London: Harry Potter Filming Locations Walking Tour

If you’re a Harry Potter fan dreaming of walking in the footsteps of Harry, Hermione, and Ron, this London Harry Potter Filming Locations Walking Tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t been on this tour myself, I’ve looked into what it offers and what travelers say about it—so I can help you decide whether it’s worth your time.

What I love about this experience is how it combines city sightseeing with Harry Potter magic, allowing fans to see real London sites that inspired or appeared in the films. Plus, the guide’s knowledge seems top-notch, making the story of Harry Potter even more engaging. On the flip side, some folks mention that understanding the public transport system and navigating London’s streets might require a bit of prep. Still, if you’re a dedicated Potterhead or love city walks, this tour could be a highlight of your London trip.

This tour is especially well-suited for fans who want more than just the studio experience—you get to see actual London locations, learn fun facts, and snap photos at iconic spots like Platform 9 ¾. It’s also a good pick if you enjoy guided walks that blend history with pop culture. Just keep in mind that it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues since it involves walking and using public transport.

Key Points

• Half-day experience blending city sights with Harry Potter filming locations
• Up to 18 real-life sites, including iconic London landmarks
• Knowledgeable live guide who shares interesting facts and behind-the-scenes stories
• Photo opportunity at Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross Station
• Cost-effective at around $40 per person, offering good value for a 3-hour tour
• Not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or those who don’t want to walk or use public transport

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This walking tour covers much more than just Harry Potter sites—it’s also a city adventure through some of London’s most famous areas. The tour lasts roughly three hours and includes stops at up to 18 locations, many of which fans will recognize from the films or be inspired by the books.

The tour begins at the Sir Winston Churchill statue in Parliament Square, a convenient meeting point near Westminster Underground Station. From there, your guide will lead you through a series of notable stops, each with its own magic (and London) story. Expect to walk between sites, taking in the sights, sounds, and stories that connect London’s streets with the wizarding world.

Visiting Westminster and Millennium Bridge

Your journey kicks off with a walk around Westminster, where you’ll see the area used in The Order of the Phoenix. You’ll pass Westminster Tube Station, which Harry and Mr Weasley used in the film. Then, it’s onto the Millennium Bridge, famously destroyed by Death Eaters in The Half-Blood Prince. We loved the way they tie these scenes to actual London landmarks, making it feel like you’re walking through the movies.

Trafalgar Square and Borough Market

Next, Trafalgar Square becomes part of the story. It’s where the Death Eaters caused chaos early in The Half-Blood Prince. Nearby Borough Market is a highlight, as it’s used as the entrance to The Leaky Cauldron, a key Harry Potter locale. Visiting Borough Market adds a lively, authentic London flavor, with its bustling food stalls and historic buildings.

Diagon Alley and Inspiration Spots

One of the tour’s most charming parts is the visit to locations that inspired Diagon Alley. Godwin’s Court and Cecil’s Court are narrow alleys lined with age-old shops and terraced houses—perfect for imagining the wizarding shopping street. These spots give a real sense of how the films drew inspiration from actual London architecture, making it more than just a movie set.

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Final Stop: King’s Cross and Platform 9 ¾

The tour concludes at King’s Cross Station, where you can try to find the famous Platform 9 ¾. Here’s your chance to snap a photo at the trolley disappearing into the wall and visit the Harry Potter Shop next door for souvenirs. It’s a fun way to end the experience, especially if you’re planning a visit to the studio tour or want that perfect Harry Potter keepsake.

The Experience: What’s Included and What’s Not

For around $40, you get a guided tour with an expert who shares stories and insights, making the experience more than just a walk. The tour includes transportation between sites, so you don’t have to worry about navigating London’s busy streets alone.

However, note that lunch, hotel pick-up, or drop-off, and travel cards are not included. You’ll want to bring a travel card or Oyster card to get around easily on the Tube. Also, it’s a strictly walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Most reviews praise the guide’s enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness, with many mentioning how much they learned about both Harry Potter and London itself. Several reviewers highlighted the fun of seeing real filming locations, with some calling it “the best activity” of their trip.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer summed it up nicely: “The tour was a 10/10, Rowan was an amazing guide. Lots of interesting facts about Harry Potter and London.” Others appreciated the added city history, making it a well-rounded experience. Many mention that the guide was very engaging, making the three hours fly by.

