Flashpacking Family

A Complete Harry Potter Studio Tour London Review (+8 Top Tips)

When you have a Harry Potter fan in your family, one of the best experiences you can give them is a Harry Potter Studio Tour.

Before booking our Harry Potter Studio Tour, we had so many questions.

We thought it would be helpful to write a Harry Potter Studio Tour review to help other families get the most out of their visit.

As well as giving all our top tips for a successful visit to the Harry Potter Studios, we’ve answered a few FAQs at the end.

If you want to know what to expect, when to go and how to get tickets if WB Studios have sold out on the date you want… read on…

This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one and book or buy something, we may earn a small commission, but this is at no extra cost to you.

Family standing outside the Warner Bros Studio Tour London.

These are our top tips for making the most of your Warner Bros Studio Tour.

1. Do some research on the WB Studio Tour

This may sound like a strange tip. If you like Harry Potter, you’ll love the Warner Bros Studio Tour right?

Probably, yes. But maybe not.

It is a good idea to find out a little about the tour before you go. Thinking of the Harry Potter Studios as a museum is a good start.

Once you are in that mindset, your tour of the Harry Potter Studios will make more sense.

It is somewhere you can go to explore the magic of the Harry Potter films. You get to see real costumes, sets and props used in the movies and as the tour progresses, you get to see how the films were made.

The ‘tour’ is mostly self-guided, except for a little intro at the start.

We didn’t really have any idea what to expect. Our youngest (8) was expecting a theme park!

We obviously didn’t manage his expectations very well because he wasn’t really all that enthusiastic about it. But then, he wasn’t really a Harry Potter fan either.

Once you have decided that it is most definitely for you, snap up your tickets!

Family of four standing in front of Hogwarts in the Snow at the WB Studio Tour.

2. Buy your Harry Potter Studio Tour tickets in advance

If there’s only one thing we can tell you to make your trip to the WB Studios successful, it is to buy your tickets in advance.

The WB Studios Tour is hugely popular. People come from all over the world to visit and it is busy all year round.

It is absolutely essential that you buy your Harry Potter Studio Tour London tickets well in advance.

We booked our tickets 3 months in advance. It was a Monday during school term time in November and even then, there were barely any tickets left for the day we wanted.

Tickets are around £51 per person. You can buy them on the WB Studio website here . Children Under 4 are FREE and this is very telling. It is not really suitable for children under 4.

Top Tip : If you find that tickets are sold out on the day that you want, you can check a tour company as they should have more availability.

They are more expensive but may be your only option if you can’t be flexible on dates. GetYourGuide is a good place to look.

See here to book the best rated WB Studio tour (including transportation from London).

See here to book Harry Potter Studio Tour and a private transfer

See here for a family package tour from London (2 Adults & 2 Kids).

Eticket for the Harry Potter Studio Tour London.

3. Do all the free things on the Harry Potter tour

You’ve spent a lot of money on your tickets so be sure to make the most of any freebies along the tour!

  • Grab a free Activity Passport which includes a fun Golden Snitch hunt, puzzles and Harry Potter trivia. The passport also includes space for souvenir stamps that can be collected at key points throughout the tour such as Platform 9 ¾ and Gringotts Bank. You can collect the Passports from a staff member at any point during the Studio Tour.
  • You don’t need to pay for an audio guide when you have staff members on hand to dish all the fascinating facts. They are hugely knowledgeable and love to talk about everything Harry Potter!
  • The kids will be sure to love the free wand-duelling class next to the Forbidden Forest.
  • Do the extra things like attempting to pick up the broomstick while muttering ‘Wingardium Leviosa’.

Woman standing looking down at a broomstick at Harry Potter Studio Tour in London.

4. Grab your Harry Potter merchandise before your tour

If you want to keep the costs down during your visit to the Harry Potter Studios, you should consider buying any Harry Potter merch beforehand.

Items in the store at the studios are more expensive and if you’re visiting with kids, sometimes it can be hard to say no. Buying in advance gets around this issue.

Another thing to consider if you are going to by a gift is that buying it beforehand will mean that you will have it in your photos. You obviously can’t have your wand in your photos if you wait until the end of the tour to visit the store.

There is plenty of official merchandise on Amazon which you can browse here .

If you want other gift ideas for Harry Potter fans, take a look at this post on Harry Potter themed gifts for kids .

Having just said all this….just bear in mind that some of stuff in the shop is exclusive to the Harry Potter tour and you won’t be able to get it once you leave.

A final note on this, you can also visit the Harry Potter store at Platform 9 3/4 at London’s Kings Cross Station if you are staying in London. There you will find the trolley that passes through the wall and you can have your photo taken.

It is one of the best free things to do in London with kids (who are Harry Potter fans).

Boy wearing a Hogwarts tshirt looking at a large selection of wands at the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London.

5. Buying professional photos at Harry Potter Studios

If you do want to buy the professional photos, wait until the end of the tour to do so.

You can collect the tickets as you go and then buy all together once you have seen them all. This will also save you time.

Just a word of warning here. The professional photos are very expensive (£14 for a photo).

You can sometimes take your own pictures but in some places (the train ride next to the Hogwarts Express) – it seemed to be strictly monitored.

In fact, I got told off for taking a photo before the experience had even started.

Family experiencing one of the green screen experiences at the Warner Bros Studio Tour.

6. Take your time

You have to book a timeslot when you buy your Harry Potter tickets, but once you are in, you can take as long as you like.

Actually, once you are past The Great Hall, you can take as long as you like. Up until this point, you are on a guided tour and you need to stick with your group.

After this point, you are free to wander as you please.

Spend some time chatting to the staff. This guy in the photo below was great. He pretended to be a Goblin in Gringotts Bank and fooled a few people who were rushing by. They are so knowledgeable and interesting.

People tend to rush through to try to get ahead of the pack but if you hang back, you can often get better photos without loads of people in them.

Consider buying tickets towards the end of the day so that you are one of the last to leave.

You can, of course, be the first ones in but then there will be a steady stream of visitors all day. To be in with a chance of having the place almost to yourself, it is best to go later.

Last admission is 6.30pm and by about 8pm it starts to get quieter. The Studios close at 10pm.

Member of staff at the Harry Potter Studio Tour London pretending to be a Goblin in Gringotts Bank.

7. The best bits of the tour at WB Studios

People ask what the best bits about the Harry Potter Studio tour were.

This is quite subjective because everyone’s opinions will differ. These are just our favourite bits of the Harry Potter Studios Tour:

  • The dragon encounter in the vault under Gringotts Bank was pretty spectacular. We won’t spoil it but it is a little scary, especially for little ones.
  • Pulling a potted Mandrake in Professor Sprout’s Greenhouse (in the outside area just after the Backlot Café).
  • Wandering through the Forbidden Forest – watch out for those pesky spiders!
  • Making Dobby dance.
  • Taking a ride on the Hogwarts Express.

Collection of photos from the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London with the dragon under Gringotts Bank, a lday making Dobby dance and the Hogwarts Express.

Tip for Diagon Alley at Harry Potter Studio Tour London

People come in waves so if this is your favourite part, hang around and see if you can get a photo without people in it.

Diagon Alley at the Harry Potter Studio Tour London full of people.

This was the view just a few minutes later.

Photo of Diagon Alley at the Warner Bros Studio Tour London with no people in it.

8. Consider taking food with you to save time

We would recommend taking your own food. Not only does it help keep costs down but it will also save time if you are in a rush. The queues can be quite long in the cafés and you won’t want to spend a long time waiting for food.

If you prefer to buy food at the Studios, here is some information on the restaurants at Harry Potter Studios.

There are a few places to eat at the Harry Potter Studios and they are reasonably priced. You can read more about the eateries here .

  • Chocolate Frog Café  – in the main lobby serves a selection of hot and cold drinks and sweet treats.
  • The Food Hall – in the main lobby serves a fairly comprehensive breakfast and lunch menu.
  • The Backlot Café – at the half way point of the tour serves breakfast and lunch and, of course, Butterbeer.
  • The Hub Café – in the main lobby serves hot and cold drinks and baked goods.

If you are having lunch there, the kids will love the Harry Potter bus shaped sandwich boxes.

If you want to try the Butterbeer, you probably only want to get one per family. You can ONLY buy the Butterbeer at the Backlot Café which is around the half way point (after seeing the Hogwarts Express at Platform 9 3/4).

Note – Butterbeer does not taste good! Children will probably prefer the Butterbeer Ice Cream.

Sign pointing to Butterbeer and Butterbeer Ice Cream at the Backlot Cafe at the Warner Bros Studio Tour.

Here are some FAQs about visiting the Harry Potter Studio Tour London

We are often asked about our Harry Potter Studio Tour.

Understandably, when you’re spending a lot of money on something, you want to make sure it is worth it. And once you’ve made the decision to go, you want to make sure you get the most out of your visit.

Here are some of the questions we get asked about the Harry Potter Studio Tour.

Where are the Warner Bros Studios?

We thought we would start with this for anyone unaware that the Warner Bros Studios are actually NOT IN LONDON.

It is easy to get to the Harry Potter studios from London though.

Note that the Warner Bros Studio Tour is right next door to the Warner Bros Studios.

The address for WB Studios is :

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London Studio Tour Drive Leavesden WD25 7LR.

The easiest way to reach the WB Studios from London is by train.

The closest train station to Harry Potter Studios is Watford Junction . Trains depart from London Euston and take around 20 minutes.

You can get a WB Studios shuttle bus from Watford Junction. The journey is included in your ticket price.

You can also arrange guided tours from London if you don’t want to take the train. We recommend this one.

We live very close to the studios so we drove. There is an enormous car park and parking is free.

There are also hotels nearby if you prefer to stay in the area. Here is a list of hotels near the Warner Bros Studios for families .

See here for our recommendations for hotels in London for families .

If you are staying in London with kids, there are loads of fun Harry Potter experiences in London . We also have a whole section on the blog for visiting London with kids .

Warner Bros Studio Tour London shuttle bus.

Do you need to be a Harry Potter fan to enjoy the Harry Potter studio tour?

One of the most frequently asked questions about the Harry Potter Studio tour is whether or not you need to like Harry Potter.

Based on our experience with one child who loves Harry Potter and the other who doesn’t, I would say it really does help to be a Harry Potter fan.

I love the Harry Potter films. Admittedly, I haven’t read the books and am told by my son that the books are better.

Either way, I would class myself as a Harry Potter fan (although not fanatical) and I enjoyed the tour.

It is an interesting experience and unless you actually dislike Harry Potter, I can’t think that you wouldn’t enjoy the tour.

How long does the Harry Potter tour take?

The Harry Potter tour lasts as long as you want it to really. You could be the first one in and the last one out.

There are parts that you cannot go back to and do again though (like the Hogwarts Dining Hall) so make sure you have completed each area fully before you move on.

Ideally you should allow at least 3 – 4 hours to do the Harry Potter Studio Tour.

Is Harry Potter Studio Tour all inside?

We thought that the tour was all inside but actually, around 10% of the WB Studio tour is outside.

This is something you need to consider if you are visiting in the winter or when it is raining.

When you arrive, you have the option of storing your coats in the cloakroom but you might not want to store your coats if you think you will get cold easily.

Having said that, you will only spend around 10-15 minutes outside so weigh up the need to carry your coat around the rest of the tour.

We kept our coats but they were just lightweight puffer jackets by Mountain Warehouse . They were easy to fold down into our Osprey day bag .

Family visiting the outdoor sets at the WB Studio Tour in London.

What age is best for the Harry Potter Studio tour?

There is no age restriction at the Harry Potter Studio tour.

We mentioned briefly above, however, that children under 4 are free because the tour isn’t really suited to young children.

Firstly, it is best if they have a slight concept at least of Harry Potter. Secondly, there is a lot of walking involved.

If you are thinking about taking kids on the WB Studio tour, we would recommend waiting until they have seen the films or read the books before taking them.

Having said that, children aged 6+ will get something out of the visit. But then you need to think whether it is worth paying that money for them to potentially not enjoy it.

When is the best time to visit Harry Potter World London?

If at all possible, go on a weekday during term time. Easier said than done when you have school aged kids. If you have an inset day, maybe consider using it to visit the Studios.

We visited on a Monday and booked one of the last tickets of the day.

Don’t be fooled when you arrive and there is no queue for the ‘Tour Entrance’.

From here, you pass through into a holding area and it will fill up. We got so excited when we saw there was no queue (photo below).

We also visited during Hogwarts in the Snow. It is one of the things we recommend for kids to do at Christmas in London . It was so pretty seeing the sets covered in snow. You even get to see how they make the snow at the end of the tour.

If you can, time your visit to coincide with one of the special events. The best are the Dark Arts which is a great Halloween event for kids . See other places to visit at Halloween in London with kids . Hogwarts in the Snow (around Christmas) is also great.

Empty queue outside the Harry Potter Studios Tour entrance.

And finally – is the Harry Potter Studio Tour London worth it?

We thought we would leave this to the end so that you have enough information to make up your own mind.

For so  many, the London Harry Potter Studio Tour is one of the best Harry Potter experiences in the UK .

Personally, we have mixed opinions.

For Harry Potter fans, yes it is worth it. For younger children, no it probably isn’t.

It is a lot of money but you can spend an entire day there if you want which makes it seem more reasonable.

We hope you found our review of the Harry Potter Studio Tour helpful. If you have any questions that we haven’t covered, please drop us a line and we’d be happy to help.

If you’re thinking of visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort, don’t miss our recommendations for family-friendly hotels near Universal Orlando .

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A Guide to Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio Tour London

By: Author Laura

Posted on Published: 11th August 2020  - Last updated: 12th January 2024

Categories London , Film , Filming Locations , Travel , UK

Ready to learn all about Harry Potter World in London? Get ready for a mammoth of a post. Warner Bros Studio Tour in Leavesden aka Harry Potter World London has quickly become a must-visit destination for Harry Potter fans.

First things first, let’s get some misconceptions out of the way. There is no London Harry Potter Universal Studios, there is only the Warner Bros Studio Tour. If you’re looking for Universal Studios, London, then I’m afraid you will be disappointed!

When people think of a Harry Potter London theme park, they are also thinking of the Harry Potter Studio Tour.

Ok so now I’ve told you what Harry Potter world is not. What does it involve then?

The London Harry Potter Studio Tour invites you into the real studios where they made all the Harry Potter films and they’ve refashioned all our favourite props, costumes and sets into a glorious exhibition. It’s a Harry Potter experience like no other!

Keep on reading to find out why the Harry Potter Studio Tour London is a must for Potterheads…

Booking Harry Potter Tour Tickets

It appears that the initial rush to buy tickets is now over; however, I still recommend that you buy your Harry Potter Studio tickets about a month in advance if you want to get the perfect time for you. If you’re only available at the weekends then you definitely need to think about booking in advance because they weekend slots book up fast .

The booking itself is very simple. All you have to do is select the date and time you want to go on the tour, enter the number of each type of ticket you want and then checkout. There is also the option to add on some extras to your package.

You can pre-book a ‘Souvenir Guidebook’ and a ‘Digital Guide’, both of which supposedly enhance your experience. I opted for the ‘Souvenir Guidebook’, but not the ‘Digital Guide’, but in hindsight, I should have selected both.

The Souvenir Guidebook is a really nice booklet with glossy pages and big pictures. It is very well presented and serves as a lovely reminder of the things you’ve seen on your trip.

You don’t need to pre-order this book as it is also on sale at the gift shop at the Studios for exactly the same price. It is a bit pricey at £9.95, but for Potterheads it is well worth it.

As far as I could tell (from jealously peering over people’s shoulders), the Digital Guide was basically a device that looked a lot like an iPod touch that had extra snippets of information and videos on it. This costs around £4.95, though you do not get to keep it so it’s not entirely necessary.

Ticket Prices

Standard Adult: £43 Child: £35 (Under 4 years old: Free)

Opening Hours

8:30am – 10pm every day

However, there are often private events at the Studios so please do double-check for your selected day. 

