harry potter tour london last minute

Help! Harry Potter Studio Tickets are Sold Out for my London Trip Dates! 4 Ways to Buy

One very common question in my London tour groups is: “help! I can’t find Harry Potter Studio tickets for my dates!” 

This happens often because Harry Potter Studios – the Warner Brothers tour outside of London – sells out months in advance. For popular dates like Christmas time, Halloween, and school holidays, it can sell out even faster. 

It also happens because buying directly is the cheapest ticket. Harry Potter studio tickets directly from the Warner Brothers website start at £53.50.

Here are 4 ways to buy Harry Potter Studio tickets when they’re sold out on the website. 

This post may contain affiliate links for which I receive a small commission at no cost to you.

1. Purchase Harry Potter Studio Tickets Resale 

By “resale,” I mean tickets through a 3rd party retailer. There are tons of these companies that buy up tickets, or are allocated a certain amount for their business, and resell them. 

There is generally more availability with these retailers since it’s a bit more expensive than booking directly with Warner Brothers Studios. But many of them offer transportation included with the ticket, so it’s not a bad deal at all!

Here are the most trusted 3rd party retailers to purchase Harry Potter Studios tickets resale, according to travelers who have purchased before.

a) Tiquets : from £104

Tiquets is a reliable ticket vendor for tickets for Harry Potter Studios that offer either the basic entry ticket, plus transportation from Central London. Customers have said the buses are comfortable, have Wifi, and the 4 hour studio tour is well worth the price and it’s incredible.

b) Viator : from £104

Travel giant Viator usually has Harry Potter studio tickets available, and they too offer transport from Central London included with the ticket. Prices between Viator & Tiquets are usually about the same.

c) ⭐️ Get Your Guide : from £99 ⭐️

Get Your Guide is another reliable vendor for tickets for Harry Potter Studios, and they include comfortable coach transport from Central London. Harry Potter Studio tickets from Get Your Guide average about £5 less than Viator and Tiquets , though prices may fluctuate.  

d) Evan Evans Tours: from £105

Evan Evans tours is a London veteran who provide Harry Potter studio tickets resale, including return transportation from Central London. Tickets from Evan Evans are about the same price as Viator and Tiquets.

e) Golden Tours: from £105

Golden Tours is a popular UK tourism company and they offer Harry Potter Studio tickets from roughly the same price as the others.

2. Keep Checking the Official Harry Potter Studio Tickets Website 

Occasionally visitors need to change their tickets. The Studio explains their policy here . 

What does that mean for you? Tickets can pop up at any time! Keep checking several times a day. I’ve had many travelers report that their perseverance paid off big time when tickets magically appeared for their dates.

3. Have a Mastercard?

If you have a Mastercard, you can join Mastercard Priceless.

Priceless is Mastercard’s exclusive events and experiences platform, where tickets are released to Mastercard members before the general public.

20 tickets are released each day for 2-7 days in advance , so this is a great option if you need last minute Harry Potter studios tickets.

4. Harry Potter Studio Tickets Resale Are Too Expensive, and It’s Still Sold Out! 

There are so many ways to experience the magic of Harry Potter in London, and the studio isn’t the only place that the movies were filmed! There are a huge number of locations in London where you can experience Hogwarts in the Capital. 

You can go on a guided tour with Harry Potter experts, take yourself on a self-guided tour with my complete guide here , and don’t forget to take an iconic photo at Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross. 

1. Guided Harry Potter Tours: See All The Filming Locations!

Lots of tour companies offer guided Harry Potter walking tours of London. But which is the best?

a) ⭐️ Get Your Guide: Magical London Harry Potter Walking Tour ⭐️

From £20pp you can explore the magic of Harry Potter in London with this interactive tour. You even get to hop on a boat and explore the Thames – this is really two experiences for the price of one!

b) Viator: The Original Harry Potter London Locations Tour

From £20pp you can test your Harry Potter knowledge with quiz questions as you stroll along the streets of Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square, seeing some of the iconic locations where the films were made!

c) Tiquets: Harry Potter Guided Film Locations Tour

This experience from Tiquets is on the pricier end (from £29pp) , but it’s the only Harry Potter tour that includes a visit to Platform 9 3/4. It’s also the longest at 2.5 hours, so it covers a lot that the other tours don’t.

2. Self-Guided Tours

Another alternative Harry Potter experience in London is to take yourself on a self-guided tour. I’ve written a guide to the most iconic and significant Harry Potter London locations here. Follow along – it’s free!

3. The Cursed Child

The Cursed Child is the never-before published story by JK Rowling, entering a brand new storyline in the Harry Potter Universe. This theatre production is absolutely MAGICAL.

I was absolutely blown away by the production value, the sets, the effects – it’s like you’re watching magic happen in front of your eyes. It’s not only a great way to experience Harry Potter in London, it’s also just a fantastic theatre experience.

Tickets vary in price, and they do sell out quickly, especially during peak times. There are a huge amount of vendors to choose from for tickets, but Ticketmaster sometimes has really great deals and promos.

4. Shopping

There are tons of shopping destinations for Harry Potter merch and memorabilia in London. My favorites are: Hamleys (Oxford Street), Forbidden Planet (Covent Garden), and the Platform 9 3/4 Shop at King’s Cross Station.

5. Visit Platform 9 3/4

Most visitors to London will find themselves at King’s Cross Station at some point. Don’t forget to visit the iconic photo stop! Sometimes it gets crowded and you’ll have to wait your turn in the queue. But it’s never more than 30 minutes or so.

Harry Potter World Tickets London: Did You Score?

If you found another way to score Harry Potter studio tickets resale or direct, please let me know! This is a huge problem for visitors to London and I want to help as many people find a way to get there as possible.

Email me at Jen (at) London in Real Life (dot) com. Thanks!

Tickets for Harry Potter Studios FAQ

Does harry potter sell out.

Yes! Harry Potter Studios London sells out very quickly, usually at least 3 months in advance, and sometimes longer.

Can you just turn up to Harry Potter studios?

No, you can’t. You must purchase tickets in advance as they are not available at the door.

What is the cheapest way to do the Harry Potter studio tour?

The cheapest tickets for Harry Potter Studios are directly from Warner Brothers. But they do sell out far in advance, so you may need to buy resale from another vendor. These are more expensive, but it may be the only option for your travel dates.

Do you need a whole day for Harry Potter studios?

Yes. The studio tour is 4 hours, and it takes at least 1 hour to get to the studios from Central London (usually more like 90 minutes if you’re taking a coach). That’s the majority of a day!

Is there a time limit to Harry Potter world?

Yes – your Harry Potter Studio tickets allow you entry for 4 hours. This is plenty of time to see everything inside.

Is Harry Potter Studio London worth it?

This is relative question – are you a big Potter fan? If you’re not, it may not be worth it. But if you love the films, it’s worth it to see so many original sets, costumes, and props from the films. It’s like stepping inside the films!

Is the Harry Potter studio tour all indoors?

Most of it is, but parts – like Privet Drive – are outdoors. No matter the weather, this is a really fun attraction!

Where to stay for Harry Potter studio tour?

You can easily stay in London for easy access to the Harry Potter studio. It’s an hour by train or 90 minutes by coach (and most tour companies provide transport). If you want to stay closer, Watford has a lot of affordable hotels to choose from.

Is Harry Potter World the same as Harry Potter Studios?

These two often get confused. Harry Potter World usually refers to the Universal Studios attractions- both in Orlando and Los Angeles. But often when you’re in the UK, people will refer to Harry Potter Studios as ‘Harry Potter World’ because it’s the largest Harry Potter attraction in the UK, and it’s like stepping into Harry Potter’s world!

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BEST AVAILABILITY FROM MAY

Last Minute Availability

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SHAFTESBURY AVENUE, LONDON W1D 5AY

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• Evan Evans Tours
• London Tours
• Harry Potter Studio Tour London

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Harry Potter Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter

Evan Evans Warner Bros. Studio Tour is the perfect way to experience the magical Harry Potter World. It is one of our highest-rated tours and is available daily from Central London with comfortable return transportation.

Discover the wonders and secrets of Hogwarts and get a glimpse behind the scenes. Step through the doors of the spectacular Great Hall into the dining room, where the Sorting Hat famously sorted Hogwarts students into their houses. Come face-to-face with Aragog, the terrifying Acromantula, in The Forbidden Forest, stop for a photo with the Hogwarts Express by Platform 9¾, and so much more!

Harry Potter World London is the making of the Harry Potter movies and is one of the most visited attractions in the world. The Warner Bros. Studios are located just outside London. Travel onboard our tour coaches, who provide free Wi-Fi, comfortable seats, USB chargers, and air conditioning.

From London Victoria Option - Evan Evans Office  Our team will be waiting to greet you at our offices at 258 Vauxhall Bridge Road, located about a 5-minute walk from London Victoria Train Station and Victoria Underground Station.

Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time for boarding.

From London Russell Square Option

From 1st January 2022, we have a new departure at 1:00 pm from outside Blooms Café, 51 Bedford Way, London WC1H 0DG (Nearest underground station: Russell Square). We will continue to offer departures at the following times from the Evan Evans office (Nearest underground station: Victoria): 9:00 am 11:00 am 1:30 pm 2:30 pm

Please be at the location 30 minutes prior to departure.

Magical Mischief returns to the Studio Tour for the third year to celebrate the filmmaking trickery needed to pull off the magical pranks and wizarding mishaps seen on-screen in the Harry Potter film series. Begin in the Great Hall and walk into the iconic set dressed for the O.W.L examinations under the watchful eye of Professor Umbridge, complete with the swinging pendulum and exam desks, a fan favourite scene from Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Discover how filmmakers created pandemonium when the Weasley twins disrupted the quiet exams. Both Fred and George will be suspended from the ceiling with bags filled with their latest product, Weasleys’ Wildfire Whiz-bangs – ready to fill the Great Hall with a burst of colour. More of their products will be on display outside their shop Weasleys’ Wizarding Wheezes on Diagon Alley. Throughout the Studio Tour, discover the secrets behind the disappearing effect of the Invisibility Cloak and Harry’s flying acceptance letters. As well as trying your hand at making an origami howler just like the one delivered to Ron by Mrs Weasley in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

Great Hall Step through the doors of the spectacular Great Hall into the dining room, where the Sorting Hat famously sorted Hogwarts students into their houses. The two huge centrepiece tables are set for dinner, and costumes of students from each Hogwarts house can be seen dotted around the room.

The Forbidden Forest Come face-to-face with the terrifying Acromantula, Aragog, in The Forbidden Forest - the filming location of some of the scariest scenes from the movie trilogy.

Platform 9¾ Stop for a photo with the Hogwarts Express, the famous locomotive that transported hundreds of students Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. 

Diagon Alley Take a stroll down the cobblestoned alley and shopping area located behind the Leaky Cauldron pub. This iconic street is home to Gringotts Bank, Mr Mulpepper’s Apothecary and Ollivanders wand shop, where Harry’s wand famously chose him. 

Go behind-the-scenes and explore the wardrobes of your favourite characters, including the Quidditch robes worn by Harry Potter and the Gryffindor team, magnificent Yule Ball dresses and uniforms of Beauxbatons Academy of Magic.

Peer into the Potions Classroom, where over 950 potion jars filled with unique props including baked animal bones and shrunken heads line the walls. Inside Professor Dumbledore’s office, catch a glimpse of the Memory Cabinet, where Harry obtained The Pensieve used to peer into memories of his past.

Famously run by Goblins, Gringotts Wizarding Bank is the only bank in the wizarding world. Discover the grand banking hall, adorned with three magnificent crystal chandeliers and l ined by towering marble pillars finished with real brass leaf.

Discover the costumes and prosthetics belonging to Bogrod, Griphook and many other goblin bankers and tellers, whose desks are furnished with i nkwells, quills, ledgers and piles of Galleons, Sickles and Knuts.

Once through the banking hall of Gringotts, you will enter the depths of the Lestrange vault used to store the treasures of Bellatrix Lestrange, including the Sword of Gryffindor and Helga Hufflepuff’s Cup, one of Voldemort’s many Horcruxes. During filming 38,000 pieces of rubberised treasure were created the for the Lestrange vault including 7,014 Hufflepuff Cups.

Don't miss the unique photo opportunity inside the Lestrange vault, where you will be surrounded by the treasures of Gringotts Bank.

London Victoria Train Station Your Tour will finish outside London Victoria Train Station, centrally located and easily accessible by national rail and underground, it is serviced by the Victoria, District and Circle Lines and is in Travel Zone 1.

The Russell Square departure ends back at Blooms Café.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• 1 pm departure from Russell Square: Please meet outside Blooms Cafe, 51 Bedford Way, London, WC1H 0DG.
• 9 am, 11 am, 1:30 pm & 2:30 pm from Victoria: Please meet at Evan Evans Tours, Vauxhall Bridge Road, Victoria, London, SW1V 1BS.
• Please note you will have approximately 4 hours at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour
• This is not an escorted tour; our price includes coach transfers and entry to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
• TM & © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR
• We encourage guests with e-tickets to bring these on their smart devices
• Vehicles are fully sanitised before the start of each tour. All surfaces are cleaned and disinfected daily
• Our coaches are operating at normal capacity
• Please visit our Travel Health page for full details of our enhanced hygiene standards and protocols
• Group Cancellation Policy: Groups of 10 passengers or more - Warner Bros. group bookings can be cancelled up to 30 days prior to travel, within 30 days 100% cancellation fee applies. ​​​

PACKAGE OPTIONS​​

Harry Potter Studio Tour from London Victoria:

• Warner Bros. Studio Tour London entry
• Departure from the Evan Evans office
• Return travel on a fully-electric zero-emission coach with free Wi-Fi and USB charging on board
• 4-hour stay at the Studio Tour
• Guest Service Assistant on site

Harry Potter Warner Bros. Tour from Russell Square:

• Departure from outside Blooms Cafe, 51 Bedford Way, WC1H 0JR (nearest Underground Station 'Russell Square')
• See the breathtaking sets, including the Great Hall, Forbidden Forest and Diagon Alley
• Explore the collection of authentic and iconic props
• Step on board the Hogwarts Express
• Discover original costumes, including the uniforms from the wizarding sport of Quidditch
• Visit the special and visual effects department and see how the characters and scenes from J. K. Rowling's books were brought to life
• Comfortable and convenient return transfers to the studio from London on a superior coach

What's Included

Roundtrip coach transportation from central london, wi-fi on-board, usb charging on-board, what's excluded, hotel pick-up & drop-off.

• No Cancellation Fees
• No Change Fees
• No Booking Fees
• Your Money is Protected - Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the day of departure
• Our team, including our guides and drivers, have been trained in our enhanced hygiene procedures; please refer to our Travel Health page for more information

For full terms, see Our Flexible Promise to You

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Warner Bros. Studios is located 20  miles  outside of Central  London  in Leavesden, Hertfordshire.
• The duration of the tour is approximately 7 hours with approximately 4 hours at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
• With Evan Evans, Return coach travel from central London with reclining  seats & FREE Wi-Fi on-board
• On the Harry Potter Studio Tour, you'll have the chance to explore iconic film sets, see props and costumes used in the films, visit the Special Effects department and learn how the films were made.
• The Studio Tour is a 4 hour, self-guided tour of the behind-the-scenes world of the Harry Potter films. Visitors can purchase a Digital Guide and Souvenir Guidebook for a more immersive experience.
• By Coach (45 minutes - 1.5 hours)

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The 10 Best Harry Potter Tours in London

Grab your wands and prepare for a magical trip through London.

