Since moving to Europe in 2021, we’ve made several trips to the UK (with flights around €10, why not?!) and I’ve become even more obsessed with Harry Potter than ever! I read the books as a teenager with rapt attention, alongside the rest of the world, but it’s a different story for me to delve into the lore and history with my kids. It’s even better to visit the birthplace of so many of these ideas!
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I’ve fallen absolutely in love with Edinburgh and still love going to see many Harry Potter reminders, such as the graveyard with Tom Riddle’s grave and the street that likely inspired Diagon Alley. However, London is the setting for so many parts of the series!
Perhaps you’ve already wandered the spellbound corridors of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour (and if you haven’t, bookmark this for later!). The magic of Harry Potter spills far beyond the studio, woven into the very streets of London. Like Edinburgh, you can see and feel little reminders everywhere in London of our favorite magical world.
Here’s your guide to discovering the real Diagon Alley, sipping themed brews and casting your own kind of magic across the capital.
When I found out there was a Harry Potter Broadway play, I nearly lost my marbles! I had not heard much about the Cursed Child book by J.K Rowling, which is actually a new story after the original series and written as a script for the play. It’s not my favorite read, but I loved the performance!
We flew all our kids to London to see both parts of the play on the same day. You can buy tickets to just one part or both. You can see it all in one day or split it up over your visit with some other fun HP activities in between. When we went, our youngest was only four years old and it was a bit long for her, but she still did great! There is a lot of magic in the play itself (I have no idea how it all works, so it must be magic!) that keeps kids super entertained even if they are a bit young for the story itself.
Of course, big fans will love this continuation of the story with the next generation (Harry’s son and other favorites in the next generation). There is a major twist as well!
My tips for seeing the play: If you do both plays in one day, prep the kids with plenty of sleep the night before, snacks and drinks and get a quick meal in between. The theater is right next to Chinatown, and we grabbed some hot pot in between, but a reservation would have been better! It’s 4+ hours of sitting, so get plenty of wiggles out in between the plays.
The show is presented in two parts, designed to be viewed on the same day (Part One in the afternoon, Part Two in the evening) or across two consecutive evenings. Most fans opt for the full “Potterthon” in a single day for a truly immersive experience.
The standard weekly schedule includes Part One at 2:00 p.m. and Part Two at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. On Sundays, the timings shift slightly, with Part One at 1:00 p.m. and Part Two at 6:00 p.m. Thursdays usually only feature Part One, and there are no performances on Mondays or Tuesdays.
If you’re aiming for the most availability, flexibility or a more relaxed theatre-going atmosphere, midweek performances, particularly Wednesdays or Fridays, are an excellent choice.
Ticket prices for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child can vary quite a bit depending on the day, seat location and how early you book. If you’re on a friendly budget, restricted-view seats in the upper levels sometimes start from £15–£30 per part (around $20.04 to 40.07 per part). That said, mid-range seats in the Dress Circle or Rear Stalls are usually priced around £40–£80 per part (approx. $53.43 to $106.86 per part), while premium seats (the best views in the Stalls or front Dress Circle) can reach £95 to £150+ per part ($126.89 to $200.35 approx. per part).
Because the show is split into two parts, it’s important to remember that your total cost is for both, so a £50 (around $66.78) ticket actually means £100 ($133.57) for the full experience. Booking well in advance (3–4 months ahead) is the best way to secure great seats at the best prices, especially for weekends or holidays, which sell out quickly.
If you’re attending both parts in one day, you’ll have a break of roughly 2 hours and 10 minutes between performances. That’s enough time for a meal, but you’ll want to plan ahead. The Palace Theatre is located near Covent Garden and Soho, areas that get very busy around dinner. Booking a table in advance is highly recommended.
When it comes to arrival, your e-tickets will usually suggest arriving about an hour early to allow for security screening. In our experience, arriving 30–45 minutes before curtain is ideal, early enough to avoid last-minute stress.
