London Tickets
Explore
About
Visit
London Attractions
City Guide

How to visit Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Spread across vast studio soundstages just outside London, the Harry Potter Studio Tour lets you step straight into the wizarding world with real sets, props, and costumes, but with high demand, timed entry, and limited transport, planning ahead is key to avoid long queues and missed slots.

Navigating your way

Visit Harry Potter Studio
  • Spread across 14,000 square meters of soundstages, the Studio Tour operates on strict timed-entry slots, admitting around 6,000 visitors daily. Since it’s located just outside London, arriving prepared helps you avoid delays and missed slots.
  • Getting there: The studio sits in Leavesden, near Watford Junction, about 20–30 miles northwest of central London.
  • Transport flow: You can either take a train to Watford Junction and the official shuttle bus or a dedicated coach from central London. Your ticketed entry time marks your only entry window—aim to arrive at least 20 minutes early to clear security and start smoothly.
  • Pace your visit: Once inside, explore the attraction at your own pace through an immersive, one-way self-guided route that spans the Great Hall, Forbidden Forest, Hogwarts Express, and Diagon Alley. Most guests spend 3–4 hours here, but you can linger longer if your schedule allows.
  • Tip: The studio layout is vast and linear—once you exit a section, re-entry isn’t possible. Keep essentials with you and pace your visit accordingly.
See more, skip the guesswork

With a guided tour, you’ll uncover hidden props, insider secrets, and prime photo spots, without rush or overlooking any detail.

Guide presenting Dumbledore's office at Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour.
Reserve your tour now

Timings & best time to visit

Visit typeDurationRouteWhat you get

Snapshot visit

2–3 hrs

Arrival → Great Hall → Hogwarts Express photo stop → Studio Shop

A brisk, highlight-only circuit through the main sets—ideal for those short on time.

Half-day experience

3–4 hrs

Entry → Great Hall → Diagon Alley → Forbidden Forest walkthrough → Interactive zones (green-screen broomstick ride, spell-casting demos) → Studio Shop & café

A balanced experience with time to enjoy major sets, behind-the-scenes displays, and hands-on activities.

Full immersion

5+ hrs

Early entry → Great Hall → Diagon Alley → Green-screen broomstick or VR zone → Hogwarts Express → Creature Effects & Model of Hogwarts → Studio Shop

The most complete visit—ample time for interactive zones, photography, and hidden details without rushing.

Handy tips

  • Book early: Tickets often sell out 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during holidays and themed events. Walk-ins aren’t allowed.
  • Arrive early: Get there 20–30 minutes before your slot to clear security. Late arrivals may be denied entry, as time slots are strictly enforced.
  • Pack light: Bags larger than 40×30×20 cm aren’t permitted. Avoid sharp items, pepper spray, liquids over 100ml, and anything flagged by airport-style checks.
  • Choose quieter times: Midweek mornings offer fewer crowds and shorter queues compared to weekends and school holidays.
  • Save energy for photo ops: Some of the best photography zones, like the Hogwarts Castle model, the Forbidden Forest, and Platform 9¾, are toward the end. Expect light crowd build-up there, so conserve time (and mobile battery!) for these highlights.

Explore the Harry Potter Studio Tour

The Great Hall

Walk through the grand set where every Hogwarts celebration began, lined with original costumes and floating candles.**
What to look out for:** House tables, Dumbledore’s lectern, costumes from key scenes

Explore the Great Hall

Forbidden Forest

Venture into the shadowy forest and meet magical creatures while discovering the secrets behind the film’s eerie atmosphere.
What to look out for*:* Aragog the spider, Buckbeak the Hippogriff, fog and lighting effects

Step into the Forest

Platform 9¾ & Hogwarts Express

Climb aboard the original train used in filming and relive the journey to Hogwarts with perfect photo ops along the way.
What to look out for*:* Steam locomotive, luggage trolley wall, inside carriage sets

Diagon Alley

Stroll down the cobbled wizarding street and peek into famous shopfronts where movie magic meets craftsmanship.
What to look out for*:* Ollivanders, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, Gringotts exterior

Explore Diagon Alley

Gringotts Wizarding Bank

Marvel at the glittering set with marble pillars and goblin tellers — one of the tour’s most immersive experiences.
What to look out for*:* Vault treasures, dragon prop, visual effects setup

Explore Diagon Alley

Backlot & Outdoor Sets

See larger-than-life props and vehicles up close, plus enjoy your Butterbeer moment in the open-air courtyard.
What to look out for*:* Knight Bus, Privet Drive, Hogwarts Bridge

Creature Effects Department

Discover how animatronics and prosthetics brought magical beings to life, from Dobby to dragons.
What to look out for*:* Goblin masks, creature molds, mechanical props

Discover the Magic

Art & Model Room

End your visit where it all began, with sketches, blueprints, and the breathtaking Hogwarts Castle model. What to look out for*:* Hogwarts model, set designs, artwork wall

View the Art Department

Before you get there

Timings

👉 See peak hours & closures in one glance.

Directions

👉 Train, shuttle or car: fastest routes to the studio.

Map

👉Checkout the layout before you go.

Dine

👉  Café and snack stops nearby the tour.

Shop

👉 Souvenirs and the ultimate fan store.

Tips

👉 Crowd hacks & shortcuts from seasoned visitors.

Know before booking your Studio Tour tickets

  • Access to the Studio Tour always includes transfers from London, ensuring hassle-free travel to and from the location.
  • Your standard tickets come with timed access, which helps you avoid long entry queues. Book 2-4 weeks ahead in peak season to secure early time slots, as these offer the longest exploration window before the site gets crowded.
  • Choosing between coach and train transfers depends on your preferred route: coaches run directly from central London to the studio, providing a straightforward journey, while trains are faster but involve a transfer from Euston to Watford and a shuttle transfer from there to the studio.
  • For a more immersive experience, you can opt for a small group guided tour (up to 8 guests). Guides provide exclusive behind-the-scenes insights that enrich your visit.
  • You can maximize your day by pairing the Studio Tour with a guided trip to Oxford, which includes end-to-end coach transfers, free time at both locations, and expert-led tours through Oxford’s colleges.

Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tours Explained

Ticket typeWhat’s includedBest forPrice from

Coach transfers to Studio Tour

Coach transfers from Central London + Timed entry at the Studio Tour

Visitors seeking the simplest, direct route from the city

£85

Train transfers to Studio Tour

Train transfers from Euston + Shuttle bus to the Studio + Timed entry at the Studio Tour

Independent travellers wanting a faster route

£100

Combo with Oxford guided tour

Coach transfers + Guided tour of Oxford + Timed entry at the Studio Tour

Visitors seeking both real-world and film-set magic in one day

£149

Guided visit to Studio Tour

Train transfers from Euston + Shuttle bus to Studio + Guided visit to Studio Tour

Visitors who want insider commentary and behind-the-scenes insights

£104

Hotel transfers to Studio Tour

Hotel pickups in Central Zone 1 + Timed entry at the Studio Tour

For the most hassle-free experience of the Studio

£155

Timings & best time to visit

DayOpening hoursLast entry

Monday – Friday

9:30am onwards

Around 4pm – 6:30pm, depending on season and event schedule

Note: Opening and closing times vary daily based on season and special events. The Studio Tour is closed on 25 and 26 December. Always check the date-specific calendar when booking, as your ticketed time slot determines your exact entry window.

Best time to visit

Weekday vs Weekend

Weekdays (especially mornings) are the most peaceful, fewer crowds, smoother flow and more relaxed pacing. Weekends and school holidays bring heavier visitor volumes and longer queues around key exhibits.

Peak season vs Low season

Peak attendance runs during summer months (June–August) and major holidays; early slots or quieter months (e.g., November–March, outside holidays) offer better value and less rush. Visiting just after opening time maximises your time inside.

Tip: Book an early slot on a weekday during the quieter season for the best experience.

How to get there

  • Round-trip coach transfers (≈90 mins each way): The easiest option — direct coaches from central London (Victoria Station, Baker Street, King’s Cross, or near the British Museum) to the Studio and back. No need to navigate trains or transfers.
  • Round-trip train transfers (≈45–60 mins each way): The quickest route — take a train from London Euston to Watford Junction, then board the dedicated Studio Shuttle (~15 mins) to the entrance. Great for those comfortable with public transport.
  • From London: Take the M1 northbound, exit at Junction 5, then follow the A41 toward North Watford for 3 miles. At Hunton Bridge roundabout, take the fourth exit, then keep left to reach the Studio.
  • From the North: Take the M1 southbound, exit at Junction 6A to join the M25 toward Heathrow, then Junction 20 → A41 → A405 toward Warner Bros. Studios.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking is available a short walk from the entrance. Have your booking confirmation ready. Priority Parking near the entrance can be pre-booked online for £10.

Entrances

Entrance nameLocationWho it’s forCrowds & wait times

Main Entrance

Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, WD25 7LR

All ticket-holders (general, timed, VIP, group)

Queue builds from arrival time; recommended to arrive ~20 minutes before your ticket slot.

Facilities

  • Audio guides – Rent one at the entrance foyer to enjoy extra behind-the-scenes stories and film trivia as you explore at your own pace.
  • Cloakroom – Free bag and coat check available near the main entrance before you begin your tour. Large luggage and food items aren’t accepted.
  • Restrooms – Conveniently located in the main foyer and mid-tour near the Backlot Café. Families can use accessible and baby-changing facilities in both areas.
  • Gift shop – Visit the Studio Shop at the end of the tour for exclusive merchandise, including replica wands, robes, and collectibles.
  • Cafés & kiosks – Choose from the Food Hall and Backlot Café for meals, Butterbeer, and snacks before or after the main tour. Picnic area also available.

Accessibility

Arrival & Parking

Priority bays are available close to the entrance. The main entrance and ticket halls are step-free; arrive about 20 minutes early for smooth access.

Mobility access

The entire tour route, cafés, and shops are wheelchair-friendly with lifts and wide aisles. Complimentary wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available on request.

Hearing support

Induction loops and compatible audio guides can be borrowed at the Digital Guide desk in the lobby

Visual assistance

Trained staff are available to assist visually impaired visitors; tactile image books are available at the information desk, and assistance dogs are welcome throughout the Studio.

Neurodiverse visitors

Sensory guides, ear defenders, and relaxed tour slots can be arranged in advance for a calmer visit experience.

Visiting with family

  • Baby-changing & parent room: Baby-changing stations are located in each toilet block, plus a dedicated parent & baby room next to the Backlot Café with a nursing chair, changing tables and hot water for bottles. 
  • Pushchairs & strollers: Pushchairs and buggies are allowed but can also be stored in the cloakroom (free of charge) if you prefer to walk around unencumbered.
  • Family-friendly cafés: Cafés and snack bars are positioned at the start and mid-point of the tour (in the foyer and by the Backlot Café), making it easy for families to grab a meal or break.

Rules and restrictions

  • Entry is only allowed with a valid timed-ticket; you are advised to arrive at least 20 minutes ahead of your slot to minimise risk of denied access.
  • Large bags, suitcases or rucksacks will be subject to security screening; oversized items may be refused entry.
  • Handheld photography and mobile filming is permitted in most areas; however, it is not allowed in the security screening zone, pre-show cinema or green-screen experience areas.
  • Tripods, specialist camera equipment, drones and other professional filming gear are prohibited.
  • Consumption of food and drink is only permitted in designated café/food hall areas; outside food items are discouraged within the main tour route.
  • Smoking and vaping are not permitted inside the building or main tour route; any such activity must be in designated outdoor areas.
  • Service animals (registered assistance dogs) are allowed with prior notification; pets and unregistered animals are not permitted on site.
  • Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult (aged 16+) for the duration of the visit.
  • The tour route is one-way only; once you move past a section you cannot return to it.

Where to shop

The Studio Shop (exit hall)

The largest store on site — find replica wands, house robes, Honeydukes sweets, homeware and items exclusive to the Studio Tour.

Forbidden Forest shop (within the tour)

A themed boutique carrying seasonal and exclusive merchandise you may not find elsewhere on the site.

Photo & download zone

After the green-screen broomstick experience and Backlot segment you’ll have the option to view and purchase digital photo and video keepsakes before exiting.

Where to eat

Food Hall (entrance foyer)

Offers hot meals, sandwiches and desserts. Ideal before or after your tour. Expect favourites like burgers, pasta and salads.

Backlot Café (mid-tour)

Situated midway through the route. Serves snacks, hot drinks and the iconic Butterbeer. Indoor and outdoor seating available.