Purchase your Harry Potter Studio Tickets directly here.

Ultimate Guide to the Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio Tour London! A visit to the Harry Potter studios is a must for any Harry Potter fan. There you will find the real life Harry Potter filming locations and you can go on a self-guided tour around the London studios. Expect lots of magical installations as well as the chance to try some butterbeer! #whatshotblog #harrypotter #harrypotterbooks #harrypotterfan #warnerbros #traveltips

How to Get to the Harry Potter Studios London

The Harry Potter Studio Tour, aka Harry Potter World in London, is located at Leavesden Studios in Watford. Fortunately, I actually live quite close to this so it didn’t take me long at all to reach there and with the help of a SatNav, it’s fairly easy to locate.

One problem I did encounter once I was a couple of minutes away from the Studios, was that the signs on the motorway were incredibly confusing. There was one pointing to ‘Warner Bros. Tour’ and one to ‘Leavesden Studios’.

As far as I knew, Warner Bros. Studio Tour was located at Leavesden Studios so I got very confused as to why the signs were pointing in different directions.

I decided to follow the sign that pointed towards ‘Warner Bros Tour’, though this actually led me in a pretty big circle which was unnecessary, so I’d suggest following the sign to ‘Leavesden Studios’, which I assume will take you on a shorter route.

I highly recommend that when you see these signs coming up, you simply look out your window to spot the Studio and follow the road that leads to it (you won’t miss it, there are absolutely huge Harry Potter posters all over the buildings).

You will need to show your ticket in order to gain entrance and then you will be directed to a parking space (parking is free!). The car park is huge so I wouldn’t worry about not finding a space, though my tour was the last tour of the day so the Studios were probably slightly less packed.

By Public Transport

The closest train station to the Harry Potter Studios is Watford Junction. You can very easily get a train here from London Euston. Once you get to Watford, there’s a shuttle bus service right outside the station that takes you to and from the studios.

This costs £2.50 for a return and £2 for single. You won’t miss the buses – they’re designed to look like the Knight Bus! 

NB You should arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled ticket time so do factor this in when making travel arrangements. 

Find out more about getting to the studios here.

Potions Classroom - Harry Potter Land London

The Harry Potter Experience

What to see at the harry potter studios.

The tour starts from the very second you hand your ticket over and join the queue. Whilst you’re awaiting entry you will pass Harry’s cupboard under the stairs – toy soldiers included – and many quotes from various people lining the walls to get you excited.

First, you are led into a dark room with lots of screens and you are shown a quick film about Potter’s history. My emotional rollercoaster started here as I was filled with fond, childhood memories.

You can imagine my shock then, when I revisited the tour in 2019 to find that they had updated this video. And I was in one of the clips. I am in one of the clips!

It’s a video of me waving enthusiastically on the side of the red carpet in Trafalgar Square for the eighth and final Harry Potter film. I skipped school that day and slept on the pavement the evening before to get that top spot and it was totally worth it.

After this brief introduction, you are led into another room with a bigger screen, much like a cinema, and played another video. (This is usually the bit where I cry. Yes,  already .) It’s a super short film that goes through the crucial bits of all eight Harry Potter films.  

There are interviews with the cast, the crew, the directors, the author herself and lots of behind the scenes footage. When the film is over, a grand set of doors is magically revealed and the Great Hall lies in wait.

Everybody gasps at this point.

The Great Hall is incredibly detailed and there are lots of costumes on display here, including Harry’s very first uniform. There is a speaker for this part of the tour who gives an introduction to the tour and tells you all the interesting facts about the Great Hall – like the fact that the floor is made out of real paving stones.

The Great Hall is modelled on the dining hall at Christ Church college in Oxford (where I studied!). Check out my Harry Potter tour of Oxford for more information on visiting the real  life Great Hall! 

Gryffindor Common Room - Harry Potter World in London

After this, the tour is self-guided and you are left to explore the rest of the tour in your own time. Some parts of the tour display props and costumes and others are the real sets.

There is a spectacular show of the vehicles and bigger props used in the films and they are shown (moving) hanging from the ceiling next to a large screen. On here they show you exactly how this prop was used in the film and how special effects were used to make it realistic.

This video shows you the extraordinary number of special effects that went into making these films. They even showed you how in one scene, Daniel Radcliffe was filmed walking on a treadmill in front of a green screen, but on film, this was magically transformed into Harry walking through the snow at Godric’s Hollow. It is absolutely incredible to see the transition from what was actually filmed and what we see on screen.

In this section, some of the things you can see include The Burrow, the Gryffindor Common Room, Snape’s classrooms, the Boy’s Dormitory, Dumbledore’s Office, Umbridge’s Office, the Ministry of Magic, the fireplaces at the Ministry, Hagrid’s Hut, the Griffin Stairwell, the entrance to the Chamber of Secrets, Gringott’s Vault Door, the Forbidden Forest and some others.

Hogwarts Express at Harry Potter World in London

They’ve even recreated Platform 9 3/4 so you can see The Hogwarts Express in all its glory on the train track and even have a little walk through it! There are also lots of different photos points of the trolley going through the wall to access Platform 9 3/4 so you can pretend like you’re off to Hogwarts yourself. 

You then get the chance to experience the magic of riding the Hogwarts Express as they’ve created a Hogwarts Express simulation where you can have your photo taken inside a replica carriage. After your photo is taken, you’ll go a little adventure with lots of effects so it feels like you’re actually on a moving train.

You sit in one of the carriages and see the world float by outside the window and it’s lovely until the dementors show up! This is all filmed and there is a voice-over telling you what to do to make this part all the more fun.

Throughout this space, there are displays of props including the Philosopher’s Stone, the Triwizard Cup, the golden snitch, the Goblet of Fire, the time turner and more.

There is also a fantastic costume display to accompany each set and you can see clothes from all of the movies and see how the characters have grown!

Small potions at Harry Potter Studios London

Lastly, there is a stunning display of all the graphic designs and posters used for things like The Daily Prophet, the Quibbler, sweet packages etc.

When you’ve finished looking around the first building, about half way through the tour, the tour continues outside. Here you’ll find the Knightbus, Godric’s Hollow, the Ford Anglia, Hagrid’s Bike, chess pieces from the Philosopher’s Stone, Hogwart’s Bridge and of course, Number 4 Privet Drive.

This part of the tour is great because you can actually get up close and touch all of these things. You can sit on Hagrid’s bike, get inside the Ford Anglia, stand in the Knight Bus and knock on the door of number 4 Privet Drive. This outside area presents another great photo opportunity so don’t think that the weather doesn’t matter when picking which day to book your tour!

Letters floating at Harry Potter World in London

Possibly the most exciting thing about this section of the tour is the opportunity to buy Butterbeer . A lot of people don’t like this concoction but personally, I love it. It’s really sweet and fizzy with a thick layer of sweet cream on top – exactly as I’d imagined.

Each cup costs around £2.95, and although it isn’t large, it’s definitely worth it! It even leaves you with that white moustache on your upper lip that is so often talked about. Now, they ever have butterbeer ice cream and you can buy a plastic Butterbeer tankard to keep.

The second part of the studio tour is a lot more about what went into making the films rather than the sets and props. Here you will find an amazing array of every single creature featured in the films and how they were made.

You will be disappointed to hear that in fact only the head of the basilisk was made. You can see each and every one goblin/house elf mask – they do look pretty grim – and how each of these were made and fitted the actors.

Mandrakes at Harry Potter World in London

After the ‘Creature Shop’, you are lead to another breathtaking part of the tour – Diagon Alley. I did not expect Diagon Alley to be, well, a real Alley! Each and every shop is properly decorated with detail with shop displays and it looks like a real street!

All the shops from the film are here, though it is a lot more compact, and you feel as if you could actually just go shopping for a new owl or a new set of robes!

The very last room of the tour is the most spectacular of them all. It had been a highly emotional visit for me so when I rounded the corner to see the 1:24 model of Hogwarts Castle, I was completely overwhelmed.

It was the most beautiful and amazing creation I had ever seen and I was blown away by the detail that went into it. Everything was perfectly handcrafted to scale and real gravel and plants were used to for the landscaping.

There are more than 300 fibre optic lights installed and these stimulate torches and lanterns to give the illusion of students walking down the hallways. It is the crown jewel of the Harry Potter art department – which isn’t surprising given that it took a team of 86 people to construct the first version.

Footage of this model was combined with special effects to create the incredibly realistic views of Hogwarts exterior which I had always believed to be comprised of real castles. This was a phenomenal end to the tour and was definitely the most memorable moment for me.

Hogwarts London - Harry Potter world in London

What to do at the Harry Potter Studios

There is an absolutely fantastic photo opportunity to be had during the Studio Tour where you are given the chance to ride a broomstick. Using CGI and green screen effects, they make it look like you are actually flying and it is absolutely incredible.

Firstly, you are given a set of Hogwarts robes from your chosen house, and then you wait in line for your turn. There are a total of three broomsticks there so the waiting time isn’t too long.

When I joined the queue, it said that the waiting time ‘from this point onwards’ was 45 minutes, and I wasn’t too fussed about this because I was determined to get on that broom, but thankfully, it didn’t take nearly as long as that.

When it is your turn, a staff member talks you through everything. You make yourself comfortable on the broom, and then the magic begins.

Now, this isn’t just any photo opportunity, because before your photo is taken, you get the chance to see yourself fly over London and Hogwarts. There is a small screen in front of you so it looks like you’re actually moving and the broom itself isn’t fixed so you can swerve from side to side and bob up and down.

The member of staff attending to you will make sure you get the most out of your experience by giving you a few things to do whilst on your broom. When your ‘flying’ experience is over, there are a few quick snaps and then it’s off to the counter to collect your photos.

There are four different photos to choose from: hovering over Hogwarts, flying in front of some buses in London, flying along the Thames and flying along the water surrounding Hogwarts – the favourite of most people seems to be the one hovering above Hogwarts. 

There is also the opportunity to have your photo taken inside the Ford Anglia and you can watch yourself ‘driving’ it through the air. This photo is great for families as you take the photo with as many people as you can fit into the frame.

If you’re feeling particularly evil on the day of your visit, you could also choose to have your photo taken as a prisoner in Azkaban and it’ll be printed onto a WANTED poster. 

These photos aren’t exactly cheap, but they are definitely worth it. It’s £14 for one photo, which comes in a lovely, glossy, paper frame (just like the sort you’d get at a theme park – but better, obviously). Alternatively, there are lots of digital options so you can get two photos and a DVD/USB for £40. 

Diagon Alley at Harry Potter World in London

The Harry Potter Tour Gift Shop

Words cannot even begin to describe my excitement upon entering the Harry Potter Studio Tour gift shop. So I was always one of those children that spent the entire day out pushing and pulling my parents through the exhibitions just to get to the gift shop, but I guarantee that you will be blown away by it.

There is a huge range of Potter products on offer, but I won’t deceive you, they don’t come cheap. If I had it my way I would’ve bought EVERYTHING in the shop, though of course, my mother did not allow this and so I opted for a Potter t-shirt (£32.95) and Hogwarts scarf (£24.95).

It is a very large shop and products range from sweets to keyrings to clothing to stuffed toys to wall paintings to jewellery to uniform to notepads to magnets to books to wands to replica costumes – and more!

It is literally my favourite shop in the whole entire world and if I could I would go there every day I would. Unfortunately, you can only get to gift shop after you’ve shown your ticket proving that you’re actually there for the Tour (sad face). The queue in the gift shop is enormously long at times so I recommend you keep wandering around until it’s less busy.

Harry Potter gifts to buy in London

I could say more, but I think that I’ve waffled on for long enough! The Warner Bros Harry Potter Tour is essential for all Harry Potter fans, and even those who aren’t massive Potterheads will definitely enjoy a day out at Leavesden.

Not only does it provide an incredible insight into a worldwide Phenomenon but you get to witness first hand the immense amount of detail that went into making these films.

You can see the sets the cast walked on, the costumes they wore and the props they used. There is a lot of behind the scenes footage and information so don’t think that this is just a display of what you’ve already seen or read online – because it’s so much more.

All along the tour, there is the Harry Potter soundtrack playing in the background enhancing the atmosphere and making everything feel that much better. Do bear in mind that whilst the Tour is absolutely incredible, there will inevitably be a sense of disappointment as you finally realise that the magic isn’t real and Hogwarts doesn’t exist.

On a side note, as I was casually scrolling down my Facebook news feed after I’d returned home, I discovered a photo of Matt Lewis (Neville Longbottom) from the very same day. WHY DID I NOT SEE HIM?! WHY. Ok, outburst over.

But seriously, why.

If you’ve visited the Harry Potter Studios yourself, leave a comment telling me your favourite part!  

Like this post? Check out my other Harry Potter blog posts!  Guide to Harry Potter in London Guide to Warner Bros Studio Tour Hollywood The Cauldron: Harry Potter Cocktail Experience in London Hogwarts in the Snow at Harry Potter Studio Tour Guide to Harry Potter in Lacock Harry Potter Filming Locations in Oxford Godric’s Hollow Filming Location Why the Prisoner of Azkaban is the Best in the Series What’s in my Backpack: Hogwarts Edition

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Ultimate Guide to the Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio Tour London #whatshotblog #harrypotter #london #studiotour

Editor of What’s Hot?

[This post was originally published when the Harry Potter Studio Tour first opened in 2012 but has been updated in 2020.]

Wednesday 2nd of August 2023

Thanks for writing this awesome article!!! I've thought the entire tour is held indoors, so hope it doesn't rain during the outdoor portion of our tour in early Oct.

For the bloom and Ford Anglia photos, do we pay upfront before joining the queue or can we take the photos first, see how they turn out before deciding to pay for them??

ToursTravel

Wednesday 3rd of May 2023

I just read your blog post about the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour in London and I have to say that it was a fantastic read! As a big Harry Potter fan myself, I could really relate to your excitement and enthusiasm for the tour.

I loved the way you described your experience, from the moment you arrived at the studios to the different sets and exhibits you saw along the way. Your attention to detail and vivid descriptions really helped to transport me to the world of Harry Potter.

I also appreciated the practical advice you provided for visitors, such as the importance of booking tickets in advance and wearing comfortable shoes. It's clear that you are not only a fan of the series, but also an experienced traveler who knows how to make the most of a visit to a new place.

Overall, I thought your blog post was a great resource for anyone planning a trip to the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour, as well as for those who simply want to learn more about the magic behind the movies. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!

Ultimate Guide for fun things to do in London with kids - Home Travel Guide

Thursday 27th of January 2022

[…] The Harry Potter Studio Tour is based in Watford, just outside of London. If your children are Harry Potter fans, this place is an absolute dream. The vast majority of scenes from the 8 Harry Potter films were shot in these studios and you can now wander around these sets and learn all about how they made the magic come to life. What’s particularly great for children is that there are lots of elements to really immerse yourself in the world of Harry Potter – you can ride a broomstick, sit in an old Ford Anglia, drink butterbeer (non-alcoholic, of course!), meet Buckbeak in the Forbidden Forest, walk down Diagon Alley, and more! […]

Friday 23rd of April 2021

How much time, from early arrival to departure, do you recommend I plan to spend there? Flying broom, prisoner of Azkaban photos, butter beer and gift shop time included?

Wednesday 9th of January 2019

I have to visit that it looks really cool and fun!!

Thursday 10th of January 2019

Honestly one of my all time favourite places!

Happy to Wander

A Magical Guide to the Warner Bros Studio Tour in London: Everything You Need to Know

Last Updated: February 16, 2022

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

harry potter studio tour quote

Fact: In my entire life, I’ve only cried once at a tourist attraction.

And judge me all you want, but this cryfest happened at a Harry Potter studio tour.

… Allow me to explain myself.

Like most children born in the 90s, much of my youth was spent daydreaming about the arrival of my Hogwart’s acceptance letter. As this dream dwindled with the hardships of adulting, I instead took comfort in carbs and magical movie marathons.

But, it didn’t take much for these childhood dreams to resurface. A trip to London was all it took to re-open the floodgates (literally).

Let me tell you: for a Harry Potter fan, there is no attraction on this Earth more overwhelming and amazing than the  Warner Bros Studio Tour London, (AKA London’s Harry Potter set tour), which brings you through the filming site for all 8 movies in the Harry Potter franchise.

In addition to sets, you’re also shown countless props, the best gift shop in the world, and even a chance to taste butter beer for yourself. Come on now, is it at all a surprise that I bawled when I got to the end?

Read onwards for important info to know about the tour, some tips to keep in mind and of course, a recap of the experience (with plenty of photos!) Be careful for this section, as spoilers are abound!

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PS: Check out my full list of Harry Potter themed attractions and experiences in London for more nerdy goodness.

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Basic information to know about the Harry Potter Set Tour

If you’re interested in booking the epic Warner Bros Studio Tour in London for yourself, then here are some basic must-knows.

Harry Potter Studio Tour Tickets Info:

I first visited this attraction in 2014 and it was a hot mess then, and has only grown in popularity in the past few years.

If this Harry Potter set tour is a must-do for you, then make sure you book your tickets WELL in advance or you risk not being able to go!

Luckily, even when tickets are sold out on the main site, there are tours you can book online that will have tickets available for sold out dates.

Sometimes, booking with a tour is worthwhile because you not only guarantee your tickets, you also get the convenience of private transport there, which is nice and much less stressful than using public transport yourself.

Here is a breakdown of different Harry Potter Studio tour options that include transport. For your convenience, I also lay out their costs and what they have to offer:

Tickets can also be purchased online from the studio itself  here.

How to Get to the Warner Bros Studio Tour in London:

Despite its name, the Warner Bros Studio London is actually located in Leavesden, which is northwest of London.

While booking a tour/private transport is the easiest and most convenient way to get there, it is still quite painless to reach via public transit, as a shuttle bus runs from Watford Junction railway station.

To get to the Watford Junction station, you need to make use of London’s overground system.

Not sure about the best route to get there? Check out this handy trip planner .  The tour’s website recommends that you arrive at Watford Junction 45 minutes prior to your tour time.  

Remember to bring change, as the cost for the shuttle bus is 2 pounds each way.

NOTE : Leave a lot of leeway for you to get there. We definitely got lost a few times due to the transfers, and were stressed to the max! For a more stress-free experience, consider prebooking a tour that comes with transport. Here’s one for under $100USD.

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Tips for Doing the Harry Potter Set Tour Like a Pro

Having addressed the basics, here are some tips you should keep in mind when planning your visit:

1. Check on the Warner Bros Studio Tour website for special events

The studio tour often has special weeks during which there are specialized displays or demonstrations.

If you have quite some time in London, I suggest looking up when special events are happening and to plan accordingly.

I was luckily around for the beginning of Wand Week, so I got to see wandmakers do their thing and I even got to pose with some Death Eaters. Super cool!

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2. Allow extra time for travel

Especially if you are new to London, trying to navigate the transit there can take time, so give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the studio.

That being said, do not hyperventilate if your ticketed time is fast approaching. While the reservation system does assign you a time, they won’t turn you away if you are a bit late.

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3. Don’t forget to print your Warner Bros Studio Tour ticket

This will make the whole process smoother.

One girl that came with us didn’t print hers and upon arrival, she realized that her order never actually went through.

Luckily, even though they claim there is no box office at the attraction, she was able to purchase a ticket there, but do book in advance to save yourself the trouble.

4. Set yourself a budget for magical souvenirs

Trust me, when you enter the Harry Potter Studio Tour Shop for the first time, you will lose all sense of self control.

You will suddenly want all these things that you would never need.

Legit wizard robe? Okay!

Replica wand? Yes please.

There are so many amazingly crafted souvenirs for sale that you will easily empty your wallet.

For budget-conscious backpackers (like me) or large families with crying children, setting a budget beforehand is a must.

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5. Grab yourself a free Warner Bros Studio Tour London passport

At some point during the tour, you might notice children getting awesome embossed stamps on a Harry Potter passport.

Uh, yeah, those are actually not just for kids!

I shamelessly (and sweetly) asked a staff member for one, and they kindly obliged.

Getting the stamps is fun and having a Harry Potter passport is pretty much the best souvenir ever.

6. Be sure to check out other Harry Potter filming locations around the UK too

If you’ve made it all the way to Leavesden, you’re actually pretty close to a variety of other Harry Potter filming locations!

While this set tour is of course incredible, there are dozens of other real-life filming locations scattered around the UK that you can visit for yourself. Click here for a full list.

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Harry Potter Set Tour Recap with Photos

With those tips out of the way, I’d love to show you some photos and a brief overview of the experience from my visit in 2014. Note that they have added a lot since then, but still…

WARNING: spoilers, spoilers, spoilers. 

Some would say that the best way to experience this tour is by seeing everything first hand, but if you are curious to see photos and more, feel free to scroll further.

harry potter studio tour quote

Your magical experience begins as soon as you walk into the building. All around the lobby are canvases with various Harry Potter characters, as well as props and other cool artifacts hanging off the walls.

Even the task of waiting in line (typically the most mundane thing ever) is a joy for this tour.

The queue moves very quickly and there is plenty for you to nerd out about as you wait.

Most notably, Harry’s  cupboard under the stairs , is right next to the queuing area, ensuring that you get a perfect view of this iconic set.

harry potter studio tour quote

You’ll notice that groups are taken in based on their spot in line, rather than their timed reservation.

This is why there is some flexibility when it comes to your arrival time.

If you’re a few minutes late, no worries, just hop in the queue and you will make it in all-the-same.  

The tour begins with a brief video introduction to the franchise, followed by a preshow featuring Rupert, Daniel and Emma themselves.

As this preshow concludes, the screen reveals the doors to the  Great Hall!  During my tour, they invited any birthday kids to come up and help open the doors.

After  seriously  wishing it was my birthday, I bitterly watched two ecstatic kids live out their childhood dreams, revealing the first stop of the tour, the amazing…

1. Great Hall!

This is the the only part of the tour where your time will be limited, as they let tour groups in every few minutes.

As such, if you want photos, be sure to snap them  quickly !

Being in this room is an unreal feeling. In addition to the long tables, cutlery and elaborate set pieces, you also get to view costumes from students in each house, and important Hogwarts faculty as well!

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2. The Big Room

After your time in the Great Hall, you are brought into the  Big Room , which houses a variety of sets, props and costumes.

Here, you are given free reign to explore for yourself and gawk at all the amazing pieces the room contains!

Highlights for me were definitely the  Potions classroom  (complete with a Snape costume on display),  the Gryffindor Common Room  and  the Weasley House .

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Many of the sets also have interactive buttons where you can make objects move by pressing them.

This was especially cool in the Weasley kitchen, where the touch of a button could make an iron move on its own, make vegetables chop themselves, etc. Super neat!

harry potter studio tour quote

For those seeking a sweet photo opp, there are several green screen opportunities to ride a broom as a Quidditch player and more! I didn’t wait in line for this bit, but it definitely looked like a lot of fun! Here are some photos from the Big Room:

harry potter studio tour quote

3. The Backlot

After perusing the Big Room, you are brought outside to the  Backlot , home to a variety of sets including Harry’s  Privet Drive home , the  Hogwarts Bridge , the  Knight Bus  and of course,  the concession stands!  

It’s at this point in the tour that you can live out your childhood fantasy of sipping a nice, cold  butterbeer.  

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Be sure to explore the bridge before you purchase a butterbeer, as no food or drink is allowed on that set. 

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Now, while public opinion seems to be split on the taste of butterbeer, I have to say that  I. loved. every. single. sip.  

It’s very possible that I was blinded by the magic of my surroundings, but I would argue that it’s worth a try regardless!

NOTE: If you want to purchase a souvenir cup, remember to bring a bag or something to wrap it in, as that stuff can get mighty sticky. Here’s a sample of the cool things you’ll see in the backlot!

harry potter studio tour quote

4. Art Department, Creature Effects and Diagon Alley

When you’re ready to go back inside, countless wonders from the  creature effects & art department  await you. Here, you really get to appreciate the depth of work put into creating a whole magical world.

I was really wowed by everything.

harry potter studio tour quote

In this area, you will see masks, wigs, models and more of your favourite magical creatures.

In this second half of the tour as well, you get to walk through Diagon Alley. The details and work in the set will absolutely blow you away. The shops look so real, you’ll be tempted to go knocking on their doors.

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5. Hogwarts Castle Model

And lastly, the grand finale of the Harry Potter set tour… The model of Hogwarts!

This one here is a real showstopper.

A walkway surrounding the model allows you to view it from all angles, taking in the fine details of this wonderful school.

For many Harry Potter fans, seeing the castle like this is a dream come true. Now, if only it were real!

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At the end of the tour, just before the entrance of the Harry Potter Studio Tour Shop, you will see this wonderfully beautiful quote appear on the screen:

harry potter studio tour quote

It was at this point that  I began to bawl.  I couldn’t help it!

Everything that I loved about the series had been shown to me in the past few hours, and for that short period of time, I got to live out my dream of seeing the magical world that made my childhood.

Messy and gross, I walked into the gift shop, which was a massive treasure trove of things you never knew you wanted or needed. Wands for every character? I’ll take 100.

And there you have it,  the most magical experience ever . One day, I  will   visit the Wonderful Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but until then, I think this tour has given me enough happy & geeky memories to last. …. At least for the next little while.

Any more questions about visiting the Warner Bros Studio Tour in London?

 Over to you – have you ever been to the Warner Bros Studio Tour in London? IF NOT, THEN WTF ARE YOU WAITING FOR? No jk, uh I meant to ask, which part would you most look forward to?!

harry potter studio tour quote

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7 thoughts on “A Magical Guide to the Warner Bros Studio Tour in London: Everything You Need to Know”

Enjoyed every bit of your blog article.Much thanks again. Really Cool.

Thanks for reading! 🙂

bookmarked!!, I like your blog!

thanks Jane!! 😀

Hi Christina! I’m going to be traveling alone to London this week, would the Harry Potter tour be fun for a solo traveler? Also, I was considering buying a groupon for a night tour, but the picture of you holding the butter beer appears to be outside? I guess we would be missing this part of the tour if I went at night then eh?

hi Lisa, I hope this comment isn’t too late! but YES YES YES the tour would 100% still be fun as a solo traveler (provided that you like Harry Potter haha). I didn’t realize they had a special night tour, but the butterbeer was outside in a special lot where they had lots of big props and set pieces (it’s part of the tour) so I can’t imagine they would leave it out for any reason. I have my fingers crossed for you!

Thank you for this article and the pics. I always need to take a peek of the atmosphere beforehand since I’m going solo. I hope they will let me use my selfie stick inside.

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harry potter studio tour quote

How to get cheap Harry Potter Studio tour tickets, including travel and hotel bundles

Get yourself back to Hogwarts for less this winter with a cheap ticket to The Making of Harry Potter studios.

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We all wish we could wave a wand that magically makes everything cheaper, but sadly there are no shortcuts or reducio spells in the real world. When the period between paydays is so long and the cost of a fun day out is so high, you’ve often got to be picky about which experiences you choose to do.

But here at RadioTimes.com , we believe you shouldn’t have to sacrifice those important memory-making moments just because of the cost, so we’re constantly trying to find you those affordable solutions.

In the past, we’ve covered everything from how to get cheap theatre tickets to how to get cheap tickets to Chessington World of Adventures . Now, we’re apparating into the wonderful wizarding world of Harry Potter.

The Making of Harry Potter studio tour in Leavesden remains – despite opening over a decade ago – a hugely successful sell-out event. Because of this, the cost of entry has remained high, with tickets starting at £53.50.

We know how quickly ticket costs can add up, especially if you’re taking family. When you factor in travel, hotel stays, and the inevitable butter beer expenses, you’re looking at a pretty big pile of galleons.

More like this

So, we’ve gathered our army of nifflers and dug out the best cost-effective ways of getting to Harry Potter studios this winter. Sadly, we can’t do much about the base ticket price, but what we have done is find a good number of bundles and packages that can save you money in the long run.

Now, grab that floo powder and let it whisk you away to the land of great savings.

For more cost-saving advice, here's how to get cheap football tickets , how to get cheap cinema tickets and how to get cheap Disneyland tickets .

Best Harry Potter Studio ticket deals at a glance

  • Two-night hotel break with breakfast and Harry Potter Studio ticket , from £58 per night
  • Harry Potter studio tour with London transfer , £114 £69
  • Harry Potter Studio tickets and London Film Locations Walking Tour , £145
  • Three-star London hotel stay and Harry Potter Studio ticket , from £149
  • Harry Potter Studio tour and afternoon tea for two , £164
  • Harry Potter Studio Expert Guided Small Group Tour with Transfers , £175
  • Harry Potter Studio Tour with return travel for two adults and two children , £376

How to get cheap Harry Potter Studio tickets, transfer deals and hotel bundles

Harry potter studio tour with london transfer.

harry potter studio

With no Hogwarts Express to rely on, the cost of train tickets can tally up fast. So one of the best ways to save on a day out at Harry Potter Studio is to get your transfers included in the price.

At Virgin Experience Days, you can pick up a variety of family packages that have travel in and out of Central London added.

The best deal we've seen so far is from Headout: a tour ticket and London transfer for just £69 (down from £114) – that's the price of a ticket plus just £16 for the journey.

  • Buy Harry Potter studio tour with London transfer for £114 £69 (save £45 or 39%) at Headout
  • Buy Harry Potter Studio Tour with return travel for two adults and two children for £376 at Virgin Experience Days

Harry Potter Studio tour with hotel break

If you're not local to the studios, it's understandable you might want to consider turning it into a staycation visit. At Holiday Extras and Wowcher, there are dozens of hotel bundle options available, from two night breaks with breakfast included, to a stay at a three-star London hotel.

  • Buy Two-night hotel break with breakfast and Harry Potter Studio ticket from £58 per night at Holiday Extras
  • Buy Three-star London hotel stay and Harry Potter Studio ticket from £149 at Wowcher

Harry Potter Studio Expert Guided Group Tour

Harry Potter studio

If you're looking to learn more about the magical world of the boy who lived, you can have your studio tour narrated and guided by a Harry Potter expert.

This will allow you to get up close to the set pieces and understand just how much work goes into these beloved films.

Buy Harry Potter Studio Expert Guided Small Group Tour with Transfers for £175 at Headout

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Harry Potter Studio tickets and London Film Locations Walking Tour

For the die-hard fans, you can combine your day at the studios with a tour around the top Harry Potter filming locations in London.

From Lambeth Bridge to Leadenhall Market, your expert guide will take you around all the spots that make up this fantastical realm, then it's off to Leavesden to see the rest.

Buy Harry Potter Studio tickets and London Film Locations Walking Tour for £145 at Headout

Harry Potter Studio tour and afternoon tea for two

You won't just find wizards and witches in the studios with this experience.

After wandering around the aisles of props and sets, you can tuck into some truly enchanting scones and supernaturally good finger sandwiches at The Shendish Manor Hotel. Just five miles away from the experience, you can top your day off with a spellbinding treat.

Buy Harry Potter Studio tour and afternoon tea for two for £164 at Virgin Experience Days

You can get more from the boy who lived in our best Harry Potter experiences guide, plus find out how to get tickets to Harry Potter and The Cursed Child in the best West End shows .

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harry potter studio tour quote

Harry Potter Studio Visitor's Guide

harry potter studio tour quote

The Short Guide to the Harry Potter Studio 

The complete guide to the harry potter studio.

harry potter studio tour quote

Your Harry Potter Tour adventure kicks off as soon as you present your ticket, starting with a queue that features Harry’s iconic cupboard under the stairs, complete with toy soldiers. As you wait in line, you can brush up on your Harry Potter lore with inspiring quotes from various characters from the franchise.

