Millions of "muggles" enthralled by the fantastic world of Harry Potter can find out more about bubbling potions, spells and places to visit on a new educational web trail.

The Harry Potter phenomenon has made such a global impact that Brighton-based company 24 Hour Museum has designed a trail for fans wanting to know more about wizardry.

Project co-ordinator Helen Wade said: "The Harry Potter books and film have captured the imagination of adults and children alike.

"We recognised this fascination with the fantastical and created a trail that will allow people to have their own adventure."

The trail has fact files on museums and exhibitions around the country that Harry, Hermione, Ron and other budding wizards will enjoy.

Quidditch players can plan a day out to the Museum of Witchcraft in Cornwall, which even has a place for them to park their broomsticks.

Closer to home, the Bexhill Museum will appeal to codebreakers of all ages.

Visitors can play on pages filled with creepie-crawlies, broomsticks, secret codes and cats that turn into owls. The site offers games, monster-painting competitions, challenges and a wizard's classroom.

Development director Jane Finnis said: "The site encourages people to get off the sofa, switch off the TV and get out to see the huge variety of museums the UK has to offer.

"There are so many exciting venues and we hope to tap the Harry Potter euphoria with this new magical tour of wizardry-focused UK museums."

Jenny Ridland, Clodagh Kennedy and KiM, three Sussex-based freelance designers, have formed their own company, Electric Eel Multimedia, after working together on the trail.

The Brighton-based 24 Hour Museum, described as "the first national virtual museum", recently won the best education site award at the BT/New Statesman new media awards.

www.24hourmuseum.org.uk/trails/harrypotter/
www.shortcircuit.fsworld.co.uk