Hub Café (arrival area)

Located in the entrance foyer. Perfect for quick bites such as pastries, coffees and cold drinks as you wait for your timed slot.

*Tip:* Eat before you start; once you pass into the Studio Tour, your next break isn’t until the Backlot Café, about halfway through.

Where to stay

The Studio is in Leavesden, Hertfordshire, around 20 miles northwest of London. While the area is quiet and suburban, it’s convenient if you’re driving or joining early tours.

Budget-friendly

At Premier Inn Watford North (approx. 10 min drive)  take advantage of the efficient chain accommodation just minutes from the studio with free Wi-Fi, on-site parking, and family rooms.

Mid-range

At Mercure London Watford Hotel (approx. 15-20 min drive)  enjoy a modern 4-star stay near Watford town centre with dining, a leisure area, and straightforward access for your visit.

Luxury

At The Grove (approx. 10 min drive)  set on 300 acres in Hertfordshire indulge in a five-star country-estate experience with spa, championship golf course, and premium rooms ideal for a weekend-long retreat.

💡 *Tip: If you don’t plan to drive, stay near *Euston Station in central London for direct train access to Watford Junction**, then use the official shuttle bus to the Studio.

Insider tips

  • Book your ticket well in advance and secure the slot you want. Tickets are known to sell out quickly and problems with payment systems have been reported, especially from non-UK cards.
  • Allow at least 4 hours, ideally 5–6 hours, to explore. Many early-slotted visitors found that arriving later left them feeling rushed.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. Parts of the route are outdoors or less heated; many visitors felt under-prepared for the cooler areas.
  • Use the mid-tour café stop to regroup. The Backlot Café is your break-point, visit the restrooms and eat then, because once you move on, you can’t turn back.
  • Make photo-ops at the major sets count (Great Hall, broomstick green-screen, Hogwarts model). Staff photographers are present; if you skip one, the next one will still be there, no need to rush every detail.
  • If using public transport, factor in delays. The train-to-Watford Junction + shuttle is faster but you still need buffer time. If you’re driving, allow for traffic on the M1/M25 corridor, especially at peak hours.
  • Consider skipping extras like digital guides or kits unless you’re really into the film-making side. Some visitors feel they don’t add much value for the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions about your visit to Harry Potter studio tour

How much time should I leave between the studio tour and other London plans?

Give yourself at least 6–7 hours round trip, including transport time. You’ll want time to relax, explore at your own pace, and shop without rushing to your next booking.

Is there a best order to do things inside the Studio?

The route is fixed, but pace yourself. Take photos early in key areas like the Great Hall, save your shopping for the end, and plan a food break at the Backlot Café.

Can I visit without a tour guide or join one once I’m there?

The standard studio tour is self-guided. Guided tours aren’t available for purchase on-site, so if you want one, it must be pre-booked as part of a ticket bundle.

Is the Studio Tour suitable for toddlers or very young children?

Yes, but with a few considerations. Some sets are dark or loud and might be overwhelming. There’s a parent and baby room mid-tour, but prams must be left in the cloakroom.

Are there lockers for valuables or small bags?

There are cloakroom services for coats and bags, but no individual lockers. If you’re carrying valuables, it’s best to keep them with you during the tour.

Is it worth renting the handheld digital guide if I'm a big fan?

Yes, especially if you’re a returning visitor or Potterhead. It includes exclusive cast interviews and behind-the-scenes content not shown on signs or the Studio app.

What time do the green screen experiences typically get crowded?

Green screen areas like broom-flying and train rides are busiest late morning to early afternoon. If you're interested, try to go early in your visit to avoid queues.

Are pets allowed to wait outside the Studio?

No pet care facilities are available, and pets cannot be left outside or in vehicles. Only trained assistance dogs are allowed on-site, for safety and welfare reasons.

What is the cheapest way to visit the Harry Potter Studio Tour?

The most budget-friendly option is booking a standard entry ticket and using public transport, train from London Euston to Watford Junction, then the free shuttle bus

Are 4 hours enough to explore the entire Studio Tour?

Yes, you can cover the main sets and highlights comfortably in 4 hours, though film fans often spend 5-6 hours enjoying extras, photo stops, and the cafés.