Where to buy tickets for the Harry Potter Studio Tour in London?
Dive into the heart of magic with a visit to the Harry Potter Studio Tour at Leavesden, a must-see for all fans of the world's most famous wizard. Located on the outskirts of London, this exceptional place opens the doors to the behind-the-scenes of the Harry Potter film series, offering a total immersion into this fantastic universe.
Since its opening in 2012, the Harry Potter Studio Tour has become a must-visit destination, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world, eager to discover the secrets of the making of the films that have marked a generation. It is here, on these very sets, that the iconic sets of Hogwarts, Diagon Alley, and many other mythical locations were meticulously constructed and preserved to offer a truly enchanted experience.
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The Harry Potter Studio Tour is a window into the immense talent and creativity of the production teams who worked behind the cameras. From the design of costumes and magical props to the creation of breathtaking special effects, every aspect of the film series is highlighted, revealing the countless hours of work and passion that contributed to the making of this global phenomenon.
With interactive exhibits, discovery workshops, and the opportunity to literally walk in the footsteps of iconic characters, the Harry Potter Studio Tour is a celebration of cinematic art as much as a tribute to the universe created by J.K. Rowling. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering the saga, one thing is certain: this visit will leave you with lasting memories, awakening your imagination and perhaps even, your own inner magic.
As the studio is very popular, it is strongly advised to book your tickets well in advance of your desired visit date, especially during school holidays and for special events.
History of the Harry Potter Studio Tour
From aerodrome to film studio
Once an aerodrome during the Second World War, the vast hangars and open spaces of the Leavesden site were transformed in the 90s to become one of the most important film studios in the United Kingdom, quickly hosting major productions and carving out a reputation for excellence in the industry.
It was in this unique setting that the production of the Harry Potter film series began. From the filming of the first movie, 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone,' Leavesden became the beating heart of the saga, with the construction of iconic sets such as the Great Hall of Hogwarts, Dumbledore's office, Hagrid's hut, and even Diagon Alley. For more than a decade, this place was the pulsating core of the magic of Harry Potter, where the cast and production team brought to life one of the most beloved universes in literature and cinema.
Opening to the public
The Harry Potter Studio Tour officially opened its doors to the public on March 31, 2012, turning Leavesden into a must-visit destination for Harry Potter saga fans. On that day, the studio welcomed iconic members of the cast and production team, celebrating together the inauguration of this magical place dedicated to enthusiasts from around the world.
The launch of the Harry Potter Studio Tour revealed the behind-the-scenes creation of the films, offering an immersive experience through the sets, costumes, and props that shaped the saga.
The following year, in April 2013, the Harry Potter Studio Tour received a special distinction with a royal opening, reflecting its cultural and tourist importance in the United Kingdom. This event, which took place in the presence of several members of the royal family - including Prince William, Kate Middleton, and Prince Harry - highlights the significant contribution of the studio to the film industry and to the region's tourist appeal, consolidating its place as a jewel of British heritage.
The Harry Potter Studio Tour at Leavesden is not just a leading tourist attraction; it is a living tribute to the creativity, innovation, and magic that characterized the production of the Harry Potter film series. It continues to inspire and fascinate visitors, offering them a precious glimpse into the world of filmmaking and celebrating the legacy of one of the most beloved sagas of all time.
Purchase tickets for the Harry Potter Studio Tour
For your visit to the Harry Potter Studio Tour, choose the type of ticket that best suits you: with included transportation (from London or York) for a convenient solution, or without transportation if you prefer to get there on your own.
Make sure to take into account the travel time to the studio before choosing your visit time slot.
All children (15 years and under) must be accompanied by an adult (16 years and older). Tickets (free of charge) are required for children aged 4 years and under.
You cannot purchase tickets on site. As the number of visitors allowed in the studio at the same time is limited, tickets must be purchased in advance.
Ticket with transportation
For a hassle-free experience, opt for a ticket with included transportation. This option offers a round-trip coach transfer from central London (King's Cross St Pancras, Victoria Station, and Baker Street) to theHarry Potter Studio Tour, ensuring a worry-free arrival and return.
