Harry Potter Azkaban Tour (Film Locations & Prison)

If you’re a Harry Potter fan planning a trip to London, you’ll probably want to explore the places that brought the wizarding world to life. The Harry Potter Azkaban Tour offers a chance to see iconic filming spots and the inspiration behind JK Rowling’s stories—all in a manageable four-hour group experience. While it’s not a full-day immersion, it covers a good mix of sights, shops, and history, making it appealing for fans eager to connect with the magic while soaking in some London charm.

We really like how accessible this tour makes the Harry Potter universe in London—by visiting well-known landmarks and filming locations that are often tricky to find on your own. Plus, the inclusion of the Clink Prison Museum adds a historical twist that rounds out the experience nicely. However, the price point of just over $50 per person might feel a little steep if you’re just looking for a quick photo op or a light walk around town. Still, for dedicated fans, the insider info and exclusive discounts on Potter merchandise are a nice perk.

One thing to keep in mind is the group size—this is a small-group tour, which generally means more personalized attention, but also fewer spots available. The tour involves walking and some visits to outdoor and indoor locations, so comfortable shoes and weather preparedness are advisable. If you’re traveling with kids or are a super-enthusiastic fan, this tour could be a perfect fit. For those after a longer, more detailed experience, it might feel a bit brief or rushed.

This tour offers a practical way to tick off multiple iconic Harry Potter spots while learning a bit of London’s history along the way. It’s best suited for those who want a lively, guided introduction to Harry Potter’s London, rather than a slow, in-depth exploration.

Key Points

• Highlights iconic filming locations like the Millennium Bridge and Leadenhall Market
• Includes entrance to the Clink Prison Museum, adding a historical dimension
• Small-group setting provides a more personalized experience
• Tour duration of around 4 hours makes it perfect for busy schedules
• Price point offers reasonable value for fans wanting a guided experience
• Highlights show the blend of Harry Potter magic and London’s real-world history

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting at King’s Cross Station

The journey begins at King’s Cross Station, home to the famous Platform 9¾. Meeting your guide here sets the tone—it’s where the magic officially starts. Most travelers recommend arriving about 45 minutes early to beat the queues for photos with the trolley, which can be quite busy during peak times. Once everyone’s gathered, you’ll step inside the station to see the station’s stunning architecture and get your first taste of Harry Potter’s London.

Exploring Cecil Court

From King’s Cross, the tour heads to Cecil Court, a charming street lined with vintage shops and overhanging signs. This street feels like a slice of old London and is often compared to Diagon Alley in the books. It’s a great place for photos, and fans love the authentic atmosphere. It’s a short stop, but one that adds to the sense of stepping into Rowling’s magical universe.

Walking through Goodwin’s Court

Next up, you’ll walk through Goodwin’s Court, a narrow, atmospheric alley that’s often recognized by fans from the films. Its dark, mysterious vibe is perfect for those who enjoy a little gothic flavor—so keep your voices down and enjoy the spooky charm. Reviewers mention that fans immediately recognize this street from the Harry Potter films, making it a highlight for many.

Visiting the Palace Theatre

The tour makes a quick stop at the Palace Theatre, known for hosting the Harry Potter and the Cursed Child stage show. It’s a great photo op and a reminder of how the wizarding world has expanded from books and movies to live theatre. The theatre’s iconic sign makes for a fun snapshot before you move on.

Shopping at the House of Spells

A visit to the House of Spells is a treat for fans looking to pick up souvenirs. Here, you’ll find everything from wands and chocolate frogs to butterbeer and other themed goodies. The tour includes a discount code (HP394), giving you a little extra value on your purchases. Fans have appreciated this stop for the chance to buy authentic-looking merchandise and enjoy a bit of magic retail therapy.

Stopping at Leicester Square

Next, you’ll get a taste of London’s cinematic heart at Leicester Square. Here, you’ll see the famous Harry Potter statue and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Many reviews mention that this spot offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to soak in London’s film scene.

Exploring Westminster

The tour continues with a walk through Westminster, where several filming locations appear in the movies. Fans love the opportunity to see sites they recognize from the films in real life, creating a tangible connection to the stories. The area is full of iconic sights, giving the tour a mix of film magic and historic London.

Borough Market and London Bridge

Then, it’s on to Borough Market, one of London’s best food markets, where filming locations for the Leaky Cauldron and the Third Hand Emporium are located. This stop is perfect for food lovers or those curious about how the market’s vibrant atmosphere inspired scenes in Harry Potter.

