London: Harry Potter Movies Walking Tour (Kids Go Free)

If you’re a Harry Potter fan dreaming of stepping into the wizarding world right in the heart of London, this walking tour promises a charming glimpse of the film locations and iconic sights that inspired JK Rowling’s stories. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty convincing picture: it’s a well-reviewed, fun, and informative experience, especially suited for fans of all ages.

What we really love about this tour is its accessibility—kids go free, making it an affordable way for families to enjoy a bit of magic together. Plus, the guides seem genuinely knowledgeable and enthusiastic, which can make a huge difference when exploring a city full of stories. On the flip side, the tour involves walking through busy streets and includes two short underground journeys, so it’s worth considering if mobility or time is a concern. This experience seems perfect for Harry Potter enthusiasts wanting a personalized, relaxed adventure through London’s film locations and historic sights.

If you’re wondering whether this is right for you, it’s especially suited for those who love Harry Potter—whether you’re a superfan or just casually interested—and who enjoy a small-group, friendly atmosphere. It’s also a great way to see some of London’s most famous landmarks while uncovering secret stories about the wizarding world.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At around $20.20 per person, it offers good value for a 3-hour guided experience.
• Family-Friendly: Kids under 16 go free, making it a nice outing for families.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to make the tour fun.
• Focus on Film Locations: It hits the key Harry Potter sites like Platform 9 ¾, the Leaky Cauldron, and the House of Spells.
• Includes Top London Sights: The tour combines Harry Potter magic with views of Leicester Square, Westminster, and Borough Market.
• Walking & Public Transport: Expect around 3 hours of walking, with a couple of underground rides, so wearing comfortable shoes is essential.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Harry Potter London Tour

Starting at Kings Cross Station: The Magic Begins

The tour kicks off at the Parcel Yard in King’s Cross Station, right in front of the stairs that lead up to the famous Platform 9 ¾. This is a natural photo spot—fans love getting the shot of themselves with the trolley halfway through the wall—though queues can get long, so arriving 45 minutes early is recommended if you want that perfect shot. The actual meet-up point inside the station makes it easy to find, and it’s a nostalgic start for any Potterhead.

Visiting the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾

The first official stop is the Harry Potter shop, where you can snap a photo with the iconic trolley and shop for souvenirs. The review mentions that queues can be large here, so a pre-arranged photo might save you some time. The 20-minute stop allows for some photo fun and browsing, making for a great photo-op to kick off your magical journey.

Exploring Iconic London Streets & Hidden Gems

Next, you’ll hop onto the subway/metro for a quick 10-minute ride—an authentic London experience that helps you get around efficiently. The guide will share stories about the city’s connections to the wizarding world, which adds context to the sights you see.

Strolling through Cecil Court and Goodwin’s Court, both charming, narrow streets, adds a layer of historic London charm to the tour. These alleys, often overlooked by travelers, served as inspiration or filming spots for the wizarding world. We loved the way these lesser-known corners bring Harry Potter’s London to life, and reviews praise guides for their storytelling skills here.

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The Palace Theatre & The House of Spells

The Palace Theatre is another highlight—a sleek, historic venue that’s featured in the films. Then, you visit The House of Spells, a dedicated shop where you can browse and purchase magical merchandise. The 20-minute shopping stop allows for some retail therapy and perhaps finding that perfect wand or spellbook to take home.

Leicester Square & Westminster: Sights Beyond Harry Potter

The tour continues through Leicester Square, one of London’s most energetic spots, famous for cinemas and entertainment. Here, you’ll get a photo opportunity and some sightseeing, with guides sharing stories about the area and its film history.

Moving on to Westminster, the heart of UK politics and history, your guide will point out notable sights while sharing snippets about how London inspired JK Rowling’s world. The 30-minute stop here offers plenty of photo moments—fans of both Harry Potter and London history will find this segment particularly engaging.

Borough Market & London Bridge

The last stops include Borough Market, a foodie haven, which is perfect for those who love sampling local eats, plus a quick visit to London Bridge. The 15- and 25-minute stops allow you to soak in the views and snap some final photos before the tour wraps up back at the starting point.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The inclusions are straightforward: a 3-hour guided walk through London’s top Harry Potter film locations, led by a guide who clearly loves sharing stories. You also get to visit two Harry Potter shops, with the tour emphasizing fun and engagement.

Not included are food and drinks, which is typical for a walking tour, and transportation costs—two underground journeys are estimated at around £6. Be prepared for some walking and small additional expenses if you want souvenirs or snacks.

The Guides: The Heart of the Tour

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Multiple mentions describe guides as friendly, patient, and eager to share not only Harry Potter tidbits but also interesting facts about London itself. This personal touch makes the experience stand out—many reviewers say their guides made the tour fun and memorable.

The Price & Value

At approximately $20.20, this tour feels like a pretty good deal—especially considering the small-group setup and the inclusion of two Harry Potter shops. The value is amplified when you consider the expert guides, the chance for kids under 16 to join free, and the variety of sights packed into 3 hours. Reviews suggest that many find it a worthwhile expense, with comments highlighting the guides’ passion and the opportunity to see London in a way that’s both magical and educational.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

Since it involves walking through busy streets and underground travel, comfortable shoes are a must. The tour lasts around 3 hours, so be prepared for some standing and moderate walking. Weather can change quickly in London, so dressing appropriately—layers, rain gear—is wise.

It’s also worth noting that luggage or large bags aren’t permitted, so plan accordingly. For those worried about timing, arriving early helps with photos at Platform 9 ¾, and the tour itself ends back at the starting point, making planning your day straightforward.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for Harry Potter fans eager to see film locations and learn behind-the-scenes tidbits. It also appeals to families, especially since kids under 16 go free, offering a budget-friendly way to introduce children to the magic of London and the wizarding world.

Those interested in touring London’s sights beyond Harry Potter will also find value here, as the guide weaves in local history and famous landmarks. The small-group setup makes it perfect for anyone who prefers a more personalized experience without the crowds or large coach tours.

While it’s not a comprehensive sightseeing tour of London, it balances Harry Potter magic with enough city sights to make it a well-rounded outing. It’s especially good for those short on time but wanting a meaningful, fun introduction to some of London’s most iconic locations.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, kids under 16 can join for free, making it a good choice for families. The tour is engaging and accessible, especially for young fans of Harry Potter.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 3 hours, including stops and sightseeing. You’ll want comfortable shoes and to dress for the weather.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers a guided 3-hour walk through Harry Potter film locations and London sights, plus visits to two Harry Potter shops.

Are transportation costs covered?
No, the tour includes two underground journeys, estimated at around £6. You’ll need a contactless card, Oyster, or Travel Card.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour.

Can I get a photo with Platform 9 ¾?
Yes, but queues can be long. Arriving 45 minutes early is advised if you want to guarantee a good shot without rushing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, snacks, drinks, and weather-appropriate clothing will make your experience more enjoyable. Large luggage isn’t allowed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a Harry Potter enthusiast wanting to explore London through the lens of your favorite stories, this tour offers a friendly, engaging, and reasonably priced way to do it. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, making it more than just a sightseeing walk—they create a little magical world of their own.

While it’s not a full London tour, it hits the highlights that fans will love, with enough city sights to make the day well-rounded. Kids and families will especially appreciate that kids under 16 go free, making it a budget-friendly outing.

For those seeking a relaxed, friendly introduction to Harry Potter’s London, this tour is a solid choice—enchanting enough to delight fans and practical enough to satisfy travelers who want a genuine taste of the city’s film history.

You can check availability for your dates here: