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

Last Updated: February 16, 2022

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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!

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

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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 .

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!

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:

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.  

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

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!

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.

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.

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!

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:

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?!

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🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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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• News / Studio Tour

UPDATED: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London Extends Closure

by Neave Williamson · Published January 28, 2021 · Updated February 20, 2021

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is set to remain closed for longer than previously expected as a result of the latest lockdown in the United Kingdom.

The Studio Tour first closed in March 2020 and spent the majority of the year with its doors shut. It was set to reopen on February 13, but after another UK lockdown, this date has been pushed back. The new reopening date for Muggles to put in their diaries is currently March 1, although any alteration to government guidelines could mean that this date is pushed back even further. If you’ve already booked your tickets to visit the magical attraction and have any worries about your trip, the Studio has answers to all your questions in the visitor information section of its website. Bookings up to and including February 28 will be canceled, and gift tickets will be valid until March 31, 2022.

The Studio Tour isn’t alone in its struggles to reopen; the Wizarding World has been hit by the pandemic wherever you look. Restrictions have meant that performances of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child across the world have been rescheduled until later in the year (although there’s good news for Australia since the Melbourne performances are restarting in February ). The filming  of Fantastic Beasts 3 has also been affected, having been stopped and restarted multiple times, but will finally finish next week .

The Studio Tour itself has been open since March 2012, offering an extraordinary behind-the-scenes glance at how the Harry Potter movies were created, including the spells behind the settings, costumes, and props. With attractions such as the Hogwarts Express, Diagon Alley, and even special events (the current event is A Celebration of Slytherin ), the experience has always been a spellbinding place, both for British fans and global enthusiasts. Hopefully, magic can return to London soon and the Studio Tour will be able to open its doors on March 1.

Are you hoping to visit the Studio Tour soon?

UPDATE (February 16):

Due to government guidelines, the closure of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter has been pushed back again until March 15. All tickets purchased for bookings up to and including March 14 will be refunded automatically. Furthermore, all purchased gift tickets have been revalidated until March 31, 2022.

In order to prioritize refunds as the Studio Tour prepares to reopen, it has also announced changes to its ticketing.

While we prioritise refunding affected bookings, we have decided to temporarily suspend ticket sales up to 31st March 2021. This decision has been made to minimise any further disruption to bookings. Tickets are currently available to buy online for visits from 1st April [to] 30th June 2021. Tickets for the rest of the year will be made available at a later date, and we will regularly update this page with more information.

If you have purchased your tickets from a third-party company, you will need to contact them directly for a resolution. For the safety of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour staff, the Visitor Services center is closed and will not be taking phone calls. You can reach the Visitor Services center by email at [email protected].

The Studio Tour’s official website will be regularly updated with any new changes.

Neave Williamson

I've been a proud Slytherin for as long as I can remember, and love taking inspiration from the Wizarding World for short films.

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Harry Potter London - Warner Bros. Studio Tour

The making of harry potter - a first hand review - is it worth it and what is there.

Want to know what to expect on arriving at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter? This page gives you the low-down on what you will see when you arrive at the Warner Bros. Studio, tips on visiting and what facilities there are, such as places to eat, gift shops, etc.

Allow plenty of time to travel to the Studio and enough time to enjoy the huge array of sets and props to make sure you make your day a truly magical one to remember!

As a Studio Tour, you will see the real sets used in the Harry Potter films, as well as countless props and special effects.

You will spend several hours discovering how the films were made, going ‘behind the scenes’, seeing props, costumes and the amazing sets themselves.

All Things Harry Potter London & UK

New for 2024 Divination, Destiny and Dark Magic - 20 years of Prisoner of Azkaban

1 may - 4 september 2024.

Exciting new exhibits are on this year at Warner Bros Studio to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the publication of  Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban .

What's on at Harry Potter Studio in 2024?

» Book Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio tickets

» Watch You Tube video

» What's on at Harry Potter Studio in 2024

» What will I see?

» Tours to Studio

» Where is the Studio?

» How long will I need?

» Arrival at the Studios

» Facilities & eating

» Interactive opportunities

» Accessibility & children

» Entering the Studio

» The sets

» Hogwarts Express

» Outside sets

» Creature Shop

» Diagon Alley

» Set designs & artwork

» Hogwarts Castle

» Wand tribute room

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

WARNER BROS. STUDIO TOUR LONDON - THE MAKING OF HARRY POTTER TOURS DEPART FROM CENTRAL LONDON

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

Multiple choices of departure location including Victoria, Russell Square, Baker Street and Kings Cross.

Just select preferred option on booking page for full details.

Transport and Entrance Tickets:

Adult from £118, child 5-15 from £108

• Frequent bus departures daily • Entrance to the Warner Bros Studio Tour • Return luxury air-condioned bus with free Wi-Fi from Central London • Cheaper tickets available off-peak

What will I see at The Making of Harry Potter Video

What's on at The Making of Harry Potter in 2024

NEW: Divination, Destiny and Dark Magic: 1 May - 4 September 2024

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the publication of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban  Warner Bros. Studio are putting on a new feature for 2024.

The Divination Tower

Check out Professor Trelawney's Divination classroom, with its 'tea-shop' feel, the jewel-toned velvet pouffes, numerous patterned rugs and Arabian-style lanterns.

Boggarts in the classroom...

You'll also get to see for the first time, a new section of the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, complete with the Boggart wardrobe and sinister Boggart jack-in-the-box.

Ride the Knight Bus...

Plus - explore the inside of the legendary Knight Bus. Experience the bus as Harry would have: as the bus rattles, chandelier sways, beds move and London’s city streets zoom past.

Search for Scabbers...

Step foot in the Great Hall, decorated with over 100 floating candles and the Hogwarts Frog Choir, and begin your search for Scabbers. Use your Studio Tour passport to receive your ‘Mischief Managed’ stamp!

Dark Arts: 13 September - 10 November 2024

Like every Halloween, The Warner Bros. Studio knows how to deliver a thrilling exploration of all things Dark Arts.

Those famous floating pumpkins will of course make their annual appearance, over the great tables laden with the spooky feast.

As always you can follow the Dark Mark - the symbol of Lord Voldemort projected throughout the Studio Tour - mark them on your passport as you go around.

Enjoy learning wand combat with the interactive display of the wand choreographer Paul Harris (he of Order of the Phoenix through to Deathly Hallows fame).

Hogwarts in the Snow: 16 November 2024 – 19 January 2025

Planning your Christmas fun for next year? Hogwarts in the Snow will be back in 2024; hold the dates from 16 Nov 2024 - 19 Jan 2025.

The festive makeover will see the Great Hall transformed with the icy silvers of the iconic Yule Ball scenes. The Gryffindor common room will be dressed for the season and a blanket of film-making snow will cover the Forbidden Forest, Diagon Alley and the magnificent Hogwarts castle model.

What will I see at the Harry Potter Studio, London?

Featuring the original Studio sets of the critically acclaimed film franchise, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is a fan and family friendly day out not to be missed! As a self-guided walking tour, you will get the chance to wander down  Diagon Alley,  peeping into sets such as the Weasley's Joke shop, and Ollivanders. You'll get the chance to step into the actual  Great Hall,  complete with banqueting table and fireplace.

Further down on this page we describe in more detail the  sets you will see on this breathtaking Harry Potter walking tour.

While the Studio Tour is aimed primarily at fans of the Harry Potter film series, if you have an interest in special effects and film sets more generally, there would be plenty to get out of this tour.

The detail you can see in the sets and props on show is awe inspiring and the information on offer as to the process of film making is very instructive. The guides are friendly and helpful and happy to chat if you want a bit of extra information. Some of them were extras from the films themselves so have a bit of insider knowledge.

Only the beginning part of the Studio Tour is guided (although guided Harry Potter tours are available)  You will see two short films and then the guide gathers everyone at the doors of the great hall. If you're lucky (like it's your birthday!) you might even be picked to open the doors. After you step into the hall, they will explain a little about this magnificent room; following this you are free to take the rest of the tour at your own pace

Booking tickets for Warner Bros Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter

This Harry Potter attraction is always very popular. Unfortunately it is not an attraction that you can just arrive at on the day and gain entry. You will need to book your tickets in advance.

The further in advance you book your tickets the more choice of dates and times you will have. However, you may find late availability on some dates, so it is always worth checking.

You have two choices when it comes to tickets: you can book independently direct from the Warner Bros. Studio Tour website , or alternatively, you can book a combined transport and Studio entrance ticket (see banner below), which will take you from central London to the Studios in Watford. For the latter option you pay extra for the convenience per ticket.

See our page Warner Bros Studio independently by public transport for more details on how to do it on your own.

There are currently three London tour operators who will take you to the Harry Potter Studio in a luxury coach, from Victoria (or Kings Cross) in Central London, with around 4-4.5 hours Studio time.

Other tickets options are available for example:

Warner Bros. Studio Tour with Oxford in one day

Warner Bros. Studio Tour with hotel pick-up from Central London

Harry Potter walking tour + Studio

Where is Warner Bros Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter?

The Warner Bros Studio Tour is not in the centre of London, it is located just outside London. The nearest railway station from London is Watford Junction from where a dedicated shuttle (not free) runs to the studio.

For detailed information on how to find the Warner Bros. Studio please see our dedicated page  Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - visiting independently

For those visitors  staying in Central London , several tour operators offer a dedicated shuttle bus to the studios which include tickets. The tours often have better availability of studio tickets that can be sold out many weeks ahead.

How long is the Harry Potter tour?

Now the Studio has expanded even more, you should allow at least four hours for your visit. Realistically, allowing time for lunch and doing any extras such as Ride a Broomstick (which involve queuing time) many people find they can stay six hours or more.

If you have small children you will need to allow for making stops (see below facilities for children ).

Arriving at Warner Bros Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter

If coming by bus, it will take you to just a hundred metres or so from the entrance, and then you are left to walk inside independently.

There are now more queues for security; if you didn't get your tickets delivered to your home address, you will need to pick them up from the ticket machines and a box office outside, you will need to queue for this.  

You will then need to queue to go through security which includes a bag check and personal scan. If you are going on an organised tour, your arrival time will allow you about twenty minutes to queue, ready for your pre-booked entry time into the Studio itself.

Facilities and eating opportunities at Harry Potter Studios

Cafes and eating places at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

If you have any extra spare time before your tour begins, you can grab a drink in the Cafe, which also sells a range of snacks.