Since the total time in the theatre runs close to six hours (including intervals and your meal break), comfort is key. Wear clothes you’ll be happy sitting in for long stretches. Bringing a small water bottle and a quiet snack (like sweets) can help keep you comfortable without disturbing others. There are refreshments available inside the theatre but, as expected, they can be pricey.
And finally, KeepTheSecret. One of the production’s most beloved campaigns encourages fans to preserve the magic by not revealing key plot twists or illusion. The production is recommended for audiences aged 10 and over.
If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a world of candlelit corridors, secret chambers, bubbling potions and enchanted feasts, look no further than the Georgian House Hotel in London. Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Pimlico, this boutique hotel delivers a whimsical escape for fantasy lovers, Potterheads and curious Muggles alike.
Imagine spending a weekend immersed in its magical offerings, Wizard Chambers, Enchanted Afternoon Tea and the Potion Experience. What a fun weekend that would be!
Tucked beneath the hotel in a shadowy corridor lined with flickering portraits, the Wizard Chambers feel like stepping into another realm. Faux stone walls, stained-glass windows, bubbling cauldrons, antique trunks and a four-poster bed cloaked in velvet created an atmosphere straight out of a fantasy novel.
In Edinbrugh, we splurged for a night at the Witchery, which also feels like it’s out of the novel itself (or midievel Scotland!). Having some fun accommodations can make the trip so fun!
Prices for the Wizard Chambers typically start around £250 per night (around $333.94), depending on the date and room type. This includes a fully themed stay, breakfast and all the magical touches you’d expect. The best way to check availability and secure your spot is to book directly through the Georgian House Hotel website, where you can also find seasonal offers and packages.
In case you are new to visiting the UK, afternoon tea is a super fun way to experience London! There are endless options, with most high-end hotels offering their own version. We’ve done several at this point, from high class at the Mandarin Oriental to a fun one on a double-decker bus (I liked that one so much we did it twice!).
Adding a wizard themed tea to your London stay really adds a magical touch! There are a few options.
We did the Wizard Exploritorium Wizarding Tea and LOVED it. It was absolutely amazing. The stuff was 1000% in character, which I always love, and made it extra special. The little touches were astounding, from spells to open boxes, potion making during the tea and even the chance to meet a unicorn!
These teas often include a three-course selection of sweet and savory delights: beastly bakewells, lightning bolt scones, smoked salmon in a spellbook and themed drinks that change color or bubbled with dry ice.
The Georgian hotel also offers tea in the cozy Pimlico Pantry, the Wizard Afternoon Tea.
While we did not do this tea, it is important to do an afternoon tea in London! It is a big part of the culture and has become a massive tourism option with dozens of different themed teas.
Afternoon tea is usually served daily between 12:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. (with the last seating at 5:00 p.m.). Check websites, and be sure to book in advance!
Adult tickets are typically priced at around £40 (approx. $53.43) per person, while children’s tickets range from £20–£25 (approx. $26.72–$33.39).
A £10 (approx. $13.36) deposit per person is required at the time of booking, and cancellations must be made at least 48 hours in advance.
Please note that while the staff can accommodate vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets, they’re unable to cater to nut allergies due to supplier limitations.
Make sure you arrive on time, as the experience often begins as a group and includes magical elements you won’t want to miss. Bring your appetite, the portions are generous and each course includes playful, themed surprises.
Dress up, many guests wear wizard robes or accessories, which adds to the experience and makes for great photos. When we did ours, we all wore our robes! However, they also offered some robes there if anyone wanted to use them.
Finally, let them know about any dietary needs when you book to ensure a seamless and enjoyable afternoon. I’ve done several of these teas gluten-free and found the food to still be incredibly delicious! Other than nut allergies, London does the food allergy scene very well.
Of course, we all know that Harry lives in London, but you’d be surprised at just how many things in London are HP related! From markets, filming locations, pubs and more, you can practically find Harry anywhere. I loved a walking tour to get these sites pointed out to me.
We booked our tour online in advance, knowing it would cover some serious territory (cue the good walking shoes). I loved that our guide had trivia quizzes throughout the tour, which kept the kids totally engaged.