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter

A highlight of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter is seeing the model of Hogwarts.

Though you won't find Eeylops Owl Emporium, Flourish and Blotts, Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes or Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions in London 's streets, that doesn't mean you can't indulge in the world of "Harry Potter." Knowledgeable witches and wizards lead themed tours that discuss not only filming locations for the beloved Potter films, but also the wizarding world's most famous individuals like Harry, Ron, Hermione, Dumbledore and He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named.

Consulting Muggle traveler opinion as well as expert input from the top witches and wizards, U.S. News & World Report found the best Harry Potter London tours on offer.

Note: These tours take place on foot, by bus or on trains, so it's best to leave your brooms and Floo powder at home.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Price: From 51.50 pounds (around $64) per person Duration: 3.5 hours

For Potterheads, no trip to London is complete without a stop to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter , which explores how the "Harry Potter" films were made. During the self-guided visit, travelers will wander the Diagon Alley set, board the Hogwarts Express, view props and costumes and much, much more. Visit around Halloween for the Dark Arts or the winter holidays for Hogwarts in the Snow; the tour is decked out in seasonal décor for both events.

"As both a filmmaker and 'Harry Potter' fan, I was absolutely blown away by this tour," says Leilani Osmundson , digital producer at U.S. News Travel. "The sets, props and costumes were incredible and very well-maintained, and there were written explanations for almost everything." Osmundson suggests staying at the back of the group when entering the Great Hall for a chance to snag photos with fewer people in the shot when the group moves on. Keep in mind, this great experience comes with equivalent fees: Travelers warn of high ticket prices and expensive souvenirs. To avoid crowds, get to the studio early.

Tickets start at 51.50 pounds (about $64) per person. Children 3 and younger as well as caregivers can explore for free. Ticket packages that include a stay at a hotel or afternoon tea cost extra. Hours vary depending on the day. The tour is self-paced and you can explore as long as you wish, but you'll want at least 3.5 hours (more if you're a die-hard fan who wants to take in every detail). The tour is located in Leavesden, Watford, which is about 20 miles northeast of central London. Take the train to Watford Junction then board the complimentary shuttle to the studio.

View & Book Tickets: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

Evan Evans Tours – Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour

Price: Adults from 29 pounds (about $36); kids from 24 pounds (around $30) Duration: 3 hours

Along this three-hour walking tour, you'll see the telephone booth that takes you to the Ministry of Magic, the Millennium Bridge and King's Cross Station, among other top filming locations. Tour-takers say the guides share fun Potter facts along with information about London.

Tours depart at both 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. Tickets cost 29 pounds (approximately $36) for adults and 24 pounds (about $30) for kids 3 to 16. You will also need a valid travel card for the Underground, as part of the tour is on the tube. The outing is not accessible. Evan Evans tours also runs an outing that buses trip-takers to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

Courtesy of Tour for Muggles

Tour for Muggles

Price: Adults from 17 pounds (about $21); kids from 15 pounds (around $19) Duration: 2 hours

"Harry Potter" fans praise the witches and wizards who lead this tour, saying they are full of fun information and are passionate storytellers. A few note that if you're traveling solo, this is a great tour to take. The two-hour tour takes travelers throughout London – including across the Thames – and tells stories about Harry, Ron and Hermione along the way.

You'll meet your guide near the Monument tube station. The walking tour costs 17 pounds (around $21) for adults and 15 pounds (about $19) for children younger than 12.

See Your City – Original Harry Potter Locations Tour

Price: From $19.04 Duration: 2 hours

During See Your City's two-hour jaunt, you'll not only learn about the filming of "Harry Potter" (including the bridge destroyed in "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince"), but guides will also quiz you along the way so you can earn points for your house. Travelers praise the guides for their fun and informative delivery, saying that there are several spots on the tour that they wouldn't have seen by themselves.

Tickets cost about $20 per person and run mornings at 10:30 a.m., and afternoons at 2 and 7 p.m. In addition to English, See Your City conducts tours in Italian, German, French, Spanish and British Sign Language. The company runs other "Harry Potter"-themed tours, including one that explores London by boat and one that runs at night.

International Friends – Small Group Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter & Oxford

Price: Adults from 174 pounds; kids from 169 pounds Duration: 11 hours

This daylong tour begins with a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London to see the sets (including the Forbidden Forest, Hagrid's Hut and the Great Hall), costumes and props from the films. After spending four hours at the studio, the coach will whisk you away to nearby Oxford where guides will take you on a walking tour of the university buildings and city streets. Tourgoers call this an excellent way to spend the day and appreciated the stop in Oxford.

Tour tickets start at 174 pounds (about $216) for adults and 169 pounds (approximately $210) for kids ages 5 to 15. Trips depart from central London around 8:30 a.m. and return around 7:45 p.m. In addition to "Harry Potter" outings, International Friends runs "Downton Abbey" tours.

Courtesy of London With a Local

London With a Local – Free Harry Potter Wizarding Tour

Price: Free Duration: 2 hours

Tourgoers routinely encourage "Harry Potter" fans to take this tour, saying the guides and stories shared are both fantastic. The walking tour meets at Palace Theatre, where the play "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" performs. (While seeing the play isn't part of the tour, you may want to grab tickets to the show while you're in London.) From there, guides will lead you down Diagon and Knockturn alleys (aka Charing Cross Road) and past buildings that inspired the Gringotts Wizarding Bank and the Ministry of Magic. Be sure to refresh your trivia knowledge, too, as guides quiz travelers for the Hogwarts Trivia House Cup.

Outings last about two hours. Tours depart at 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., but daily availability can vary. The tour is free, though tips for the guide are appreciated. London With a Local runs other movie- and book-based free tours, including James Bond and Sherlock Holmes tours.

View & Book Tickets: London With a Local

Brit Movie Tours – Wizards London Bus Tour

Price: Adults from 32.50 pounds (about $40); kids from 21 pounds Duration: 3.5 hours

Hop on an air-conditioned bus to see spots in London that served as a backdrop for the eight "Harry Potter" films. Sites tourgoers will see include the spot used for the Leaky Cauldron, the spot where the Knight Bus squished itself through traffic and more. Along the way, guides will quiz you about the books. Plus you'll see a few spots from the "Fantastic Beasts" franchise. Many travelers say the bus tour is a bargain and praise the guides. A few others note they could have found the stops by themselves.

Tours run year-round on Sundays (usually at 9:30 or 10:30 a.m.) as well as Wednesdays at 2 p.m. in the warmer months. Availability can vary, however. Tickets start at 32.50 for adults (about $40) and 21 pounds (roughly $26) for kids 15 and younger. Brit Movie Tours also runs a walking version of this tour.

London Top Sight Tours – Harry Potter Azkaban Tour (Film Locations & Prison)

Price: From 69 pounds (about $86) Duration: 3 hours

This tour focuses on the famous prison that housed some of the Death Eaters (followers of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named): Azkaban. Tour-takes will visit the Clink Prison Museum, which inspired J.K. Rowling when writing about the wizard prison. Additionally, this walking tour stops at two "Harry Potter"-themed shops as well as other locations from the films. London tourists say the guides do an excellent job.

Tours last three hours and depart from King's Cross. Tickets start at 69 pounds (roughly $86) per person and include the entry ticket to the Clink Prison Museum. Keep in mind you'll also need a topped up travel card for the tube. Tours run at 10 a.m. and 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. daily. The company runs a variety of other London tours, as well as private tours.