Next up, you will proceed to a dimly-lit room with multiple screens, where you take a deep dive into the history of Harry Potter and the magic that awaits. In the next room which is set up like a cinema, you can watch a short film that succinctly covers key moments and behind-the-scenes footage from eight Harry Potter movies, along with interviews with cast members, crew, directors, and even J.K. Rowling herself.

This preliminary experience concludes after the film, with majestic doors opening to reveal the Great Hall of Hogwarts. Stepping into the Great Hall marks the true beginning of the tour, as you enter the magical world of Harry Potter!

harry potter studio tour quote

Your journey at the Harry Potter Studio Tour starts with the opening of the Great Hall doors, inspired by Oxford's Christ Church college dining hall. Discover the hall’s authentic paving stone floor, as your guides share fascinating details.

The tour progresses, showcasing famous sets like the Gryffindor common room, Dumbledore’s office, Hagrid’s hut, and the Potions classroom. After this, the tour shifts to a self-guided format, offering you the freedom to explore these magical environments at your leisure.

This will allow you to experience the Forbidden Forest, complete with mist and spiders, and seize the chance to fly a broom (at an additional cost). You can also check out the famous Hogwarts Express at Platform 9 and ¾ for a serene photo opportunity, in contrast to the lively Kings Cross station in London.

As for outdoor experiences, these include the Knight Bus, Privet Drive, the unscathed Hogwarts Bridge, and Mr. Weasley’s flying Ford Anglia. Make sure you visit the meticulously designed Diagon Alley, especially Weasley's Wizard Wheezes – arguably one of the studio’s many highlights.

You will also have the chance to interact with various sets, like sitting on Hagrid’s motorbike, stepping into the Ford Anglia, and climbing aboard the Knight Bus. The outdoor area also presents prime photo opportunities, so it is important to take into account the weather when planning your visit. The tour also features an exciting Hogwarts Express simulation, where guests can board a replica carriage and embark on a journey filled with dementors and voice-over narration, offering a thrilling experience.

harry potter studio tour quote

In the second part of the studio tour, the focus shifts to the filmmaking process, revealing the creation and effort behind the props and costumes. This section showcases an extensive collection of creatures, detailing the intricate and complex methods used to bring them to life.

Among the many things you will learn is that only the head of the basilisk was actually built. You can also explore a wide range of goblin and house elf masks, which offer insight into their design and how they were tailored to fit the actors.

Following the Creature Shop, the tour continues to the meticulously crafted Diagon Alley. This area is designed as a realistic alley, with each shop intricately decorated and featuring detailed displays, creating a genuine streetscape. Diagon Alley’s compact layout mirrors the film’s setting, offering a profound sense of realism and magical feeling of shopping for enchanted items.

During the studio tour, you also have the chance to go on a broomstick ride with the help of CGI and green screen technology. After donning your Hogwarts robes, you can mimic flying on a broom , while a screen projects scenes over London and Hogwarts. Staff members are on hand to help you out and make sure you get a striking pose.

Post-flight, you can choose from a selection of backgrounds, such as hovering over Hogwarts or flying along the Thames. You can even take a photo inside the Ford Anglia, simulating flight, or add a fun twist to your visit by posing as an Azkaban prisoner on a ‘Wanted’ poster.

harry potter studio tour quote

The Harry Potter Studio Tour concludes with a spectacular large-scale model of Hogwarts Castle, which was previously used for film shots. This exhibit offers an impressive view of the castle from the Astronomy Tower to the lake shores, illustrating the iconic castle's scale and architecture.

The final room of the tour is home to a stunning 1:24 scale model of Hogwarts, a testament to extraordinary craftsmanship and attention to detail. The model, meticulously handcrafted with real gravel and plants for landscaping, radiates authenticity.

Equipped with over 300 fiber optic lights, the model simulates torches and lanterns that create the illusion of student life within the castle’s hallways. This masterpiece stands as a tribute to the talent and skill of the Harry Potter art department, crafted by a team of 86 people.

Footage of this model was skillfully combined with special effects to produce the realistic exterior views of Hogwarts in the films, often mistaken for real castles. This model serves as a phenomenal conclusion to the tour, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

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A Complete Guide to London’s Harry Potter Studio Tour

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We wanted to know whether the Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter was really worth the hype and the expensive ticket, so we sent Anneliese, a member of our content team, to find out for herself! Read her review before you visit to get all the insider tips.

Here’s a disclaimer: I first picked up a Harry Potter book when I was 8 years old and I’ve been a superfan of both the books and the films ever since – I even managed to see the play, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, all the way back in 2016 when it was the hottest ticket in London’s West End. So when you read this review, remember that I LOVE all things Potter!

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is probably the biggest pilgrimage site for Harry Potter fans in the UK. It opened to the public in 2012 and this April I was finally lucky enough to visit. Side-note: we’ve recently discovered that the attraction is one of the most expensive basic tickets in the world, so there were a few questions I wanted to answer on my trip:

  • Is the exhibition really as awesome as the reviews make it sound?
  • Is the trip good value for money?
  • Are there any ways that a savvy traveler can make the most of their time at the site?

First of all, try not to judge a book by its cover. The Studio Tour is a tour of soundstages on the Warner Bros. lot in Leavesden. The building looks like a large anonymous box because that’s what it is – the magic happens on the inside. It’s also not a theme park, unlike the Wizarding World of Harry Potter World at Universal Orlando, so don’t expect rides or shows.

The Making of Harry Potter - the magic happens on the inside

The first step for most visitors is taking the train from London to Watford Junction. For us, this took slightly longer than usual because engineering works disrupted the regular rail service (which is something that often happens in London, especially on public holidays – so watch out!). From Watford Junction it’s easy to find the shuttle bus to the Studio Tour site – they’re Harry Potter-branded and have their own bus stop and signage. The bus costs £2.50 per person , but the ticket is also valid for your return trip, so keep it safe during the day. The journey takes about 15 minutes, and you’ll get to watch a short introductory video while zipping through the suburbs. If you decide to book tickets that include a transfer from Central London then you won’t have to worry about the train or shuttle bus!

When you arrive at the Studios there’s a short bag search, and you’ll also be scanned with a metal detector. If you arrive more than 5 minutes before the time on your ticket, you’ll have some time to explore the main store, hang out underneath the huge model of a dragon, or get a cup of coffee at a cunningly disguised Starbucks. Then, when it’s time to go in, just follow the signs for the Studio Tour. Even the queue to the start of the tour is pretty interesting, taking you past Harry’s cupboard under the stairs and through a hall which discusses the changes in movie poster design over the years – it doesn’t feel like you’re waiting in line!

The queue to the start of the tour is pretty interesting, taking you past Harry’s cupboard under the stairs … it doesn’t feel like you’re waiting in line!

The tour gets going with a video intro, where you’ll be told all about what you’re going to see, plus any house rules you need to follow, and you’ll hear a special message from JK Rowling (author of the Harry Potter books). Next, you’ll move into a cinema area where you’ll watch some short clips that will get you in the mood for the exhibits ahead. The cinema screen zooms away to reveal the door to the Great Hall, and any birthday children will be given the chance to push them open. That’s when the experience really kicks off.

Harry's Room

We found ourselves pretty much raced through the Great Hall, which is the first set you’ll visit. Because more tour groups are coming up behind you, you only get about 5 minutes to explore , and a guide will stay with you to make sure you don’t linger too long. I’d been warned about this before I arrived, so I was ready with my camera to snap pictures of all the incredible details – the house symbols on the fireplace, the original uniform worn by Daniel Radcliffe on the first day of filming, Hagrid’s bodysuit and costume, and the colorful hourglasses tracking house points on the wall by the high table.

Once you’re through the Great Hall, the pace slows down considerably and you’re left to your own devices. Other people we’d entered with had rented multimedia guides, and a few even had a personal tour guide, but we decided we knew enough about the books and the films to explore by ourselves. We didn’t regret that decision at any point – most of the things you’ll see are self-explanatory or have signage that explains what you’re looking at. Each set also has a display board which points out a couple of tiny details which you might not notice by yourself.

I’m not going to tell you about everything I saw, because it’s a lot more fun if you don’t know what’s coming , but my favorite moments were in the Forbidden Forest (which includes a spooky soundtrack, eerie mist, and plenty of spiders) and the newly opened Gringotts Banks. Gringotts is a truly special addition – you’ll get to see it looking its best (and you won’t believe it’s not made of real marble), plus you’ll see it destroyed by a dragon (a work of movie magic which proved to be a bit much for some of the younger visitors!).

Gringotts Banks

We stopped for a bite to eat at the Backlot Café , which is slightly more than halfway through the tour, but other groups had brought snacks with them, so that’s always an option if you’re on a tight budget. Our meals were £9 for a burger with chips, so it’s not the cheapest lunch, but the quality was good enough that you didn’t mind the price. We also tried the Butterbeer, which was… unusual. If you’re desperate to taste it then I’d recommend splitting one cup between friends, as it’s not to everyone’s taste and it costs about £3.50 per cup.

Outside the Backlot Café is a small area with some larger props. There’s the Hogwarts bridge (a great photo opportunity), the Knight Bus, a walkthrough of 4 Privet Drive, and copies of Hagrid’s motorbike and the Weasleys’ blue Ford Anglia. You can sit on the bike and inside the Ford Anglia – two more great spots for photos!

harry potter studio tour quote

The final area of the tour takes you through the animatronics lab, then into the magical Diagon Alley and around the huge model of Hogwarts, leading you out through the gift shop.

The good: There are so many tiny details which will thrill any fans of the films. From the hand-labeled vials of memories in Dumbledore’s office to the animatronic hippogriffs which bow to visitors, you’ll bounce from one delightful surprise to the next. You’ll also get to see videos of your favorite actors from the series discussing what it was like to grow up on set, in clips which will really take you behind the scenes. It does take at least 3 and a half hours to see everything on the tour, but it will feel like it was over in a flash.

The bad: The Backlot Café was very busy, with not-quite-enough seating and a poor queuing system. That might have been because the timing of our visit brought us to the café at lunchtime, so more people were stopping than during the rest of the day, it might have been less busy in the late afternoon.

There’s also something which everyone, but maybe especially parents visiting with younger children should be aware of – there are a handful of times where photo opportunities are going to cost you money if you want to take the pictures home with you. The green screen broomstick ride, the wanted poster (in robes), and the photos that are taken in a carriage of the Hogwarts Express all have a cost attached. After each encounter with a staff photographer, you’ll be given a ticket with a code on it, and my tip is to collect the tickets together and wait until the Hogwarts Express stop before going to the counter and looking through the images. If you decide to buy more than one picture then there’s a discount, and if you’re in a larger group then it might make sense to buy a USB with all your files. It’s easier to make that decision once you’ve done everything and can look through all the pictures at one time. For every hard copy of a picture you buy, you’ll be given a code to get a digital download, so it might make sense to split the cost of one photo between a group and then share the digital version later.

Hogwarts Express

Overall I think the tour does a good job of not trying to sell you too many things – sure, there are two small gift shops which you’ll see as you go around (at the Forbidden Forest and the Hogwarts Express), but you’re not made to walk through them, and they’re designed to blend in with the sets. That being said, you can easily lose yourself in the gift shop at the end, and most things inside aren’t cheap.

So, back to the questions which I wanted to answer.

Is the tour as great as the reviews say, and does it provide good value for money?

For Harry Potter fans, it’s going to be an absolutely brilliant experience, and it also has a lot that will be of interest for fans of film-making more generally. I was blown away by the scale of the 10-year, 8-movie project that was the Harry Potter series, and by the skill and creativity of the people who designed the props, sets, costumes, and hair and make-up. It was informative without ever being dull, and knowing how the on-screen magic works has only given me a new appreciation for the movies. Having said that, now that I’ve been once I don’t feel like I need to go back any time soon. If the tour adds another couple of major sets then I might be tempted, but I’ve satisfied my curiosity for now and the ticket price is too high for me to make it a regular trip when I’m in London.

Harry Potter Studios Costumes

For people who aren’t Potterheads or particularly interested in movie-making, it might not be so fascinating to visit, and the ticket price and hassle of getting out of Central London might also be off-putting. In that case, I’d suggest skipping it or splitting your party up for half a day. Part of the fun of visiting was knowing that most people were as interested and excited as I was, and I don’t think that this attraction is ever going to be a must-see London attraction in the way that Tower Bridge or Big Ben are.

Now, for the money-saving tips

As I mentioned above, hang onto your professional photo tickets until you get to the Hogwarts Express tills, so that you can get all your shots included in a deal if you decide you want more than one picture. Book your trains to Watford Junction in advance if you can, and make sure to use your railcard if you’re a UK resident and aged 16-25 or over 60. Bring lunch with you to eat in the Backlot Café, and share a Butterbeer if you decide you want to try it. Do your best not to wander into the merchandise stores along the way, and save your shopping for the very end when you’ll know what’s available and how much money you have left!

Above all, go with the flow and remember how you felt the first time you encountered the magical world of Harry Potter – I’m sure you’ll have as great a time as I did!

harry potter studio tour quote

If you’ve been inspired by our review, why not check out the available deals for Warner Bros. Studios – The Making of Harry Potter at TicketLens.com?

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9 Tips for Visiting London’s Harry Potter Studio Tour

The Harry Potter Studio Tour in London is popular with movie fans worldwide - a whole generation has grown up with the wizard in the wonky glasses, and what better way to solidify your fan status than by exploring the sets, costumes and props that made the movies so incredible. The making of Harry Potter is a fascinating thing to learn about; there were so many small details behind it and seeing these up close is spine-tingling. Here are some top tips to ensure you have the best possible day on the Harry Potter tour!

1. Watch all the movies again before you go

Even if you’ve seen them all 10 times, it can’t hurt to watch them all once more right? It’s bound to make it even more special when you see props or the set from your favorite scene right there in front of your eyes at Harry Potter Studios, London. You’ll be able to close your eyes and imagine you’re in that flying car with Ron or sat in the Great Hall with Hermione Granger!

2. Research the best time to visit the Harry Potter tour, London

Is there a particular event you want to catch, such as the Valentine’s Dinner or seeing Hogwarts in the Snow? Make sure you research the dates of anything you don’t want to miss and plan your trip to London and the Harry Potter Studios around that. If possible, work around term time too. It’ll be much quieter if you visit while most people are still in school and work, rather than during the half-term holidays or summer vacation.

3. …and book your tickets well in advance

Harry Potter studio tour tickets sell out really quickly, so avoid disappointment and ensure to book them early. They make the perfect birthday or Christmas gift for the Potterhead in your life, young or old, and it’s a chance to have a truly magical day out.

4. Ask plenty of questions during the tour

There are curators all the way around the studio tour, and on our Unique Fully Guided Warner Bros. Studio Tour London you will be accompanied by an expert, Harry Potter-loving tour guide. You’ll travel in groups of 15 people or less, and there are audio headsets available to make sure you don’t miss a thing. So, ask plenty of questions about the movies, the sets, the props, the costumes, the cast and whatever else springs to mind! Booking your Harry Potter world tickets with us guarantees a day filled with stress-free magic.

5. Grab every opportunity with both hands

There is SO much to see and do at the studio tour - it’s basically a Harry Potter museum, with learning opportunities and interaction around every corner. Fly a broomstick, pose for a photo at Platform 9 3/4, wander down Diagon Alley and imagine what you’d spend your coins on if you could - a new broomstick, perhaps, or something fun (and potentially very dangerous) from the Weasley twins’ joke shop… The studio tour is way to completely immerse yourself in all things Potter for a few hours, so really make the most of it.

6. Take all the time you need

Following on from the previous tip, make sure you take your time at the studio tour. If there is one thing in particular that you’ve been really looking forward to seeing, then spend a few extra minutes really savoring it. Always wanted to see the fancy outfits form the Yule Ball up close? Then make sure you take in every single detail. For movie buffs and Potter fans alike, the tour is something that will have your interest constantly piqued - the recommended time frame for seeing and appreciating everything is around 3 hours. Don’t rush your visit!