Ticket without transportation
If you do not wish to take advantage of the coach transport between London and the Harry Potter Studio Tour, it is also possible to purchase tickets without transport. You will then need to make your own way to the studio.
How to get to the Harry Potter Studio Tour
The Harry Potter Studio Tour is located in Leavesden - near Watford, northwest of London (about 30 km from the city center and less than 5 km from the M1 and M25 motorways).
To get there from central London, there are 4 options:
- Golden Tours Coaches (free for children under 2 years old).
- Train: the nearest train station to the studio is Watford Junction, where direct trains arrive from Euston Station in London (about a 20-minute journey) and from New Street in Birmingham (about a 1-hour journey).
You can use your Oyster card between London Euston and Watford Junction stations.
- Public transport: up to Watford Junction station, where the Harry Potter Studio Tour shuttle awaits (£2 one-way, £2.50 return - tickets can be purchased directly from the driver on the day of your visit, upon presentation of your studio reservation confirmation).
- Car: the full address of the Harry Potter Studio Tour is Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, WD25 7LR
As you approach the studio, brown signs saying "Warner Bros. Studio Tour" will guide you!
The studio has a free outdoor parking (with drop-off area) - accessible upon presentation of your studio reservation confirmation.
The studio is also easily accessible by road and train from the four main London airports:
| Airports | Distance | By car | By train |
|---|---|---|---|
| London-Luton | 27 km | About 25 minutes | About 1h10 |
| London-Heathrow | 37 km | About 35 minutes | About 1h50 |
| London-Stansted | 76 km | About 55 minutes | About 2h |
| London-Gatwick | 93 km | About 1h20 | About 1h50 |
Visiting the Harry Potter Studio Tour
Upon your arrival at the Harry Potter Studio Tour, after having collected your tickets indicating your allocated time slot for the visit and passed security, you will receive a Harry Potter activity passport filled with puzzles, anecdotes, and souvenir stamps to collect at various locations during your visit.
The Harry Potter Studio Tour offers a unique immersive experience that allows visitors to discover all the filming secrets of the Harry Potter movies. Spanning two soundstages and an outdoor area, the studio features impressive sets, detailed costumes, and a multitude of props that brought the world of Harry Potter to life.
Unlike traditional theme parks, the Harry Potter Studio Tour focuses on the artistic aspect and craftsmanship behind the creation of the Harry Potter films, allowing visitors to see up close the details and effort invested in the production of such a large-scale cinematic work.
Allow approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes for the visit for a complete overview of the studio. Avoid choosing a visit time slot too close to closing so as not to have to rush - and enjoy each room as you will not be able to go back!
The Harry Potter Studio Tour welcomes up to 6,000 visitors per day.
Main attractions
Since its opening, the Harry Potter Studio Tour has incorporated new major attractions, offering visitors the opportunity to explore even more of the Harry Potter universe:
Platform 9 ¾
The inauguration of Platform 9 ¾ (in March 2015) was a highlight for the Harry Potter Studio Tour, inviting visitors to cross the mythical barrier between the muggle world and the magical world by boarding the Hogwarts Express, the iconic train that transports students to the school of witchcraft, offering a nostalgic and emotionally rich experience for fans.
The Forbidden Forest
This immersive expansion allows visitors to venture into one of the most feared regions of the Harry Potter universe. With its magical creatures and dark, mysterious atmosphere, the Forbidden Forest, inaugurated in 2017, offers an adventure where realism and magic intertwine.
Gringotts, the wizarding bank
The most ambitious expansion to date, opened in 2019, transports visitors to the heart of Gringotts bank, guarded by goblins. Explore the vaults, discover hidden treasures, and relive the famous escape of Harry, Ron, and Hermione!
Professor Sprout's Greenhouse
The latest addition (2022) opens the doors to an entirely new space dedicated to magical botany: Professor Sprout's Greenhouse. Inspired by the care of magical creatures classes, this area allows visitors to explore the plant world of Harry Potter, from the Mandrake to the singing plants, adding an extra layer of discovery and interaction.