City Wonders – Fully Guided Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Price: Adults from $310; kids from $297 Duration: 6 hours

As the name implies, City Wonders conducts fully guided excursions to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Guides meet the tour group – of no more than eight individuals – at the Euston War Memorial before boarding a train to get to the studio. Upon arrival, a trained guide will lead your group through the Studio Tour. You'll view props, costumes and sets like Ollivander's, the Gryffindor common room and more. Along the way, guides will share interesting tidbits about the movies. Travelers say the tours are excellent and the guided portion through The Making of Harry Potter is extra special. They also say that sampling Butterbeer or other magic foods is a must, but warn of long lines for concessions.

The tour starts at $310 for adults, $297 for children 5 to 15 and $12 for infants 4 and younger. It lasts about six hours and departs at 11:05 a.m. and 12:05 p.m. daily. City Wonders runs a variety of tours, including outings to the British Museum and the Tower of London .

Free Tours by Foot – Harry Potter Walking Tour London

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 hours

If you're hoping to save some knuts, sickles and galleons on a London trip, this could be a great tour option. As the name implies, Free Tours by Foot runs pay-what-you-wish walking tours. The "Harry Potter" tour will go by Westminster Tube station (as seen in "The Order of the Phoenix"), Godwin's Court (Knockturn Alley), St. Paul's and Trafalgar Square, among other top sites. Travelers say it is a wonderful tour, as guides share information about both the boy wizard and London history.

Tours run Wednesday and Saturday at 2 p.m. Though tours are free, reservations are required. Additionally, part of the tour takes place on the tube, so make sure you have plenty of money on a travel card.

View & Book Tickets: Free Tours by Foot

Harry Potter Tours in Scotland

London isn't the only place in the United Kingdom to get your Potter fix. Scotland – where you'll find the real-life Hogwarts Express and Hogwarts castle – is another must-visit destination for fans. Here are some tours to consider:

• Free Harry Potter Tour: Explore Edinburgh on foot to hear about the influence the city had on the books. Book on Free Harry Potter Tour .
• The Magical Highlands Tour (Includes Steam Train Journey): See the Scottish Highlands and take a ride on the Jacobite steam train (aka the Hogwarts Express). Book on GetYourGuide .
• Harry Potter & the Hogwarts Express: Visit filming locations in the Highlands including the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Book on HAGGiS Adventures .
• J.K. Rowling's Edinburgh: Traverse city streets to learn about the Potter stories and their creator. Book on The Potter Tour .
• The Potter Trail: Grab a wand and explore Potterific sites around Edinburgh on this free tour. Book on The Potter Trail .
• Edinburgh Harry Potter Tour: Find out where He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named is buried and the namesakes for some of the characters. Book on Viator .
• Harry Potter Tour: Walk by Edinburgh Castle, the Elephant House and more on this tour. Book on: Viator | Get Your Guide .
• Jacobite Steam Train Experience. Take a ride on the Hogwarts Express and snap photos of Cairngorms National Park. Book on Scottish Tours .
• Immersive Harry Potter Tour. Get quizzed on your magical knowledge while walking through Edinburgh. Book on: Viator | Get Your Guide .

You may also be interested in:

• The Best London Tours
• The Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace
• Take a Photo Tour of London
• The Best Daytrips from London
• The Best Scotland Tours

Tags: Tours , Travel , London

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Unique Fully Guided Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Delight as the magic of Harry Potter comes to life again before your eyes. This fully guided London studios tour will take you back to your favorite scenes, with the real props, costumes and sets, and unforgettable behind-the-scenes commentary from an expert English-speaking  Studio Tour guide who knows how the film magic brought the books to life. Get exclusive Timed entry to the experience of the Great Hall, Hagrid’s Hut and Platform 9 ¾, with return transport from Central London.

• Arrive by authentic Muggle train and step into Hogwarts on the *only* fully-guided tour of the spectacular Warner Bros. Studios: The Making of Harry Potter, in small groups of 8 or less so you can really appreciate the magic.
• Your official Studio tour guide will be there to help you make the most of our exclusive time entry - so there’s no waiting in line and priority re-entry, meaning you won’t miss a moment.
• See the amazing sets, costumes and props from across the eight amazing Harry Potter movies: all so detailed and recognizable. Sip on some Butterbeer, ride a broomstick and enter the breathtaking Great Hall …

Your Harry Potter Studio Tour Experience

What's included.

• Fully guided tour of Warner Bros. Studios in English, with an expert Harry Potter tour guide
• Small groups of 8 people or fewer
• Admission with timed entry to Warner Bros Studios
• Transportation to and from the meeting point

Sites Visited

• Warners Brothers Studios (inside) 

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Making of Harry Potter on our fully-guided Warner Bros. Studio Tour in English. As a Warner Bros. Studio Tour London preferred partner, we’re the only tour company that allows you to learn about the real-life movie magic used to create the beloved film series from an official, Studio Tour guide.   

Start your magical journey in Central London, where you’ll meet a City Wonders representative to collect your return train tickets directly to Watford Junction Station. After arriving at Watford Junction, you’ll be taken to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London via an official shuttle bus.

Once you arrive at the Studios, you’ll enjoy timed access and a greeting from a dedicated English-speaking  Studio Tour guide, who will reveal the wonders you’ll encounter throughout your tour of the original sets, props, and costumes from the Harry Potter™ film series. Next, view a short introductory film before being led into the most iconic set of the series: the Great Hall.  

From there, your Studio Tour guide will begin to share production secrets and inside information, as well as highlight the processes used to bring the films to life. As the only fully-guided tour, this experience is completely unique and the best way to explore the behind-the-scenes magic of the Harry Potter film series as you walk along the famous cobbled street of Diagon Alley™, featuring the shop fronts of Ollivanders™, Flourish and Blotts™, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, Gringotts™ Bank and Eeylops Owl Emporium™.

You’ll also visit the original Hogwarts Express locomotive and a re-creation of Platform 9 ¾ where you can climb aboard the train’s carriage and pose for a photo with a luggage trolley as it disappears through the platform wall. Enjoy other memorable sets from the Harry Potter film series, including the Gryffindor common room, the boys’ dormitory, Hagrid’s Hut, the Potions classroom, and Dumbledore’s office – all while being captivated by the secrets and insights shared by your guide.

Step Into the Forbidden Forest

Defy Professor Dumbledore’s orders and follow Harry, Ron and Hermione’s footsteps into the Forbidden Forest. Home to Buckbeak the Hippogriff, Aragog the Acromantula and 19 trees, each with a diameter of over 12 feet, visitors are invited to walk beneath the giant entwined roots and discover how to control the weather using the same techniques used during filming.

15th September – 5th November Delve a little deeper into the world of the Dark Arts as the Studios are transformed for the Halloween Season. From floating pumpkins in the Great Hall to pools of silvery unicorn blood, you’ll learn how the Prop Making Department hand-crafted spooky items to bring the Wizarding World to life. You’ll also be able to test out your wand combat skills against an actual Death Eater as they patrol an eerier Diagon Alley!

Hogwarts in the Snow

11th November – 14th January The Studio Tour becomes even more magical during the Christmas season! Explore Hogwarts in the Snow to learn how film-makers created ice that never melts and fireplaces that burn forever with special effects. Special Christmas props including hand-made cards, Christmas trees, and decorations from the Yule Ball will also be on display.

Once your guided tour comes to an end, you have the option to re-enter and explore the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London at your leisure, find a special Harry Potter souvenir at the Studio Shop or enjoy a coffee in the Studio Tour Cafe. When you're ready to head back to central London, your City Wonders representative will provide train tickets and all necessary information for an easy journey.

This unique, fully-guided tour at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter is the only tour of its kind and is sure to create the memory of a lifetime!

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Euston War Memorial outside of Euston Station - Open in Google Maps

Important Notes

• We will do everything within our power to ensure timings and itineraries are respected; however, due to issues beyond our control, timings and sites are subject to last minute changes on rare occasions.

Cancelation Policy

This tour is subject to a 48-hour cancelation policy. If you wish to cancel or amend your booking, you can do so without charge by contacting us up to 48 hours in advance of your expected departure time.