There are a number of cafes at the Warner Bros. Studio including The Chocolate Frog Cafe at the beginning of your tour, serving indulgent treats such as the specialty hot chocolate and ice cream.

There is also the Hub Cafe serving Starbucks drinks and snacks, and the Food Hall which includes breakfast, sandwiches and hot and cold meals, and lots from the bakery.

You can bring your own food with you but it must only be eaten in the Backlot area or outside picnic area. The Backlot Cafe is located halfway round the tour and it is here you can sample the ever-popular drink, Butterbeer!

Butterbeer is non -alcoholic and has quite a sweet froth to it, with a slight taste of butterscotch. In addition the Backlot also serves hot food – both children’s and adult’s - from a daily specials board, sandwiches and salads, snacks and hot and cold drinks.

You can choose to eat and drink inside or out, where there are nice views of the next section of the tour - the  Knight Bus, Hogwarts Bridge, Godric's Hollow and Privet Drive .

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

There are now three gift shops at the Studio Tour. There is the  Railway Shop , a train-themed souvenir shop, the  Forbidden Forest Shop  (selling Forbidden Forest related items), and the main  Studio Shop  located at the exit.

At these three you can purchase such Harry Potter merchandise as the books by J.K. Rowling, Hogwarts T-shirts and robes, house jumpers, pens, key rings, postcards, sweets, wands and cuddly toys. Prices range from around £2 for a postcard to around £20 for a cuddly toy.

In one section there is even a personalisation service - making that gift just that extra bit special.

There’s a toilet block in the car park (by the bus stop), and a bigger rest room in the lobby, plus a couple of small toilets in the first half of the tour and more toilets by the Backlot Cafe, halfway round the tour.

If you need somewhere to store any small suitcases (or coats and bags) you may have, you can do this free of charge in the lobby cloakroom. Pushchairs are also encouraged to be left here if possible due to the restricted amount of space in the Studio Tour.

There is free Wi-Fi throughout the Studio Tour - so you can share your photos as you go (see below for restrictions).

Digital guide hire and souvenir guidebook

If you wish you can hire a Digital Guide, with extra information on the Studio Tour, for around £5 from the desk in the lobby before you go in. You can also purchase a Souvenir Guidebook of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London for around £10, with behind-the-scenes secrets and beautiful photography.

Photography and video footage

The cinema areas and the green-screen areas are the only parts where you are not allowed to take photographs or video footage. Otherwise, you are free to do so in all other areas of the Studio Tour.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London encourages you to share your photos with them on social media and there are signs up around the Studio telling you how to do this.

Interactive opportunities at Harry Potter Studio including free and paid for

As well as the sets and props there are also a few interactive things you can do at the Studio. For example, at  Weasley's Burrow  there is plenty to do.

There is a  wand choreography demonstration  (free), featuring a video demonstrating correct wand moves; very popular with the kids as they see themselves perform in front of two mirrors, much like the mirror of ‘Erised.’

If you wish to  ‘ride a broomstick ’ you can pay extra (check the prices on the board beforehand), to perform in front of a green screen’, on to which a marvelous Hogwarts background is super imposed, and as a memento take home with you your choice of photograph, DVD or HD USB. This attraction is a highlight so it is best to check out the queues and make your timings accordingly. Note,  photography is not allowed in this area.

Outside you can also have your  photo taken in the original  Ford Anglia car ,  like Harry and Ron, and even wobble yourself over Hogwarts Bridge!

Throughout there are  interactive touch-screen boards  which play videos showing the cast and crew, or information about the making of the films, such as the  'Marauder's Map ' board, and around the magnificent Hogwarts Castle.

Accessibility and children

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London have done everything they can to make the Studio Tour accessible for wheelchair users. There is a lower window for ticket collection and step free access to the attraction. The Studio Tour itself, including the loos, gift shop and special effects green screen area, is completely accessible.

If you have small children or just need a break yourself, there are seats dotted around inside where they can sit and rest if needed. Fold up chairs are available for those who require one if you ask in the lobby. There are also toilets to be found around the Studio Tour.

There are some interactive things for younger ones to do but because of the nature of the Studio Tour and the amount of information on offer, it is probably most appropriate for children years eight and up.

As you hand your tickets over, if you have any children with you, they will be given a Studio Tour Passport each. In this A5 size booklet kids are able to collect stamps as they wander around the Studio Tour, and even find the Golden Snitch if they follow the clues on each page.

Entering the Studio and the Great Hall at Hogwarts

There are several 'holding rooms' before you enter the Studio itself. One you have gone through the lobby area, you queue to enter a smallish room featuring props and memories on screens of the Harry Potter films, and even Harry's cupboard under the stairs from Privet Drive - where the Story Begins...

The main cast of Harry Potter warmly welcome you to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

When you begin your tour you are guided into a large room with cinematography on the walls, and an introduction behind the original motivations for making the films. You will see interviews with the producer and the ‘discoverer’ of Harry Potter, the production consultant, and many others who were there from the beginning.

You are then guided into a cinema room, where you take your seat to watch a short film introduced by the three main actors themselves, Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint. They acknowledge all the hard work of the thousands of people who worked behind the scenes on the famous films and made them become a reality.

