Magic day out for royal couple and Prince Harry

A wave with a difference as royals given Potter wands Credit: Chris Jackson/PA Wire

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge duelled with wands like wizards from the Harry Potter movies.William and Kate stepped into the world of the teenage wizard and excelled at wand combat.

ITV News' Royal Correspondent Tim Ewart reports:

The royal couple were joined by Prince Harry as they officially opened the £100 million Warner Bros studios in Leavesden near Watford.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry share a joke over a spell or two. Credit: Paul Rogers/The Times/PA Wire

Other films produced at the sprawling site have included:

  • All eight harry Potter films

  • James Bond classic Goldeneye

  • The first Star Wars prequel - The Phantom Menace

  • Sleepy Hollow

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge get some tips on duelling with their wands. Credit: Paul Rogers/The Times/PA Wire
The Duchess of Cambridge enjoying her new wand. Credit: Paul Rogers/The Times/PA Wire

It is also where a major attraction is based telling the story of the boy wizard and giving fans a behind the scenes glimpse into the making of the movies through props, costumes, scenery and special effects.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with Prince Harry walk through the set used to depict Hogwart's 'Great Hall'. Credit: Chris Jackson/PA Wire

William were handed a replica of Harry Potter's wand while Kate, who is six months pregnant and wore a £38 polka dot dress from Topshop, wielded Hermione Granger's weapon.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge share a joke as he rides the 'Batpod'. Credit: Chris Jackson/PA Wire

Before the tour the Duke of Cambridge gave a speech and spoke of his hopes that he could fit a baby seat in the Batmobile and took the opportunity to tease his younger brother:

The Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry discuss the sartorial merits of the Bat suit. Credit: Chris Jackson/PA Wire
The Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry look at the 'Tumbler.' Credit: Chris Jackson/PA Wire