• Book Direct: Best prices always guaranteed.
• Multilingual Customer Service: Talk to us, we are here to help.
• No Hidden Costs: All taxes and fees included.

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Posted on 1st July 2021 Categories Things to do

By: Author Julianna Barnaby

Visiting the Harry Potter Studio Tour (+ Everything You Need to Plan Your Trip)

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Love Harry Potter? The Warner Bros. Studio Tour is an absolutely magical day out for children and adults alike. Here’s what you need to know before you go.

Harry Potter. You may have noticed that I’m low-level obsessed with both the films and the books. The story that captured our imaginations 20 years ago is no less magical today.

London is filled with Harry Potter spots – whether that’s filming locations, cool graphics stores or Potter-inspired bars , there’s plenty to keep your wands busy. Even so, the Harry Potter Studio Tour is phenomenal.

I’ll admit that I put visiting the tour off for a while because I never quite got round to booking my ticket. Mistake . Now that I’ve been I can say hand on heart that it is a must for anyone who loves Harry Potter.

I’ve written this step-by-step guide to help you understand what to expect, how to book your tickets, plan your journey and have a brilliant time. No pressure then…

OK, So the Big Question is… Are the Harry Potter Studios Worth the Money?

In short – yes. The Harry Potter Studios are worth the money.

It’s pretty much impossible to talk about why you should go on the Harry Potter Studio Tour without confronting the fact that tickets are hella expensive.

£47 for adults and £38 for children over 5 is no laughing matter – particularly when you add transport and (if necessary) accommodation to that too.

Even though the tickets are expensive, I’d say that the experience is absolutely worth it – it’s been brilliantly done – so much so that I know people who’ve been back a couple of times over the years.

Want to book a tour instead? Choose from these tours from London .

Exploring the Magical World of Harry Potter at the Warner Brothers Studio Tour in London: What to Expect

All eight of the films were filmed in the Leavesden Studios over a period spanning more than a decade.

There’s nowhere else that you can visit where you can see so many of the places, costumes and details that made the iconic films the biggest movie series in history.

How to Get Your Hands on Harry Potter London Tickets

Buy tickets on the website.

Now, I’m not going to lie – trying to get your hands on the Harry Potter studio tickets is like trying to conjure a genuine smile from Professor Umbrige. As in, it will take all of your wits and whiles to make it happen. Unlike trying to coax a smile from Umbridge though, it will be totally worth the effort.

First of all, let me be clear. You have to buy tickets in advance – there will be no turning up on the day and hoping to strike lucky.

That shizz just doesn’t fly (as in they don’t even sell tickets on the door, so you’ll have schlepped out to Leavesden for no reason – and I’ll warn you, apart from the studio tour, Leavesden isn’t the kind of place where you go to have a lot of fun).

So, you need to plan your trip in advance. Preferably as far in advance as you possibly can.

Tickets for the Warner Brothers Harry Potter tour sell like hotcakes – and months ahead.

Don’t be all blasé like me, hopping onto the website and thinking you’ll pick one up for the next day. I was totally sucker punched when I saw that tickets were pretty much booked out for two months in advance. That’s not a typo and yes you’re reading it right. Two months.

Now, there are a couple of workarounds, which I am going to go into more detail below but that is the standard position.

So if you’re thinking about taking a trip to London and you want to get a ticket, do it the moment you book your flights. I only wish I were joking.

Book Tickets Here

Sneaky Trick Number One for Getting a Ticket to the Warner Bros Studio Tour

Book a tour – or transport inclusive ticket from a tour operator.

I have to be honest – I am prettyyyyyy disorganised a lot of the time and I’ve often found that hunting around for a tour can mean that you can nab a last minute spot when all other hope is lost.

Have a look on Get Your Guide and simply work your way through the different operators until you can find one with a ticket for the date that you want. Simple and oh so crafty * cackles uncontrollably in the manner of Bellatrix Lestrange *.

PS – I talk more about tours and transport inclusive options in the How to Get to the Harry Potter Studios Section Below.

Sneaky Trick Number Two For Getting Your Hands on Harry Potter Studio Tickets

You’ll have better luck if you can visit on a weekday outside of school holidays, but as you’re likely to be grown-ass adults with actual jobs, whether you can do that depends on exactly how much magic you’re willing to practice to get yourself a spot.

Sneaky Trick Number Three for Nabbing Those Tickets

Now I know that I said that you have next to zero chance for nabbing tickets to Harry Potter land in London without booking them at least a couple of months in advance but guess what… I lied.

Well, kind of.

You can get last-minute tickets on the website if you’re willing to be flexible and just take whatever day and time is available. I booked my tickets on Tuesday to go on the Sunday of the same week – and was pretty lucky that the tour started at 2pm so I had loads of time to make my way around.

There were only a couple of tickets for the Sunday available – and a few more for the following Monday and Tuesday… after which the earliest I could book was 2.5 months later.

It’s a big gamble – definitely not one I’d recommend taking if you’re only in the country for a short period but it is always worth checking.

Read Next: The Ultimate Guide to London’s Magical Harry Potter Spots

Tips for Making the Most of Your Time in the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour

If you’re more of an adult than me and actually book your tickets far enough in advance that you get a choice about which slot to choose rather than having to take whichever one’s available because you’re trying to find a ticket for this weekend, I have a tip.

Go as early in the day as possible – and try and avoid the last slot or two.

Much as I’d love to pretend that these are sage words I winkled out of prophecy buried in that creepy vault in the Ministry of Magic, the boring truth is there are very good reasons for this advice.

One is that the tour is untimed. Once you’re in, you’re in for however long it takes you to make your way around.

Considering that some people (ME) literally won’t rest until they’ve read / played with / googled at / photographed / posed with every tiny little bit on every single set, you can understand how later slots can get pretty busy.

The second reason I say to go as early as possible is kind of the same – you want to make sure that you have all the sweet sweet time that you need to make your way around that tour.

They suggest three to four hours but who knows, you may end up taking more (particularly if you kick back with a butterbeer in Hogsmeade).

Someone once spent over thirteen hours in the tour, which seems a liiiitttttle excessive – what were they doing? Reenacting the films? Actually, that’s a brilliant idea.  

Either way, with the earlier slots you pretty much have all the time you want. It would be a real shame to have to rush any of the experience – you paid enough to justify squeezing every last second of pleasure from your well-spent galleons.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Did you see that bit above where I said that the average person takes three to four hours walking around the studios?

Now imagine doing that in some flimsy-ass high heels that make you want to cast a spell and set your own feet on fire after half an hour and I think you’ll get my point about comfortable shoes.

Unless you have your own flying broomstick that is, in which case you can wear those heels as you zip around the tour with your cape billowing in the breeze behind you.

Dress Up (If You Want, but Why Wouldn’t You Want to…)

I have one regret about my trip to the making of Harry Potter and that is that I didn’t dress up. There were so many kids (and adults!) rocking cool Harry Potter attire that the moment I saw them, I knew that I a) wanted to be them and b) would feel so sad about it for the whole time I was there.

So dust off your capes, your house scarf, your Potter-style glasses etc with free abandon – ain’t no one going to judge you for it.

Swot Up on the Films (and the Books for Extra House Points)

This will only apply if you haven’t watched the film in a little while (in which case, who even are you?).

There are so many cool spots here but there’s no point if you can only dimly remember the films from some time a few years ago when you watched it as you did your knitting.

No. That is not good enough. You want to make sure that you’ve watched the films recently, that they’re fresh in your mind, that you recall every detail – and preferably you can do some short reenactments as you go around…

And, if you want to get extra mega-nerdy house points, breeze through the books so you can say sage things comparing the books to the films and the sets and totally blowing everyone’s minds with your crazy levels of knowledge.