7. Plan your visit precisely

If you need information about accessibility, parking, opening hours, food & drink and more, look into this in advance and plan your visit so that you can make the most of it. Our guided tour takes the stress out of planning a trip, however, and allows you to sit back and relax as we travel from London to Watford via train. From Watford Junction we will take an official shuttle bus to the tour itself, traveling in true muggle style…

8. Making your studio tour even more exciting

Especially for the little ones in your midst, there are extra things you can do to enhance your tour experience even further. For example, there is a free Wizarding World app (available on Google Play and the App Store) which can be used throughout the tour. Use the app to scan Enchanted Keys in each area of the studios, and you’ll will get to see some exclusive content right there on your smartphone. It could be a quiz, a video, some secret trivia or something else entirely! Make sure you also pick up an Activity Passport - they are available free of charge, and packed with puzzles, facts and even a Golden Snitch hunt. Don’t forget, these passports can be stamped at key points throughout the studio tour.

9. Treat yourself to some souvenirs

The gift shop at the end of the tour is full of incredibly exciting official merchandise; from chocolate frogs to replica wands, Gryffindor scarves to character blankets and so much more, there is the chance to treat yourself to something fantastic. It will be the perfect way to remember your day at the Harry Potter tour, and you’ll be the envy of all your friends if you return home with Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans™…

Visiting the Harry Potter Studio Tour is a favorite among movie fans and Potterheads traveling to London - and it’s easy to see why. With so much to see, do and learn during the tour, you will come away a Harry Potter expert!

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UK : (+44) 800 098 8019

USA and Canada : (+1) 800 358 1942

Italy : +39 06 8336 0561

France : +33 (0) 170371426

Spain : (+34) 900 838 432

Australia : (+61) 1 800 790 369

Ireland (Dublin-HQ) : +353 (0) 1 576 0535

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From London: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London- The Making of Harry Potter Entry Ticket and Escorted Train Transfer

Step into the magical world of Harry Potter with our exclusive Warner Bros. Studio Tour London entry ticket, accompanied by a seamless and escorted train transfer from London. Immerse yourself in the enchanting sets, costumes, and props used in the making of the iconic film series for an unforgettable and spellbinding experience.

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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. 

harry potter imagery with text: "help! harry potter tickets are sold out!" How to buy harry potter studio tickets when they aren't available.

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 

harry potter studios 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.

harry potter studio tickets resale: most reliable vendors and companies

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 

harry potter studios tickets: image of woman on laptop with tickets magically appearing

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! 

harry potter studios tickets sold out: what to do next. Alternative Harry potter experiences in london

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

harry potter studios tickets are sold out - what to do instead? See 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

harry potter studio tour quote

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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Blind Girl Adventures

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Travelling Blind

Accessible guide to warner bros studios london: harry potter studio tour.

A brown dragon with his mouth open, hanging from the ceiling

This post may contain affiliate links; by clicking on and buying through these links I will earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you: helping me to keep Blind Girl Adventures running.

The Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour is a must-see for any fan of the beloved film series. Located just outside of London, the tour takes visitors behind the scenes of the Harry Potter films, offering a unique glimpse into the magic of movie-making. As a lover of all things Harry Potter, I’ve written my experience in this accessible guide to Warner Bros Studios London.

Warner Bros Studios London: Harry Potter Studio Tour Guide

Sassy wearing a knee long black dress with small white flowers, smiling at the camera and holding Ida's leash. Ida is sitting by her side, on the right hand side. Behind Sassy there is the entrance to Harry Potter Studio.

Upon arriving at the studio, visitors are greeted by a giant model of Hogwarts Castle, setting the stage for the magical adventure to come. From there, visitors can explore the Great Hall, complete with authentic sets, costumes, and props from the films. The attention to detail is truly impressive, and fans will love seeing their favorite scenes come to life before their eyes.

One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to see the actual Hogwarts Express steam engine and carriages used in the films. Visitors can even step aboard and have their photo taken in the carriage just like Harry and his friends.

Another must-see exhibit is the Gryffindor common room and dormitory, which has been meticulously recreated down to the last detail. Visitors can even see Harry’s small, cramped cupboard under the stairs, which served as his bedroom in the first film.

The dorm in the Griffindor House, with a four poster single bed with red curtains around it, and a red duvet. Near it, on the left, there is the wizard uniform hanging

In addition to the sets and costumes, the tour also includes special effects demonstrations, showing visitors how the filmmakers brought some of the most iconic scenes in the series to life. From the Quidditch matches to the epic battle at the Ministry of Magic, visitors can learn all about the tricks and techniques used to create these memorable moments.

But the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour is not just for die-hard fans – even those who are only casually familiar with the films will find plenty to enjoy. The tour is full of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, making it a fun and engaging experience for all ages.

One of the most popular exhibits is the creature effects workshop, where visitors can see how the filmmakers brought to life some of the series’ most memorable creatures, including the giant spiders and the majestic Hungarian Horntail dragon.

Blind Girl Adventures at the Harry Potter Studio Tours

Sassy Walking through a large iron gate. She is wearing a black dress with small flowers and is holding Ida with her right hand. Behind her, on the alley she is coming from, there is smoke.

I have been to the Harry Potter studio tours three times, and I promise it WON’T be the last.  I thought I would share my experiences as a blind person going there.

The first time I went to Harry Potter studio tours was back in 2013, I was registered blind at this point but still had a lot of residual vision. This meant that unless it was the intricate details, I could pretty much see the entire tour, and let me tell you it was breathtaking. 

As an avid Harry Potter fan, it lived up to everything I dreamed of and more! 

My friend and I took the shuttle bus from Watford train station, and requested audio description headsets. The audio headsets were a mixture of explanations of the visual details of the props and sets, along with trips and interviews from the cast and crew who put together the entire Harry Potter film franchise. I suspect we were there well over three hours being absorbed and mesmerised by the design, costumes, sets and the incredible audio description. 

I even got to ride a broom using a green screen! If there wasn’t an entire  line of people watching me, I probably would have started yelling something A  along  the lines of: ll”Yer A wizard Sassy!”

Alas, I’m still waiting for my Hogwarts acceptance letter. I know, it doesn’t matter that I’m in my 30s.

This is when I tried Butterbeer for the first time, and I was absolutely appalled! It’s essentially cream soda with butterscotch flavourings. Not remotely what J. K. Rowling described within the Harry Potter books, for starters it was cold, and secondly what heathens like cream soda?!  

Two plastic glasses filled with butterbeer, a brown liquid with a white cream on top.

I bought some strawberry honeycomb, and Bertie bots every flavour beans: as a keepsake. And if you’re wondering? Yes, I still have the unopened box today sitting on my bookshelf! 

If you’ve ever read the Harry Potter books or watched the films with audio description you will know how much detail has been put together to bring the wizarding world to life. These are the real props, costumes, designs and sets used throughout the 10 year Harry Potter film. I promise if you go as A blind person, or sighted, you will have the best time! 

My second visit to the Harry Potter studio tour in 2018 was as a totally blind person, accompanied by Grant and my gorgeous guide dog Ida!

Grant drove us to the Leavesden studios, and we were able to park at the front thanks to my blue badge.  During this  adventure  I was given a real hands-on experience! Rebecca, a member of staff, gave me a one-on-one audio described tour where I was allowed to touch the props! See, sometimes being blind has its perks! I’ve got to touch/hold many props, but my three favourites were Lord Voldemort’s wand, Bellatrix Lestrange’s dagger and Luna  Lovegood’s leg moulds (as she went barefoot in the forbidden forest). Rebecca was so knowledgeable and you could tell she loved Harry Potter, almost more than I do! This  truly was a magical experience and I came away with way more knowledge about the behind-the-scenes, that I ever knew possible! 

A staircase supported by small columns which look Roman. Above the staircase there are a lot of paintings of different wizards. Below, there is an exhibition with costumes from the movie.

As a massive Harry Potter geek, there was a little bit of sadness that I could no longer see the beauty of the sets, and the props or  life-size model scale.

I think as a blind person; if you’ve ever had Sight, and lost it.  Especially if you have seen these things before you will potentially reminisce that the touch tour was beyond words, one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had in my life! 

One on one tours cost more but if you have a sighted companion, you can purchase a carer ticket (essentially buy one get one free) and I think this is a wonderful way to enjoy it with someone else.    

Here is where I tried Butterbeer ice cream for the first time. If you love butterscotch flavour and super creamy ice cream, this is the one for you! We also went through the forbidden Forest, and  got to sit in Hogwarts express – re-enacting the scene from the Dementor  on the Hogwarts express. Unfortunately me Hogwarts express is extremely narrow and has steps leading up to it, so if you are a wheelchair user this would not be accessible to you, and in this instance Rebecca waited on the platform with Ida as Grant and I reenacted the scene and gave Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint A run for their money!

A wooden table filled with different cakes and desserts. Along the plates there are small white mice arranged in a row, like they are following each other. The cakes have different shapes: one is a rabbit on top of a hat, another one is made from pumpkins on top of each other.

Rebecca  was super attentive, didn’t rush us in anyway  and showed us where all the accessible bathrooms were, and offered Ida some water.

My most recent blind girl visit to Harry Potter studio tours was in 2021, honestly just to go and experience the Gringott’s  set! Grant, Ida   and I took our sweet time going through the Making of Harry Potter, we either spoke to several staff members’ positions throughout the entire exhibition, and got a super cool insight into the jobs they do, and what their favourite part of the studio tours were! 

The Gringott’s set was absolutely phenomenal, more realistic than anything I could have imagined, my  only negative is that I didn’t get to see it with eyes that worked. 

I don’t want to spoil the surprise for anyone but  Gringott’s is bloody fabulous!

At this time of our visit Covid procedures were still implemented, so unfortunately I could not access an audio description  handset, or receive a one on one touch tour. I believe that it is now something that is back up and running for visually impaired visitors to enjoy.      

Opening Times and Ticket Prices

A scene from the movie, in the Griffindor living room with red wallpaper with dragons on it. On the walls there are large paintings. In the room there are red and yellow couches and armchairs. Figurines representing the young wizards from Harry Potter are standing in the room

The Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London is open from Monday to Sunday, with varying opening times depending on the day of the week and the time of year.

During the peak tourist season, from April to October, the studio tour is typically open from 9:00am to 6:00pm, with last admission at 4:00pm. From November to March, the studio tour is usually open from 10:00am to 4:00pm, with last admission at 2:00pm. It is important to check the studio tour’s website or social media pages for the most up-to-date opening times, as they may vary depending on public holidays and other events.

As for ticket prices, the standard admission price for the Harry Potter Studio Tour is £47 for adults, £39 for children (5-15 years old), and £45 for seniors (60+). Children under 5 years old are free. The ticket price includes access to all of the permanent exhibits and displays at the studio tour, as well as any seasonal exhibitions that may be on display.

Seasonal Tours and Temporary Exhibits

Costumed from the Fantastic Beasts temporary exhibition, in front of a dark photo with a castle tower in the background.

The studio tour also offers a range of special tours and experiences, which can be purchased in addition to a standard admission ticket. These tours and experiences include a behind-the-scenes tour, a VIP tour, and a one-on-one guided tour. Prices for these tours vary, and it is best to check the studio tour’s website for the latest information on pricing and availability.

It is important to note that tickets for the Harry Potter Studio Tour tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak tourist season. It is advisable to book tickets in advance, either online or by phone, to ensure that you are able to visit the studio tour on your desired date.

The Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London is known for its permanent exhibits, which showcase authentic sets, costumes, and props from the Harry Potter films. However, the tour also features seasonal exhibitions, which are temporary displays that change periodically throughout the year. These exhibitions offer visitors the opportunity to see even more behind-the-scenes content and further immerse themselves in the world of Harry Potter.

Some past seasonal exhibitions at the Harry Potter Studio Tour have included:

A temporary exhibition about the Fantastic Four. The room is all green and there are motorcycles and other machines exhibited. The photo focuses on a type of motorcycle with four wheels, which is suspended in the air.

  • “The Hogwarts Express: Reliving the Magic” – This exhibition allowed visitors to step aboard the actual Hogwarts Express steam engine and carriages used in the films, as well as see authentic costumes and props from the train scenes.
  • “Harry Potter: The Exhibition” – This exhibition, which traveled to various cities around the world, brought many of the most iconic sets and costumes from the Harry Potter films to the tour for a limited time. Visitors could see the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office, and more, all filled with authentic artifacts from the movies.
  • “The Art of Harry Potter” – This exhibition featured original concept art, storyboards, and sketches from the Harry Potter films, giving visitors a unique look at the creative process behind the movies.
  • “Harry Potter: A History of Magic” – This exhibition, held in partnership with the British Library, featured rare books, manuscripts, and other magical artifacts from the collections of the library and the Harry Potter Studio Tour.

It is important to note that the seasonal exhibitions at the Harry Potter Studio Tour are temporary and often change, so it is best to check the tour’s website or social media pages for the latest information on what exhibitions are currently on display.

The Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London often celebrates Christmas and Easter with special events and exhibits. These celebrations give visitors the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the magic of the holiday season, and are a must-see for any fan of the Harry Potter series.

During Christmas, the studio tour is typically adorned with festive decorations, including Christmas trees and other holiday touches. In the past, the tour has also featured special exhibits and activities for visitors to enjoy, such as the chance to see authentic Christmas decorations from the Harry Potter films, and even meet Father Christmas himself.

Easter is also a special time at the Harry Potter Studio Tour, with the tour often offering Easter-themed activities and exhibits for visitors to enjoy. These activities have included Easter egg hunts, craft workshops, and more.

How to Get to the Warner Bros Harry Potter Studios

A palace that looks like it is made from glass or ice. It is illuminated in blue lights. At the bottom there are many glasses filled with different coloured liquids.

The easy way to get to the Warner Brothers Studios is by  joining a tour that includes transfer  to the studios from London and back.

The other option is to plan how to get there yourself using public transport (a train and then a shuttle bus) or by car.

If you don’t want to worry about transport, there are different options to choose from. 

Tours Including Transport & Tickets

  • A bus from Victoria Coach Station in London : The price includes both the ticket to the studios and transport to the studio and back to London.
  • A bus from Kings Cross Station in London : This one also includes both the round trip and the entry ticket to the studios.

WB Studio Guided Tours

  • A fully guided tour : This tour includes transport from London and back, entry ticket and a dedicated guide who’ll take you through the studios.
  • A guided tour combining film locations and the WB Studios : This guided tour takes you on a walking tour around Harry Potter film locations in London and then continues with a tour of the Warner Bros. Studios.

How To Get To Warner Bros Studios On Your Own

Two people wearing black clothes, taking photos in front of the Harry Potter house. A woman is approaching the door, whilst the man is taking photos of her.

The Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour is located just outside of London, in the town of Leavesden. There are several ways to get to the studio tour using public transportation, including coaches, trains, and tubes.

One option is to take a coach from central London to the studio tour. Several tour operators offer coach services from various locations in London, including Victoria Coach Station and Baker Street. The journey by coach typically takes around an hour, depending on traffic.

Another option is to take the train from London to the town of Watford Junction, and then transfer to a shuttle bus service, which will take you directly to the studio tour. Trains to Watford Junction depart from Euston Station in London and the journey takes around 20-30 minutes. The shuttle bus service from Watford Junction to the studio tour takes an additional 20-30 minutes.

If you prefer to travel by tube, you can take the Metropolitan Line from central London to the town of Watford, and then transfer to a local bus service, which will take you to the studio tour. The journey by tube from central London to Watford takes around 45 minutes, and the local bus journey from Watford to the studio tour takes an additional 20-30 minutes.

If you prefer to drive, the studio tour has a car park on site, which is free for visitors. The studio tour is easily accessible by car from the M1 motorway and is well signposted.

Instructions to Help You Get There:

  • From central London, take the M1 motorway north towards Watford.
  • Take exit 5 for the A41 towards Watford/Berkhamsted.
  • Stay on the A41 for approximately 4 miles, until you see signs for the studio tour.
  • Turn left onto the B4519, following the signs for the studio tour.
  • Continue straight on the B4519 for approximately 1 mile until you reach the entrance to the studio tour on your left.
  • Turn left into the studio tour entrance and follow the signs to the car park.

