These tips for visiting Harry Potter Studios London will fully prepare you, so you can have the most magical day possible.
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is a dream destination for Potterheads and movie lovers alike. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another magical experience, these tips will help you make the most of your trip.
Ok so this isn’t actually a theme park like Thorpe park or Alton Towers, so it isn’t on our best theme parks in England list, but it definitely a fantastic attraction that is loved by theme park enthuasists and Potter lovers alike.
Tips for visiting Harry Potter Studios London
Planning Your Visit
1. Book Your Tickets in Advance
Tickets for the studio tour sell out quickly, especially during holidays and weekends. Book your tickets several weeks (or even months) in advance to secure your preferred time slot. Tickets must be purchased online, as there are no on-the-day ticket sales at the venue.
2. Choose the Best Time to Visit
- Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.
- Early morning and late afternoon slots are usually quieter.
- Off-peak seasons (January–March and September–November) have fewer visitors, making the experience more enjoyable.
3. Check for Special Events
Throughout the year, the studio hosts special events like Dark Arts (for Halloween) and Hogwarts in the Snow (Christmas). These offer unique decorations and activities that enhance your visit.
Similar the Harry Potter world at Universal Studio Orlando and Hollywood, the seasons add a new dynamic experience to your visit.
4. Consider a Guided Tour
Some tour operators offer packages that include transport from London and guided experiences with expert commentary. This can be a great option if you want a deeper dive into the filmmaking process.
Getting To the Harry Potter Studio Tour
5. Use Public Transport for Convenience
The easiest way to reach the studios is by taking a train from London Euston to Watford Junction, then hopping on the official Harry Potter shuttle bus (approximately 15 minutes). The shuttle runs regularly and requires a small fare.
6. Driving and Parking
If you’re driving, there is free parking available at the studios. Just ensure you bring your booking confirmation as proof.
Making the Most of Your Studio Tour
7. Arrive Early
Arriving at least 30 minutes before your entry time gives you a chance to check out the gift shop, grab a coffee, and avoid any last-minute rush.
8. Take Your Time
The average visit lasts about 3-4 hours, but fans can easily spend 5+ hours exploring everything in detail. There’s no time limit once you’re inside, so don’t rush!
9. Watch the Intro Video Closely
The tour begins with a short video before unveiling the Great Hall—one of the most magical moments of the experience. Have your camera ready!
10. Interact with the Exhibits
Many exhibits allow hands-on interaction, like riding a broomstick, casting spells, and opening the door to the Chamber of Secrets—so take full advantage of these moments.
11. Explore Every Detail
Look closely at the costumes, props, and set designs—the level of craftsmanship is incredible. Hidden gems, like handwritten notes from J.K. Rowling, make the experience even more special.
Food and Drink
12. Try the Butterbeer
You can’t visit without tasting Butterbeer! Choose from the traditional frothy drink, ice cream, or even a souvenir Butterbeer mug.
13. Eat Before or After the Tour
While there’s a café on-site, prices can be high, and queues long. Consider eating before your visit or bringing snacks for a quick energy boost.
Photography & Souvenirs
14. Bring a Good Camera
Photography is allowed in most areas (except for the intro film and some staff-led sections). A good camera or smartphone will help you capture the magic.
15. Shop Smart in the Gift Store
The gift shop is massive and packed with exclusive merchandise. Some top buys include:
- House scarves and robes
- Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Beans
- Personalized Hogwarts acceptance letters
Tip: Prices can be steep, so budget accordingly!
Extra Tips for a Smooth Visit
16. Dress Comfortably
You’ll be walking a lot, so wear comfy shoes. If you want to add some flair, wear Harry Potter-themed outfits!
17. Use the Studio’s Free Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available, making it easy to share your magical moments on social media.
18. Bring a Portable Charger
Between taking photos and using maps, your phone battery might drain quickly. A power bank will keep you connected.
19. Keep an Eye Out for Hidden Details
The tour is filled with Easter eggs and fun facts about the films. Staff members are friendly and happy to share extra trivia.
20. Don’t Rush the Final Section
The tour ends at the Hogwarts model, a breathtaking miniature of the castle. Many visitors breeze through, but take your time—it’s one of the highlights of the tour!
Visiting the Harry Potter Studio Tour London is a magical experience that every fan should enjoy at least once. By planning, taking your time, and knowing what to expect, you’ll make the most of your visit. Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, the magic never fades!
Have you been to the Harry Potter Studios? Share your favorite moments in the comments below!
Helpful Resources
Travel essentials:
- We LOVE this camera for our travel photography.
- For a cheap, easy and compact camera, we use this to vlog and take photographs.
- We use this travel drone (but make sure to check drone laws in your chosen destination first).
- This is our favourite travel insurance because it covers so many activities and travel situations that could arise on longer trips but also offer year coverage.
What to pack
- No matter where we travel to, I always take these trusty hand sanitizers and a mini first aid kit.
- We love these toiletry bags (especially great for smaller bathrooms) and choose a laptop bag like this as our hand luggage.
- We keep our devices charged on long travel days with these lightweight battery packs and bring these worldwide travel adaptors on all our trips.
- I still struggle not to overpack so stick to using an expandable suitcase like these and always take my trusty luggage scales to avoid being charged at the airport.
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