A Harry Potter walking tour transforms the city into your personal Hogwarts adventure. Guided tours offer knowledgeable hosts who share behind-the-scenes stories, point out easy-to-miss filming locations and sprinkle in fun quizzes and interactive Sorting Ceremonies. Self-guided tours let you explore at your own pace, stopping wherever and whenever the magic strikes.
Whichever you choose, these tours blend fandom with sightseeing, making them one of the most magical ways to experience London. These are the top-rated guided tours:
This is the classical Harry Potter walking tour, designed to whisk you through the city’s most enchanting streets, these tours unveil the real-life filming locations and inspirations behind the iconic series, led by knowledgeable guides who bring the magic to life with captivating stories, trivia and behind-the-scenes insights. Stops include:
Duration: 2-3 hour tour.
Prices: Starts at $28. Tours sell out quickly during peak seasons, so book in advance.
Family Highlights: These two to three hour Harry Potter walking tours are ideal for families. It’s led by trained actors or passionate guides, the tours are packed with engaging storytelling, behind-the-scenes trivia and interactive elements like House Sorting Ceremonies and quizzes that keep kids excited and involved.
Often named one of the best Harry Potter experiences in London, Tour for Muggles is known for its captivating guides and deep attention to detail. You’ll explore real London locations that connect cleverly to Potter lore, paired with fascinating historical facts about the city.
Duration: This tour is generally around two to two-and-a-half hours, a good length for most families.
Prices: Around $23.08.
Family Highlights: This family-friendly Harry Potter tour is a hit with parents and kids alike, thanks to its engaging, knowledgeable guides who blend real London history with magical lore. The guides bring the city to life, highlighting spots like the Ministry of Magic’s phone booth entrance and alleys that inspired Knockturn Alley. It’s an ideal choice for families seeking an intimate, imaginative adventure.
Prefer to go at your own pace, stop for snacks or linger at your favorite locations? A self-guided tour may be just the thing. My husband hates tour guides and always prefers to go it alone! I’m the opposite, so we balance. 🙂
Highlands: Detailed step-by-step routes to iconic locations, available as PDFs or digital maps. These often include directions, scene explanations and historical tidbits.
Tips: Bring a portable charger and save the maps offline; battery drain and poor reception on the Underground can derail your plans. Also, brush up on how to navigate London’s public transport beforehand.
Both options have their own kind of magic. Choose a Guided Tour if you love expert commentary, social experiences and don’t want to worry about navigation. Go Self-Guided if you prefer flexibility, want to explore at your own pace or are traveling with kids or a tight itinerary.
Whichever path you take, a Harry Potter walking tour is an unforgettable addition to any London itinerary filled with magic, mystery and just a little mischief.
Tucked away in a vibrant corner of Soho, The House of MinaLima is a visual feast for any fan of the Wizarding World. This whimsical gallery and shop is the creation of Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima, the graphic design duo behind the unforgettable visual identity of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films. I hope I’m not the only one who loves to see all things HP. I can drop some serious cash (and have many times) at a fun shop like this! In fact, I started a tradition last year of a Harry Potter Party in October, so of course, decorations are always needed!
The House of MinaLima allows visitors to step inside their universe. Spread over multiple floors of a character-filled townhouse, the space is overflowing with magical details.
While MinaLima is free to visit and doesn’t require a ticket, a little planning can help you avoid crowds and get the most out of your experience.
Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends, making them ideal for a relaxed, unhurried visit. If you can, aim to arrive just after the gallery opens at 11:00 a.m. to enjoy the space before it gets busy. Because the gallery is located near the Palace Theatre, home to Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, you’ll want to avoid dropping in right before showtime or during the intermission, as theatre-goers often spill in around those times.
For those interested in a more in-depth experience, gallery tours are offered every Monday and Tuesday, with the first tour beginning at 12:15 p.m. and the last at 6:15 p.m. These guided visits add extra context to the collection and are a great way to dive deeper into MinaLima’s creative world.
Here’s the best part: Entry is completely free! That’s right: You don’t need to pay to enjoy the gallery or browse the shop. It’s one of London’s best magical gems that you can explore at your leisure without a ticket.
Of course, while entry won’t cost you a Knut, you’ll probably find yourself eyeing the stunning merchandise. From collectible art prints and books to postcards and pins, there’s plenty to tempt you, and it’s all designed by the MinaLima team themselves.
Take your time and embrace the artistry. MinaLima’s genius lies in the smallest details; the headlines on the Daily Prophet, the fine print on potion labels, the packaging from Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes. Slow down and examine the intricacies of each piece; you’ll likely discover dozens of references and Easter eggs that you never caught in the films.
Be on the lookout for authentic props scattered throughout the gallery. These aren’t just replicas, they’re the actual pieces used on set, displayed alongside their conceptual designs. Seeing the progression from sketch to screen adds an extra layer to the experience of appreciation of the work that went into creating the films.
Although it’s not an interactive exhibit in the traditional sense, there are plenty of moments that feel immersive. The fireplace overflowing with Hogwarts acceptance letters is a favourite photo spot, and the entire environment invites imagination and wonder.
For families visiting with kids, there’s a lot to love. The visual nature of the space is immediately engaging, especially for children who are already familiar with the Wizarding World.
Please note that the historic building features narrow staircases and small rooms, so it may not be ideal for pushchairs, and there aren’t any baby-changing facilities onsite.
Even though the gallery isn’t huge, there’s a lot to absorb. We recommend setting aside at least 45 minutes to an hour to fully explore each floor without feeling rushed.
And yes, be prepared to shop! The merchandise is unique, high quality and often exclusive to the store, but some other time you can find them on the MinaLima website.
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a wizarding world where cocktails bubble, smoke and shimmer, the city is full of immersive potion-making experiences that combine mixology, theatre and magical storytelling.
Unfortunately, the Exploratorium is now permanently closed, but we had so much fun when we were there, and the memories are pure magic. Previously located in the heart of Soho, the Wands & Wizard Exploratorium offered multiple magical experiences. The most popular was the Potions Experience, where we brewed two fantastical drinks using molecular mixology and a working wand. Smoking goblets, color-changing liquids and a “pouring spell” for a welcome drink kicked things off with a touch of wonder. They also served a Wizard Afternoon Tea, complete with themed treats and edible surprises in a beautifully immersive setting.
Step into the role of a potion master in this fun, interactive activity where magic meets mixology. Guided by an ancient-style scroll, you’ll combine mysterious powders with fantastical liquids to brew two bubbling, fizzing creations, complete with dazzling effects like swirling dry ice and dramatic colour changes.
The experience lasts around 20-30 minutes and can be enjoyed as a standalone activity or added to your afternoon tea. While many guests rave about the immersive fun, some note that the price, £25 ($33.39) for the cocktail version or £20 ($26.72) for the mocktail, can feel steep for just two drinks.
Booking ahead is highly recommended, especially for weekends, as spots disappear faster than you can say “Wingardium Leviosa!” The Wizard Potion Experience runs every Saturday and Sunday.
You can book directly via email at pimlicopantry@georgianhousehotel.co.uk, or request it when booking your afternoon tea to make the planning easier.
We highly recommend pairing this with the afternoon tea for the full magical package, but it’s a lot of fun even on its own. Take your time reading the scroll, it’s part of the immersive charm, and don’t be afraid to get creative with the potions. The bubbling effects and dramatic visuals are perfect for capturing videos and photos, so have your camera ready. And most importantly, enjoy it!
The Georgian House Hotel remains the most prominent and dedicated “wizard-themed” hotel in London. In fact, it’s virtually the only one in the city with purpose-built, highly immersive rooms specifically designed to evoke a magical, Hogwarts-like atmosphere.