It is important to note that the studio tour is located just outside of London, in the town of Leavesden. The journey from central London takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Accessible Guide to Warner Bros Studios London for Disabled Guests

Sassy wearing a black dress with small white flowers, holding Ida who is sitting next to her, and touching her see-through face mask. Behind her, there are exhibits from the movie.

The Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London is committed to making its facilities and exhibits accessible to all visitors. The tour has a number of accessibility features in place to ensure that everyone is able to enjoy the magic of the Harry Potter films.

Here are some of the accessibility features at the Harry Potter Studio Tour:

  • Wheelchair access: The majority of the Studio Tour is suitable for wheelchairs but some areas can be difficult to navigate, this includes  Diagon Alley ’s cobbled street, the  Great Hall’s  slate floor, the  Forbidden Forest’s  spongy surface, and  Privet Drive’s  narrow doorway. The  Knight Bus  also has a short boarding platform which cannot be accessed by wheelchairs. The Hogwarts Express™ can be accessed via a short staircase and alternative access cannot be provided as it is an original set piece with a narrow corridor which is unsuitable for wheelchair users. However, a viewing carriage can be found at the end of the Hogwarts Express. The green screen area provides visitors with two fully accessible photo opportunities, including the chance to fly a broomstick as members of the cast would have done during filming. Visitors must be able to transfer themselves on to a broomstick and seatbelts can be provided if required.
  • Accessible toilets: There are accessible toilets located throughout the studio tour, including in the Great Hall and the cafeteria. They also have a Changing Place facility located in the lobby, which is accessed using a RADAR key. This fully accessible space provides a hoist, height adjustable changing bench, toilet and washbasin. The room is large enough to accommodate a wheelchair user and two carers. Please note, they do request that visitors bring their own slings to use with the hoist, as these are not provided.
  • Audio description: The attractions handheld Digital Guides provide extra content for the Studio Tour rather than acting as an audio descriptive guide for those who are blind or visually impaired.Our handheld audio-visual guides bring the Studio Tour to life with fascinating filmmaking facts, exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and cast and crew interviews. Narrated in English, they are also available in German, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Mandarin, Brazilian Portuguese and Russian.
  • Sign language interpretation: The studio tour offers sign language interpretation for deaf or hard of hearing visitors. This service is available on selected dates and must be booked in advance.
  • Mobility scooter hire: The studio tour has a limited number of mobility scooters available for hire, subject to availability. These scooters can be reserved in advance, either online or by phone. Please note that they cannot allow mobility vehicles or electric scooters wider than 86cm into the attraction, but do offer manual wheelchairs to borrow.
  • SENSORY SUPPORT BAGS: which contain Sunflower Lanyards and Ear defenders can be picked up from the visitor reception.
  • A Sensory Room is available within the Studio Tour. The room provides a calming environment for those with autism and other additional needs, it contains a Sensory Shell Chair, interactive light box, mirror ball and tactile mirrors. The room is located adjacent to the Backlot Café. If you would like to access the Sensory Room prior to reaching this point, you can speak to a member of staff who can assist you.
  • Personal assistants: Visitors with disabilities are entitled to bring a personal assistant with them for free. This includes carers, interpreters, or other support workers.
  • Seating: There is limited seating throughout the Studio Tour except at the Cafe. They have a number of free lightweight foldable stools available from the front desk.
  • For guests with autism Warner Bros have created and in depth guide and further information https://s32508.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/WBSTL-Autism-and-Visitor-Support-Guide-2023_LR.pdf

Quotations From the Cast and Crew After Seeing the Harry Potter studio Tours

A shop in the studios. The building is illuminated by a blue light. In the window there are many different wizarding equipment, which is what the shop is selling.

The Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London has received praise from many members of the Harry Potter cast and crew, who have visited the tour and seen firsthand the hard work and dedication that went into making the beloved film series. Here are a few quotes from cast and crew members about the studio tour:

  • “I can’t believe it’s been 20 years since we started filming Harry Potter. It’s so lovely to come back and see everything that’s been preserved at the studio tour. It’s such a special place and it brings back so many memories.” – Emma Watson (Hermione Granger)
  • “The studio tour is an amazing place. It’s like a museum of memories for all of us who were lucky enough to be a part of the Harry Potter films. I highly recommend it to any fans of the series.” – Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter)
  • “The studio tour is a really special place, not just for fans of the Harry Potter films, but for anyone who loves movies and the magic of movie-making. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting London.” – Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley)
  • “As a fan of the Harry Potter films, visiting the studio tour was a dream come true. Seeing all of the sets, costumes, and props up close was truly awe-inspiring. It’s a magical place that every fan should experience.” – Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood)
  • “The studio tour is an incredible place, full of so much history and so many amazing memories for all of us who worked on the Harry Potter films. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the series, and it’s a must-see for any fan.” – David Heyman (Producer)
  • “The studio tour is a wonderful place, full of so much magic and wonder. It’s a testament to the incredible talent and hard work of everyone involved in the Harry Potter films, and it’s a must-see for any fan of the series.” – J.K. Rowling (Author)

For more similar articles, check out my recommendations below:

  • An accessible guide to Universal Studios Orlando
  • An accessible guide to Sky Princess Cruise Ship

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Sassy Wyatt

Sassy Wyatt is a blind travel blogger, content creator, and disability awareness consultant, challenging stereotypes through education and humour, empowering you to be more disability confident. She travels the world and shows you how you can do it too.

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London x London

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)

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.

Hogwarts Model

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.

Hagrid's Hut

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.

WB Studios London - Running with trolley

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).

Harry Potter Studios Tickets

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.

Harry Potter Tickets

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.

Forbidden Forest

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?

Model of merpeople

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.

Phoenix

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.

The Harry Potter 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.

Great Hall - Dumbledore at High Table

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).

Peeking at the Uniforms in the Great Hall

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

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

Buckbeak in 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

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

Magic is Might Statue

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

Hogwarts Express

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  

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

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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A Magical Planning Guide for the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London

Europe , United Kingdom

Hogwarts Express train as seen on the Harry Potter Studio Tour London

The Harry Potter Studio Tour is located just outside London and is an absolute must-visit for any fan of the books and/or movies. Though it’s a bit pricy, the experience is incredible and getting to walk through the actual sets used for filming scenes in the Great Hall, Gringotts lobby, and other famous locations is – pardon the pun – magical.

I was in middle school when my mom bought the first book and despite my initial impression that a kids’ book about wizards was far beneath me, I was almost immediately hooked and have been mildly obsessed ever since. When my parents and I decided to visit London for a few days, I was ecstatic and planned to fly over a day early to make sure I had time to visit. From one Harry Potter nerd to another, this guide has all the tips and info you need to plan a visit to what’s perhaps the holy grail of Potter sites. Since the sets here were used throughout the Harry Potter film series, this is the closest you’ll get to actually stepping into the Wizarding World. Don’t miss out on it when in London!

  • 1 Highlights of the Harry Potter Studio Tour
  • 2 The WB Harry Potter Studio Tour shop
  • 3 Food at the Harry Potter Studio Tour
  • 4 Free souvenir from the WB Studio tour
  • 5 Can you dress up in costume for the Harry Potter Studio Tour?
  • 6 How to get to the Harry Potter Studio Tour
  • 7 Harry Potter Studio Tour Audio Guide
  • 8 Special events at the Harry Potter studios
  • 9 Harry Potter Studio Tour hours
  • 10 How much do Harry Potter Studio Tour tickets cost?
  • 11 Where to buy Harry Potter studio tour tickets

Note: This post contains affiliate links, and should you choose to make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Woman standing in front of a wall of Hogwarts letters

I went to Hogwarts and you should too!

Highlights of the Harry Potter Studio Tour

Obviously the sets are the main draw here. The tour begins with a queue to get into a standing theater where the twins who played Fred and George do a safety/rules briefing. You’re then ushered into another theater – this time with seats – for a introduction to the studio tour.

Woman posing with a wand in the Great Hall at the Harry Potter Studio Tour London

The first set you get to visit is one of the best of all – the Great Hall. You get a chance to enter through the famous doors and then walk through the elaborately decorated set used for so many iconic scenes in the movies. The only downside here is that in order to clear it out for the next group exiting the theater, you’re ushered along pretty quickly. The rest of the tour is completely at your own pace, but you don’t have a lot of time here. Try to sit at the front of the second theater for the best experience and maximum time in the Great Hall.

Behind the scenes of the Great Hall at the Warner Bros Studio Tour London

One of the cooler parts of the set is that as you exit the Great Hall, you pass through doors on the side. If you turn around, you can see the backside of the “stone” walls lining the room and see that they’re not stone at all – they’re molded and held up on a framework of light metal. It’s a cool little bit of movie magic because it looks so real when you’re on the “show” side.

Woman posing in front of the Gryffindor Common Room set on the Harry Potter Studio Tour London

Just a Gryffindor hanging out in her natural habitat.

Another highlight for me was getting to see the cozy Gryffindor common room set. You don’t actually get to walk through this, but you can see the décor and imagine a roaring fire. I also liked seeing the Gryffindor bedroom and reading about how hard it was for the actors to fit into the beds in the later movies because they were built for them when they were kids and used throughout the whole series.

Golden snitch prop from the Harry Potter film series

Along the way, you also get to see a whole host of props, costumes, and even wigs. Loads of wands are on display as is the Triwizard Cup and a golden snitch.

The Weasleys' Burrow kitchen

Some of the other memorable sets you get to see during the first part of the tour include Dumbledore’s office, the Burrow’s kitchen, Hagrid’s hut, and the dramatic dining room in Malfoy Manor. Oh, and you get to see the horrible, pink set used for Umbridge’s office.

This section also has a spot where you can take greenscreen photos and videos of yourself as a witch or wizard. We’d spent more than enough that day so we passed up the chance to ride broomsticks. I did, however, like the quick photo op by the quidditch section that allows you to magically raise the broom like you’re the starting seeker.

Giant spider from the Harry Potter films

A walk through the Forbidden Forest takes you into the eerie set used for the scenes set there. Beware – you will encounter the gigantic spiders used in the scenes with Aragog and his family, but there is a bypass for those who’d rather pass this up.

Dog mannequin demonstrating patronus filming

The best doggos save Harry Potter.

One of the cooler things in this area was the statue demonstrating how some of the practical effects were used to aid in filming Harry’s stag patronus.

Woman pushing a luggage cart through the wall at Platform 9 3/4

See ya! Going to Hogwarts.

Another absolute highlight of the studio tour is Platform 9 3/4, complete with the Hogwarts Express parked along the tracks. There are several carts parked halfway through the wall so you can grab that iconic going to Hogwarts picture without waiting in the long line at the actual Kings Cross station. There are no scarf props here – or scarf throwers – though so you’ll have to bring your own and stage your own photo. If you wait in a short queue, you can also walk through some of the train cars for a peek into the compartments.

Two women drinking butterbeer at the Warner Bros Studio Tour London

If you need a break, you’ll get a chance to take one at this point in the tour. There’s a small food area that serves meals, snacks, and – most importantly – Butterbeer. We couldn’t pass up a chance to sip some while wandering the outdoor sets, so we grabbed a couple of glasses. I don’t know if it was my imagination or if it was just designed to cater to less rabidly sugar crazy European guests, but it definitely seemed a little less sweet than the Universal Studios Butterbeer that I drank so very much of when I was there.

Outside, you’ll be able to take photos in front of the Knight Bus or hop into the famous Ford Anglia or Hagrid’s motor bike. The destroyed exterior of the Potters’ house is also there in the courtyard. You can also walk through the Privet Drive set, but sadly this was one of the things we had to skip since we were running out of time and the line was long.

Woman posing on the crooked bridge set from Hogwarts

My favorite thing in the outdoor area was the crooked covered bridge used for filming some of the exterior Hogwarts scenes. You can actually take a walk through it, which was surprisingly fun since the floor really was crooked.

The Monster Book of Monsters from the Harry Potter books

The beginning of the second part of the tour, or the beginning of the end as I like to call it, focused on a lot of the props and special costumes used to bring the various magical creatures to life. The design and creative engineering the props teams used to make the movies really was incredible.

Woman posing in the Gringotts Bank lobby

It turns out my parents left me a secret fortune in Gringotts and my mom was taking me to retrieve it. Or not.

The biggest showpiece of the second part of the tour is the Gringotts Bank set. This was only opened to visitors in the spring of 2019, so we felt super lucky to get a chance to see it. The amount of detail in the lobby really is incredible.

Lestrange vault set on the Harry Potter Studio Tour

Once you wander through the lobby, you can see some of the vaults. Bellatrix’s vault is recreated with Harry, Hermione, and Ron in side as the cups start to multiply. Nearby, you can see how the many, many, many cups were created.

Woman posing in a recreation of the Lestrange vault

There’s also a photo op spot where you can pose for a picture in a fake vault. Annoyingly, though it has a pedestal saying that you should set your camera on it to line up the shot just right, it’s too narrow to actually set a camera on, so I had to fumble through the rarely-used settings on my phone to get the self timer turned on.

Once you’re through the vault scenes, you get to see a pretty impressive recreation of Gringotts post-destruction, including a visit from the dragon.

Woman posing in front of Ollivanders in Diagon Alley

The last major set you get to walk through is Diagon Alley, complete with many of the famous storefronts you’ll recognize from the books and movies. Fred and George’s store, and Ollivanders were my favorites.

Scale model of Hogwarts used for filming

The grand finale of the Harry Potter studio tour is the massive Hogwarts model that was used for most of the exterior shots in the movies. I’d seen pictures of it before, but never realized just how big it was. The scale in those shots – and mine too – just doesn’t do it justice. Because the movies started filming before the series was complete, the model artists had to recreate and add on to parts of it as details were expanded in each subsequent novel.

The WB Harry Potter Studio Tour shop

Once you finish the tour, you – of course – exit through the gift shop. There are tons of shirts, scarves, costumes, wands, and more there. You can outfit yourself from head to toe in your favorite Hogwarts house merchandise. There’s even some pricy jewelry you can browse – but there’s also some cheap costume jewelry too that’s more my speed.

I passed most of the merchandise because I already have way too much Harry Potter stuff and it’s hard for me to buy it at places like the studio tour or Universal Studios when I know I can get similar stuff for half the price at home. For my money, I’d rather shop ahead of time for a lot more affordable merchandise. Hot Topic has long been my go-to for Harry Potter merchandise, but Target , Kohls , and Amazon also have loads of products. I did, however, spring for a custom engraved keychain made to look like my Hogwarts letter.

Food at the Harry Potter Studio Tour

Candles suspended from the ceiling at the Warner Bros studio tour food court

Just like the Great Hall!

In addition to the food stop I mentioned in the middle of the studio tour, there is a larger quick service restaurant outside the entrance to the tour (you do still need a ticket to get in, but it’s before the official beginning) that you can snack at before or after your set tour. It serves a variety of different food court style foods, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and snacks. We had the pizza from it before starting our tour and it was about what you’d expect from a food court.

Desserts at the Harry Potter Studio tour

The real star though is the sweet shop cleverly designed to look like a giant chocolate frog box. Not only was the kiosk itself really cool, but the desserts they were selling looked fantastic as well. If you’re looking for themed food at the WB studio tour, skip the food counter and grab one of the witchy themed desserts here. Some of them were directly inspired by treats mentioned in the books, but others were just thematically decorated or named takes on regular desserts – like the Forbidden Forest gateau.

Free souvenir from the WB Studio tour

You can, of course, pay extra to get a souvenir studio book, but we were more than happy with our free Harry Potter “passports” that were given out by staff members. These little booklets have spots for stamps that are located throughout the tour with locations listed. I got all the stamps, but I did have to backtrack a couple times because I’d passed the kiosks without realizing it. It’s also worth noting that the “stamps” are actually embossing rather than an ink stamp. I didn’t realize that for the first one and it didn’t come out as well as it would’ve because I didn’t apply enough pressure for it to fully appear.