Step inside the Great Hall at Hogwarts School

The magic really comes alive as you step in through the doors of the Great Hall, of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As you walk down the real stone floor, you enter the vast hall, with its high ceiling and tall Gothic windows. You can see the long house tables, dressed with individual place settings, all hand created for the films. Around the edges of the hall you will see models dressed in Hogwarts robes, the great fireplace and winged beasts holding the lanterns.

At the top of the room is the high table where models of the staff stand; Dumbledore at his Owl Lectern, Professors McGonagall and Snape, in their robes, and a huge Hagrid. Here too is the famous Sorting Hat, sitting at the front, just as it did in the films. After about ten minutes you are told they have to close the doors to allow the next group to come through, but you are free to come back later if you wish.

Explore the main Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter at your leisure

You are then free to go at your leisure into the rest of the studios. There is so much to see here it is great to be able to take your time and wander at your own pace. One of the first things you see as you go in is the 'ice palace' used in the film The Goblet of Fire, for the Yule Ball.

Below we look at some of the amazing sets from the eight films you will get to see.

What sets will I see at the Harry Potter Studio London?

In the studios, large sets intermingle with smaller props, all of which took months to create.

Professor Sprout's Greenhouse

In 2022 a new permanent addition appeared at Warner Bros. Studio London: Professor Sprout's Greenhouse.

At the studio you will have the chance to step into the greenhouse and stop to pull out a potted Mandrake as part of an interactive display. 

Be enthralled by exotic and magical plants as you learn Herbology lessons with Professor Sprout.

Look out for the Venomous Tentacula hanging from the ceiling as you walk through the greenhouse.

A fantastic new addition to the much loved studio.

Gringotts Bank

Featuring the magnificent banking hall, with crystal chandeliers come face to face with the goblin bankers, peering down at you. Visit the Lestrange vault, including the Sword of Gryffindor and Helga Hufflepuff’s Cup, one of Voldemort’s Horcruxes.

Find out about our experience of the exhibition by reading our blog on the Gringotts Bank expansion .

Other top sets at the Harry Potter Studio

You will see the boys’ dormitory complete with made up beds around the central fire-burner.

Snape’s Potions room contains over 950 potions jars, as well as cauldrons ready for mixing on the table, dried herbs and even shrunken heads!

At Dumbledore’s Tower there is one of the most expensive set pieces created – the telescope – only used in a background scene. Here you can see mannequins of Dumbledore standing in his robes, and shelves and shelves of books, as well as old magical artefacts, such as the mysterious pensieve.

At the Weasley’s Burrow you can wave your hands over various boards, making them ‘magically’ start performing mundane household chores such as chopping carrots, knitting and ironing! This is popular with kids and adults alike. You can see here the Weasley magical clock with its nine golden hands, each pointing to one member of the Weasley family and their whereabouts.

Nearby is Hagrid’s hut with its quirky roof; a cosy indoor scene complete with mannequin of Hagrid, table and chairs, furs, lanterns and cauldron on the fireplace.

In the Gryffindor common room, more life size mannequins stand, Ron, Hermione and Harry, and you see the actual chairs by the fire, with real tapestries and portraits (all created from scratch for the films) and the wireless with ‘moving lips.’

Around the corner you can view the portrait of the Fat Lady, the Mirror of Erised , and the giant clock pendulum from Hogwarts Clock Tower.

If you are interested to see the individual wands for all the characters, a wand dial features all the principle ones, and you can see up close how differently they are all crafted. More than 3000 were made for the films altogether.

You will see the area with the set of the Ministry of Magic and the giant Magic is Might monument of muggles being crushed in their rightful place by the statue, from the film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Malfoy’s Manor features the long table with assembled Death Eaters, Voldemort at the head with Nagini the 20 foot long snake, slithering down underneath a suspended model of the victim in the stories.

Professor Dolores Umbridge's pink office is on show, complete with all the painted kitten plates you remember from the films.

It is in this area where the famous winged-boar gates of Hogwarts stand, (the gates are based on Il Porcellino, a bronze fountain of a boar, made in the 1630s in Florence, Italy).

They guard the entrance to The Forbidden Forest . Hagrid stands just inside the gates, you can peek through and see him holding his lantern as you wait for the gates to open - to enter if you dare!

In the Forbidden Forest you'll see 19 enormous trees each with a diameter of over 12 feet and a full size model of Buckbeak as well as the magnificent Hippogriff and Aragog the giant spider, and his rather large babies.

Following the Forbidden Forest are more famous sets: the impressive Hogwarts Express , the enchanting Diagon Alley and fabulous outside sets including the Knight Bus, No 4 Privet Drive, the Hogwarts Bridge, Lily and James's house in Godric's Hollow and the Ford Anglia car .

Hogwarts Express

Your next part of the tour takes you through to a recreation of Kings Cross Station, with its own ‘Platform 9 ¾’. Here you can pose for a photo, of yourself, pushing the model luggage trolley ‘through’ the wall, just like in the films.

The Hogwarts Express is a beautiful red steam engine, the original used in the films, and you can board it! This is a popular attraction, and there is normally a slight queue to board. Once on board, you can walk down the corridor, peering into the compartments complete with student belongings; sweet wrappers from the trolley lady, satchels and an owl cage.

Near to the train is the Railway Shop, a train-themed souvenir shop, where you can purchase Harry Potter memorabilia.

What sets are there outside at Harry Potter studios?

There is seating outside just beyond the Backlot Cafe where you are allowed to bring your own food to eat. Here you also get a nice view of the Knight Bus, the houses in Privet Drive, Hogwarts Bridge, Godric's Hollow, and further down the Ford Anglia car too!

At the Knight Bus you can go inside the back door and look inside... see Bert and Ernie - the shrunken heads!

Number 4, Privet Drive

The famous house where it all began... Step inside Number 4, Privet Drive.

See the Dursleys' living room with a flurry of Hogwarts letters from the iconic scene in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone , plus their kitchen and the Aunt Marge dinner scene from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban .

Hogwarts Bridge

The bridge itself is a highlight – you can wander along it yourself and imagine you are walking up to the famous castle.

Lily and James’ house in Godric’s Hollow

See the fated house that Harry lived in until he was one - when he was attacked by Lord Voldemort himself. You can even see the blast in the roof where the attack claimed the lives of Lily and James Potter.

Ford Anglia and chess game

Outside there is the famous large scale chess pieces from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone , and the original Ford Anglia, in which you are free to sit and have your picture taken.

The Creature Shop

After leaving the courtyard area, you enter the second part of your tour, the Creature Shop, where there are displays of the animatronics used, and waxworks of main cast.

Here you can see suspended up high the huge model of Aragog, the giant spider and the basilisk’s head.

There is also the animatronic Buckbeak, and Hagrid, masks of the Gringotts Goblins, models of Dobby and Kreacher, and a moving Monster Book of Monsters.

Diagon Alley

Following this is one of the highlights of the Studio, a walk down the actual Diagon Alley!

Entering at Gringott’s Bank with all its wonky charm; next door is Ollivanders , the famous shop where Harry gets his first wand.

Other shops include Eeylops Owl Emporium , Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream shop , Flourish and Blotts Bookseller, and very overtly in its bright colours, the Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes , Fred and George’s Joke Shop.

This is a lovely set to take photos in.

Set designs and paintings from the Harry Potter films

Leading out from Diagon Alley you go through to a room where you can see lots of drawings and blueprints of all the set designs, such as Hagrid’s Hut, the Burrow, Hogsmeade and of course Hogwarts itself.

If you like artwork there is a white gallery with lots of beautiful paintings of the characters, with notable scenes from the books.

If architecture is of interest, here you will also see amazing scaled models of all the buildings featured in the films; such as Diagon Alley, Ollivanders Wand Shop, Hogsmeade and classrooms in Hogwarts. The models themselves are highly intricate and fascinating to see.

Hogwarts Castle, the original scale model used in the films

When you enter the next room there is, in a quietly blue lit room, a very wonderful scene: Hogwarts Castle, the original large castle used for the films, resplendent on its mountain side, with pine forests surrounding.

It is a 1:24 scale model of Hogwarts; this is very large and fills a great space, allowing you to walk all the way around it. The lighting is very effective, changing through ‘day-time’ to ‘night-time,’ giving very different perspectives.

Every part was detailed so you can see the astronomy tower, the Owlery, the bridge and the courtyard as well as the Great Hall.

Around the model castle are many interactive screens – great for kids – giving information on how it was constructed and how it was used in filming.

Wand Tribute Room

Following the Castle room you exit via an impressive Wand Room, a room stacked high with thousands of pretend wand boxes. This is a lovely tribute room where each member of the cast and crew of all eight films has their name inscribed on a wand box. Appropriately, J.K. Rowling herself has a place here.

This room leads you back out to the lobby, through the gift shop where you can pick up a memento of your Harry Potter day.

And so ends your Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. A very magical day out, with masses of opportunities to learn more about the films at every corner. Like Hogwarts, it might just be somewhere you wish to return to again.

Harry Potter themed tours & activities in and around London

Tours from london including warner bros. studio tour, harry potter london hotel & ticket packages, harry potter tours within london, harry potter locations within london & oxford including platform 9 3/4.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London Announces “Return to Azkaban” For 20th Anniversary Celebration

Buckle up, witches and wizards, because the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London is brewing up a magical potion of nostalgia and delight!

This summer, from May 1st to September 4th, 2024 , they’re inviting you to “Return to Azkaban” , a brand new feature marking the 20th anniversary of the beloved film, “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” .

Get ready to step back into the wizarding world and relive iconic moments as you explore new additions and enchanting experiences .

Whether you’re a die-hard Potterhead or a curious newcomer, “Return to Azkaban” promises an unforgettable journey filled with wonder and mischief.

Immerse Yourself in the Magic

For the first time ever, the enigmatic Divination classroom throws open its doors .

Immerse yourself in the whimsical atmosphere, complete with velvet poufs, patterned rugs, and a towering 500-teacup pyramid – a testament to Professor Trelawney’s eccentric personality.

And for those craving an adrenaline rush, prepare to board the iconic Knight Bus . Experience the set come alive as it transports you on a bumpy ride through the streets of London, just like Harry’s unforgettable journey.

Explore a new section of the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom , featuring the iconic Art Nouveau-style Boggart wardrobe and the chilling Boggart jack-in-the-box. Remember, practice your “Riddikulus” charm beforehand!

