16 Magical Harry Potter Things to Do in London

London is the perfect place to dive deeper into the magical world of Harry Potter. From theatre performances to spellbinding tours, here’s a list of Harry Potter things to do in London. You’ll also find a map showing each location at the end of the post.

London serves as the backdrop for much of the enchanting Harry Potter saga.

In this guide, you’ll discover a variety of Harry Potter-themed experiences across London, including iconic filming locations, immersive activities, and magical experiences.

As a British travel blogger based just outside London, I have of course visited most of the places on this list. I have also read all the books, and seen all 8 of the films (more than once!)

Disclaimer: This post is written by me (an independent travel blogger) and is not affiliated to Warner Bros., JK Rowling, Penguin Publishing or any other official Harry Potter agency. All opinions are my own, and facts are reproduced to the best of my knowledge.

Harry Potter things to do in London.

Let’s begin with my guide to the best Harry Potter things to do in London.

I have listed 16 experiences here which should give you lots of magical and fun ideas!

1. Experience Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the West End.

See the magic of Harry Potter come alive with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Palace Theatre. 

This award-winning play continues the story of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, set 19 years after the events of The Deathly Hallows. 

With spellbinding performances, breathtaking special effects, and a gripping story, it’s an extraordinary way to reconnect with the characters you love.

This tour combines a small group walking tour along with secured theatre tickets too. 

2. Explore behind the scenes at Warner Bros. Studio Tour.

This incredible experience takes you through real sets, props, and costumes used in the films.

You can walk down Diagon Alley, visit the Great Hall, or step into the Forbidden Forest, feeling the magic as you wander through these iconic locations. 

You can even see behind-the-scenes secrets, from animatronics to special effects that made the films so magical. 

The experience is slightly outside of London City, so you will need to do a little travelling to get there.  Alternatively you could book a tour which includes pickup from your London hotel (recommendations below):

3. Discover Dark Arts at The Making of Harry Potter.

This is a Dark Arts special exhibition at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, which delves into the more sinister side of the wizarding world.

You can walk through the Forbidden Forest, learn about the making of the Death Eaters, and uncover the secrets behind the darker magical creatures. 

There are often seasonal features (especially for Halloween) which include processions and classroom-duelling features. There are Dementors hanging around, so be warned!

It’s separate from the main Warner Bros Studio experience.

4. Visit iconic Harry Potter filming locations.

Visit some of London’s most iconic Harry Potter filming locations, including Leadenhall Market, which served as Diagon Alley and contains the famous site of the Leaky Cauldron pub.

At St. Pancras Station, you can see where Harry and Ron made their daring escape in the flying Ford Anglia. 

You can visit Tower Bridge, which was dramatically destroyed by Death Eaters in The Order of the Phoenix, and stand where key moments from the films unfolded.

You could visit lots of Harry Potter London filming locations in one day. See my three main posts about Harry Potter filming locations – including HP filming locations in England, HP filming locations in London, and HP filming locations in Scotland – for more details.

5. Test your skills at wizard-themed Escape Rooms.

For fans who love a challenge, taking on a wizard-themed escape room in London is a thrilling way to experience the magic.

1. Enigma Quests: The School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

At Enigma Quests, you and your team will be tested on your magical abilities in The School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

This escape room immerses you in the world of spells and potions, challenging you to graduate from a magical academy by solving intricate puzzles and unlocking secret chambers.

2. World of Escapes: A Magical Escape Room Experience

At World of Escapes, you’ll be transported into a realm filled with magical mysteries. Designed to challenge even the most seasoned wizards, this escape room takes you through various wizard-inspired environments.

3. Outdoor Escape: Compete in a Magical Scavenger Hunt Across London

If you’d prefer to enjoy an outdoor adventure, take part in the Harry Potter Outdoor Escape Experience. As you and your team navigate iconic London filming locations like Piccadilly Circus, Millennium Bridge, and Westminster Tube Station, you’ll solve puzzles and face magical challenges.

Tickets: here .

6. Mix potions like a wizard at The Cauldron.

Channel your inner Professor Snape at The Cauldron, where you can participate in a Potter-esque cocktail-making class. 

Using a “working magic wand,” you’ll craft drinks through molecular mixology in this immersive 1 hour and 45-minute experience. Located in Dalston, it’s the ultimate themed bar for fans of the wizarding world.

Please note this experience is not affiliated to Harry Potter, JK Rowling or Warner Brothers in any way. It is a wizard-themed experience.

📍5d Stoke Newington Rd, London N16 8BH.

7. Speak Parseltongue at the Reptile House in London Zoo.

In Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, one of the most memorable moments is when Harry discovers his ability to speak Parseltongue while visiting the Reptile House at the London Zoo. 

In this scene, Harry unwittingly converses with a boa constrictor, unlocking a magical skill that surprises both him and the audience. 

The enclosure where the snake lived is still there, and it’s become a popular attraction for visitors wanting to relive the moment where Harry’s magical powers first emerge. It’s also inside one of London’s 8 Royal Parks (Regent’s Park) which makes it a great day out too.

Besides this, the zoo is home to a variety of reptiles, from snakes and lizards to crocodiles and tortoises, making it a fascinating visit for animal lovers as well. Get your London Zoo entry tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

📍London Zoo, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY, UK.

8. Spend a night in the Wizarding Chambers.

For a truly magical stay, book a room in the Wizarding Chambers at the Georgian House Hotel in Pimlico. 

Behind a secret bookcase door, you’ll find a portrait-lined corridor leading to a room with a magical wizardry theme. There are stained glass windows, stone walls, archways, cauldrons, and a luxurious four-poster bed draped with velvet curtains. 

The hotel also offers a themed afternoon tea, and a potion-making experience, making it the perfect spot for a wizarding-inspired getaway. Book your stay here.

Disclaimer: Please note this experience holds no association with Harry Potter, JK Rowling or Warner Brothers. It is a wizard-themed experience only.

9. ..or try out other Harry Potter-related accommodation.

In addition to the Georgian House hotel above, here are two other Harry Potter-related hotels you could try: 

The St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel
The architecture of the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel was used for the exterior shots of King’s Cross Station in the films. You could book a stay here and easily visit Platform 9¾, which is located just steps away at the adjacent King’s Cross Station.

The Wizarding Suite at The Clermont, Charing Cross
This luxurious suite at The Clermont hotel (formerly Amba Hotel) features elegant, dark interiors with touches reminiscent of the wizarding world. Though subtle, the magical atmosphere and proximity to famous filming locations make it an attractive option for Potterheads. Book here.

10. Indulge in a Harry Potter-themed afternoon tea.

Sip tea and enjoy themed treats at one of London’s Harry Potter-themed afternoon tea experiences.

Located in Soho, this magical venue offers a “Wizard’s Afternoon Tea,” where you use interactive wands to mix potions and create your drinks. It’s a hands-on experience, blending Harry Potter vibes with creative food and drink options.

With cakes shaped like golden snitches, butterbeer-inspired drinks, and other delightful wizarding snacks, this afternoon tea is perfect for celebrating your love of the series in an elegant, magical setting.

There is also a guided tour available, which includes afternoon tea at Wands & Wizards here.

11. Take a Harry Potter guided tour.

You can’t do better when looking for Harry Potter things to do in London than a guided tour.

Take a dedicated Harry Potter tour around London and explore key filming locations with an expert guide. You’ll visit sites like Great Scotland Yard (entrance to the Ministry of Magic), Australia House (Gringotts Bank), and more. 

Here are some of the top-rated Harry Potter tours from Viator:

12. Visit MinaLima – the art of Harry Potter.

Explore the enchanting work of MinaLima, the graphic designers behind the Harry Potter films, at their gallery and shop in Soho. 

This creative duo designed some of the most iconic visuals from the series, including the Marauder’s Map and Daily Prophet. You can admire their magical designs and even purchase a print or piece of memorabilia to take home.

13. Snap a photo at Platform 9¾.

Of all the Harry Potter things to to do in London, this one will yield the best photo!

Head to King’s Cross Station and capture a magical moment with the famous trolley at Platform 9¾. The trolley looks as if it’s disappearing into the wall, just like in the films! 

This is a must-do for Harry Potter fans, offering the perfect photo opportunity to commemorate your visit.

Here is a popular Harry Potter walking tour which also includes platform 9 3/4.

14. Visit the Harry Potter shop at Platform 9¾.

After your photo, step into the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾, where you’ll find an array of exclusive merchandise. From house scarves and wands to collectible memorabilia, the shop is a treasure trove for fans wanting to take home a piece of the wizarding world.

15. See the Harry Potter sculpture in Leicester Square.

In Leicester Square, you’ll find a bronze sculpture of Harry Potter from The Philosopher’s Stone, capturing him in a moment of discovery. 

This statue is part of a larger installation celebrating London’s cinema history, making it a fantastic spot to reflect on the cultural impact of the series while snapping a memorable photo.

16. Discover Harry Potter treasures at Hamleys toy store.

Head to Hamleys on Regent Street (the iconic toy megastore) where a whole section of the ground floor is dedicated to Harry Potter. 

From wands and robes to magical toys, this is the ultimate stop for fans of all ages looking to immerse themselves in the world of Hogwarts. A perfect spot for children eager to take home their favourite magical memorabilia!

Map of Harry Potter things to do in London.

This Google Map shows all the Harry Potter things to do in London as listed in this post. If you are viewing on a phone, you can use two fingers to pinch and drag the map.

FAQs for Harry Potter things to do in London. 

Below are some frequently asked questions about Harry Potter things to do in London. 

Q: What are the best guided tours of Harry Potter things to do in London?

A: Below are the top-rated tours of Harry Potter things to do in London, from Viator:

• Harry Potter Tour of England by Black Taxi Tour from London.
• Warner Bros. Studio Harry Potter Tour with Superior Transport from London.
• Harry Potter Walking Tour with Platform 9 ¾.
• Harry Potter Tour and Magical Afternoon Tea.
• Harry Potter Filming Locations London Bus Tour.
• A Muggle’s Guide to Harry Potter Walking Tour in London.
• Private Harry Potter Walking Tour of London.
• Harry Potter Warner Bros Tour with Overnight London Stay.
• Harry Potter In Oxford: Private Full Day Trip from London.

Q: Where can I visit real Harry Potter filming locations in London?

A: You can visit several filming locations across London, including Leadenhall Market (Diagon Alley), King’s Cross Station (Platform 9 3⁄4), and the Millennium Bridge, which featured in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Lambeth Bridge, Tower Bridge, Piccadilly Circus, and Claremont Square are also famous spots from the movies.

Q: What is the best Harry Potter experience in London?

A: One of the best Harry Potter things to do in London is the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, where you can explore real sets, costumes, and props from the films, including the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and the Forbidden Forest. The Harry Potter studio tour even shows you how the magic of filmmaking was created! Bear in mind it’s a little bit outside of London.

Q: How can I visit Diagon Alley in London?

A: One of the best (and free) Harry Potter thing to do in London is visting Diagon Alley. The scenes for Diagon Alley were filmed at Leadenhall Market. The market’s glass roof and charming Victorian architecture provided the backdrop for the magical shopping street in the first film.

Q: Is there a Harry Potter-themed afternoon tea in London?

A: There is a wizard-themed afternoon tea in London at The Georgian House Hotel, and also at Wands and Wizards Exploratorium. These tea services feature magical treats inspired by the wizarding world.

Q: Can I visit the Ministry of Magic in London?

A: The entrance to the Ministry of Magic, as seen in The Order of the Phoenix, is located at Great Scotland Yard. Although the red phone booth used as the entrance was a prop, you can still visit the exterior filming location and imagine stepping into the wizarding world.

Q: Are there any Harry Potter-themed cocktail experiences in London?

A: Yes, at The Cauldron in London, you can enjoy an interactive cocktail-making class where you brew your own magical drinks using wands and cauldrons, creating a whimsical and fun experience.

Q: Where can I find artwork and props from the Harry Potter films in London?

A: You can visit MinaLima, the graphic design duo responsible for the visual art in the films, at their store in Soho. The shop showcases their iconic artwork and offers fans the chance to buy unique Harry Potter-themed prints and souvenirs.

Q: Is there Harry Potter merchandise available to buy on Amazon?

A: Here are some of the most popular Harry Potter items available on Amazon.co.uk that fans love:

1. LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle (71043) – This detailed LEGO set lets fans recreate the iconic castle from the series, complete with various rooms and characters.
2. Harry Potter Illustrated Editions (Books 1-3) – Beautifully illustrated editions of the first three Harry Potter books in the series.
3. Harry Potter: The Complete Collection (Books 1-7) – This box set includes all seven books, making it a great gift for anyone wanting to dive into the wizarding world.
4. Harry Potter Marauder’s Map – A replica of the famous magical map, complete with intricate details, perfect for collectors.
5. Harry Potter Wand Collection – A set of replica wands, including those of major characters like Harry, Hermione, and Ron.
6. Harry Potter Funko Pop! Vinyl Figures – These collectible figures feature beloved characters from the series, appealing to both fans and collectors.
7. Harry Potter Chess Set – A beautifully crafted chess set inspired by the Wizard’s Chess scene from “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.”
8. Harry Potter Magical Creatures Book – An engaging book that explores the magical creatures of the wizarding world.
9. Harry Potter House Scarves – Knitted scarves representing each Hogwarts house, perfect for fans to show their house pride.
10. Harry Potter Puzzle Collection – Various jigsaw puzzles featuring scenes, characters, and locations from the films, providing a fun activity for fans.