Stamp booklet at Platform 9 3/4

The books also contain a golden snitch scavenger hunt with clue to find them hidden in various locations throughout the studio tour. Not that you need anything else to hold your attention while you’re there – there is more to see than we could process in an afternoon – but it could be fun for kids to hunt for and it’s an extra thing to keep an eye out for.

Can you dress up in costume for the Harry Potter Studio Tour?

Most people weren’t wearing wizarding garb for our visit, but there definitely were some. I did not pack anything but a wand, but I wouldn’t have felt too awkward showing up in a robe. Costumes won’t look out of place here – and would look fantastic in the Great Hall! – but neither would plain old street clothes. I split the difference with a Gryffindor t-shirt and wand.

How to get to the Harry Potter Studio Tour

Hogwarts Express train

Sadly you can’t get to the Harry Potter studio tour on the Hogwarts Express, so you’ll have to arrange alternate transportation.

The Warner Bros Studio Tour London is actually located just a bit outside of the city in the suburb of Leavesden, so there is a decent amount of travel time required to get there. There’s free parking on site, so if you have a car driving will be a good option for you. You’ll need to show booking confirmation at the entry to the parking lot though. If you’re taking public transit, you can take the train to Watford Junction (listed as a 20 minute ride from Euston Station). There are buses that run every 20 minutes during opening times from Watford Junction to the studio tour for 3 pounds round trip. The bus segment is listed as approximately 15 minutes.

We opted to book a round trip bus ride through a company called Golden Tours . For £95, it included our tickets to the tour and pickup/drop off at a bus hub just across from Victoria Station. It was super convenient, but a lot more expensive. And we were limited in the amount of time we had on the tour. The service was definitely not worth the extra £50 pounds. There were some exhibits we skipped because the lines were too long and we wanted to make sure we got to see everything at the end. The bus ride took about an hour to get there and an hour and a half on the return trip thanks to rush hour traffic. There are no bathrooms on board the buses, so be sure to use one before boarding. There were no publicly available ones near the bus station we departed from in London either, so plan ahead if needed.

If I did it again, I’d just take a train from London and catch the bus from Watford Junction. It would’ve bought us some extra time at the tour and been cheaper. Because we had a scheduled pick up time, we had an awkward hour beforehand where we really didn’t have time to do anything and just kind of wandered around. We could’ve just hopped the train at that point and been at the studio tour before our scheduled coach time, and stayed a little longer/missed rush hour traffic on the way back to Victoria Station.

Harry Potter Studio Tour Audio Guide

Interior of Hagrid's hut set

It’s cool how they used the props and different filming techniques to make Hagrid look so much bigger.

We opted to purchase audio guides for the tour for an extra £4.95/person at the counter inside the entrance. I enjoyed the information it included, but felt that we could’ve easily done without them. There is so much signage and audio/visual material throughout the studios that the guides seemed unnecessary. If you have a whole day to explore, it would be great, but since we only had 3 hours, I had to choose between listening to the audio in a few spots or just skimming the signage to keep up with the pace we needed.

Special events at the Harry Potter studios

If you’ve got the budget for it, you can attend one of the evening special events offered at the Harry Potter studios. During the Halloween season, there is a very limited run of evenings offering a Hogwarts After Dark experience that sounds like so much fun. It includes a cocktail reception, dinner in the Great Hall (!), the studio tour complete with a lantern lit walk through the Forbidden Forest, a chance to learn wand combat from a film crew member, and a visit to a dark and spooky Diagon Alley being patrolled by Death Eaters wearing real costumes from the production. It really makes me wish I had £240 to drop on dinner.

Ice sculpture and drinks from the Yule Ball

During the Christmas season, you can attend a similar event, minus the Death Eater part. This time, the sets are all decked out for Christmas, and you can dine in the Great Hall with all the festive décor you loved from the movies. You also get to take the studio tour during the evening and have desserts at Platform 9 3/4. The night wraps up with dancing in the lobby. This event also costs £240 per person.

Of course, if you can’t spring for the Dinner in the Great Hall event, you can still enjoy the Christmas décor by buying a regular studio tour ticket during the holiday season. From mid-November through late January, several of the sets, including the Great Hall, are decorated with original Christmas props from the movies. The giant Hogwarts model is even dusted with movie-magic snow that never melts. It makes me want to come back at Christmas.

Harry Potter Studio Tour hours

Operating hours at the Harry Potter Studio Tour vary by day. Check the calendar here to see hours on the day you’re planning to visit. Tours generally start around between 9-10 am and the facility closes in the evening. It’s generally open seven days a week, but I did find some dates in November when it was closed completely.

Visiting later in the evening would be a great way to maximize your time in London since you could hit daytime museums during the day and then head out to the Warner Bros Studios when those attractions start to close.

Chocolate Frog box shaped dessert kiosk

How much do Harry Potter Studio Tour tickets cost?

2019 adult prices are £45, and are increasing to £47 for 2020. Child tickets from age 5-15 are £37 for 2019 and £38 for 2020. Tickets must be booked in advance, so be sure to select your dates ahead of time. Kids 4 and under are free.

Where to buy Harry Potter studio tour tickets

You can buy your Harry Potter studio tour tickets from the Warner Bros Studio London official website . You can also book them through third party vendors like we did. We received several offers for studio tour discounted tickets from the London Pass after we had already purchased our tickets if you’re looking for a discount – but you do have to have a London Pass to get that rate. However you choose to buy your tickets, do it as soon as possible because pre-booking is required and they can and do sell out, especially at peak tourist times.

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Harry Potter Studio Tour tips

Toobuktim · 29/07/2021 17:20

After being disappointed before the kids broke up for summer when there were no slots available till September, I’ve checked again today and they’ve opened up more times for people to visit!! So, I’ve been looking forward to this for ages and want to make the most of our visit - please can you let me know any tips to make it as fabulous as possible? We’ve gone for a 6.30pm Saturday slot and are hoping it’s not so busy then.

I don't think there is any real tips you just follow round if you see what I mean just enjoy it. The shop is pricey and the butter beer isn't that great but try it.

Hurry your kids through the shop is my top tip. Prices are extortionate. Other than that just follow the set route and have fun.

Grin

What time does it shut as that doesn’t seem very long to see it all? We were there all day, well over 6/7 hours and there was loads to see. We also went at peak time and it wasn’t super busy, I think they stagger arrivals so it doesn’t bottleneck. Definately buy a chocolate frog! Wasn’t a fan of butterbeer so share one. The every flavour beans are funny but we ended up binning them because the novelty wore off and half of them are rank 😂

Don’t take kids with you! Spend more time in the dorms. Once you’re through an area you can’t go back

Avoid the butter beer at all costs! If kids are likely to want something from the shop, get them to bring their pocket money or savings cos it's ££££. Mine wanted wands 🤑 But no tips as you just wander round and take it all in! It's a fab day out.

From memory, there are two massive indoor sections with one outside section in between. Once you go out of Indoor One, you cant go back in. So make sure you take it all in.

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First half is better than the second, spend more time there. Second half is models mainly apart from diagon alley and gringots.

Order wands online before you go!

It is great and we have just been for a second time ( well over 8 yes between visits) Butter beer was grim the first time, didn't bother the second visit Really really take your time looking and watching and talking to the staff. There aren't 100s around but they are knowledgable. The first half is better than second. It won't be heaving as the staggered starts really help with the crowds. Shame you didn't get a bit earlier as it must close about 9/10?

I’m not sure my husband or youngest would survive 8 hours of it, though I would! Unfortunately we are rather restricted by time and will be travelling down from the north during the day. I booked the last slot as I just don’t want to risk being stuck in traffic jams. We’ll have to leave first thing in the morning as well to get back home. Not sure what time the studio closes at night, but am hoping it’s around 9/9.30pm

I was there yesterday! It’s all well organised. Wear comfy shoes. Eat before you go in. My DS wanted to try butterbeer, I think if you are a fan of the films you do need to try it. It’s a fizzy butterscotch so weird but ok. It’s £6.95 but you do get to keep the cup. I had the audiobook guide but had enough of it half way round so took it off. The green screen broom flight is £20 alone plus there’s photos if you want them. The shop is massive and very expensive. Wands are £33! My DS got a few sweets. Our trip was instead of a holiday so I didn’t mind spending a bit on him. We were there just under 4 hours, numbers are still limited so it’s not too packed. It’s easy to find and plenty of free parking. Have fun!

We were there yesterday too! I wish I’d seen this thread - we bought butter beer for all. I love butterscotch flavour but the combination of frothy cream and then bubbly liquid was rank. I wish we’d all had butterbeer ice cream instead. We had a fab time. Wear a bag that you can easily access your phone from. I had a backpack and it was a faff having to keep getting my phone out and not wanting to hold it constantly. Also take a pen. We each had a passport which I wrote our names in because luckily I had a pen. And if you have little ones get them to dress up!

I don't agree with Halztangz that you can do it all in an hour - we were there for 5 hours. There's so much to see and any true Harry Potter fan will want to see everything and take it all in. If you're through in one hour then you've wasted your money and you're not a true Potterhead tbh. Also agree that you should try the butterbeer but they're quite pricey so best to get one and share but like someone else said, you do get to keep the cup. Enjoy.

It’s a great day. I went around Xmas time when they opened up. Gift shop is £££££. Butter beer is odd. We ate there and the food was ok. Ice cream was nice. This is a pic I took ..

The butterbeer ice cream is much nicer than the drink

For my sins I have been there about 15 times but luckily enough lots of press trips. Is it someone’s birthday? If it is be sure to say so. A late slot isn’t bad actually it quietens down a bit. I wouldn’t bother with the green screens lots of other good free photo ops. Deffo share the butter beer. The ice cream is nice though. A good tip is to pose against the doors in the great hall when they have closed behind you. That way it looks like you are opening them. I’ve seen lots of Instagrammers do it!

Hmm

And I loved the butterscotch 'beer' and the ice cream And bought plenty in the shop for friends kids - really good shop, I didn't even think it was expensive

Bring lots of money! We went week before last and had a good time, but we paid for the green screen broomstick ride photos, butterbeer, wands at the gift shop etc. My other advice is to engage with the staff - they did brilliantly answering my dc's questions and chatting at harry potter. You get a passport and there are stamping machines. Also there are golden snitches to spot.

We swore we wouldn’t buy anything in the gift shop and would order something from eBay instead, but we got caught up in the moment and bought all three of our kids a wand! Total waste of money.

Wear comfortable shoes and just head to the sweet section in the shop as it’s the cheapest part!

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How to Get to the Harry Potter Studio Tour from London

How to use public transportation to get to the Harry Potter Studio Tour from London

dumbledores-office-set-harry-potter-studio-tour

The set of Dumbledore’s office.

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Year Visited: 2022

Time of Year: May

The Harry Potter Studio Tour

If you’re a fan of the Harry Potter movies, visiting the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour while in London is a must.

These are the actual studios where they shot the majority of the movies (there are other filming locations you can visit throughout the UK as well!).

The Harry Potter Studios are huge, and are therefore set 20 minutes outside of central London. If you have a car, you can drive there, but it is pretty easy to get to the Harry Potter Studio tour from London using public transportation (provided the Underground line you need isn’t shut down—like it was for us…).

What’s in this Article:

How to get to the studio tour, frequently asked questions, where to buy harry potter souvenirs.

outside-of-harry-potter-studio-tour

London to Watford Junction:

To get to the Harry Potter Studio Tour from London, first take the London Underground to Euston Station.

Read more about using London public transportation .

At Euston Station you will switch from the Underground to the Overground (unless you were close enough to Euston that you walked there). You will follow the signs leading up to the National Rail service (if you need help finding where to go, just ask any of TFL [Transport for London] employees who will be at the station).

From Euston, you can get a train to Watford Junction. This is a direct train, so you will not have to get off and change trains, but it may make stops at other locations along the route. The journey can take 15 min. to an hour, depending on how many stops the train makes.

We did not travel from London Euston, as the line was shut down for maintenance. I will explain what to do if a line is shut down in a later section.

You can also get on the Overground at any of the stations along the route between Euston and Watford Junction. Euston is the most easily accessible from central London, and you can get the fastest trains here, but if you’re near another station on the route, you can get to Watford Junction from there.

Can you use your Oyster card to get to Watford Junction from London?

Yes, you can use your Oyster card on the Overground from London to Watford Junction. You will not need to purchase a rail ticket for this journey.

london-underground-tube-map

The orange double lines mark the Overground route from Euston to Watford Junction in the top left.

Watford Junction to the Studios:

Once you arrive at Watford Junction, exit the train station and cross the parking lot to bus stop 4 on the far side of the parking lot.

There are posters for the studio tour at the bus stop, so you will know you are at the right one. Chances are there will also be someone dressed as a wizard…

This bus will take you directly to the studio tour.

Do you have to pay for the shuttle to the tour?

According to the website, you do have to pay for the shuttle to the studios. However, you do not have to pay to get on the shuttle. There is simply a tip jar if you would like to leave something for your driver. You do need a valid studio tour ticket to get on the shuttle.

shuttle-bus-to-harry-potter-studio-tour

The shuttle bus from Watford Junction rail station to the studios.

The Return Journey:

Once you’re done at the tour, head back to the bus stops where you were dropped off. Keep in mind that there are multiple bus stops here, so make sure you get in the line for Watford Junction.

Then of course you can take the Overground back to London from Watford Junction.

What if the line from Euston to Watford Junction is shut down?

It happens. In fact, it happened when we were in London, over a bank holiday weekend.

TFL will periodically shut down lines for maintenance work, typically on Sundays or Bank holidays, when there isn’t the mad rush into the office (yes, even in post-2020!).

If the line you need is shut down, there will be replacement buses available to get you to your destination.

The most important thing to remember if this happens is that it will take you a lot longer to get to the studios. It took us an hour and a half to get from London to Watford Junction. So make sure to give yourself enough time.

An easy way to check your route is on the TFL app .

You can also ask at a station in London, and they will help you figure out where to go.

Harry Potter_4.jpg

To get to Watford Junction we took:

The Underground to Queen’s Park.

The Overground to Harrow & Wealdstone.

A rail replacement bus to Headstone Lane.

A second rail replacement bus to Watford Junction.

We followed this journey from the app, and asked each of the station attendants along the way to make sure we ended up in the right place.

The way back ended up being a lot easier. We got a bus at Watford Junction that went directly to Stanmore, an outlying Underground Station.

It is important to be familiar with the Underground Stations. We almost missed this bus because we didn’t recognize the name. Again, always ask the attendants, who will help you know exactly where to go.

horneater-dragon-in-harry-potter-studio-tour-lobby

The main lobby area.

Before Your Tour

When you first arrive at the Harry Potter Studio tour and pass through security, there will be a lobby with the restrooms, and the information booth.

There is a free coat check at the information booth, so you can leave anything here that you don’t want to have to carry around with you through the whole tour.

You can also get a free “passport” at the information booth. There will be stations throughout the tour where you can stamp the passport. It’s a super fun and free souvenir to take home with you, and no , it’s not just for kids! So be sure to go up to the information desk and ask for the passport!

After that you will pass into the main lobby, a large open area that will lead off to the Harry Potter tour, the gift shop, and three of the four restaurants. You can visit these either before or after your tour.

making-of-harry-potter-studio-tour-passport-book

The passport you can get stamped at different locations throughout your Harry Potter tour.

During Your Tour

At the start of the tour you wait in a long line (basically the epitome of Disney World ) until you get up to the theater where you will watch two videos and enter the Great Hall. After that, you can ramble through the tour at your own pace.

The tour showcases actual sets and costumes used for filming, as well as props/special effects and how they were made.

There are a lot of photo op stops where you can take pictures. These include on the Hogwarts Express and at Platform 9 and 3/4, so if you didn’t get a picture at King’s Cross Station, don’t fret.

There are several gift shops along the tour with specialized products, like the Christmas gift shop, so be sure to check these out before you exit the tour. The main gift shop is at the end of the Harry Potter tour.

hogwarts-express-set-at-harry-potter-studio-tour

Ron and Harry on the Hogwarts Express.

