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Your guide to Harry Potter walking tour in London

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Book your Harry Potter Walking Tour

Harry Potter™ Film Locations Walking Tour
Free cancellation
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Mobile ticket
2 hr. 30 min. - 3 hr.
Guided tour
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Harry Potter™ Film Locations Walking Tour with Thames River Cruise
Free cancellation
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Mobile ticket
2 hr. 30 min.
Guided tour
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From London: Harry Potter™ Warner Bros. Studio Tickets with Coach Transfers
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Mobile ticket
7 hr.
Transfers included
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Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
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Mobile ticket
5 hr. 15 min.
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Calling all witches, wizards, and curious Muggles! The Harry Potter walking tour is your chance to uncover London's most enchanting filming locations. Imagine standing where Harry battled Death Eaters on the Millennium Bridge or walking past Leadenhall Market, the real-life inspiration for Diagon Alley. Along the way, your guide will share behind-the-scenes stories, filming secrets, and trivia that even hardcore fans might not know!

Plan your visit

What are the tour timings?
How to reach the tour's starting point?

Timing of different walking tours:

  • Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour timings:

From King's Cross: 9:30am to 4pm

From Borough Market: 10:30am to 7pm

  • Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour with Thames River Cruise: 10:30am and 7pm
  • London Harry Potter Private Black Cab Tour: 8am to 8pm

Duration of the tours: The Harry Potter Walking Tour lasts 2.5 to 4 hours.

Depending on your ticket, your magical adventure begins at either Borough Market or King's Cross Station. 

Here's how to get to each starting point:

To Borough Market:

  • By train: Hop on the Southeastern train from Charing Cross to London Bridge station (0.3 km away).
  • By Tube: Take the Circle line from Embankment to Monument station (0.6 km away).
  • By ferry: Board ferry RB2 from Embankment Pier to London Bridge City Pier (0.4 km away).

To King's Cross:

  • By Tube: Ride the Piccadilly line from Leicester Square to King's Cross St. Pancras station (0.3 km away).
  • By bus: Take bus 91 from Charing Cross to St. Pancras International Station (0.1 km away).

Things to see on the Harry Potter walking tour

King's Cross Station

King's Cross Station isn't just a travel hub—it's a gateway to magic! Opened in 1852, this Victorian beauty is steeped in history, but for Harry Potter fans, it's all about Platform 9¾. Snap a pic with the disappearing luggage trolley, or grab wizarding merch at the Harry Potter shop. 

10 Downing Street

10 Downing Street, the British Prime Minister's residence, plays a key role in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. The opening scene unfolds here, with the Minister for Magic visiting the Prime Minister through a magical portrait to warn of Voldemort's rise. While it's off-limits for tours, this iconic spot perfectly merges Muggle politics with wizarding intrigue.

Great Scotland Yard

Once a quiet London street, Great Scotland Yard is now a hotspot for Harry Potter fans! In Order of the Phoenix, Harry and Mr. Weasley use a red phone booth here to access the Ministry of Magic. It reappears in Deathly Hallows during the trio's daring infiltration. While the booth was just a prop, this spot is perfect for a photo op!

Trafalgar Square

Known for Nelson's Column and its regal lion statues, Trafalgar Square is the beating heart of London's history. In Half-Blood Prince, it doubles as a cinematic hotspot where Death Eaters ominously fly overhead, leading into Diagon Alley drama.

Cecil Court

With its quirky shops and antique bookstores, Cecil Court is sometimes said to have inspired Diagon Alley. Though J.K. Rowling hasn't confirmed this, the street's whimsical charm makes it feel like you've stumbled into a magical world. It's a lovely spot to explore, offering a glimpse into a world of books, curiosities, and history.

Goodwin's Court

Goodwin's Court, known for its narrow alley and historical charm, is often linked to Diagon Alley, where wizards shop for their magical goods. Its Victorian architecture also evokes the dark, magical aura of Knockturn Alley. Whether you're a fan of Harry Potter or just love architecture and literature, this charming alley is a fun stop in London.

Palace Theatre

The Palace Theatre is the home of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, the play that takes the Potter saga beyond the books. Premiering in 2016, it follows Albus Potter and Scorpius Malfoy on time-traveling adventures. Award-winning and packed with jaw-dropping effects, the theatre has become a must-visit for Potterheads in London's West End.

St. Paul's Cathedral

You've seen St. Paul's Cathedral in Harry Potter—it's the place where Trelawney's classroom entrance was filmed, and the interior doubles as Gringotts in Deathly Hallows – Part 2. But it's not all about the movies. With its gorgeous dome and bird's-eye views of London from the top, it's a spot you won't want to miss while exploring the city.

Shakespeare's Globe

If you're a Harry Potter fan, you'll love the connection to Shakespeare's Globe. Daniel Radcliffe, our favorite wizard, performed in Equus there. And the Globe's classic themes, like good versus evil, feel so Potter-esque. With its rich history and ties to modern theatre, this iconic space lets you enjoy both worlds with a dash of magic!

Visitor tips

  • Some Harry Potter walking tours have specific spots with ties to the films that don’t always line up perfectly with the main tour path. Bring a map of the filming locations to try and find even more magical spots nearby on your own time.
  • While you’re exploring the magical London spots, keep an eye out for secret Harry Potter-themed shops, like The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾ or House of MinaLima in Soho, where you can find cool memorabilia and hidden gems off the beaten path.
  • London often hosts temporary Harry Potter-themed events or exhibitions, like the Magical Mischief or pop-up Wizarding World events. Keep an eye on current listings or ask your guide if they know of any happening during your visit.
  • If your tour goes near The George Inn, take a closer look at the pub sign. Pubs like these often feature whimsical, old-timey signs that nod to the magical world with symbols like broomsticks, cauldrons, and mystical animals.
  • If your tour ends at Trafalgar Square or nearby areas, consider taking the actual bus route that inspired the Knight Bus! It won’t be magical, but a double-decker bus ride through London’s streets will make you feel like you’re part of the story
  • Carry a small notebook or use your phone to note any cool facts from the guide you'll want to remember later.

Frequently Asked Questions about Harry Potter walking tours

Can I wear my Hogwarts house robes on the tour?

Of course! Rocking your house robes or any themed gear is a fantastic way to get into the spirit and snap some incredible photos during the tour.

Are there any hidden Harry Potter references along the way?

Definitely! There are plenty of subtle nods to the series—think architectural details that inspired the films or ties to the cast. Keep an eye out for these magical touches!

When's the best time to go on a Harry Potter walking tour?

Tours are available all year, but if you prefer fewer crowds and a more personal experience, late autumn or early spring is the perfect time to visit!

What if I haven't read the books or seen the movies?

No problem at all! The guides will fill you in on all the key details, so you'll still get to enjoy the magic, even as a newcomer!

What if it rains on the day of my tour?

No worries—London's weather is always a bit of a gamble! Tours go ahead rain or shine, so come prepared with a raincoat or umbrella if needed.

Is food provided during the walking tour?

Food isn't typically provided, but there's usually a chance for a snack stop at a café along the way. It's a good idea to bring a light snack, just in case!

How physically demanding is the walking tour?

The tour involves moderate walking (about 2-3 hours with breaks), so comfy shoes are a must. However, it's designed to be enjoyable for most fitness levels, so no worries!

What happens if I arrive late to the meeting point?

It's a good idea to get there at least 15 minutes early. If you're running late and miss the group, you might not be able to catch up, so plan ahead!

What should I do if I have mobility issues?

If a walking tour isn't ideal for you, a private cab tour is a great way to see the sights. Your driver will take you to key filming locations and share all the Harry Potter details without walking.