Finally, the walk ends near London Bridge, where you’ll spot more film locations and landmarks associated with JK Rowling’s universe. The guide points out sights that inspired parts of the wizarding world, making it a fitting finale.

The Clink Prison Museum

After the walking part of the tour, you’re treated to an admission to the Clink Prison Museum. This is a definite highlight for those interested in London’s gritty history. You’ll descend into the old prison cells and learn about the unruly inhabitants of the past—debtors, heretics, and even some religious dissenters. The museum provides a fascinating contrast to the magical world, offering a sense of the darker side of London’s history. Reviewers mention that the museum is a fun, immersive way to round out the day and learn some real history.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts roughly 4 hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a less exhausting pace. The small-group format (up to 20 travelers) helps ensure you get more personalized attention from your guide, who is local and knowledgeable about both Harry Potter and London.

Cost and What’s Included

At around $52.27 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest option, but it offers good value considering the guided experience, visits to multiple locations, and included admission to the Clink Prison Museum. You also get access to two Potter shops with a discount code, which many fans appreciate.

What’s Not Included

You’ll need a contactless bank card, Oyster card, or Travel Card to cover the two tube journeys involved in the tour. Food and drinks aren’t included, so bring your own snacks and water. The tour starts at King’s Cross and ends at London Bridge, so plan your transport accordingly—there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off.

Accessibility and Suitability

Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Since the tour involves walking and outdoor stops, comfortable shoes are a must. It’s a great outing for fans who don’t mind a bit of walking and exploring.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The overall rating is 3.6 out of 5, with some consistently positive feedback. One reviewer called it a “happy experience”, praising the informative and interesting guide who shared all things Harry Potter and extra London tidbits. Another reviewer appreciated the private tour experience, noting the guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor.

On the flip side, there’s a negative review from a customer who felt scammed—they claimed the guide never arrived. The tour provider clarified that this was not their company, and they recommended the customer contact Viator for a refund. This highlights the importance of booking through trusted providers and being aware of potential misunderstandings.

Other reviews mention how engaging guides make the experience more fun, with one describing their guide as “incredibly outgoing and funny”. Many visitors enjoy the mixture of film locations, shopping, and historical sites, finding the entire package worth the price.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a dedicated Harry Potter fan eager to see London’s iconic filming locations with a knowledgeable guide, this tour is a good choice. It offers a manageable, well-organized way to connect with the magic and history of the city in just a few hours. The inclusion of the Clink Prison Museum adds a unique historical layer that balances out the lighter film-related stops.

This experience works well for those who enjoy walking tours, appreciate small-group settings, and want to avoid the hassle of figuring out locations on their own. It’s especially suitable if you’re interested in a mix of pop culture and local history, or if you want a guided overview before exploring more on your own.

However, if you’re after a deep dive into Harry Potter filming secrets or prefer a leisurely, all-day experience, you might find this tour a bit rushed. Also, if you’re traveling on a tight budget, consider whether the included attractions and guidance justify the cost.

In summary, this tour offers a fun, fairly comprehensive snapshot of Harry Potter’s London with some historical intrigue thrown in. Just keep in mind the limited duration and be prepared for some walking and outdoor stops.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, children who love Harry Potter and are comfortable walking should enjoy it. Just ensure they’re okay with outdoor walking and some time on their feet.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 52 days in advance, and it’s wise to reserve early since spots are limited to small groups of 20.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a contactless bank card or travel card for the tube rides. Snacks and drinks are not included, so pack some if you need a boost.

Are tickets included for the filming locations?
Most stops are on the street or outside, so no additional tickets are needed. The only included entrance fee is for the Clink Prison Museum.

How long does each stop last?
Stops vary from about 10 to 30 minutes, enough for photos and quick explorations but not long enough for in-depth sightseeing at each site.

What’s the guide’s role?
Your guide is local, knowledgeable, and give you insider info about Harry Potter filming locations and London’s history. Reviews praise guides for their enthusiasm and expertise.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Just remember, last-minute cancellations aren’t refunded.

If you’re craving a brisk, fun introduction to Harry Potter’s London and history, this tour has a lot to offer—and you’ll probably walk away with some great stories and photos. Just be prepared for a busy, walking day and the usual London weather. Happy exploring!