Eating on the Tour

You can eat in the main food hall either before or after your tour, but if you get hungry or thirsty during your tour of the Harry Potter Studios, you can eat at The Backlot Cafe. This cafeteria is about halfway through the tour, and there are also bathrooms available here.

Pro Tip: If you want to try a butterbeer, be sure to get one at The Backlot Cafe. This is the only place at the tour where you can get butterbeer.

See more of the Harry Potter Studio Tour in this video:

Harry potter studio tour frequently asked questions.

gringotts-bank-set-at-harry-potter-studio-tour

The set of Gringott’s Bank.

Here are answers to all the questions I had before visiting the Harry Potter Studio tour from London :

Do people dress up at the Harry Potter Studio Tour?

Yes! There are definitely people at the Harry Potter tour in full on wizarding gear.

I just chose to wear my house colors, so I could still blend in with the muggles… But I wish I had worn my Hufflepuff scarf though!

So if you want to dress up, do it! You will not be the only one.

How long do you spend at the Harry Potter tour?

We spent 2 hrs. walking through the studio tour (not counting time spent eating). You can spend longer or shorter, depending on how much you want to see.

After the initial start of the tour, you wander through at your own pace. There are a lot of photo op stops which we did not take advantage of because we didn’t want to wait in line.

You could easily fill up three hours here, plus the cafes and gift shops.

Can you start the tour early if you arrive before your time slot?

Because transportation can be unpredictable, you should give yourself plenty of time to get to the studios. We arrived about an hour before our tour was scheduled to start.

We got into the line as soon as we arrived, even though our tour didn’t start for an hour. The employee let us in the line without even checking our tour time, although we then asked if it was ok.

Apparently this is not always allowed, but it depends on how busy it is. But again, we had no trouble starting the tour early.

Can you enter the gift shop, or eat before your scheduled tour?

Yes, if you arrive before your scheduled tour, you can get something to eat while you wait. There are three food options available in the lobby area before (and after) you go on the tour.

The Hub Cafe (Starbucks)

The Chocolate Frog Cafe (desserts)

The Food Hall

The food was surprisingly good, especially the ice cream at The Chocolate Frog Cafe!

I believe that you can also enter the gift shops, although the website still says with the “current 1-way policy” that this is not possible. I did not try to enter the gift shops, since we got in line for our tour right away, even though we arrived early, but it seemed like you could go in them before the tour.

ice-cream-cone-from-chocolate-frog-at-harry-potter-studio-tour

Can you eat during the tour?

Yes, in addition to the three food options in the main lobby of the Harry Potter Studio Tour, there is The Backlot Cafe, about halfway through the tour.

Can you get Butterbeer at the Harry Potter Studio tour?

Yes, but be aware, you can only get butterbeer at The Backlot Cafe on the tour.

Is the Harry Potter Studio tour outside?

The majority of the Harry Potter Studio tour is inside, but there are a few things to see outside.

Just after the Backlot Cafe, there is an outdoor courtyard you have to walk through to get to the rest of the tour. You will see a few more sets in this courtyard, including the Knight Bus, the Hogwarts Bridge, and Number 4 Privet Drive.

If you don’t want to stay outside (if it’s pouring rain or freezing cold), you can quickly walk through the courtyard to continue on your way.

Can you sit under the enchanted ceiling?

If you look at the Harry Potter Studio tour website, there is a picture of the enchanted ceiling with floating candles at the main food hall.

This is only open for the afternoon tea, so if you are just eating at The Food Hall, you do not get to sit under the ceiling.

enchanted-ceiling-at-harry-potter-studio-tour

Do you need a tour ticket to do the afternoon tea?

Yes, unfortunately you cannot come to the Harry Potter Studios in London just for the afternoon tea, or even just to shop in the gift shop. They consider all of these things to be part of the experience, and thus you need an actual tour ticket to get in to the building. Then you will also need an additional ticket for the afternoon tea.

Does it cost money to check your coats?

No, you can check your coats and bags for free at the information desk when you first walk in! So be sure to take advantage of this.

Are the passports just for kids?

No! Pick up a FREE souvenir “passport” at the information desk when you first walk in. This is a fun activity, and it is not just for kids (although sometimes you will have to wait a while for your stamp, because children do not understand the concept of lines, and as a 30 year old it is apparently frowned upon to shove the 10 year olds out of the way, even if you were there first…).

stamp-in-the-passport-at-harry-potter-studio-tour

The stamps in the studio tour passport.

Where to Get Harry Potter Souvenirs

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The Shop That Must Not Be Named, in the York Shambles.

There are so many places to get Harry Potter souvenirs throughout the UK, that I wasn’t sure if I should buy something at the studio tour, or wait until I went to the gift shop at King’s Cross Station (where it might be cheaper, orrr they might not have it!) , or wait until I got to the Shambles in York, where it would just be so much cooler to buy a wand!

So to help you decide, I’m reviewing the shops at the studio tour, as well as listing out ALL of the other locations I found where you can buy HP souvenirs, and if they’re worth waiting for.

P.S. There are more HP shops than the ones listed here. You can literally find one everywhere you turn.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour

The Harry Potter Studio tour is actually the best place to buy Harry Potter souvenirs in the UK. Their shops are definitely the most extensive, plus they are all themed. You can buy candy from Honeydukes, or a wand from Olivander’s.

I chose not to buy anything at the gift shops here, because I wanted to buy souvenirs from the Shambles (AKA the real life Diagon Alley—pictured above!), but I ended up regretting that decision. This is really the best place to buy souvenirs. They have an insane amount of variety, whereas all the other Harry Potter gift shops are fairly small.

Be sure to spend some time browsing around the shops at the studio tour.

Heathrow Airport

When you first arrive in London at Heathrow, you can visit the Harry Potter gift shop in terminal 5.

Please note: We arrived at terminal 2, and did not travel to terminal 5. You might need to go out of your way to visit this shop.

Platform 9 3/4

There is a Harry Potter themed gift shop at King’s Cross Station, the site of Platform 9 3/4. There is also a photo op of Platform 9 3/4, but it is not on the actual train platforms (otherwise, you would need a ticket). Look for it in back of the main rail station lobby.

The York Shambles

The Shambles are arguably the coolest street in England. They definitely have a Diagon Alley vibe, which I think makes it the perfect place to buy a wand.

There are several Harry Potter themed gift shops here, the largest one being The Shop That Must Not Be Named . Keep in mind that, even though it is a larger shop, there are still a lot of things you can find at the studios that you can’t find here.

The Jacobite Steam Train

If you choose to ride the Jacobite Steam Train in Scotland someone will come push the souvenir cart around so you “get something off the trolley.”

Of course they do not have a lot of options, as it is just a little cart, but you can get some unique steam train (Hogwarts Express) themed items here.

This is where the steam train stops off at, before returning to Fort William. We found a fun little shop here, hidden away down a secret alley.

Again, it was mostly the same things you will find at other gift shops, and because it is a smaller shop, the selection will be slimmer. It is fun, however, to find secret hidden shops that make buying Harry Potter souvenirs more special.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

You can visit the Glenfinnan Viaduct to watch the steam train go by! And then of course, you can find buy Harry Potter souvenirs in their visitor center.

This is not strictly a Harry Potter shop though, and the selection is small. But you will find more Hogwarts Express themed merchandise, if you are not able to go on the actual train.

Literally Every Street in Edinburgh

Everywhere you go in Edinburgh, you will find stores advertising the “birthplace of Harry Potter.” It’s all the same merchandise, so there’s no need to wait to find something better somewhere else, if you do find something you want.

Conclusion:

After traversing the UK in search of all things Harry Potter, I would conclude that the best place to buy souvenirs really is at the Harry Potter Studio tour in London. So go ahead and consider this permission to blow all your vacation fund at their gift shops.

However, it is especially fun to buy Harry Potter souvenirs from Diagon Alley (the York Shambles) and the Hogwart’s Express (the Jacobite Steam Train).

But if you find something special, buy it at the studio. You can always buy chocolate frogs and every flavor beans at any Harry Potter shop you come to, but you might not find the same merchandise that they have at the large studio stores.

set-of-diagon-alley-harry-potter-studio-tour

The set of Diagon Alley.

Any more questions?

Don’t hesitate to email me or comment below with any other questions you may have about visiting the Harry Potter Studio tour.

Planning a trip to London?

Be sure to save one of the pins below for future reference:

Harry Potter Studio 1.png

You might also like:

Harry Potter Places to Visit in the UK

The Beginner’s Guide to London

Transportation in London: The Beginner’s Guide

How to Get to Warwick Castle from London

Lord of the Rings Places to See Around the World

What to Read & Watch Before Going to the UK

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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!

Harry Potter London tips

🔎 Table of Contents

1. Book your tickets in advance

Entrance of Harry Potter Studios London

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

Castle Harry Potter studios

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

Entrance of the great hall Harry Potter 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

Shuttle for Harry Potter Studios in 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)

Carpark at Harry Potter studios

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

Platform 9 34 at Harry Potter Studios London

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!

Gringotts Bank of Harry Potter Studios London

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!

Clothes at Harry Potter studios

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!

Knight Bus in Harry Potter Studios London

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

Diagon Alley at Harry Potter Studios London

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!

Passport at Harry Potter Studios London

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

Harry Potter Studios London

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

Food at Harry Potter Studios London

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

Butterbeer at Harry Potter Studios London

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

Green screen at Harry Potter studios

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

Digital Guide at Harry Potter studios

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

Cloakroom at Harry Potter studios

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

Movies at Harry Potter Studios London

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

Candy shop at Harry Potter Studios London

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

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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

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  1. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

    Discover the magic of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London! Explore authentic sets, props, and costumes from the Harry Potter films. Book now for an unforgettable experience.

  2. A Complete Harry Potter Studio Tour London Review (+8 Top Tips)

    There is no age restriction at the Harry Potter Studio tour. We mentioned briefly above, however, that children under 4 are free because the tour isn't really suited to young children. Firstly, it is best if they have a slight concept at least of Harry Potter. Secondly, there is a lot of walking involved.

  3. Ultimate Guide to Harry Potter World in London (Studio Tour)

    By Public Transport. The closest train station to the Harry Potter Studios is Watford Junction. You can very easily get a train here from London Euston. Once you get to Watford, there's a shuttle bus service right outside the station that takes you to and from the studios. This costs £2.50 for a return and £2 for single.

  4. The Ultimate Guide to Warner Bros Studio Tour London

    For budget-conscious backpackers (like me) or large families with crying children, setting a budget beforehand is a must. 5. Grab yourself a free Warner Bros Studio Tour London passport. At some point during the tour, you might notice children getting awesome embossed stamps on a Harry Potter passport.

  5. How to get cheap Harry Potter Studio tour tickets

    Best Harry Potter Studio ticket deals at a glance. Two-night hotel break with breakfast and Harry Potter Studio ticket, from £58 per night. Harry Potter studio tour with London transfer, £114 £ ...

  6. Harry Potter Studio Tour: Complete Visitor's Guide

    The Harry Potter Studio Tour is hosted in the actual warehouses where all eight films were shot, across two soundstages. Warner Brothers made a strategic decision to purchase the site in the outskirts of Watford and invested £100 million to create the exhibition, which has been open to the public since 2012, marking over a decade of operation.

  7. 10 Top Tips for Harry Potter Studio Tour London

    4. Allow at least 5 hours to visit the Harry Potter studio tour. The Warner Bros Studio Tour London website states that the 'average visit lasts approximately three and a half hours', however, we spent five hours at the Harry Potter studio tour and could have easily spent longer finding out all about Harry's story.

  8. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

    Harry Potter. / 51.69040; -0.41805. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter is a walk-through exhibition and studio tour in Leavesden, Hertfordshire, England, owned by Warner Bros. and operated by their Studio Tours division. It is located within Warner Bros. Studios, Leavesden, in Watford, in southwest Hertfordshire, and ...

  9. Official home of Harry Potter & Fantastic Beasts.

    Located at the Studios where all 8 films were produced, the Studio Tour showcases the British talent, imagination and artistry that went into making the impossible a reality on screen. Visitors will relive the magic through the eyes of the filmmakers who brought the Harry Potter film series to life.

  10. A Complete Guide to London's Harry Potter Studio Tour

    From Watford Junction it's easy to find the shuttle bus to the Studio Tour site - they're Harry Potter-branded and have their own bus stop and signage. The bus costs £2.50 per person, but the ticket is also valid for your return trip, so keep it safe during the day.

  11. 9 Tips for Visiting London's Harry Potter Studio Tour

    The Harry Potter Studio Tour in London is popular with movie fans worldwide - a whole generation has grown up with the wizard in the wonky glasses, and what better way to solidify your fan status than by exploring the sets, costumes and props that made the movies so incredible. The making of Harry Potter is a fascinating thing to learn about; there were so many small details behind it and ...

  12. Harry Potter Studio Tour London: 12 Top Tips for "Grown-Ups"

    The Harry Potter Studio Tour on the outskirts of London is a truly magical place for children and adults alike. Whether you're a Harry Potter super-fan (or Potterhead to coin the correct term), a parent, a friend or a partner of someone with a Potter obsession (e.g. Matt), there is something of interest for you all. If though you're wondering whether you might be a bit too old for a visit ...

  13. Help! Harry Potter Studio Tickets are Sold Out for my London Trip Dates

    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. buy from golden tours. 2. Keep Checking the Official Harry Potter Studio Tickets Website. Occasionally visitors need to change their tickets.

  14. Accessible Guide to Warner Bros Studios London: Harry Potter Studio Tour

    The Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London is open from Monday to Sunday, with varying opening times depending on the day of the week and the time of year. During the peak tourist season, from April to October, the studio tour is typically open from 9:00am to 6:00pm, with last admission at 4:00pm.

  15. Visiting the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London: What ...

    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.

  16. Harry Potter Studio: Fully Guided Tour

    Prepare your magic wands and experience the only fully guided tour of Warner Bros. Studio London - The Making of Harry Potter. See your favourite sets, props, and costumes from all eight Harry Potter films and learn behind-the-scenes secrets from your official studio tour guide. Ask all the questions you like within a small group of 15 people ...

  17. A Magical Planning Guide for the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London

    The Harry Potter Studio Tour is located just outside London and is an absolute must-visit for any fan of the books and/or movies. Though it's a bit pricy, the experience is incredible and getting to walk through the actual sets used for filming scenes in the Great Hall, Gringotts lobby, and other famous locations is - pardon the pun - magical.

  18. Harry Potter Studio Tour tips

    Harry Potter Studio Tour tips 104 replies Toobuktim · 29/07/2021 17:20 After being disappointed before the kids broke up for summer when there were no slots available till September, I've checked again today and they've opened up more times for people to visit!! ... Quote. Thanks. Add post. Share. Report. Advertisement Mrsjayy · 29/07 ...

  19. How to visit Warner Bros. Studio Tour

    Warner Bros. Studio Tour - London is one of the city's most popular attractions: a tour of the studio where all eight Harry Potter films were produced. Step onto authentic sets including the Great Hall, Diagon Alley and the Forbidden Forest; see iconic Harry Potter costumes and props; and uncover the magic behind the films' spellbinding ...

  20. How to Get to the Harry Potter Studio Tour from London

    To get to the Harry Potter Studio Tour from London, first take the London Underground to Euston Station. Read more about using London public transportation. At Euston Station you will switch from the Underground to the Overground (unless you were close enough to Euston that you walked there). You will follow the signs leading up to the National ...

  21. 20 Tips for visiting the Harry Potter Studios in London

    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 ...

  22. Harry Potter London Tours at The Warner Bros Studio 2024

    Bros Studio Tour London is an absolute must! Giving visitors a priceless peek into the making of the popular film series, the Harry Potter Studio Tour London is full of authentic sets such as the Great Hall, original props, incredible animatronics and special effects. Come with us to Leavesden and experience the Gringotts' Bank set where you ...