For several years now, the Harry Potter Park has become a must-see attraction for London and its surroundings. Located in the town of Watford, just a 20-minute train ride from central London, the Harry Potter Park London was created by the Warner Bros Studios, and has become a pilgrimage site for fans of the saga.
- Harry Potter Parks in London
- What to See at the Harry Potter Park
- Harry Potter’s Hogwarts Express in London: How to Board
- When to Arrive at Harry Potter Park London
- How to Get to the Harry Potter Theme Park
- Harry Potter Park Ticket Prices
- Buy Harry Potter Park Tickets Online
- Can You Change the Date of Harry Potter Park Tickets?
- Can You Take Photos at Harry Potter Park?
Harry Potter Parks in London
The park officially opened to the public on March 31st, 2012, and from day one, tickets for the Harry Potter theme park have been in high demand. The enduring popularity of the wizarding world is evident in the ongoing excitement surrounding the Harry Potter themed park.
What to See at the Harry Potter Park
A visit to the Harry Potter park typically lasts around three hours. During this time, you’ll explore the entire Harry Potter village at the Leavesden Studios and fully immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere. There’s an area dedicated to discovering behind-the-scenes secrets of the film sets, as well as exhibits where you can get up close to original costumes and special effects used in the Harry Potter films. Walk through Albus Dumbledore’s office, Hagrid’s hut, wander the cobbled streets of Diagon Alley, and step into the Gryffindor dormitory. You can also visit the Weasleys’ kitchen, the Dursley house, and many other iconic locations from Harry Potter. “To avoid any issues, you can purchase your ticket for the Warner Bros. Studio Harry Potter tour in London online. Alternatively, or in addition, explore London on a Harry Potter location tour.
Harry Potter’s Hogwarts Express in London: How to Board
Since March 19, 2015, fans of the young wizard and London theme parks have the opportunity to step aboard the Harry Potter Hogwarts Express train.
What can you expect? An amazingly authentic experience, as this is not just a replica—the Hogwarts Express is actually the real Olton Hall locomotive used in the films. The entire area recreates the iconic set and route for the Harry Potter tour. The arrival of the Hogwarts Express led to a major expansion of the dedicated section, making space for the original locomotive.
The space was extended by 2,000 square meters to faithfully recreate platform 9¾ and London’s King’s Cross station.
When to Arrive at Harry Potter Park London
It’s best to arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Before your visit begins, you’ll have access to the Food Hall, Hub Café, Studio Shop (opens at 10am), cloakroom, and restrooms. Entry cannot be guaranteed for those arriving after the last tour of the day. Upon arrival, your bags will be checked before you enter the Studio Tour. Please avoid bringing large or multiple bags.
How to Get to the Harry Potter Theme Park
The theme park is set up in Watford, in the Leavesden suburb, just outside London, about 30 km from the city center. There’s a paid shuttle service departing from Victoria station.
Train:
from London Euston to Watford Junction (about 20 minutes), then a shuttle bus from Watford Junction to the Studios (about 15 minutes, from 9:20am to 8:00pm). Direct trains run from London Euston (20 minutes) and Birmingham New Street (one hour). Indirect trains also operate from London Euston but may take longer.
Coach:
from London Victoria, at the Golden Tour offices (departures at 8:00, 11:00, and 14:00). Mullany’s Coaches operate the shuttle service from Watford Junction to the Studio Tour for £3 each way. Journey time is around 15 minutes. Plan to arrive at Watford Junction 45 minutes before your ticket time and have your ticket confirmation ready for boarding. There’s no need to book shuttle bus tickets in advance—you can buy them directly from the driver.
By car from London:
M1 (Junction 5) and A41 to North Watford. The Harry Potter park has free on-site parking just a short walk from the Studio Tour entrance.
Harry Potter Park Ticket Prices
The entry ticket for the Harry Potter park costs £47 per person (aged 16 and over), with reduced rates for children ages 5–15 at £38, as well as discounts for families and groups. For example, a family of two adults and two children pays around £150, compared to the £170 standard rate. Children under 5 enter for free. The Harry Potter park is open every day from 10am to 6pm.
Buy Harry Potter Park Tickets Online
“To avoid any issues, you can purchase your ticket for the Warner Bros. Studio Harry Potter tour in London online. Alternatively, or in addition, explore London on a Harry Potter location tour.
On the official Harry Potter park website, you’ll find special packages for families, groups, and options including guided tours of the Harry Potter Park with departures and returns from central London.
Can You Change the Date of Harry Potter Park Tickets?
Yes, you can change your ticket date for an additional £10. Just call 0345 084 0900 and have your booking confirmation to hand. Date changes depend on availability and must be made before your visit date.
Can You Take Photos at Harry Potter Park?
Photography and video recording with handheld cameras and mobile devices are allowed throughout the Studio Tour, except in the pre-show cinema and green screen areas. Tripods and specialist photographic equipment are not permitted.
Besides the Harry Potter Park in London, don’t miss exploring Harry Potter film locations in Scotland.