Lastly, step into the majestic Great Hall, illuminated by a celestial ceiling adorned with over 100 floating candles . Be captivated by the enchanting melodies of the Hogwarts Frog Choir , and witness the rampaging Monster Book of Monsters causing chaos in Harry’s room at the Leaky Cauldron.

These interactive experiences promise to bring the magic of the film to life .

Get Your Tickets and Prepare for Spellbinding Fun

Whether you’ve committed every line of dialogue to memory or are just embarking on your Hogwarts journey, the “Return to Azkaban” exhibit offers something for everyone .

The familiar sets and props will ignite nostalgia in seasoned fans, while newcomers can witness the magic firsthand. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the world of Harry Potter with fellow enthusiasts and create lasting memories.

Learn more about your ticket options or book your tickets now ! With all new features included in the ticket price, “Return to Azkaban” promises an unforgettable summer adventure.

So, dust off your robes, practice your spells, and get ready to return to the magic at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London!

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Harry Potter Studios, London: full review of the Warner Bros Studio Tour

• Post date January 12, 2020
• Post categories In Cultural Travel , England , London

The Harry Potter Studio Tour takes you behind the scenes to see the real film sets, original costumes, Platform 9 ¾, Hogwarts Castle and so much more. And it’s not just for Harry Potter fans.

When I booked my last trip to London , my sister suggested she’d join me and we’d go to the Harry Potter Studios together, to do a tour of the sets where the Harry Potter movies were made.

Having visited the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios in LA, which was a brilliant experience, I got curious and Googled it.

I found that The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making Of Harry Potter (that’s the full name of it…) had some really amazing reviews online and it looked like a truly exciting day trip from London.

But it wasn’t until we got inside the studios that I could fully appreciate what an impressive, immersive, spectacular and fun experience it was!

The whole experience is designed so beautifully and with so much attention to detail that it really left us stunned.

Visiting the Harry Potter Studios takes a good few hours and it does take a bit of planning in advance.

In this post, I’ve gathered all the tips and advice that will help you plan your visit efficiently and added some extra tips that will help you make the most of it.

By the way, the Warner Brothers Studio Tour isn’t only for avid fans of the J.K. Rowling books or of the Harry Potter movies. Even if you only watched some of the movies or read some of the books, you will definitely have a great time at the studios.

How to get tickets to the harry potter studio

Tickets to harry potter studio may sell out for your dates, because it is such a popular attraction, so you have to buy your tickets online in advance as soon as you can.

here are your harry potter studio ticket options:

Your main options are: Just the entry ticket; ticket + transport; or ticket + transport + a guided tour.

1.  Book a ticket that includes transport to and from the studios: I think this is the most practical option, as you won’t have to plan the journey by yourself (it’s outside of London). This option doesn’t include a live guide, but you can buy an audio guide when you get to the studios.

2.  Book a fully guided tour : This option includes transport, entry tickets and a dedicated guide who will take you around the studios.

3. Get tickets for the studios without transport. You can get them from the studio tour website and I suggest you also check for current discount codes on Klook .

Tips on booking tickets to the harry potter studio

If you don’t take a guided tour, I recommend adding the audio-visual guide to your order.

Tickets to the Warner Brothers Studios are for specific time slots. That means you have to pick your time of entry when you book the ticket.

However, you can stay in the Harry Potter Studios as long as you like (that would be several hours, normally).

Demand is high in summer and during weekends. If you visit in the summer months, try to book for a weekday rather than Saturday or Sunday.

That way, you’ll stand a better chance of finding tickets at the time slots that are convenient for you.

You want to arrive about 20 minutes before your time of entry, as there might be a line and there are some security checks.

There are several other ticket packages available, I’ll give you more details about them later in this post.

Where is the harry potter studio tour?

Though the official name of the tour is The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, it is actually not in London itself, but very close to it in Leavesden (Hertfordshire, England).

It doesn’t take very long to get there from central London, and can easily make for a nice day trip from London.

How to get to the warner bros harry potter studios

The easy way to get to the Warner Brothers Studios is by joining a tour that includes transport 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 from london

Tours from London leave from central locations in the city that are easy to get to: Victoria Station or Baker Street.

Check availability here or use the calendar below.

WB studio guided tours, transport included

• Book a fully guided tour : This tour includes transport from London and back, an 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.

Tours to the harry potter studio combining other uk destinations

• With a tour in Oxford : This full-day trip includes a visit to the studios followed by a guided tour in Oxford. The Great Hall at Christ Church College in Oxford was the inspiration for the Hogwarts Great Hall.
• Dover to London & Heathrow Transfer via Warner Bros Studios : This option will help you make the most of your time in England. This tour takes you by bus directly from Dover to the Warner Bros Studios and then takes you back to your London or Heathrow hotel. The price also includes the entrance ticket to the studios.
• From York : This tour departs from York train station early in the morning and takes you to London and to the Harry Potter studio. The price includes all transportation and admission to the studio.

Getting to the WB studios by public transport

If you want to plan your own journey to the Harry Potter studios, you’ll have to take a train from London and then a bus to the studios.

When you plan the journey, you want to allow more time in case the train is delayed or the bus gets full quickly and you have to wait for the next one.

First, take a train from Euston Station in central London and get off at Watford Junction.