That said, if you’re looking for other accommodations that capture a sense of magic or whimsy, or are conveniently located near key Harry Potter attractions, here are a few worth considering:
Step directly into the world of wizardry with a stay at Harry’s House in Watford. This Airbnb-style apartment is a lovingly decorated haven for Harry Potter fans, brimming with memorabilia and thoughtful details that make it feel like a true magical home away from home. Its prime location near the Warner Bros. Studio Tour makes it an ideal base for a dedicated Potterhead pilgrimage.
As a popular, themed Airbnb, demand for Harry’s House is consistently high. Booking well in advance is essential, ideally 3 to 6 months ahead, or even earlier for peak travel seasons such as school holidays, summer, Christmas and Halloween (especially during events like Hogwarts in the Snow at the Studio Tour). Last-minute availability is rare.
Rates at Harry’s House fluctuate depending on demand, season and length of stay. You can expect to pay between £160 and £350+ per night ($213.51 and $467.06+ per night), with higher rates during peak periods. Don’t forget to account for Airbnb’s service and cleaning fees when budgeting your stay.
You can coordinate this accommodation with your visit to Harry Potter Studio Tour. Book your tour tickets first to lock in availability for your preferred time and date, then confirm your accommodation. Make the most of the apartment’s immersive decor by planning an evening in, watch some Harry Potter films (many guests mention DVDs are provided), enjoy themed games and soak up the ambiance. Capture the magic with plenty of creative photos, as the flat is full of Instagram-worthy details.
Take advantage of the kitchen by preparing a themed meal or indulging in treats like chocolate frogs and Every Flavor Beans.
The Ricky Road Guest House offers a charming and highly rated Wizarding Studio Room, ideal if you’re looking to stay somewhere magical just minutes from the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Guests frequently praise its enchanting theming and cozy comfort, making it a fantastic choice for a spellbinding overnight stay.
Due to its popularity and proximity to the Studio Tour, it’s wise to book this themed room 2 to 4 months in advance, especially if you’re visiting during UK school holidays or peak Studio Tour times. The best visiting periods align with the Studio Tour’s quieter times, namely January through February and September through November (excluding half-term breaks). Weekdays continue to offer a more relaxed pace.
Pricing for the Wizarding Studio Room typically ranges from £80 to £180+ per night ($106.76 to $240.20). February and April often offer more affordable rates. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, consult their website or Booking.com, where occasional special offers may also be listed.
This guesthouse’s location, just 3.5 miles from the Studio Tour, minimizes travel hassle. Be sure to check what amenities are included, it may include continental breakfast, free WiFi and parking as perks. Take time to appreciate the room’s detailed theming, it’s the highlight of the stay. Staff at the guesthouse are frequently praised for their friendliness and responsiveness, so feel free to reach out with any questions or requests ahead of your visit.
For those seeking a magical escape in the heart of the capital, the Magical Wizardry Flat in Shepherd’s Bush offers a fully immersive Harry Potter-themed apartment experience. With quirky, whimsical decor and a prime central location, it’s a one-of-a-kind base from which to explore both the wizarding world and the wonders of London.
As a themed property in central London, this flat is in extremely high demand. Booking 3 to 6 months ahead is strongly recommended, and for peak seasons, such as June to August, December and school holidays, consider planning 6 to 12 months in advance. While London is lively year-round, shoulder seasons like April to May or late September to October offer slightly fewer crowds. No matter the time of year, the flat’s magical ambiance remains a welcome retreat.
Expect rates between £200 and £400+ per night ($266.89 and $533.79+ per night), depending on demand, time of year and duration of stay. Being both centrally located and uniquely themed, prices reflect the premium experience. Always check Booking.com for the most current availability and fees.
This location provides the perfect springboard for a Harry Potter trail through London, visit Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross, explore the enchanting House of MinaLima in Soho or join a walking tour that retraces the steps of your favorite characters. Inside the apartment, enjoy the ambiance, including Harry Potter music and thoughtful decor details, so take your time discovering all the magical touches.
