I must start out by confessing that I am a huge Harry Potter nerd! Therefore, I am naturally always on the lookout for filming locations, and any Harry Potter themed events or exhibits! Since the iconic film series is British, what better place to enjoy the magical world of Harry Potter than in London? If you’re a fan like me, or just want a fun unique itinerary in London, keep reading!
A HARRY POTTER GUIDE TO LONDON
FILMING LOCATIONS
The official filming for the Harry Potter saga was in Leavesden, but of course many scenes were filmed throughout the UK. You’ll, therefore find a few iconic locations in the London city center. Diagon Alley, which we encounter throughout the series, was actually filmed in Leadenhall Market, which is located in the City of London, near London Bridge. The market itself is beautiful, and worth seeing, even if you aren’t a Harry Potter fan. Yet another well known filming location is the Millennial Bridge, which appears in the opening scenes of Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. Cross the bridge for a breathtaking view of the city, and Saint Paul’s Cathedral at the other end!
PLATFORM 9 3/4
Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross Station is probably one of the most well known Harry Potter attractions in London. Hundreds of people queue up every day to take a picture with the trolley. If you want a photograph, make sure you arrive early to the station before the major lunch crowds. A worker will great you, and offer you a house scarf to make the picture feel more authentic! There is even a shop where you can buy all sorts of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts memorabilia! From a chocolate wand, to full school robes, the Platform 9 ¾ shop has everything you could dream of! You can also purchase your official trolley photo inside the shop.
WARNER BROS STUDIO TOUR
For all die hard fans, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour is a must! It is the original set where the series was filmed for 10 years. Once the 8th film was released, the studio became a tourist attraction for everyone to enjoy! Walk into the Great Hall, stroll through the dark forest, enjoy a cold glass of butterbeer, and marvel upon the scaled version of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. You’ll also have the chance to see authentic props, and original costumes used during all eight films. I’ve been multiple times, yet each time notice a new addition or detail that I had missed on a previous occasion!
The Warner Bros. studio is not located in the London city center, but is easy to reach via train. A train from London Euston station to Watford Junction is about 20-30 minutes, and costs around 5 pounds one way. Once at Watford Junction, a Harry Potter themed double decker bus will take you directly to the entrance of the studio. Tickets to the self-guided tour (it lasts approximately 3 ½ hours) must be purchased in advanced, and cost 43 pounds for adults, and 35 for children between 5-15.
THE CURSED CHILD
Harry Potter and The Cursed Child is one of the newer additions to the Harry Potter world. The screenplay has made headlines, and is now even on Broadway in NYC! For those who are unaware, it is the story of Harry Potter’s son, Albus Severus, and his adventures at Hogwarts. The play is divided into two parts (Part 1 & 2), and tickets must be purchased separately. I have yet to see the play because tickets sell out months beforehand! However, if you are going to be in London for several days you can try entering the weekly Friday lottery for discounted tickets to the upcoming week’s performances!
THE CAULDRON MAGICAL COCKTAIL EXPERIENCE
The Cauldron Cocktail Experience is not officially associated with Harry Potter, but nonetheless magical! The pop-up grew in popularity, and just recently opened a permanent location in East London. The cocktail experience is a 2-hour Harry Potter themed cocktail class. You’ll arrive in a dimly lit bar, where the receptionist will hand you a wand and lead you to your potions classroom in the cellar. Once at your stations, a robe will be waiting for you at your seat.
During the two hours you have the chance to create two cocktails using molecular mixology. My friend and I chose The Botanist and Bubbling Blood cocktails, which were delicious! For 30 pounds, you will receive a welcome drink, and two cocktails that you prepare during the immersive experience. It was definitely one of the best activities I’ve done in London, and I cannot recommend it enough! Keep in mind that it is quite popular, therefore I suggest you reserve a few weeks in advanced!
PRIMARK
If you want Harry Potter souvenirs without paying the hefty price tags of the official merchandise, make a stop at Primark at Tottenham Court Road. The ground floor entrance on Tottenham Court Road greats you with Hogwarts banners. Purchase anything from pajamas, to bedding, to mugs all without breaking the bank! I do highly suggest a bit of self-control however, as you most likely will not be able to pack an entire duvet set in your suitcase!
If you’re a huge fan of everything that has to do with the magical world of Harry Potter, then I definitely suggest checking a few of these off the list next time you’re in London! Even if you aren’t a crazy fan, some of these activities are sure to give you a fun, unique experience!
Safe Travels,
Vip <3
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