Don’t Whizz Through the Great Hall too Fast – In Fact, Don’t Whizz Through Any of the Tour too Fast

The tour starts with a couple of short intros – one in a small room where you can see the cast on small screens above you and marvel at how much older they look. Then start thinking about how much older you must be too and actually get so wrapped up in this that you actually end up missing everything they say.

The second intro film is a much grander affair and in an actual cinema. Now, once you finish that second film, the doors beyond open and you’re let into the Hogwarts Dining Hall.

What do you get when you take lots and lots of very keen Harry Potter fans, lock them in a dark room and then let them loose onto one of the film’s most exciting sets?

I think mayhem is the word that you’re looking for. I had a whole family push into my photo, pretty much stampeding over me to nab a picture with a statue of Dumbledore.

No worries though, jokes on them because I just waited behind until almost all of the people had trampled their way through to the next room and quietly (and rather smugly, channeling my best Hermione knows it all face) took my pictures and had a nose around the now empty hall.

Don’t take too long though – you only have a certain period of time until the next group of people are released from the cinema room and into the frenzy.

That advice applies to all of the tour actually – unless you’re in one of the later slots you have all the time that you need to make your way around, take millions of pictures and absolutely live your best Harry Potter life.

There’s no need to rush that – if you do, you won’t have anything good to put into your pensieve.

Read Next: Mischief Managed: This is What it’s Really Like to Visit the Harry Potter Inspired Bar in London

Pick the Guides’ Brains

No, not literally. The guides in the Warner Bros studios take Harry Potter fandom to. another. level. You will bow in the face of their superior and all out geeky knowledge of the things on the set.

I totally encourage you to sidle up to one and ask a really niche question about a tiny piece of the set buried in the back of a scene, then watch as *poof* all their magical knowledge comes out. It’s BEAUTIFUL.

Do Fill in Your Making of Harry Potter Passport

You’re handed a Harry Potter Passport with your tickets. I tried to be all cool and dismissive about it – what do they think we are? Children who are going to run around getting stamps and filling in the questions in our magical books? Damned right we are.

Now is not the time to pretend that you’re in any way not excited about finding the 13 golden snitches that are hidden throughout the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour.

Finding those snitches and getting those stamps is better than that moment when everyone thinks that Harry’s dead and he bursts out of Hagrid’s arms to turn Voldemort into tiny pieces of ash. I shizz you not.

Highlights of the Warner Bros Studio Tour in London

Now that you’ve booked your tickets and are incredibly excited, I thought I’d help fuel the fire with a few sneak peeks at some of my favourite spots from the set 😀

The Great Hall

Feasts, howlers, ominous speeches – Hogwarts’ Great Hall has seen it all. It’s pretty cool to see the hall in real life (though if you’ve ever visited Christ Church in Oxford – another city with many Harry Potter filming locations , you’ll notice the strong resemblance).

I won’t let you in on all of the little secrets but you get to peek behind the scenes to find out how they created the floating candles and enchanted ceiling effects, plus there’s a cool display of the house uniforms and details on how they changed throughout the films.

The Gryffindor Dormitory

Lush velvet, wooden four poster beds – welcome to the Gryffindor Dorm. Biggest surprise? The beds are absolutely tiny as they were designed for the kids for The Philosopher’s Stone but ended up being used in all the films.

Dumbledore’s Office

So much wisdom, so little time.

The calm retreat in which many of the films’ most memorable scenes took place – Dumbledore’s Office is adorned with rows and rows of books and many portraits of former Hogwarts headmasters.

Though it brought up all the feels from that awful moment when Snape kills Dumbledore and you feel like your soul has been split in two.

The Potions Room

Press it, don’t squeeze it Hermoine. The potions room is lined with all manner of tinctures and strange ingredients – ready to be made into love potions or poisons… let’s hope it’s the first of the two!

The Forbidden Forest

The Forbidden Forest is a real eye opener – dark, ominous and more realistic than I’d like to admit, it’s crazy walking through the forest as giant spiders descend from the ceiling, accompanied by thunder and flashes of lightning.

Malfoy Manor

The ominous tone of Malfoy Manor is set by a dummy of Charity Burbage hanging over the long table at which the death eaters sit. Who can forget the poor teacher’s death – brutally attacked by Nagini while the whole table watched.

The Ministry of Magic

Glimpses of the Ministry of Magic peep out from the giant sets – one of the largest ever created for a film. The larger-than-life Magic is Might statue stands to remind Muggles of their rightful place. Creepy.

Read Next: The House of Minalima – Step into a World of Harry Potter in Soho

Platform 9 ¾

It’s real! All aboard the Hogwarts Express! Many of the scenes on Platform 9 ¾ were actually shot in King’s Cross (one of the filming locations in London) but part of the station was reconstructed in the studio – complete with a Hogwarts Express that you can jump aboard and trolleys buried in the walls for that iconic shot of you running through to the secret platform.

Diagon Alley  

Hop into Ollivanders and get your wand at the ridiculously lifelike set for Diagon Alley . The set changed significantly throughout the progress of the films – the final version is a cross between a Victorian shopping street and a weird, wacky emporium.

Hogwarts Castle

The last stop on the Harry Potter studio tour is IMHO the best – the scale model of Hogwarts Castle. Each of the films directors changed bits on the castle to suit the mood of their film – the result? An incredible sprawling model, complete with intricately-designed details. When can we move in?

What’s The Best Way to Get to the Harry Potter Studios from London?

Where is harry potter studios.

The Harry Potter Studios are actually situated just outside of London in Leavesden, Watford. There’s not too much to do in this area besides visiting the studio tour but there’s plenty to do inside, so you can still make a day of it.

Have no fear though – no matter which part of London you’re in, the Harry Potter Studios are pretty easy to get to. I’ve outlined the easiest ways for you below…

Getting to the Harry Potter studios isn’t difficult if you have a car. It’s about a 45 minute drive from Central London and parking is free.

Like many places outside of the city, Sat Nav does tend to lose its way a little when you put in the postcode, so you’re better off entering in Warner Bros Studios Leavesden to make sure that it takes you to the right place. We don’t want any Diagonelly / Diagon Alley mix ups here.

Make sure that you have your booking confirmation to hand as you go into the car park as they need to check it before you go in.

By Bus from London

Did I mention that the studios are kind of in the middle of nowhere? Upshot is that your options for getting to them are far more limited than for places in central London.

If you’re not driving, the easiest thing to do is to buy a Bus and Entrance Package. The package covers your bus from a central London location and your ticket for the tour. Mischief managed!

There are a few different operators offering buses from different London locations – t his one does them from Victoria coach station , or browse here for other options . Most bus and tour packages cost around £85 for adults.

On a Guided Tour

This is different (and a lot more expensive) to the Bus and Ticket Combos. I’m talking fully guided tours for those who want that next-level Harry Potter knowledge and aren’t afraid to make it rain pounds and pennies in order to get it.

This guided tour includes transport from London, a fully-guided tour around the studios plus re-entry to the studios so that you can go back and explore them at your own leisure before heading with your guide back to London again.

Book your spot for £89 pounds – and no, you can’t rob Gringotts to fund the cost of the tickets.

By Train (and Bus)

In my opinion, getting to the studios by train is the most awkward option, though it isn’t too bad. You need to hop on a train from London Euston to Watford Junction (this takes about 20 minutes) and then catch a bus (£2.50 extra – cash only) from Watford Junction to the Studios (this takes about 15 minutes).

In theory, you could do the trip in 35 minutes but everyone I’ve spoken to says it takes a bit longer and there’s the hassle of having to change at Watford Junction.

I’d rather hop on one bus to do the full journey but that’s just me. You don’t need to book ahead but check train times to make sure you’re not waiting around in Euston for the next one.

Hotels Near Harry Potter Studios London

Premier inn watford north (budget).

I tend to prefer Premier Inns over Travelodges but it’s the same deal – a comfortable budget option that’s only a short distance from the studios. Check availability.

