Explore the Magic of London: 30+ Must-Visit Harry Potter Sites & Activities

Harry Potter fans visiting London have many exciting events and places to explore, as many of the locations and inspirations for the Harry Potter series can be found in and around the city. Here are some notable Harry Potter-related events and places in London.

Main Attractions

1. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Watch the two-part play “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” at the Palace Theatre in London. It’s the official eighth story in the Harry Potter series. Join Harry, Ron, and Hermione on a thrilling (new) adventure at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Prepare for spectacular spells, time travel, and an epic battle against mysterious forces. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind theatrical experience in London’s West End.

The play, which consists of two parts, offers flexibility for ticket buyers. You can enjoy both parts daily as a matinee or an evening performance. Alternatively, you can watch the play two consecutive evenings, allowing for a more immersive and extended theatrical experience.

2. Warner Bros. Studio Tour

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter, situated just outside London in Leavesden, is a must-visit for avid Harry Potter enthusiasts. This immersive tour offers a comprehensive and captivating glimpse into the intricate process behind creating Harry Potter films. Visitors can explore various facets of the movie-making journey, including meticulously crafted sets, costumes, intricate props, and impressive special effects.

Embark on a truly magical expedition, commencing with Harry’s modest cupboard under the stairs. As you continue your exploration, you will be transported to iconic and awe-inspiring locations such as the majestic Great Hall, the bustling streets of Diagon Alley, and even the seemingly ordinary yet extraordinary Privet Drive. It is an enthralling experience that enables fans to delve deep into the enchanting world of Harry Potter while gaining invaluable insight into the realm of the film industry.

There’s also a 7.5-hour tour available directly from King’s Cross, including transportation to the studios at Leavesden and four hours at the studio.

Harry Potter shops

Here are some Harry Potter merchandise stores in London.

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

Visitors can explore the film sets and shop for exclusive merchandise in various shops at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour.

During your visit to the Studio Tour Shops, you will have the opportunity to explore the enchanting world of Harry Potter and indulge in a delightful shopping experience. Immerse yourself in the magic as you browse three unique shops: The Studio Shop, The Forbidden Forest Shop, and Railway Shop.

Each shop has its distinct speciality and offers exclusive items. You can discover a wide range of replica wands and collectables at The Studio Shop. On the other hand, the Railway Shop showcases a delightful selection of homeware and gifts. For those seeking seasonal and exclusive items, head to The Forbidden Forest Shop. Here, you can find an array of shirts, toys, and other magical merchandise. It’s important to note that access to these incredible shops is exclusive to ticket holders.

4. The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾

Opened on December 14, 2012, the Harry Potter Shop in London was the first of its kind to open worldwide, apart from the shops at theme parks and attractions. The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ is at King’s Cross Station.

The collection at the Harry Potter Shop is meticulously categorised according to various themes, ensuring that fans can find precisely what they’re looking for. The shop offers a wide range of clothing, accessories, gifts, and collectables themed around the Harry Potter series.

Explore the Harry Potter personalised gifts collection, featuring fan favourites and exclusive customisations. Choose from notebooks, house robes, trunks, and the famous Acceptance Letter, customised with your name and address.

The trolley-through-the-wall photo opportunity is outside the shop at King’s Cross Station. Professional photographers can capture your photo for you, and you can purchase your photographs in print and digital format in-store.

5. The House of MinaLima

The House of MinaLima is a gallery and store in the heart of Soho where you can step into the minds of graphic designers Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima, who played a vital role in shaping the visual style of the Harry Potter films. The studio has three floors filled with Harry Potter artwork, from handwritten letters to newspaper articles and distinct designs of picture frames.

The shop is divided into two categories: MinaLima and Wizarding World. This boutique shop and gallery showcases prints, illustrated books, and authentic props from the iconic film series, with the opportunity to purchase books and souvenirs.

With every book you purchase from MinaLima, you’ll receive an exclusive bookplate meticulously designed and hand-signed by the talented duo. It’s a unique keepsake that adds a touch of magic to your literary collection.

