Dive head first into the wizarding world with these top things to do in London for Harry Potter fans. Explore behind-the-scenes magic at the Warner Bros. Studio, mix potions at a class, tour the filming locations in a classic black cab, or sit back and watch Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the iconic Palace Theatre. From uncovering set inspirations on a walking tour to visiting the House of MinaLima for visuals, here’s our guide to the top things to do in London for Harry Potter fans.
(WA= Wheelchair Accessible)
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Go behind the scenes of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio
Delve into the magical world of Harry Potter on this immersive Warner Bros. Studio Tour. See the fascinating behind-the-scenes secrets of the iconic film series as you get up close to the real-life sets, costumes and props used in the movies. Sip on creamy butter beer and immerse yourself in the wizarding world, getting an up-close look at the incredible craftsmanship that brought the beloved stories to life. From the Great Hall and the Hogwarts Express to Diagon Alley and more, this tour takes Potter fans through the artistry and imagination that made the Harry Potter series a global phenomenon.
Heads up on this one, tickets for the studio can sell out months in advance these days, so don’t sleep on booking your tour ASAP.
Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour | Victoria
Image Courtesy of The Wands and Wizard Exploratorium
Try your hand at mixing potion cocktails
Channel your inner witch or wizard at this enchanting potion-making cocktail class at The Wands & Wizard Exploratorium on Greek Street in Soho. You’ll get to step into the mystical realms of molecular mixology while embracing the nostalgia that will undoubtedly surface. You’ll be armed with a magic wand and guided by expert mixologists as you craft your first cocktail from a unicorn’s mouth before brewing two more potions, choosing carefully which traits and effects you want to mix. You’ll also be able to purchase more drinks should you want more.
If you’ve got the children with you, the Exploratorium also has a fun child-friendly Wizard afternoon tea.
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Tour iconic sites from the HP films in a classic black cab
Enjoy a magical adventure through the city streets in true London fashion on this Harry Potter tour in a classic black cab. You’ll be guided through London with an expert guide in an iconic black taxi, exploring many Harry Potter filming locations. From Diagon Alley to Platform 9¾, you’ll visit the legendary sites that brought J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world to life. Listen to tales and secrets and hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about the iconic film series, all from the comfort of a private taxi.
Harry Potter film locations Tour in London | Central London | WA
Watch Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the West End
The spellbinding theatrical production, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child follows Harry, Hermione and Ron as they unravel new mysteries and discover the power of friendship. The award-winning West End Show combines world-class performances with stunning special effects and a captivating storyline to continue the story of the Boy Who Lived while bringing the magic of Hogwarts to life. It takes place inside the renowned red-bricked Palace Theatre, a beautiful old building with its own Hogwarts-esque feel. It’s also worth noting that the play happens in two parts, and ticket buyers can choose to see both parts of the play in one day as a matinee or evening, or on two consecutive evenings.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child | Soho | WA
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Tour the movie locations on this tour for muggles
The city has a trove of magical Harry Potter movie locations for fans to explore, and one of the best ways to do so is by joining a group of fellow muggles on a walking tour of the city. On this Tour for Muggles, you’ll discover the real-life inspirations behind iconic sets like Diagon Alley, the Leaky Cauldron, and the Ministry of Magic. Led by an expert guide, delve into the fascinating world of Potter and gain insights into the intricate film-making process. Explore renowned sites like the historic Clink prison, The Golden Hinde, and Westminster Station and experience walking across the famous ‘Wobbly Bridge’ (Millennium Bridge) while taking in the grandeur of St. Paul’s Cathedral, an iconic symbol of London. The tours are kept to a maximum of 15 people for an intimate insight into the city’s past and the fascinating connections to the world of Harry Potter.
Tour for Muggles | Leadenhall Market | WA
Image Courtesy of MinaLima
Get an up-close look at Harry Potter designs and graphics at the House of MinaLima
House of MinaLima is a gallery and store in the heart of Soho where you can step into the mind of graphic designers Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima, who played a vital role in shaping the visual style of the Harry Potter films. 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 to take back home. A handful of eye-catching prints are also available to buy on the shop’s first and lower levels. From enchanting scenes from the world of Harry Potter to stunning graphic designs showcased in the films, these prints give you a chance to have a physical representation of the magic and creativity of the series.
House of MinaLima | Soho | WA (Ground Floor Only)
Image Courtesy of Enigma Quests
See if you can crack this magic-themed escape room
The School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is a magic-themed escape room in East London where you’ll race against time to pass your final exams in a fantasy setting. With 60 minutes on the clock, you’ll face challenging puzzles covering various topics as you strive to achieve the “outstanding” grade. Put your magical knowledge to the test with six subjects, including Potions, Defence Against the Dark Arts, Charms and more, working together with your team to overcome each challenge using communication, intelligence, and creativity. Whether you’re a team of two or five, this immersive experience will put your wizarding skills to the ultimate test.
The School of Witchcraft and Wizardry | Shoreditch
Image Courtesy of Georgian House Hotel via Expedia
Stay in a wizard chamber at the Georgian House Hotel
Last on our list of the top things to do in London for Harry Potter fans is a stay at the Georgian House Hotel in Pimlico. This hotel houses two extra special rooms, including The Wizard Chamber, which can be found hidden on the lower ground floor of the 19th-century hotel. You’ll be met with a portrait-lined passageway lit by the flicker of candlelight, created to emulate a mysterious, gothic-style feel. Each chamber has faux castle details like archways, trunks, cauldrons in the fireplace, epic four-poster beds and stained glass windows. The Enchanted Chambers have a similar feel but are a little smaller, found behind a bookcase door reachable down another candlelit, portrait-lined passageway. Pair your stay with their Wizard Afternoon Tea, where you can snack on sweet and savoury treats alongside bottomless bubbles.
Georgian House Hotel | Pimlico
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