Hemel Hempstead Holiday Inn (Budget)

The Hemel Hempstead Holiday Inn is everything that you’d expect from a Holiday Inn (as in basic but clean and comfortable). The real draw is that it’s less than a ten-minute drive (seven minutes to be exact) away from the Studios – particularly perfect if you’ve got an early morning start. Check availability.

The Grove (High End)

The Grove is hella pricey but what else do you expect when you opt to stay in a gorgeous country manor house? Stylish interiors, ridiculously snuggly beds and a fabulous in-house restaurant. Totally your pick if you really want to push the boat out. Check prices and availability.

Other Hotels in Watford

I should point out that there are quite a few hotels in and around Watford Junction, where it totally makes sense to stay if you are getting the train to the station but don’t want to hurry there and back the same day.

Compare prices and availability for hotels in Watford.

Harry Potter Studio Tour London Map

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Looking for More Harry Potter Guides?

Check these out…

Harry Potter Filming Spots in London

Guide to Leadenhall Market

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20 Tips for visiting the Harry Potter Studios in London

Looking for some useful tips for visiting the Harry Potter Studios in London ? We are here to help!

If you’re a fan of the Harry Potter series, a trip to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London is a must-do.

Located in Watford, the WB Harry Potter Studios are where the Harry Potter movies were filmed.

Here you will find everything that was used to make the films. This includes some of the sets (such as the Grand Hall), the props, the costumes but also many interactive attractions.

It’s important to note that this is not a theme park like you would find in Orlando. These were the actual studios and they were turned into more of an exhibition for visitors to learn more about the movies and how they were made.

So, are you ready to discover all our Harry Potter studios tips? Let’s get started!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

🔎 Table of Contents

1. Book your tickets in advance

The Studio Tour is one of London’s most popular tourist attractions , and tickets often sell out.

There are two ways you can book tickets for the Harry Potter Studios.

The first one is to book your ticket directly on the Warner Bros studios website . This is ideal if you are booking well in advance and don’t want transport included.

The second option is to book a tour from London . This will include the entrance to the studios as well as transportation from central London.

As a general thing, it is advisable to book at least 2 or 3 months in advance if you are booking direct.

As previously mentioned, tickets sell out fast! Also, it’s important to take into consideration the season since some periods are busier than others.

The studios are open most days but they do close for a few days in November and around Christmas time so make sure to check this beforehand.

Click here to book your ticket

2. Book a tour from London if you are looking for last-minute tickets

If you’re looking for tickets last minute and none of them is available on the website, don’t worry! You can also book a tour from London that includes the entrance to the studios and transportation.

You can book these tours even if they are tickets on the website since they include transportation so they work out about the same price as paying for everything separately (Ticket, tube, train and shuttle) but they are particularly convenient when you want to score some last-minute tickets.

The fact is that we can’t always plan months or weeks in advance so if you are already in London or are going soon and really want to visit the Harry Potter studios, make sure to book one of these tours.

3. Book an early slot and arrive early to maximize your time at the Studios

When you book your ticket, you will be asked to choose a timed entrance.

The studios open at 10 AM so you can book anytime from then.

In average, visitors spend 4 hours in the studios however, you are actually free to stay as long as you want.

This means that if you want to get there at 10AM and stay until it closes in the evening, you can do so!

For this reason, I highly recommend to book an early slot (10AM, 10:30AM and 11AM are ideal).

That way, you will have loads of time to explore, take your time for lunch and will have more than enough time.

If you are a huge Harry Potter fan, this is the best tip you’ll find!

Regardless, even if you don’t want to spend more than 4 hours, you can always leave whenever you wish and will have the afternoon to enjoy your time in London.

If you take a midday slot, you will need to dedicate the entire day to the Harry Potter Studios since it will take a couple of hours to get there and back.

3. Plan your journey from London

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour is located in Leavesden, which is about 30 miles from London.

While this doesn’t seem too far away, you will actually need between 1 and 2 hours to get there from central London.

There are different ways to get there but the most convenient is by taking a tour that includes transportation.

This way, you don’t have to worry about anything and will be taken straight to the studios.

If you want to do it yourself, then head to Euston station and take a train to Watford junction (you can use your Oyster card for that but it’s one of the furthest zones so the cap will be a bit high).

From Watford Junction, simply walk across to the carpark and you will see the Harry Potter buses. They are impossible to miss since they are entirely decorated.

The shuttle will take you straight to the studios and costs £6 return.

Make sure to keep your ticket for the return!

READ MORE: 20 Best Harry Potter Things to do in London

4. Consider driving (if you have a car and are not in London)

If you are not in London and have a car, driving is definitely a good way to go. You can easily get there and the area is not busy. It’s actually pretty remote.

There is free parking at the studios so that’s definitely a plus!

If you’ve been on the website, you may have seen that there is a closer carpark for £10 but the free carpark is very close. It only takes 1 minute (if even) to get to the entrance so unless you or one of your passengers can’t walk 100 yards, you can simply use the free carpark.

When you get there, follow the signs to the carpark. You will be asked to show your ticket to enter so keep it handy.

If you get there before 11 AM, it should be pretty empty too.

5. Dress appropriately

Since you will be walking around a lot, it’s advisable to dress comfortably.

The studios are air-conditioned so you might feel cold in the beginning but once you start walking, you will warm up.

It’s also important to take into consideration that there might be some rain and since some parts of the studios are outdoors, you may want to take a good jacket.

There is a fair bit of walking around so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.

Finally, I would advise you not to wear straight or short skirts since it could be uncomfortable if you are trying the Quidditch activities.

6. Wear your Harry Potter clothes and accessories!

This one is a no-brainer. If you’re dressing up for the occasion, why not go all out and wear your Harry Potter clothes and accessories?

You will fit right in and will feel like you are a part of the magic!

Also, you will be taking a lot of photos and they will look even better if you are a bit dressed up!

Rest reassured, you don’t actually need to rock your cape but don’t hesitate to wear your Hogwarts house scarf or a hat.

7. Ask loads of questions!

The staff working at the Harry Potter studios are really friendly and they love answering questions.

There are people in each room and although it may look like they are watching everything, they are actually here to answer your questions and tell you more about what you see.

Don’t hesitate to go see them and ask your questions. If you don’t have any questions, then just ask them if they have any interesting facts to share with you. They will have loads!

For example, if you are in the Gringotts Bank, they will tell you how it was built. They may also mention the Harry Potter reunion since it was filmed in the studios and Tom Felton was sitting there for parts of it.

They will also show you some hidden gems.

Basically, they have extensive knowledge and talking with them will make your experience even better.

They all speak English but a lot of people also speak other languages. Make sure to look at their badge to see which language they speak.

8. Take loads of photos!

This is another no-brainer. The Harry Potter Studios are a paradise when it comes to photo opportunities.

You will want to take loads of photos and you should not refrain.

This is your one chance to get loads of Harry Potter themed pictures!

There are so many photo spots in the studios including Platform 9 3/4, the Great Hall, the Gringotts Bank and more.

Take your time and if you need someone else to take a photo, don’t hesitate to ask one of the other visitors.

Everyone is here to enjoy the studios and nobody would run with your phone. Also, they may ask you to take a picture of them in return. Win-Win!

9. Take your time

This is probably the most important tip I can give you.

The Harry Potter studios are a lot to take in and there is so much to see!

I would advise you to not rush through it and to take your time. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and you should enjoy it!

As previously mentioned, you are not being rushed for time here. You can stay as long as you want so take your time and enjoy.

If you are scared you are taking too much time and will then have to rush, here is a tip.

The restaurant is located halfway through the tour so as long as you don’t reach it, that means you haven’t done half.

Once you do, you can consider it will take you as much time to finish.

10. Get a Harry Potter passport and the stamps!

The Warner Bros studios were built in a very interactive way. They did everything they could to make sure that visitors would have fun and would bring back loads of memories

If you want, you can get a Harry Potter passport and the stamps of all the places you visit!

You can get them at the entrance or by the first stamp station.

You will find different pages with stories and games as well as a spot to get your stamps.

The stamp stations are located all around the studios. You can see where is the next one by simply turning the pages.

It’s very fun and you will enjoy looking for the stamp stations. Also, it’s free and you get to take it back home!

11. Do a Harry Potter Quiz

If you want to add a bit of fun to the experience, you could consider playing a bit and doing a Harry Potter quiz!

You can find a free Harry Potter quiz here . Get it on your phone or print it beforehand and ask your crew the questions.

This will test your knowledge of Harry Potter and will create a fun atmosphere during the visit.

12. Get food at the Harry Potter Studios or bring your own

The Harry Potter Studios have a restaurant located on the premises. This is a great opportunity to get some food and relax for a bit, especially since it’s located about halfway through the tour.

The restaurant has a wide variety of food, including vegan and vegetarian options. It’s also really affordable! Your meal should cost under £10 and can be paid cash or on card.

This is a pleasant surprise since usually restaurants are very expensive in this kind of things.

Since it’s so easy and affordable, I recommend to get food there.

However, it’s important to know that you are allowed to bring food in. If you are travelling with kids, this will be a cheaper option.

You can find picnic areas outside, just next to the knight bus and the bridge.

Please note that you will also find a Starbucks and a snack place at the entrance (once you went through the security control but before starting the tour itself).

You can fill out bottles of water as well so I would highly recommend to take a bottle beforehand.

13. Try a butterbeer

It doesn’t get any more Harry Pottery than a good butterbeer.

Butterbeer is the ultimate wizarding drink and you can’t get it in many places since the recipe is secret. The Harry Potter Studios in London are one of the rare places in the world where you can get a real butterbeer.

Getting one is a must-do! You will either love it or hate but this is not really the point. It’s just a cool thing to do and to experience at least once.

Also, if you get it in the butterbeer mug, it will be a great prop for photos!

The butterbeer bar is located right by the restaurant (Backlot Café). You can get it in a regular plastic class or in a butterbeer mug (it costs £3 more but it’s a nice souvenir).

Since it’s right by the knight bus and the Dursley house, you can take beautiful photos holding your butterbeer.

Please note that a butterbeer is alcohol-free and therefore suitable for children.

That having been said, it’s very sweet so you may want to share it with someone. You may not manage to finish it on your own.

14. Use the Harry Potter Fan Club App

The Harry Potter Fan Club App is a great way to get extra content and make the most of your visit.

Available on both Android and iOS, it includes a map of the studios, videos, photos and more.

15. Do all the green screen attractions

A lot of scenes in the Harry Potter movies were created using special effects and CGI. Amongst them, you will find all the Quidditch scenes.

Basically, and without being spoiler, the actors would ride their broom in front of a green screen and the images in the background would be added in post production.

You will find these green screen sets in the studios and not only do you get to see them, but you can also try them!

There are two of them, the Quidditch and the train carriages right by the Hogwarts Express.

As you get there, you will realise that photos are being taken and you have to pay extra to get them. While this is true, it’s important to note that you can do them and not buy the photos.

The photos are nice souvenirs but there will be no pressure to buy them.

Knowing that, you might as well make the best of the experience and get in line to play some quidditch!

This is important to note because these attractions are very good fun and super interactive. You will have such a good time doing them but yet, a lot of people skip thinking they have to pay.

You do not have to pay to do it. You simply have to pay if you want to buy the photos but once again, there is no obligation to do so.

16. Get a digital guide if you speak another language

The Harry Potter Studios are all in English and while this is not an issue for some, if English is not your first language, you may struggle with some of the explanations or even names (all names were translated differently).

For this reason, it could be a great idea to get a digital guide. They can be hired at the entrance for less than £5 and provide information and facts in many languages including French, Spanish, Italian, Chinese and more.

You can book it with your ticket beforehand or simply head to the reception desk and ask for one. You will be provided a small digital screen and headphone and can go around the studios while learning even more about the world of Harry Potter.

17. Use the free Wi-Fi

The Harry Potter Studios offer free Wi-Fi which is great because it means you won’t have to use your data roaming while you’re there!

Also, the coverage is not always great in certain parts of the studios so it comes very handy to have free Wi-Fi available.

18. Use the cloakroom

Located at the entrance, the cloakroom is free of charge which is perfect if you want to leave your bag or coat.

They will be safe and sound at the cloakroom and you won’t have to lug things around.

That having been said, it can be a bit cold in certain parts of the studios and of course outside, so I wouldn’t leave everything there.

19. Watch the movies before you go

If you want to make the most of your visit, watching the Harry Potter movies is a must.

As you know, the Harry Potter Studios are entirely dedicated to the movies. This is not about the books.

Of course the movies were based on the books but the WB are very much about the movies.

If you want to learn more about the books, make sure to visit Edinburgh. It will be a much better place for that.

Knowing that you will discover everything about the movies, it would be much better if you watch them before going.

Not only will you recognise many of the sets and props but you will also understand more of the references.

It will get you excited and you will have the images very fresh in your mind which will enhance your experience.

20. Get some souvenirs

The gift shop at the studios is great and it’s definitely worth leaving with a few souvenirs.

There are many different items available, including clothes, wands, prop replicas and more.

While they are not cheap, they are definitely worth buying as they will remind you of your amazing day at the Harry Potter Studios!

You may also be interested in:

• The Ultimate Guide for visiting the Harry Potter Studios in London: tips, tricks & Review
• 20 Best Harry Potter Things to do in London
• Harry Potter in Scotland: 13 Harry Potter locations & experiences you can only have in Scotland
• Harry Potter Train in Scotland: Ultimate Guide to riding the Jacobite train in real life

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

• Tours from London - Out of London Tours >

Harry Potter Studio Tour with Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off from London

Our Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter with hotel pick up and drop off is the most convenient way to travel to and from The Warner Bros. Studios. We pick up from all Central London hotels and residential addresses. Travel in an executive vehicle with plenty of time to explore the Warner Bros Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter. Entrance tickets are included in the package with access to all attractions included. Visit the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, Gringotts Bank and much more. At the end of your 4 hour visit to The Studio’s, we will return you to your hotel or residential address.

Our Warner Bros Studio Tour from London with hotel pickup and dropoff is available every day with morning departures. It is also a good way of finding tickets when other providers are sold out.

This product is fully refundable and amendable up until 14 days before travel.

what’s included?

• Convenient hotel pick-up. We can collect from all hotels within Central London (zone 1)
• Travel in an executive vehicle with a maximum of 12 people
• Tickets to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
• Explore all the attractions at the Studio Tour
• Return drop-off at your hotel

Highlights: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tickets

• Step into the Great Hall and be amazed by all things Harry Potter!
• Discover the amazing props, sets and costumes that were used in the making of the films
• Enter into the Forbidden Forest and take a walk amongst the tall trees and spooky habitats.
• Hop onto the Hogwarts Express and feel like a character from the movies
• Ride a broomstick!
• Explore Gringotts Wizarding Bank with impressive chandeliers and towering marble pillars. You’ll even get to see the Letrault Vault

Morning Departure 

• 08:00-08:45am: Hotel pickup
• 09:45: Arrival at Warner Bros Studio Tour
• 14:00: Departure from Studio Tour
• 15:00: Drop off at London hotels begin
• This package is a great way of getting tickets to the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studios, especially if tickets are sold out in other places
• All timings are approximate and can change due to traffic conditions
• We can also pick up from residential addresses within Central London
• Cancellation Policy – fully refundable and amendable up until 14 days before travel

Tour Booking

Terms and conditions, you might also be interested.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter

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