6. The Noble Collection

Located in Seven Dials in Covent Garden, this store provides high-quality Harry Potter collectables, including replicas from films, chess sets, wands, and jewellery. It offers a wide array of Harry Potter products that range from enchanting collectables to exquisite jewellery and cuddly plushes.

Established in 1991 in Washington D.C., The Noble Collection has found its way across the pond to the UK. The Noble Collection UK has become the official and licensed store for film merchandise, movie props, and replicas. It showcases an extensive range of collections inspired by films such as Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts, The Lord of the Rings, Star Trek, Jurassic Park, Jumanji, Batman and The Hobbit, to name a few.

Some of these items are for sale while others are there for the visitors to admire, for example, signed items from movies such as Lord Of the Rings.

7. Hamleys Toy Store

The store located on Regent Street in London boasts an expansive and enchanting Harry Potter Toys & Games section. Spanning a remarkable 3,000 square feet, this captivating section can be found on the entire basement floor of the store on Regent Street. Hamleys has a dedicated section for Harry Potter merchandise, including toys, costumes, wands, and more, with a wide range of merchandise and memorabilia.

8. House of Spells

The House of Spells is a Harry Potter-themed store located in London. It is a popular destination for Harry Potter fans and visitors. The store offers a wide range of officially licensed Harry Potter merchandise, including clothing, accessories, collectables, and other themed products.

House of Spells is known for its attention to detail in creating an immersive Harry Potter atmosphere. When you enter the store, you’ll find it decorated to resemble the world of Harry Potter, with elements that evoke scenes from the books and films. This includes wands, clothing, and other memorabilia associated with the Harry Potter universe.

9. Wizards & Wonders

Wizards and Wonders has two stores in central London, one on Strand opposite to Charing Cross train station and the one on Coventry Street between Piccadilly Circus and Leicester Square.

These stores have a good selection of Harry Potter items, such as clothing, magic wands and backpacks.

10. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child - shop at the Palace Theatre

You can watch Harry Potter and the Cursed Child live at the Palace Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue. After watching the play, you can then enter its small store of Harry Potter merchandise and souvenirs.

You can also purchase scarves, beanies, tote bags, and shirts and choose among the four Houses of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

11. Forbidden Planet

The Forbidden Planet, located just 0.2 miles away from the Palace Theatre, is a haven for enthusiasts of all things science fiction, fantasy, and film. This iconic store stands as one of the largest in the world, offering a vast collection of comic books, toys, collectables, and merchandise spanning various genres. The store also has Harry Potter-related products, especially books, although the collection mainly consists of other products. The megastore is centrally located on Shaftesbury Avenue in the heart of West End.

12. The Lego Toy Shop

You must not miss LEGO’s incredible Harry Potter Toys and Gifts collection. There is a big store on Leicester Square, which can get very busy with people exploring Legos. If you love Harry Potter and Legos, this store is a no-brainer. There are also other products, including colouring books and key rings.

You’ll also find a Harry Potter statue on Leicester Square near the Lego store.

13. Primark

The Primark store on Oxford Street is the largest in London and offers a wide range of affordable Harry Potter-themed merchandise. They have a dedicated section for Harry Potter-related items, from clothing and accessories to home goods.

14. London Heathrow Harry Potter Shop

The Heathrow Harry Potter shop in Terminal 5 is a store that sells officially licensed Wizarding World merchandise. You’ll find many items, including wands, figurines, toys, plushies, keychains, and clothing. The store’s front resembles a boutique straight out of Diagon Alley, while the interior features stars, lampposts, and Ministry of Magic wanted posters on the walls.

Accommodation

15. Georgian House Hotel

If you’re looking for an enchanting experience, look no further than the Georgian House Hotel in Pimlico. There are several options for staying in a magical setting with Family Wizard Chambers for up to 4 to 6 people. These rooms have bunk beds for the kids and a lovely interior relevant to the magical theme. There’s a candlelit passageway with portraits on the way to the rooms. Inside the rooms, you’ll find stained glass windows, stone walls, cauldrons and curious artefacts to provide the perfect experience.

There’s also the Double Enchanted Chamber for two when travelling without kids. These rooms are hidden behind a bookcase door, and once you find them, you can enjoy similar interiors matching the magical chamber feel.

In addition to the rooms, the hotel also serves a Wizard Afternoon Tea with three courses of sweet and savoury delights and an enchanting drink list for children and adults.

Experiences

16. Afternoon tea at Warner Bros. Studio tour London

The Warner Bros. Studio tour offers insight into making the Harry Potter movies and a delightful afternoon tea experience with a 90-minute time slot. Indulge in exclusive dining, a selection of loose-leaf tea, coffee, and savoury and sweet treats served in Hedwig’s cage. The three-tiered presentation includes finger sandwiches, pastries, sweet treats, and jam and clotted cream scones. The afternoon tea is available to ticket holders of the Studio Tour only.

17. Wizard Afternoon Tea at Georgian House Hotel

We already mentioned the Georgian House Hotel in the accommodation section, and we still want to highlight it here to the Wizard Afternoon Tea, a delightful experience the hotel offers. Indulge in savoury treats, delightful desserts, and freshly baked scones. There are several wizard drinks available on the menu. Are you tempted to try a Basilisk Blood or a Serpents Venom drink? How about Ghoulish Gin? You can also upgrade to include unlimited Prosecco for £20 per wizard. There’s also a Vegan menu option available. The afternoon tea is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm.

18. The Wands & Wizards Exploratorium

The Wands & Wizard Exploratorium, on Greek Street in Soho, offers several types of experiences. It is a 5-storey Soho townhouse which is decorated to match the theme. With a blend of technology and illusion, the Wizard Exploratorium offers a captivating and educational journey into the mystical realm of magic.

19. Afternoon Tea

The Wizard Exploratorium afternoon tea is a magical experience of riddles, wand-wielding, and interactive tea brewing. It’s not officially Harry Potter-themed, but draws inspiration from fantasy worlds. The tea includes access to the wizard parlour, magical teas to brew, a rented wand, and delightful treats on a Dragon Egg tea stand. Prices range from £32 to £42 per person, and bookings are available every day of the week. Ticket times vary based on the day. Booking is recommended for this immersive and enchanting experience.

20. The Magic Wand Experience

Another type of experience is the Magic Wand Experience, where you’ll get to choose a magic wand of your liking and practice spell-casting. The experience takes place in Wandmaker’s Attic Workshop, where you’ll be guided by the master Wand-maker.

21. Potions Experience

Third type of experience is the Potions Experience, where you can participate in an immersive potion-making class in a magical setting using a provided magic wand to brew different potions. The potions mixed during the experience can be alcoholic or non-alcoholic. Children’s tickets are also available during the daytime from Sunday to Thursday. The experience is mainly self-guided, but there’s a potion master available should guidance be needed.

There are two locations for the Potion Making Experience. As mentioned above, one is in Soho, on Greek Street, and the other is in Dalston in northeast London. Both locations offer a similar immersive magic-filled experience where you can try out different potions you wouldn’t get elsewhere.

22. The School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

If you love Harry Potter and escape rooms, the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry escape room in Shoreditch is an excellent option. Put your magical skills to the test as you solve ingenious puzzles and pass final exams in just 60 minutes. The escape rooms are designed for teams of 3 to 5, but the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry can be done with a skilled team of 2. You have a fantastic time, whether it’s your first or hundredth escape room. A Questmaster will guide you, introduce the game, and offer hints if needed. All experience levels can enjoy the varied puzzles in the magic-themed escape room. Plenty of fantastical adventures, surprises, magical details, and immersive puzzle designs are available.

Harry Potter filming locations

23. King’s Cross Station

One of the notable filming locations for the Harry Potter series in London is at King’s Cross Station. This is the iconic spot where Harry embarks on his journey to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry by accessing Platform 9 ¾. While Platform 9 ¾ may not exist, visitors can still indulge in a range of enchanting Harry Potter experiences within the station, including The Harry Potter Shop, where various magical souvenirs can be purchased.

Additionally, there’s a photo opportunity featuring a trolley that creates the illusion of passing through the wall. Visitors can wear a Hogwarts scarf and hold a wand for added authenticity, and have their photo taken by a professional photographer.

The station also houses the filming location where Harry vanishes through the wall separating the Muggle platforms 9 and 10 and was filmed on platforms 4 and 5 in real life.