Special effects
The section dedicated to special and visual effects is a must-see at the Harry Potter Studio Tour, offering a fascinating glimpse into the innovative techniques and creative engineering that made the magic of the Harry Potter universe materialize. These effects transcend the notion of simple visual illusions to play a crucial role in creating a world that is both fantastic and believable, where magical potions, mythical creatures, and epic battles come to life.
The immersive green screen experience is particularly noteworthy. Visitors have the unique opportunity to stand in front of a green screen to see themselves integrated into iconic scenes from the films. Whether it's flying over the Quidditch fields on a broomstick or imagining themselves alongside the Hogwarts Express departing for another year of adventures, this attraction offers a memorable and personalized souvenir of the visit.
This part of the visit also highlights the meticulous work of the visual effects teams, showing how conceptual ideas are transformed into stunning visual realities. Through demonstrations and interactive exhibits, visitors discover the behind-the-scenes of the most spectacular sequences of the films, learning about the cutting-edge software and animation techniques that brought elements like the Patronus or wizard duels to life.
The special and visual effects section not only reveals the secrets behind the magical moments of the saga, but it also celebrates the genius and passion of the artists and technicians who made the impossible possible, thus enriching the cinematic experience for Harry Potter fans around the world.
Immersive experiences
Beyond the allure of the green screen, other experiences invite visitors to dive into the heart of the Harry Potter universe, offering them the chance to actively participate in the adventure:
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Wand duel choreography: this activity gives participants the opportunity to master the art of magical dueling, guided by experts who teach them the precise movements to cast spells like true wizards. It's a unique chance to feel like a part of the magical universe, learning to wield a wand with dexterity.
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Exploring the Forbidden Forest: by venturing into this mysterious area, visitors discover a space populated with impressive magical creatures, from the majestic Hippogriff to the imposing Aragog. The dark and enchanting atmosphere of the forest is recreated with remarkable fidelity, offering a total immersion experience in one of the most iconic areas of the books and films.
If needed, do not hesitate to ask the studio staff to direct you to a spider-free path during your visit to the Forbidden Forest. Inquire before or as soon as you pass the forest gate to avoid any unpleasant surprises!
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Discovering the mechanisms of Gringotts: entering the wizarding bank reveals the secrets of its vaults and enchanted protections. Visitors are invited to explore the corridors and vaults of Gringotts, uncovering the fascinating details of its operation and the special effects that brought to life the spectacular escape of the trio of heroes.
- Butterbeer tasting: an unforgettable taste experience awaits visitors with the opportunity to try the famous butterbeer, an iconic (non-alcoholic) drink from the Harry Potter universe, reminiscent of the taste of shortbread cookies and brown sugar caramel. Served in the outdoor set café, this refreshing break allows for an even deeper immersion into the magical ambiance of the wizarding world.
The café also offers butterbeer-flavored ice cream.
Butterbeer is sold at the price of £3.95 in a classic cup or £6.95 in a souvenir mug.
These interactive moments do not just add a playful dimension to the studio; they create memorable memories, allowing everyone to live their own adventure in the magical world of Harry Potter.
Ultimately, the Harry Potter Studio Tour is not just a passive exhibition, it proves to be a living celebration of the saga, where every fan, regardless of age, can fully and actively immerse themselves in the magic that has captivated the hearts of millions of people around the world.
Seasonal events
The Harry Potter Studio Tour comes alive and constantly reinvents itself through a series of captivating temporary events that transform the visit according to the seasons or specific themes. These special events offer unique perspectives on specific aspects of the saga, enriching each visit with a fresh and exciting touch:
- Dark Arts (from September 13 to November 10, 2024): As Halloween approaches, the darkest forces of the Harry Potter universe take over the studio. Visitors are invited to explore the most mysterious and frightening aspects of magic, from Dementors to creatures of the dark, in an atmosphere that sends shivers of delight.
