Harry Potter mania continues at tour launch

We may have had the final installment in the Harry Potter film franchise - but Potter mania is far from over.

Hundreds of fans turned out on Saturday for the opening of the studios in England where the blockbuster series was shot.

Stars of the series including Tom Felton, Bonnie Wright and Rupert Grint also turned up to check out the multi-million-pound Warner Brothers Studio Tour, called The Making of Harry Potter.

SOUNDBITE: Actor Rupert Grint, saying (English):

"I think it's a brilliant idea. I was so pleased when they decided to do this because it would be such a shame if they just put everything in a storage container and just forgot about it. This way everyone can kind of enjoy everything that's gone into these films -- so much hard work and you can really appreciate it," said actor Rupert Grint who played Ron Weasley in the series.

The tour's main attraction is the original Great Hall of Hogwarts School, built for Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.

The hall features solid oak and pine house tables which were built for the films, and York stone flooring laid more than 11 years ago.

Actor Tom Felton who played villain Draco Malfoy found taking a trip down memory lane a bit of a strange experience.

SOUNDBITE: Actor Tom Felton, saying (English):

"Very surreal -- I suppose it's a bit like your old school suddenly opening up as a museum for people to walk around. It's bizarre and yet we're so thrilled that finally we get to share it with the world and Warner Brother have given it a full time home for people to come and check it out."

People can ride on the famous broomsticks and visitors will also see close-ups of the costumes,special effects and props.

Sarah Mills, Reuters.