diamonds and designer stuff or 1980s Star Wars figures in original packaging, you need somewhere safe to store them.

What could be safer than an actual working combination safe? Maybe the lair of a covetous dragon, but apart from that, nothing, that’s what.

Desktop computer

It saddens me to say it, but the vast majority of desktop computers are hideous things. Boxy, dull-looking monoliths without the slightest thought given to aesthetics, computers are perhaps the most depressing purchase for the trendy and design-conscious.

To brighten up your PC, reach for your LEGO stash. The case in the video above may look like the lair of a tiny, plastic supervillain but the beauty of LEGO is that you can take a design and make it your own. Depending on what bricks you’ve got laying around you can re-case your PC in whatever colour or combination of colours you fancy. The really ambitious could even modify existing LEGO sets to house a computer…

3D printer

A LEGO model that can build LEGO models? Welcome to the future!

Sure, the process is slow, requires very specific software and the only models that ‘Makerbot’ can currently put together are very simple, but it’s nevertheless impressive. It’s can’t be long until some clever clogs improves on the design and makes a machine capable of putting together far more complex models or perhaps even replicating itself…

Hamster elevator

Everyone loves to spoil their pets, that’s why diamond collars and those bags you can carry little dogs in exist. The market for luxury products designed for hamsters is a little limited, but with a handful of LEGO and a bit of patience you can install a private elevator in your hamster’s home, allowing him/her to enjoy levels of luxury usually reserved for the super-wealthy.

Toilet-flushing robot

The age of the service robot is finally here!

Why flush your own toilet when you can have a robot do it for you? After years of waiting, we’ve finally taken a step towards having Jetsons-style domestic robots. A loo-flushing robot made out of LEGO may only be a small step, more of a tiptoe in the right direction, but it’s a step. Best bit? the flushbot will thank you for allowing it to flush for you, ensuring you don’t feel bad for leaving him in the bathroom all the time.

The facts:

• The new ride is codenamed LC12, but we all know it as THE SWARM.
• THE SWARM will be the UK’s first winged rollercoaster.
• It will feature a “head first, inverted drop from 127ft”.
• The theme will be post-apocalyptic. Considering that there’s been an army tank outside of THORPE PARK with ‘WAR IS COMING’ written up the side for ages, it’s likely that the story will be humanity’s last stand against something unpleasant.
• It will be located next to Stealth.
• It will be accessible via a wooden bridge.
• The attraction’s highest point will be 36.8 metres about ground level.
• Theming will include a “rickety jetty”, a helicopter, a crashed articulated lorry and what seems to be the crashed remains of some sort of aeroplane or rocket.
• The coaster will be located on its own island

What’s a winged rollercoaster? Does it fly?
Typically, rollercoasters have carriages which keep riders positioned directly above or below the track. If you ignore all the fire and jet engines in the above image, you can clearly see that THE SWARM’s carriages are positioned to either side of the track, leaving nothing but empty air above and below you. In essence, you are sitting on/in the ‘wings’, which should make a nice change from the standard coaster layout. Disappointingly, winged coasters don’t fly.

What are other winged rollercoasters like?
Gardaland’s Raptor looks reasonably similar to plans for THE SWARM and it seems to impressing coaster fans. The main appeal of the winged design seems to be the opportunity for designers to include plenty of near-misses with the scenery. Think of the spinning blades at the bottom of the drop on SAW – The Ride, Raptor features loads of stuff like that, and you can bet that THE SWARM will, too. The interplay between the carriage, riders and scenery appears to be the key to a successful winged coaster.

Just who/what are THE SWARM’s swarm?
Not a clue. Aliens? Bugs? Alien bugs? The word swarm can be applied to pretty much any creature that gathers in large numbers, though the chances of the ride being themed around a destructive swarm of killer penguins is slim. If I had to guess, I’d assume that it’s aliens.

When does THE SWARM open?
Spring 2012. THORPE PARK ticket and hotel package are available from Play-and-Stay.co.uk, book now to be among the first to ride THE SWARM!

The hotel facilities include an outside play-area, a video games room and a Thomas & Friends Theatre, and with 11 magical Thomas & Friends-themed bedrooms, kids won’t be able to wait for bed-time!

Drayton Manor hotel is one of the few hotels worldwide to offer these captivating Thomas & Friends themed family rooms. On arrival, young guests will receive special Thomas & Friends welcome packs, before following the train tracks on the carpet to their bedrooms, complete with Thomas & Friends-themed bunk beds complete with built-in DVD players, as well as a comfortable double bed for Mum and Dad. Young guests are also invited to the Fat Controller’s story time in the Thomas & Friends Theatre, and afterwards can choose from the library of books and DVDs available from reception.

And why not top off the ultimate Thomas & Friends experience with a visit to Thomas Land, situated just moments away from the new resort. The Island of Sodor is brought to life in this exciting attraction, which includes 12 themed rides and a spectacular indoor play area. Kids can take a jaunt full-steam-ahead on Thomas, Percy or Rosie, followed by a wild ride on the Troublesome Trucks Runaway Coaster.

Thomas Land is part of Drayton Manor Theme Park, which caters for thrill-seekers of all ages, from the very young to the young-at-heart. Fans of the white-knuckle thrill-ride can enjoy Shockwave – Europe’s first stand-up rollercoaster or Apocalypse – named Britain’s scariest ride by Channel 5’s The Gadget Show – among other electrifying attractions. Also, new for 2011 is the Ben 10 Ultimate Mission, perfect for fans of the hit TV cartoon.

Drayton Manor Theme Park also includes the 15-acre open-plan Drayton Manor Zoo, which boasts over 100 species including big cats, reptiles, owls, monkeys and parrots, as well as a children’s farm and 12 endangered species – a must-see day out for any animal lover.

With so much to enjoy for all the family, one day simply isn’t enough to experience all the excitement Drayton Manor Theme Park has to offer. Drayton Manor Hotel offers you the opportunity to make the most of all the family fun available, giving kids a chance to continue their adventures during their overnight stay while parents can relax and unwind in comfort and style.

1. Nature walks
Embark on a countryside expedition at your local park or woodland and captivate your kids with the magic of wildlife. Hunt for ‘treasure’ such as pine cones, acorns and wildflowers or investigate what insects you can spot. Take a magnifying glass for seeking out animal footprints, or go foraging for blackberries in the hedgerows.

2. Kite flying
Make a kite with recycled materials and watch it soar through the sky! All you need are some sticks, tape, string, scissors and plenty of fabric or paper. Be creative with diamond or box shapes and crazy colourful designs.

3. Get active!
There are hundreds of sports activities that will keep your family fit this summer. Why not try rounders, back garden bowling, frisbee or hide and seek? Splash about with water fights and bubble chasing, or build your own obstacle course in the garden.

4. Make the most of your garden
Kids love the excitement of waiting for a seed to sprout, and gardening is a great way for them to learn about plants. Herbs, vegetables and sunflowers are perfect for first-time growers, and if you don’t have a garden, try a window box.

5. Get creative in the kitchen
Have some culinary fun making summer foods, like homemade ice-cream, fruit juice lollies or fresh fruit salad. Then enjoy your picnic feast in the sunshine!

6. Catch your own dinner
Take a net down to your local riverbank or harbour to see what’s biting. Don’t forget to take a picture of your first big catch! Or for a truly British seaside pastime, try crabbing – all you need is string and some bait, but watch out for nasty nips!

7. Summer sledging
Why wait for winter? All you need is a flattened cardboard box and a hillside and you’re all set for some summer tobogganing. Budding adrenaline-junkies will go crazy for the thrills, and it’ll channel some of that endless energy into a fun-focused activity.

8. Build a den
Have a holiday in your own backyard by pitching a tent in your garden, or simply hang sheets over the washing line to create your very own teepee. Have a barbecue, tell stories, play games and have a campfire sing-along – it’s the perfect way to spend some quality time together as a family.

9. Beach-combing
Scour the seashore for some littoral loot such as seaweed, shells, interesting pebbles, driftwood or sea-smoothed glass and then use your treasures to make a sea-themed collage. Or have a sandcastle-building competition to see who can sculpt the finest fortress.

10. Fossil-hunting
Find your local sedimentary rock spot and search for ancient dinosaur relics! Coasts, quarries and farmland are the best places to look, and all you need is a keen pair of eyes.

Here are 10 ideas suitable for every dad, of every age and covering every budget. So spoil him rotten and show your dad just how special he is this Sunday.

1. Get Personal
There is nothing nicer than a gift which has had time and thought put into it and a perosnailsed gift is a great way to do that. Do some research online, there are loads of sites which will add a personal photograph onto a mug or engrave a message into a photo frame. Prices vary so shop around for the best deal.

2. Photo Frame
Even though we are living in an age of the digital camera, there’s something special about finding an old photo which brings back happy memories. Dig out one of your kids and put it in a nice frame. You can spend as little or as much as you like on a frame and it can take pride of place on his desk at work or on his bedside table.

3. Breakfast in Bed
Really spoil him and treat him to his favorite breakfast in bed. Cereal, toast and pancakes all washed down with a coffee will make sure he has a great start to the day. Why not take him up a few of the Sunday newspapers too so he can really enjoy a lazy morning.

4. Make a Homemade Card
This is a great idea if you have young children. Sit them down with a selection of coloured card and felt tip pens and let them create their very own father’s day card. It is sure to be a winner when he opens it on Sunday!

5. Take a Break
If you really want to splash out, book a break away for the whole family this weekend. Warwick Castle have a special father’s day event, ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles’ so why not treat him to a day exploring this exciting event at the castle and spend a night in a nearby hotel?

6. Bake a Cake
We all know that the way to a mans heart is through his tummy, so bake him something extra special this weekend. Get the kids to help bake something chocolately and yummy for their dad. He will love the effort put it!

7. DVD-a-Thon
Grab a selection of his favorite DVD’s, a blanket, snacks and settle down for the afternoon. Apollo 13, Lord of the Rings, Star Wars and Back to the Future are all classic films he’s sure to love chilling out to.

8. Play a Round of Golf
Many of you out there will have dads who are golf fanatics. Take him for a quick round of golf or an hour on the driving range this Sunday.

9. Make a Splash
If you want something a little more energetic, pack up your towels and swimming costumes and have a family trip to your local pool. Splash, swim and dive the afternoon away for some fun family time together.

10. Get Walking
When was the last time you went for a walk in the park with your partner and kids? Put on your wellies or walking boots, brave the great British weather and go for a walk. Best of all, it wont cost you a penny!