- Hogwarts in the Snow (from November 16 to January 19, 2025): this winter celebration transforms the studio's iconic sets, draping the Hogwarts Castle and its surroundings in a sparkling blanket of snow. Visitors can also admire the Great Hall prepared for the Christmas feast, creating a magical atmosphere that warms the heart in the midst of winter.
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These events, and many others, such as Magical Mischief (from January 20 to April 16, 2024) - and Return to Azkaban (from May 1 to September 4, 2024), are designed to immerse visitors even more deeply into the magic of Harry Potter, giving them new reasons to visit and revisit this enchanting place. Each special event is an opportunity to discover or rediscover the Harry Potter Studio Tour in a different light, making each visit a new and memorable adventure.
Practical information
Opening hours
The Harry Potter Studio Tour is open all year round, 7 days a week:
- Monday to Thursday: from 9:30 am to 8:00 pm
- Friday: from 9:30 am to 10:00 pm
- Weekend (Saturday and Sunday): from 8:30 am to 10:00 pm
The studio is closed on bank holidays.
Modification, exchange and refund
Tickets for the Harry Potter Studio Tour are not named. Contrary to what is indicated on the e-tickets, the name on the ticket can be different from that of the visitor. If you need to collect your tickets on site, the original buyer must contact the visitor services team at +44 3450 840900 to request the addition of your name to the reservation. Once your name is added, remember to bring your ID on the day of your visit to collect your tickets.
Changing the date of a Harry Potter Studio Tour ticket is possible but subject to a fee: £10 administrative charge - you just need to call the visitor services team.
The request for modification must be made before the date of your visit.
Tickets for the studio are non-refundable.
Audio guide
The studio offers audio guides available in 9 languages (English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, and Japanese) at a price of £5.25 per person (£13.95 for groups of 3 or 4 people).
These digital guides enhance the visiting experience with exclusive interviews from the film crew and behind-the-scenes footage.
Souvenir shop
A visit to the Harry Potter Studio Tour wouldn't be complete without a stop at the souvenir shop, a real treasure trove for all fans of the saga. This magical space offers a wide selection of merchandise that allows you to take home a piece of the Harry Potter universe.
The only currency accepted at the Harry Potter Studio Tour site is the British pound - you will find an ATM (no fees) at the entrance of the studio.
The studio's souvenir shop is part of the attraction. To access it, you must therefore have a valid ticket on the day of your visit.
Be sure to check out our map of Harry Potter attractions and merchandise shops in London!
Other amenities
The Harry Potter Studio Tour offers a free Wi-Fi access point and provides toilets and a free cloakroom for your bags, coats, and strollers.
The studio is primarily an indoor attraction where smoking is strictly prohibited. However, it has smoking areas outside the main entrance and in its outdoor sets.
If you have lost an item during your visit, contact the visitor services team as soon as possible at +44 34 5084 0900 or via their contact page. The shipment of the lost item will be subject to postage fees according to the size and weight of the package.
Lost items are kept for a limited time.
Accessibility
The majority of the Harry Potter Studio Tour is wheelchair accessible - but some areas may still be difficult to navigate:
- The cobblestoned street of Diagon Alley
- The slate floor of the Great Hall
- The Hogwarts Bridge (not accessible)
- The Knight Bus (not accessible)
Single strollers and prams are accepted, but in a limited number per time slot. Therefore, it is advised - where possible - to leave them at the cloakroom.
Only guide and assistance dogs are allowed. Be sure to carry the dog's formal identification as well as any appropriate documentation or clothing. All other dogs or pets are prohibited.
The Harry Potter Studio Tour at Leavesden offers an immersive and interactive experience that goes beyond imagination. From authentic film sets to the magic of special effects, through major attractions and seasonal events, every aspect of the tour is designed to amaze and inspire fans of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned wizard or a curious Muggle, the Harry Potter Studio Tour promises unforgettable memories and the chance to walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter and his friends.
Don't forget to plan your visit and book your tickets in advance to guarantee your spot in the wizarding world - and stay tuned for seasonal and temporary events to experience even more extraordinary moments!
