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What to see and do on a Harry Potter walking tour in London

Overview

Follow in the footsteps of wizards and muggles as you uncover real London locations featured in the Harry Potter films.

  • Must-sees: Leadenhall Market (entrance to the Leaky Cauldron and Diagon Alley), Borough Market (Leaky Cauldron exterior), Millennium Bridge (destroyed by Death Eaters), and The Clink Prison Museum (inspiration for Azkaban).
  • Who it’s for: Potter fans and first-time visitors seeking a magical mix of movie moments and city landmarks.
  • Start locations: Tours usually begin at Borough Market or King’s Cross Station, both easy to reach by Tube.
  • Pro tip: To fully immerse yourself, book a guided tour with transfers from central London so you can explore the magic without the wait.

Know more about: Getting to Harry Potter start locations | About Harry Potter walking tours | Harry Potter walking tour highlights

Fun things to do on a Harry Potter walking tour

Snap a photo at Platform 9¾

  • What it is: The spot at King's Cross station where Harry boards the Hogwarts Express.
  • Why it's great: This is the exact spot where it all started! Snap a magical photo as your trolley disappears into the wall and relive a bit of your childhood wizard dream.
  • Pro tip: Make sure you visit around 10am to avoid long queues and get your perfect photo.

Browse Leadenhall Market

  • What it is: A Victorian covered market used as the entrance to Diagon Alley.
  • Why it's great: This market is full of colour and hidden secrets! Stroll around and peek at the famous blue door, imagining Harry shopping for wizarding wares.
  • Pro tip: Don’t miss the blue door that doubled as the Leaky Cauldron entrance.

Wander through Borough Market

  • What it is: A bustling market featured as the Leaky Cauldron's exterior.
  • Why it's great: This market is famous for delicacies like pastries, hot chocolate, and Harry Potter memories. Remember Harry dashing through the streets to catch the Knight Bus?
  • Pro tip: Visiting during the morning, around 10am, ensures a quieter experience.

Recreate scenes at Millennium Bridge

  • What it is: A pedestrian suspension bridge destroyed by Death Eaters in The Half-Blood Prince.
  • Why it's great: Stand where the action happened and capture photos of the Thames with St. Paul’s Cathedral as your backdrop.
  • Pro tip: Visit during sunset. The golden light makes the city sparkle beautifully and is perfect for Instagram-worthy shots.

Dive into the Warner Bros. Studio Tour

  • What it is: A film studio and exhibition in London where the Harry Potter movies were made, featuring original sets props, and behind-the-scenes displays.
  • Why it's great: You get to walk onto real sets, explore authentic costumes and props, hop on the Hogwarts Express, and pose with a broomstick.
  • Pro tip: Book your tickets at least two weeks in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
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Glide along the Thames on a river cruise

  • What it is: A scenic boat ride along the Thames offering views of London’s famous landmarks and riverside sights.
  • Why it's great: You get to sail past well-known sights while enjoying a fresh perspective of London from the water.
  • Pro tip: Make sure you take the cruise during the evening. The golden hour makes the city glow beautifully and gives you perfect lighting for photos.
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Discover the Tower of London

  • What it is: A historic fortress on the banks of the Thames, built in the 11th century, that has served as a royal palace, prison, and armoury.
  • Why it's great: This fortress houses the famous Crown Jewels.
  • Pro tip: Plan your visit in the morning, around 10am, to explore the Crown Jewels and the castle before the crowds arrive.
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Join interactive fun

  • What it is: Live tour guides lead interactive activities during the walking tour, including Sorting Hat ceremonies, house point quizzes, and movie clip showings.
  • Why it's great: The tour feels like a live game rather than a lecture, keeping everyone engaged and excited from start to finish.
  • Pro tip: Participate actively and cheer on your “house” to make the experience even more immersive and fun.

Shop at the Harry Potter Shop

  • What it is: The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾ in King’s Cross Station offers official merchandise and a fun photo opportunity with the trolley stuck in the wall.
  • Why it's great: You get to browse wands, scarves, and other magical keepsakes while capturing a memorable photo of your adventure.
  • Pro tip: Visit after the morning rush for more space to browse and better photo opportunities with the trolley.

Go cafe hopping

  • What it is: London is full of charming, hidden cafés that most tourists never discover. These are usually known to local guides, who are eager to share them and point out their favourite spots along the walking route.
  • Why it's great: Recharge with coffee or snacks while soaking in the magical atmosphere of London’s hidden alleys.
  • Pro tip: Some cafés sell Butterbeer! Check them out along with other Harry Potter-themed treats.

