The distinctive shape of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is already visible with its thin layer of fake snow covering it.

The twenty-acre amusement destination is scheduled for an early spring launch. The park, which is believed to have cost as much as £160 million, is part of the Universal Orlando Resort in Florida.

Upon visiting The Potter theme park, guests will have the opportunity to experience popular elements of the renowned story such as a tour of the Hogwarts Castle, a stop at Ollivander’s wand shop and even the one-in-a-life-time chance to taste some butter beer.

The opening of the theme park will be followed by the launch half-a-year later of the last film in the series, Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows in November.

When arriving at the park, guest will be welcomed by the familiar whistle which announces the Hogsmeade Station when the Hogwarts Express arrives in the movies.

The centre piece of the new theme destination will be a cluster of three roller-coaster rides. Universal have promised to keep secret details of what it calls its best and biggest park attraction. Web-based Harry Potter fan sites have rumoured that the secret is Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, a hi-tech experience located inside the Hodgwarts Castle which features the similarity to the characters in the series.

Meanwhile, it was revealed recently that the teenage Harry Potter actress Emma Watson, who portrays Hermione in the series, has received the accolade of the highest-paid female star in Hollywood in a poll carried out by American entertainment magazine Vanity Fair.

The nineteen-year-old actress, who now represents top brand names in fashion campaigns, is believed to have earned more than  $30m (£19m) in 2009.

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