You can use your Oyster or contactless card for this train ride, or buy train tickets in advance here by searching for London-Watford Junction trains.

Outside the station, you’ll see the bus stop for the Harry Potter Studio Tour shuttle bus, that goes from the train station to the studios.

Prepare some cash in advance, as there’s a small charge for the bus. Also have your ticket booking confirmation ready (you can show them the email confirmation on your phone).

The train ride from London should take about 20 minutes with the express train, but if you board a local train it takes about an hour.

If you’re not sure which train to board, ask the staff at London Euston station for advice.

The shuttle bus ride should take around 15 minutes.

How to get to the harry potter studios by car

You can use postcode WD25 7LR in your satnav system to reach the studios.

The studios provide free parking (you’ll have to show your booking confirmation).

Check the official website for detailed routes from London and other parts of the UK.

What to do when you arrive at the warner bros studios

When you arrive, collect your ticket from the ticket desk. It will have your entry time printed on it.

When you collect your ticket, they’ll give you a beautifully illustrated Harry Potter passport , full of puzzles, trivia and a Golden Snitch hunt to play during the tour.

If you didn’t get a passport with your ticket, you can ask a staff member to get you one during the tour.

Then you’ll have to go through a security check and probably stand in line to get in.

I recommend you book an audio-visual guide with your ticket (unless you’re taking a guided tour of course). Pick it up at the Digital Guide desk. It’s available in 10 different languages.

If you forgot to pre-book it, you can still hire one when you arrive.

There’s a cloakroom at the Warner Bros Studios that you can use to store your bags or coats for free.

You can also have a hot chocolate at the Chocolate Frog Café 🙂

It all goes quite quickly and you’ll soon find yourself inside with a large group of people and a guide who’ll give you a short briefing.

Inside the harry potter studios

The Studio Tour starts with a short film about the making of Harry Potter. It’s a little appetizer before you actually go into the studios.

After the film, the door to the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is revealed and that’s where the spectacular Harry Potter experience really starts!

Once the door opens, you’ll find yourself in the Great Hall.

It’s a magnificent surprise and I can’t think of a better way to start a tour like this.

You’ll want to take pictures of the great costumes and the Sorting Hat, but there will be lots of people around… I waited till they were all ushered into the next room so I could take some photos 😉

You can basically stay until the staff ask you to move on, because another group is about to enter The Great Hall.

However, during the rest of the tour you’ll be completely free to explore everything at your own pace.

Highlights from the harry potter studio tour

There is  a lot  to see in the studios. You can easily spend 3-4 hours there, or even more.

Everything is presented in a way that really draws you in.

The audiovisual guide has video interviews, behind the scenes photos and much more. It is well worth getting.

I’ll give you a quick description of the highlight, without revealing too much, because you really want to experience it yourself 🙂

After The Great Hall, you’re introduced to the people behind the movies, from the costume designers to the soundtrack composers.

There are many costumes and wigs on display, as well as models and parts of the set, including the marble staircase, the boys’ dormitory, the Gryffindor common room and Dumbledore’s office.

The sets are full of fascinating details to spot.

Original props from the different movies are displayed in the middle of the room, like the golden egg and the Triwizard Cup.

The potion classroom is super entertaining, as is the Weasley family house, full of mechanical tricks.

The special effects and visual effects part of the tour is really exciting and you’ll get to try the green screen yourself.

Walking into the forbidden forest is a truly immersive experience!

A full-size Hogwarts Express train awaits you in the next room, next to Platform 9 3/4 in a recreation of King’s Cross station in London.

You can board the train and walk inside the carriages.

When you exit the train station, there are even more movie sets to discover, like the 4 Privet Drive house, the Knight Bus and the bridge to Hogwarts.

We felt like we’d seen so much! But there was still a lot more to see.

This tour keeps surprising you. It feels like at every stage there should be a “Wait! There’s More!” sign 😉

In the next rooms, we learnt about the set design and special effects, the various creatures from the movies and how they were made and lots of behind the scenes secrets.

Towards the end of the tour, expect some more beautiful highlights:

A very impressive model of Hogwarts Castle occupies an entire room and as you walk around it you can see how it was shot from different angles.

The Diagon Alley set is as wonderful as you’d expect, colourful and full of cool details.

And… there’s more, but I don’t want to reveal everything.

The harry potter studio tour shops

There are several shops in the Warner Bros Studios with plenty of gifts and souvenirs for both adults and kids.

The Studio Shop is the main shop. It’s the one you reach at the end of the tour and it is simply huge.

It offers all the official merchandise you can imagine, collectables, wants, costumes and clothing items (a Gryffindor Scarf or a Deathly Hallows scarf? tough choice), homeware, art and more.

They also have Harry Potter sweets like the irresistible Chocolate Frogs, Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans and Peppermint Toads.

There are smaller souvenir shops you’ll go through during the tour:

One is the Forbidden Forest Shop and the other is the Railway Shop , next to Platform 9¾.

Hotels near the harry potter studios

If you want to stay close to the Warner Brothers Studios for easy access, here are some good hotels in the area:

holiday inn london watford junction

This hotel has great reviews and is located only a 5 minute walk from Watford Junction railway station, where you can take the 15 minute shuttle bus to the Harry Potter Studios. If you arrive by car, it’s a quick ride.

travelodge watford central

A budget-friendly option, about 15 minutes walk from Watford Junction and about 10 minutes by car from the studios.

jurys inn london watford

Another convenient option, a very short walk to Watford Junction and a short drive to the WB Studios.

mercure london north watford hunton park

This hotel is close to the studios, but there is no direct access on foot, so it’s a good place to stay if you arrive by car or if you want to take a taxi.

My tips on the harry potter studio tour

Visiting the Harry Potter Studios is an experience that you want to prepare for. There is so much to see you might be overwhelmed!

Here are some tips I want to share after visiting myself that will help you make the most of your visit:

Book your tickets way in advance, preferably on a weekday to avoid the crowds. Check availability here:

Watch at some of the Harry Potter movies or read some of the books shortly before you go. You don’t have to read or watch the entire series to enjoy the tour, but it will make your experience much more meaningful.

When you select the time of entry , make it as early as you can, so that you have as much time as you like inside.

Allow at least 3 hours for a self-guided tour, or even four. Then, if you’re a big fan, you’ll want to spend some time in the gift shop.

You’ll want to take a lot of pictures and videos, so make sure your phone is fully charged and bring a power bank with you just in case.

On selected dates, there are special events in the Warner Bros Studios. Have a look at the official website to see if any of those coincide with the dates of your visit. These include events like Valentine’s Dinner in the Great Hall or the Christmas event Hogwarts in the Snow.

You can bring some food with you or eat at the Backlot Café. It’s about halfway through the tour. If you bring snacks with you, you can eat them at the cafe.

If you’re an avid fan, you can come in a Harry Potter outfit. I saw quite a few fans who dressed up for the tour.

save this harry potter studio tour guide on pinterest

Faq – harry potter studio tour london

The Harry Potter tour takes 3-4 hours on average.

Definitely! It’s an amazing experience, beautifully designed and very entertaining.

You can buy tickets on the official site or join a tour that includes tickets and transport.

The Harry Potter Studios are in Leavesden, Hertfordshire, north of London.

The nearest train station is Watford Junction.

Take a train from Euston Station to Watford Junction and then a shuttle bus to the Warner Brothers Studios.

No, it’s a tour around the film sets of the Harry Potter movies.

The studios opened in March 2012.

• Tags Culture , Entertainment

Thanks for sharing, I was supposed to visit earlier this year but I’ll have to get back another time, now I will be even better prepared!

I live in London and have been curious about this tour. Yes, I find it so expensive. Thanks for putting together this post with a lot of useful info.

I know the price can be an issue… Still, it’s such a great experience, it’s worth it 🙂

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

The only fully guided Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour from London featuring a professional tour guide who will share behind-the-scenes expert knowledge of the Studios. Boasting small groups of up to 8 people and an option to stay as long as you like after the tour has ended, this fully guided Harry Potter Warner Bros. studio tour from London is the best way to explore the studios. We use electronic headsets so you can clearly hear the guide and never miss any important information! Our expert travel team and will escort you to the studios. This tour is available every day departing from London Euston station.

Highlights:

• Meet your travel expert at Euston War Memorial outside of Euston Station and depart for Warner Bros Studios
• Arrive at Studios and meet your expert tour guide
• Discover the magic of Harry Potter on an expert guided tour. Highlights include the Great Hall, Platform 9 ¾, Hagrid’s Hut and much more!
• Tour includes headsets so you can clearly hear the tour guide at all times
• At the end of the tour, you can choose to stay on and reenter the studios, visit the studio shop or stop off at the cafe
• Return to London Euston Station at your convenience, with instructions provided by your travel expert
• The only full guided tour of Warner Bros. Studio from London
• Return train tickets from London Euston Station
• Small groups of less than 8 people
• Headsets so you can always hear the tour guide
• Fast track timed entrance to the studios
• Re-entrance to the studios after the guided tour has finished
• Alternatively, time to explore the souvenir shop and cafe
• Food, drink
• Gratuities (optional)

what to do if tickets are sold out?

Fully Guided Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio tours from London tend to get sold out very quickly, especially during peak season. If you are unable to find tickets for Warner Bros Studio tours then check out our dedicated help page here and fill out our Harry Potter contact form  here .

Tour Booking

Having met your travel expert at London Euston Station, you will head off via train to the Harry Potter Warner Bros studios. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by one of Warner Bros passionate tour guides and head straight into the studios with fast track entrance tickets. This fully guided Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio tour from London lasts several hours. It begins with a short introductory film after which you will enter the Great Hall. Here, your guide will explain the many secrets and behind the scenes information that went into producing the 8 Harry Potter films. Experience the films coming to life with incredibly realistic props and sets that will take you into the magical world of witches and wizards. Highlights of the studio tour include Diagon Alley, Gringotts Bank, the original Hogwarts Express and platform 9¾. Other iconic sets include Hagrid’s Hut, the Ministry of Magic and Gryffindor common room. 

At the end of the guided tour, you’ll have the option to reenter the studios and take another look at the incredible sets. Or why not visit the Harry Potter Cafe and have a sip of Butterbeer? Alternatively, head to the Harry Potter souvenir shop. At the end of your visit, you’ll head back to the London Euston Station using your return train tickets.

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