Recommended itineraries

  • Duration: 2–3 hours
  • Harry Potter walking tour: Start your adventure at King’s Cross, snap a fun photo at Platform 9¾, and wander through Leadenhall and Borough Markets while your guide shares behind-the-scenes secrets from the films.
  • Cafe stop: Take a little breather and grab a coffee or quick bite at one of the hidden cafés your guide recommends. Perfect for recharging your wand-waving energy!
  • Duration: Half-day (around 6 hours)
  • Harry Potter walking tour: Begin at King’s Cross and dive into the magical filming locations, from Millennium Bridge to Leadenhall Market and all the hidden alleys in between.
  • Tower of London: Step into history at this old fortress. Wander the ancient halls, check out the Crown Jewels, and imagine a wizard or two sneaking past the ramparts.
  • Lunch or café stop: Pause for a delicious meal or coffee at a cozy spot suggested by your guide to recharge before your next adventure.
  • Duration: Full-day (8–10 hours)
  • Harry Potter walking tour: Take your time exploring all the filming locations, magical alleys, and markets in central London while your guide shares stories and secrets you won’t find in the movies.
  • Lunch stop: Enjoy some tasty food at a café or pub while taking a break and recharging after your morning of exploring.
  • Thames River Cruise: Hop on a boat and see the city from the water. Snap photos of London’s bridges and landmarks, and imagine the wizarding world hidden in plain sight.

Practical guide

  • Early start matters: Begin your day around 9 am to beat the crowds at popular spots like Platform 9¾ and Borough Market. Returning later in the afternoon helps you avoid rush-hour Tube traffic.
  • Transport tips: Use an Oyster card or contactless payment for quick access to the Tube and buses, and book tickets at least two weeks in advance.
  • Insider shortcut: Weekdays are quieter for sightseeing. Markets and museums are best visited midweek for calmer crowds.
  • Stay hydrated: Carry a refillable water bottle, wear comfortable shoes, and bring a light raincoat or umbrella since London weather can change quickly.
  • Respect the surroundings: Keep noise levels low in alleys, avoid littering, and be mindful when snapping photos at busy filming spots.
  • Watch your step: Cobblestones and uneven pavements are common around historic areas, so walk carefully.
  • Seasonal tip: London is busiest in the summer (June to August). For calmer crowds and better photos, plan your visit in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November).
  • Rain readiness: Bring a light raincoat or umbrella to stay comfortable while walking between locations.
  • Walking tours: Some streets have cobblestones or narrow pavements that may be tricky for wheelchairs or strollers.
  • General tips: Wheelchairs and strollers are allowed on walking tours, but maneuvering through some alleys can be challenging.
  • Essentials: Carry a refillable water bottle, umbrella or light raincoat and wear comfortable footwear.
  • Extras: Bring cash or QR payment options for snacks or souvenirs, downloaded maps or tickets since mobile signals may be patchy.

Frequently asked questions about things to do at Harry Potter walking tour in London

What are some unique experiences on a Harry Potter walking tour?

Beyond visiting the filming locations, you can enjoy interactive fun like Sorting Hat ceremonies, house point quizzes, and spotting hidden props in London’s streets. Guided tours often share insider stories that make the city feel truly magical.

How much time should I set aside for the walking tour?

A standard tour takes around 2–3 hours, while combo or extended tours with the Warner Bros. Studio, entry to Tower of London and the Thames river cruise can take 6–8 hours. Half-day or full-day plans allow you to explore additional sights and markets nearby.

If I only have 6 hours, what should I prioritize?

Start with the walking tour in central London, including Platform 9¾, Leadenhall Market, Borough Market, and Millennium Bridge. Include a cafe or lunch break, then head to one additional attraction like the Tower of London, or take the Thames river cruise.

Are there free things to do during the tour?

Yes! Walking through Leadenhall Market, Borough Market, and snapping photos at Millennium Bridge and Platform 9¾ costs nothing. Exploring alleys and spotting filming details is free fun for all ages.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Absolutely. Kids love the interactive elements, quizzes, and movie trivia, and families can enjoy spotting magical filming locations together.

What’s the best season or time of day to take the tour?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer quieter streets and better photo opportunities. Start the tour around 9–10 am to avoid crowds at popular spots like Platform 9¾. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.

Are the walking routes accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

Most streets are navigable, but cobblestones and narrow alleys may pose a challenge. The Warner Bros. Studio is mostly accessible with ramps and lifts.

Can I visit the Tower of London or Warner Bros. Studio on the same day?

Yes, especially if you book a half-day or full-day combo ticket. Plan your walking tour first, then visit these attractions in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds.

Are there insider tips for better photos or hidden details?

Look out for the blue door at Leadenhall Market, props in Australia House, and magical alleyways tucked off the main streets. Early morning visits give the best light and fewer people in your shots.

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