Things to Consider

While the tour is quite popular, some travelers found navigating the Tube might be tricky if unfamiliar with London’s transit system, especially since the tour involves multiple stops. A little prep—like purchasing an Oyster card beforehand—helps smooth out the experience. Also, since it’s not wheelchair accessible, guests with mobility issues might need to look elsewhere.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting at Parliament Square — You’ll meet your guide near the Sir Winston Churchill statue. It’s a central spot in Westminster, a lively area to begin your journey.

Westminster and the Tube Stop — Passing by Westminster Station, which features in the films, especially during Harry’s visit to the Ministry of Magic in The Order of the Phoenix. The guide explains the film’s use of these iconic locations, adding context that enriches the experience.

Millennium Bridge — An exciting stop, as this is where the Death Eaters damage the bridge in the movies. Standing here, you get a true sense of the scale and the London setting of this dramatic scene.

Trafalgar Square — Known worldwide, it’s a cultural hub. In the Harry Potter films, it’s used as a backdrop for chaos caused by the Death Eaters. The guide shares stories about how the scene was shot and its significance.

Borough Market — Beyond its culinary appeal, this lively market is an inspiration for Diagon Alley. The narrow alleyways and old buildings spark the imagination, making it a favorite among fans.

Cecil’s Court and Godwin’s Court — These charming alleyways are the real-life inspiration for Diagon Alley’s shops. They’re a hidden gem that makes the magic feel more tangible.

King’s Cross Station — Your final stop, home to the famous Platform 9 ¾. You can take photos, buy souvenirs, and dream of catching the Hogwarts Express. Many reviews mention how fun and nostalgic this moment is, especially for fans.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In terms of value, this tour hits the sweet spot. At around $40 for three hours, it offers a lot for Harry Potter enthusiasts who love exploring London’s streets. The mix of film locations, London landmarks, and fun stories makes it engaging and informative.

The guides seem to be a big part of why this tour gets such high praise. They’re described as knowledgeable, friendly, and good at balancing the magic of Harry Potter with the history of London.

However, keep in mind that it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes and some stamina are necessary. Also, be prepared to use public transport, which can require some planning if you’re unfamiliar with London’s transit system.

It’s best suited for fans who crave a mix of pop culture and city sightseeing. If you’re traveling with children or teens, many reviews indicate they enjoyed it too—especially if they’re Harry Potter fans. For those who prefer a more relaxed, less active experience, the studio tour or a more leisurely exploration might be better.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 3 hours, including walking and site visits.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at the Sir Winston Churchill statue in Parliament Square and finishes at King’s Cross Station.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most reviews mention it as family-friendly, it’s a walking tour that involves some distance, so consider children’s stamina and mobility.

Do I need to buy a public transport ticket?
Yes, you should pre-purchase an Oyster card or travel card for London Underground, as it’s needed to get between some of the sites.

Are lunch or additional costs included?
No, lunch and other extras are not included, so plan accordingly.

Is it accessible for guests with mobility issues?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for those with reduced mobility due to walking and public transport use.

Can I take photos at each site?
Absolutely, especially at King’s Cross, where snapping a picture at Platform 9 ¾ is a must-do.

Is it possible to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Verdict

If you’re a Harry Potter fan eager to explore London in a way that combines cinematic magic with city sights, this tour could be a fantastic choice. It’s well-loved for knowledgeable guides, fun locations, and the chance to see some of the real places behind the wizarding world. It also offers good value for money, especially if you enjoy walking and learning stories about London’s streets and films.

For those looking for a deep dive into London’s history and culture, the tour provides a nice balance. But if mobility or a more leisurely pace is a priority, you might want to consider other options. Overall, it’s a lively, engaging experience that many travelers have raved about—and it’s likely to bring a little extra magic to your trip.

Feel free to weigh this experience against other Harry Potter tours and decide whether this walk through London’s wizarding world fits your adventure style. Happy travels and may your wand stay at the ready!

You can check availability for your dates here: