Can you recognize all Harry Potter wands? Can't stop watching the films? Read "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" three times? If you're a Muggle longing to become a witch or wizard, here are ten magical Harry Potter experiences to enjoy during your London visit. The United Kingdom might be Harry Potter country, but London is definitely its birthplace.
Harry Potter London at a Glance
- Location — London, United Kingdom
- Top Experience — Warner Brothers Studio Tour
- Free Options — House of Minalima, Free Muggle Tour
- Themed Stay — Georgian House Hotel wizard chambers
- Bus Tour — 3-hour mini coach tour of filming locations
Note: Some of these experiences may have changed or stopped since our visit. If you know of any newer Harry Potter experiences in London, share them in the comments below!
Warner Brothers Studio Tour
Students from Hogwarts have been strictly forbidden from entering the Forbidden Forest by Professor Dumbledore but now it would be your chance to find out what made the enigmatic Harry and his friends, Ron and Hermione to defy such orders, and venture deep into this mysterious and magical forest. The new and permanent expansion dedicated to the Forbidden Forest makes the "Making of Harry Potter" experience even more enchanting. Hardcore fans can easily spend the whole day gingerly walking through the hallowed and visual world of the Harry Potter. When reaching the Backlot, pick up a souvenir tankard and don’t ever miss to have a refreshing drink of the one and only non-alcoholic Butterbeer available nowhere else.
The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾
You'll need to get to Kings Cross Station and find Platform 9 ¾ in the station concourse. Board the Hogwarts Express to travel to the magical school where all the adventure began. Before boarding, visit the Harry Potter Shop to pick up souvenirs. The permanent Forbidden Forest expansion makes the Making of Harry Potter experience even more enchanting. At the Backlot, grab a souvenir tankard and enjoy a refreshing Butterbeer, available nowhere else.
Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts Graphic Art at House of Minalima
Visit the House of Minalima in London's West End, open daily from noon to 7 pm. "Behold the never before seen Fantastic Beasts Graphic Art at such close quarters" and original movie props loaned by Warner Brothers Studios. The incredible exhibition is completely free to visitors.
It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.
Lumos! The gallery changes its exhibits regularly, so check the House of Minalima website before your visit. Entry is always free.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre
The eighth Harry Potter story is the first to appear on stage at the Palace Theatre in London, presented in two parts. You can watch as a matinee and evening performance or on consecutive evenings. The show is nearly always sold out, but "The Friday Forty" releases 40 affordable tickets every Friday at 1 pm for the following week.
Guided Walking Tour
We begin outside The Palace Theatre, home to Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, just around the corner from Leicester Square underground station. The station is on the Northern and Piccadilly lines, and around a 10-minute walk from Tottenham Court Road Station and Covent Garden Station. Look for the guide holding a red umbrella.
Take a leisurely walking tour with the award-winning Tour for Muggles to learn behind-the-scenes stories about how Harry Potter captivated millions. This guided adventure is perfect for fans wanting to experience the locations Harry visited during his first train journey to Hogwarts.
The Georgian House Hotel
The Georgian House Hotel, established in 1851 and centrally located in London, connects to Harry's magical world. Sleep in either the "Wizard Chambers" or the "Enchanted Chambers" to gain insight into how Harry and his friends might have spent nights at Hogwarts.
Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.
Harry Potter Bus Tour
The Harry Potter Bus Tour is a must-take experience for fans of all ages who've read J.K. Rowling's books or watched the films. This 3-hour mini coach tour takes you to interesting London locations where Harry's adventures unfolded over the years in one comprehensive journey.
The School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Located near St. Paul's Cathedral and the Museum of London, The School of Witchcraft and Wizardry offers escape games called "Quests." Learn the intricacies of witchcraft and wizardry through these immersive experiences designed with quality, immersion, and innovation as core criteria.
Free Muggle Tour in London
Explore Harry Potter locations at Leaden Hall Market, London Zoo's Reptile House, St. Pancras, Lamber Bridge, and Millennium Bridge on a Free Muggle Tour. Download the impressive Marauder's Map completely free and explore at your own pace while enjoying snacks along the way.
Wizard Afternoon Tea at the Georgian House Hotel, Pimlico
The Georgian House Hotel doesn't just offer enchanted chambers to sleep in — their wizard afternoon tea is an experience all on its own. Think three courses of magical treats (with vegan options for plant-based sorcerers), from lightning bolt scones to beastly bakewells, served alongside a dry ice cauldron that'll make you feel like you've wandered straight into a Potions class.
The real highlight? You get to concoct your own potion under the guidance of the hotel's Head Wizard — instructions delivered via an actual scroll. Goblin goo, basilisk blood, unicorn tears… you name it, you can sample it all. And for an adorable touch, you can don a hat and wizard robes to complete the transformation.
I would visit again. The food and teas were exquisite and we were catered to include our individual needs.
