London: Harry Potter Tour with Madame Tussauds Tickets

If you’re a Harry Potter fan or someone curious about London’s iconic sights, this combined tour offers a unique peek into the wizarding world and the city’s famous personalities in wax form. We’ve come across this experience and think it hits a sweet spot for those wanting a blend of cultural exploration and fun photo ops.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances learning with entertainment—your guide makes the Harry Potter stops both informative and lively. Plus, ending with a visit to Madame Tussauds means you get to see some of the most realistic wax figures of celebrities, which is often a highlight for visitors.

That said, a potential downside is the walking involved—if mobility is a concern or you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might be challenging. Also, queues at Platform 9 ¾ can get busy, so arriving early is a smart move.

This experience suits a wide range of travelers—fans eager to connect with the wizarding world, newcomers interested in London’s sights, or families looking for an engaging day out. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate a guided, small-group setting that feels intimate and personalized.

Key Points

In-depth Harry Potter locations: The tour covers famous film sites and secret stories, perfect for fans wanting more than just the surface.
Expert local guides: Knowledgeable guides make the experience lively, sharing fun facts and stories that you might not find in guidebooks.
Flexible itinerary: Visiting landmarks like Platform 9 ¾, Cecil Court, and Borough Market offers a well-rounded view of London’s sights through a wizarding lens.
Madame Tussauds included: After the walking tour, you’ll have a couple of hours to meet wax versions of your favorite stars, adding an extra layer of fun.
Small-group intimacy: The limited group size helps foster a more personal experience, making it easier to ask questions and get recommendations.
Cost and value: For around $120, you get a 5-hour guided tour plus entry to Madame Tussauds, which many find worth the price considering the sights and insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point at Kings Cross

The adventure begins at King’s Cross Station, home to the famous Platform 9 ¾. Meeting here is perfect because it’s an iconic spot for Harry Potter fans. The tour guide gathers the group in front of the stairs leading up to the Parcel Yard, next to the Harry Potter shop inside the station.

Tip: Arrive about 45 minutes early if you want to beat the queues for that perfect photo with the trolley. As one reviewer remarked, queues can be large, so an early arrival is worthwhile.

Exploring London’s Wizarding Filming Locations

From King’s Cross, your guide takes you on a walking journey through some of the most recognizable film locations and spots that inspired JK Rowling’s stories. Stops include Cecil Court and Goodwin’s Court, which are narrow, picturesque streets that fans will recognize from the films.

Each stop is a photo opportunity, but more importantly, your guide shares secret stories and trivia about how these places tie into the Harry Potter universe. One reviewer noted, “we got detailed info on which scene was shot where,” which adds a layer of depth for fans eager to connect the dots.

Architectural and Iconic Landmarks

The tour doesn’t just stop at Harry Potter—it also takes in famous London sights like Leicester Square, Westminster, and London Bridge. These are included because they help set the scene of London’s lively atmosphere, and your guide offers insights that make these landmarks more meaningful.

More Great Tours Nearby

The House of Spells and Theatrical Venues

A highlight is the House of Spells, a dedicated stop where you can learn about magical objects and see some in display. Visiting the Palace Theatre adds a touch of London’s theatrical history, especially for fans of the Harry Potter stage play “Cursed Child.”

Borough Market and London Bridge

The tour takes a brief pause at Borough Market, giving you a chance to soak in the lively vibe and maybe snap some photos of the historic surroundings. Later, a walk across London Bridge offers more scenic views, perfect for photography and reflection on your trip.

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

After around three hours of exploring the city, you’ll be given tickets to Madame Tussauds. This is a major draw—two hours are allotted to wander among incredibly lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical icons, and sports stars.

Many reviews praise the wax figures, with one describing that the figures “look so real, you think the star is standing right in front of you.” It’s a fun way to end your day, especially if you enjoy taking selfies and comparing your photos to the real stars.

Transportation and Practical Details

How You Get Around

The tour involves quite a bit of walking—about 3 hours in total—covering a variety of London’s famous streets and landmarks. The guide ensures the pace suits the group but be prepared for some slippers and standing.

You’ll transfer between some stops via two tube journeys, costing roughly £8 (or about £9). You’ll need a contactless Bank Card, Oyster, or Travel Card for these journeys, which is typical for London travelers.

Duration and Group Size

The whole experience lasts about 5 hours, starting at a time that you’ll need to check with availability. It’s described as a small-group tour, which means you’ll probably be with around a dozen or fewer people, making it easier to ask questions and stay engaged.

Cost and What’s Included

For $119.88 per person, this tour offers a lot: a guided walk through London’s Harry Potter sites, visits to two wizard shops (with a discount code), and entry to Madame Tussauds. No hidden costs are mentioned, but remember, food, drinks, and hotel transfers aren’t included.

Accessibility and Weather

It’s wheelchair accessible, and since it’s mostly walking outdoors, dressing comfortably and weather-appropriate is advised—think layers and sturdy shoes.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

Reviewers have expressed high satisfaction. One noted, “we got detailed info about scenes and made photos,” which hints that the guide is both knowledgeable and engaging. Another shared, “Madame Tussauds figures look so real, it’s hard to believe they’re wax,” reflecting the quality of the experience.

The reviews underscore the value of the guide’s storytelling talent and the visual impact of the wax figures. The small-group format also seems to enhance the overall experience, making it more personal and less hurried.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a fan of Harry Potter, this tour offers a rewarding combination of film locations and iconic London sights with an added bonus of wax museum fun. The guided aspect means you get insider stories that make familiar places more meaningful, and the small group ensures personalized attention.

It’s especially suitable if you enjoy walking tours and want to see a variety of sights without being stuck in one place. The inclusion of Madame Tussauds makes it a good value, particularly if you like celebrity culture or want to extend your time exploring British stars afterward.

However, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or are less interested in walking, this might feel a bit hectic. Also, consider queue times at Platform 9 ¾ if you’re a photo enthusiast—arriving early can make a difference.

Ultimately, this experience offers a balanced way to see London through the lens of Harry Potter’s world and beyond, perfect for fans, families, or anyone wanting a fun, informative day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s described as small-group and family-friendly, but keep in mind the walking involved and be prepared for some busy spots like Platform 9 ¾.

How long is the walking portion?
The tour includes approximately 3 hours of walking around London’s film locations and sights, so comfortable shoes are a must.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers a guided 3-hour walking tour, visits to two wizard shops with a discount code, and tickets to Madame Tussauds for about 2 hours.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, snacks, drinks, and weather-appropriate clothing. Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed.

How do I get to Madame Tussauds after the tour?
You can take the Jubilee Line directly from London Bridge to Baker Street, which is close to Madame Tussauds.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for visitors with mobility needs.

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary; check availability when booking to see the options that fit your schedule.

If you’re looking to combine a love of Harry Potter with a taste of London’s famous sights and celebrity culture, this tour offers a practical and fun way to do both. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy storytelling, photo opportunities, and exploring with a friendly group.

You can check availability for your dates here: