If you’re a Harry Potter fan, London is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the world of the boy who lived. From Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, there are plenty of places to experience the magic.
However, one of the best ways to get a comprehensive look at all things Harry Potter in London is by taking a tour. But which tour should you choose? Let’s take a closer look at some of the options.
The Harry Potter London Walking Tour
If you’re looking for an affordable and comprehensive walking tour, The Harry Potter London Walking Tour might be just what you need. This tour takes you through many of the filming locations throughout London, including Diagon Alley and the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron. Along with showing you where certain scenes were filmed, your guide will also share behind-the-scenes information about how some of them were made.
Pros:
- Affordable price for a walking tour
- Covers many filming locations throughout London
- Informative guide with behind-the-scenes knowledge
Cons:
- Only covers outdoor filming locations
- Not as immersive as other tours on this list
- No access to exclusive areas or props from the films
The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour
If you want a more immersive experience that takes you beyond just filming locations, The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros.
Studio Tour might be your best bet. This tour takes place at Leavesden Studios where all eight Harry Potter films were made and gives visitors exclusive access to sets, props, and costumes used in the films. You’ll get to see everything from the Great Hall to Dumbledore’s office and even get a chance to sample Butterbeer.
Pros:
- Exclusive access to sets, props, and costumes
- Opportunity to sample Butterbeer
- Covers all eight Harry Potter films
Cons:
- More expensive than other tours on this list
- Not located in central London
- No outside filming locations included in tour
The Harry Potter Bus Tour of London
If you want a tour that covers both indoor and outdoor filming locations, The Harry Potter Bus Tour of London might be the perfect option. This tour takes you through both iconic sights like Platform 9 3/4 and lesser-known locations such as the entrance to the Ministry of Magic.
Your guide will share trivia about the films and show you how certain scenes were filmed. You’ll also get a chance to explore some of these sites on foot.
Pros:
- Covers both indoor and outdoor filming locations
- Knowledgeable guide with film trivia
- Affordable price for a bus tour that covers many sites throughout London
Cons:
- Tour takes place on a bus, so limited opportunities for walking around or exploring areas in depth.
- No access to exclusive areas or props from the films
- Tour may not cover as many sites as other tours on this list.
The Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour
If you want a tour that focuses solely on outdoor filming locations, The Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour might be your best option. This tour covers many of the same locations as The Harry Potter Bus Tour of London but allows for more exploration and time to take photos. Your guide will also share behind-the-scenes information about how certain scenes were filmed.
Pros:
- Covers many outdoor filming locations
- Informative guide with behind-the-scenes knowledge
- Allows for more exploration and photo opportunities
Cons:
- No access to exclusive areas or props from the films
- Tour may not cover as many sites as other tours on this list.
- Not as immersive as other tours on this list.
The Verdict:
Ultimately, choosing the best Harry Potter tour in London comes down to what you’re looking for. If you want an immersive experience that takes you beyond just filming locations, The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros.
Studio Tour is your best bet. If you’re on a budget and want a comprehensive tour that covers many outdoor filming locations, The Harry Potter London Walking Tour might be your best option. However, if you want a balance of indoor and outdoor locations with some time for exploration, The Harry Potter Bus Tour of London is worth considering.
No matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to have a magical experience exploring the world of Harry Potter in London.