Whether you’re a devoted collector, casual fan, or first-time visitor to the Wizarding World, London is brimming with magical places to shop for Harry Potter merchandise and memorabilia. From immersive themed boutiques to premium collector destinations, here’s a complete guide to the best places to stock up on robes, wands, sweets and spellbinding souvenirs.
Tucked inside the bustling King’s Cross Station, The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ is the ultimate pilgrimage point for fans. Not only does it serve as the official retail hub for the franchise, but it’s also home to the iconic Platform 9¾ photo opportunity, complete with a disappearing luggage trolley embedded in the wall. The shop is meticulously designed to resemble a wizarding emporium, transporting you straight into the magical world the moment you step inside.
Expect to find a huge selection of officially licensed merchandise: house robes stitched with detailed crests, replica wands lovingly displayed by character, Butterbeer in bottles, and wizarding sweets like Chocolate Frogs and Every Flavor Beans. For a truly special memento, consider a personalized Hogwarts acceptance letter or a robe monogrammed with your initials.
Where is it located: You can find it at King’s Cross Station, Euston Rd, King’s Cross, London N1 9AP.
Prepare to be enchanted the moment you walk through the door of House of Spells. With its flickering lanterns, faux stone walls and gothic décor, this immersive shop feels like a secret alleyway pulled straight from Diagon Alley.
Offering both licensed merchandise and independent fantasy-themed items, House of Spells has something for every kind of fan.
Where is the House of Spells located? 69–71 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0NE
(A short stroll from Leicester Square and Covent Garden.)
Serious collectors and film memorabilia lovers should head straight to The Noble Collection in Covent Garden. This elegant boutique specializes in exquisitely crafted, officially licensed replicas from the Wizarding World, focusing on accuracy and detail.
From Hermione’s time-turner to character wands presented in ornate display boxes, this is the place to invest in heirloom-quality items. While it lacks the immersive set design of other shops, its reputation for premium products makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to take home a showpiece.
Where is the Convent Garden located? 26–28 Neal St, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9PS
Hamleys is one of the world’s most legendary toy stores, and among its many themed sections is a dedicated Harry Potter area brimming with fan-favorite items. While the selection isn’t as specialized as the more immersive shops, you’ll still find a great range of robes, wands, Funko Pops, LEGO sets, books and games.
For families and casual fans already exploring the excitement of Regent Street, it’s a fun and convenient way to bring home a little magic.
Where is Hamleys Toy Store located? 188–196 Regent St, London W1B 5BT
LEGO Store, Harry Potter Section (Leicester Square)
At the world’s largest LEGO Store in Leicester Square, imagination comes to life, especially for fans of the Harry Potter LEGO collection. The store features jaw-dropping LEGO sculptures and a dedicated section filled with sets from the Wizarding World.
From towering Hogwarts builds and intricate Diagon Alley scenes to character sets and exclusive minifigures, there’s something here for every age and building skill. The in-store displays and interactive elements also make this a visual treat, even if you’re just browsing.
Where is LEGO Store located? 3 Swiss Ct, Leicester Square, London W1D 6AP
Beyond the glitz of studio sets, London has so much to offer any Harry Potter fan. I feel like each visit, I discover more and more! From the city’s real-life locations, immersive attractions, to whimsical touches allow you to step directly into the pages of J.K. Rowling’s world.
Check out your travel necessities from a comprehensive list of all the 7Wayfinders Travel Must-Haves. Click Here!
Find a nice hotel near London from Expedia, or Vrbo, (we also love Tripadvisor and Hotels.com)
Discover more of London while having fun through exciting activities from GetYourGuide, Airbnb Experiences, or Viator
Need to rent a car to navigate the city? Visit Rentalcars.com.
Get insured while traveling with World Nomads / SafetyWing
Want to have a photo shoot while traveling? Check out flytographer!
Capture your best memories in London as we do with a GoPro, Sony camera, or our favorite drones: DJI FPV, Air, and Mini
Check out your travel necessities from a comprehensive list of all the 7Wayfinders Travel Must-Haves. Click Here!
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