24. St. Pancras Station

While King’s Cross Station is where Harry Potter and his schoolmates board the Hogwarts Express, it’s interesting to note that the exterior seen in the films is actually that of St Pancras Station, which adds to the enchanting atmosphere of the experience.

St Pancras, located adjacent to Kings Cross Station, is an extraordinary high-speed railway terminus that offers seamless transportation to various destinations, including Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. The station’s remarkable architecture, with its intricate detailing and grandeur, adds a touch of enchantment to the scene, making it a perfect choice for exterior shots portraying Kings Cross Station in movies and television.

25. St Pancras Renaissance Hotel

The St Pancras Renaissance Hotel is a magnificent Victorian building in London, known for its stunning architecture and rich history. It is famously associated with the scene in which Ron Weasley flies his enchanted Ford Anglia to the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. This is the iconic moment when Harry and Ron, eagerly heading to Platform 9 ¾, encounter an unexpected obstacle. Their path to board the Hogwarts Express is blocked, leaving them in a state of panic. But Ron, fuelled by desperation, hatches a daring plan. He seizes the opportunity to fly his father’s beloved blue Ford Anglia to find the elusive magical train.

In the movie adaptation, the filmmakers chose the majestic St Pancras Renaissance Hotel as the entrance to King’s Cross Station. Arthur Weasley’s car parked just outside added a touch of enchantment to the already magical setting. As the Ford Anglia takes flight, it soars over the magnificent St Pancras Hotel, capturing the attention of the unsuspecting Muggle world. The daring escapade becomes front-page news, causing quite a stir.

The hotel also graced the screen as King’s Cross Station, a familiar and beloved location for fans of the magical world.

26. Leadenhall Market

Many of the Diagon Alley scenes in the Harry Potter world were brought to life at the Warner Bros. Studio. One of these remarkable spots is the Leadenhall Market, a charming covered market in the heart of London that traces its roots back to the 14th century.

This beautiful Victorian market in the City of London inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. Leadenhall Market is a delightful destination characterised by its covered Victorian walkways and picturesque shopfronts, many of which were featured as the exterior shots of Diagon Alley.

As you explore the Leadenhall Market, keep an eye out for the Bulls Head passage, where you’ll find an optician’s shop. This location was the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron London in the iconic Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone movie. Imagine walking through the same magical doorway that led Harry Potter into a world of wizardry and adventure.

27. London Zoo Reptile House

One of the most iconic Harry Potter moments occurred at the London Zoo. In November 2001, the Reptile House became the set for a famous scene with a Burmese python in the first film, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. This moment marked the first time Harry heard the python speak. Interestingly, the enclosure depicted in the scene is home to a resident black mamba.

Events

28. The Back to Hogwarts Day

The Back to Hogwarts Day celebrations at King’s Cross Station are a magical event that occurs every year on September 1st at 11 o’clock. Fans from all around gather at the station, eagerly awaiting a special one-off Hogwarts Express announcement.

The celebrations go beyond the announcement. The station comes alive with special shows, enchanting performances, and photo opportunities. The event is also usually live-streamed from King’s Cross on the Wizarding World YouTube channel.

29. Dark Arts Tour at Harry Potter Studios

If you’ve ever wanted to experience Halloween at Hogwarts and witness the scene of floating pumpkins in the Great Hall, then the Dark Arts at Harry Potter Studios Halloween Tour is a must. This annual event decorates Hogwarts for Halloween, featuring 100 unique pumpkins floating in the Great Hall, a Death Eaters procession, and a Dark Mark trail. During the tour, you can watch the Death Eaters’ menacing display and take your photo with them outside the Ministry of Magic sets. Don’t forget to grab a Harry Potter Studios passport, including a special Dark Arts Passport for Halloween, to solve riddles and find hidden gems. Get your Dark Mark stamp and start solving the puzzles. You should book your tickets early, especially for Halloween and the days leading up to it, as they tend to sell out quickly. The event takes place between September and November.

30. Hogwarts in the Snow

Hogwarts in the Snow is a magical experience! With incredible decorations, fun festivities, and snowy sets, Harry Potter Studios is a must-visit at Christmas time. Over 30 Christmas trees are outside, in the foyer, and the Great Hall. You’ll also find them in the Gryffindor Common Room and The Burrow. Explore the studios to find your favourite character costumes dressed up for Christmas. Learn about the snow-making techniques in the Harry Potter movies, and visit Diagon Alley, covered in snow. While you can’t go inside the shops, walking down this magical set is a treat. Indulge in festive foodie items offered at the cafés and restaurants. The event is available between November and January.

Tours

31. Harry Potter Walking Tour with Magical Afternoon Tea (5h)

Explore the magic of Harry Potter in London with a walking tour to over ten movie locations and places that inspired J.K. Rowling’s beloved books. The tour starts from King’s Cross station next to Platform 9¾, where you can pose in a photo next to the trolley disappearing into the wall.

From there, the tour continues to Leicester Square, where you can visit the shop that created the paper props for the films and learn about different locations in the area. The next step is to continue towards London Bridge to see Leaky Cauldron and Millennium Bridge. On the way there, you’ll see buildings that inspired the books. End your adventure with a spellbinding experience at The Wands & Wizard Exploratorium, where magical treats and tea await, and you can indulge in an enchanting afternoon tea.

32. Harry Potter Tour with a Magical Potion Class (5h)

This tour is similar to the one above, with the difference that instead of Afternoon Tea, you get to participate in a Magical Potion Class, where you’ll learn to mix potions and put your wizarding skills to the test.

33. Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour (2.5h)

This tour starts from Minerva Square next to the Thames and close to London Bridge in Southwark. The tour visits 18 places that have inspired Harry Potter books and movies, including Shakespeare’s Globe and Knockturn Alley. Highlights include The Leaky Cauldron, Diagon Alley, and Millennium Bridge, featured in the famous Death Eater scene in “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”. During the tour, you’ll also walk past the Great Scotland Yard building and visit Trafalgar Square.

You can take the Underground or a short boat trip during the tour. Remember to have a ticket for the Underground.

This tour is also available at night. While the locations are the same, some great evening views are available when buildings along the Thames are lit. The view from the Millennium Bridge at night is gorgeous, and seeing St. Paul’s Cathedral on one end of the bridge and City skyscrapers close by is an unforgettable experience.

34. Harry Potter 3-Hour Private Walking Tour (3h)

Explore the magical world of Harry Potter on a 3-hour private walking tour in London. You’ll meet the tour guide at the Westminster Tube Station, who will take you to iconic locations such as the Ministry of Magic, Leaky Cauldron, and Diagon Alley. The tour also includes the Leadenhall Market and Millennium Footbridge, both of which have been featured in the movies. On the way, you can also admire famous landmarks, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, Big Ben, and Parliament. The tour ends at King’s Cross Station,

Don’t forget to shop for Harry Potter souvenirs along the way. The tour ends at Platform 9¾ in King’s Cross Station, and you’ll have the opportunity to buy souvenirs from the store or get your photo taken by a photographer on your way to Hogwarts.

35. Private Tour: Harry Potter film locations Tour in London (4h)

This tour differs from the tours above as you visit the Harry Potter locations in an iconic London Taxi cab. The cab will take you around London to several locations, such as the awe-inspiring Gringot’s Bank and Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross. As you journey along the River Thames, follow in Harry’s broomstick flight and uncover fascinating facts and fables about Potter and Hogwarts. The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and is perfect for private groups wanting more from their Harry Potter experience. The tour is also wheelchair accessible.

36. Magical Harry Potter Private Photo Tour

If you are interested in photography and Harry Potter, this tour is for you. Embark on a magical Harry Potter photo tour through London. Starting at Borough Market, visit iconic locations like the Leaky Cauldron, the Millennium Bridge, the London Eye, and the Ministry of Magic. The next stop will be Covent Garden and two famous alleys that inspired the creation and look of Diagon Alley. Don’t forget Shaftesbury Avenue, where the trio escaped from Bill & Fleurs wedding. The tour ends at the House of Spells in Leicester Square, which has lots of Harry Potter artefacts.

Summary

As you can see, there are many Harry Potter related places to see in London. We hope this guide makes it easier to plan your trip.