The Best Harry Potter Tour & The London Dungeons

Explore London’s Magical and Literary Sights in One Tour

This Harry Potter-themed walking tour in London offers a chance to see iconic locations from the wizarding world alongside historic literary sites. Priced at $93.07 per person, it lasts approximately 5 hours and includes admission tickets to the Globe Theatre and the Charles Dickens Museum. The tour is perfect for fans eager to combine their love of Harry Potter with a broader exploration of London’s cultural gems.

The tour begins at King’s Cross Station, home of Platform 9 ¾, where a quick photo with the trolley is recommended before heading into the city. Small groups limited to 15 travelers mean more personalized attention from the guide. While the tour includes two tube journeys—so a contactless bank card, Oyster, or Travel Card is necessary—it balances walking through London’s vibrant neighborhoods with stops at key film and literary locations.

Discovering the Harry Potter Heritage at King’s Cross Station

The tour kicks off at King’s Cross Station, where the famous Platform 9 ¾ is located. This historic station is a must-see for Potter fans, and although queues for photos can be long, arriving 45 minutes early helps ensure ample time for pictures with the trolley. The admission ticket to this spot is included, though the tour itself does not stop inside the station, just at the exterior.

This first stop is ideal for snapping a memorable photo and getting a sense of the magical journey that begins here. It sets the tone for the rest of the tour, blending the real-world London with the enchanted world of Harry Potter. The station’s architecture adds to the experience, making it a picture-perfect start.

Walking Down Cecil Court’s Magical Shopping Street

Next, the guide leads you to Cecil Court, a charming London street with colorful independent shops and overhanging signs reminiscent of Diagon Alley. This short, 10-minute walk offers plenty of opportunities for photos and browsing. The street’s old-world charm makes it a favorite for Harry Potter fans wanting to see a shopping street that looks just like a magical marketplace.

While there are no entry fees here, the vibrant atmosphere invites fans to imagine their own wizarding shopping spree. It’s an excellent spot to soak in the historic ambiance of London’s literary streets.

Exploring the Mysterious Charm of Goodwin’s Court

The next stop is Goodwin’s Court, a narrow, dark alley that many recognize from Harry Potter films. Its atmospheric vibe makes it perfect for fans eager to see a location that captures the magical darkness and mystery of the wizarding world. The 10-minute walk from Cecil Court is a chance to tiptoe through a historic London street that feels straight out of a storybook.

Keeping voices low is encouraged to preserve the quiet, secretive feel of the street. While no tickets are required, the ambiance here is a highlight, offering a glimpse into London’s hidden corners that resemble scenes from Harry Potter.

Visiting the Palace Theatre and the Harry Potter Sign

The tour then takes you to the Palace Theatre, where the Cursed Child stage production has brought Harry Potter stories to life on stage. The guide points out the theatre’s exterior and the iconic Harry Potter Sign, making it a great photo opportunity. This 10-minute stop connects the wizarding world with London’s live theatre scene.

Seeing the theatre firsthand shows the extent of Harry Potter’s influence in London’s entertainment landscape. Fans will appreciate the chance to admire the venue that hosts one of the most popular stage adaptations of the series.

Shopping at the House of Spells and Harry Potter Merchandise

A visit to the House of Spells offers fans a chance to shop for butterbeer, sweets, chocolate frogs, wands, and books. This 15-minute stop includes a special discount code (HP394), making it an ideal spot to pick up souvenirs and collectibles. The shop’s selection immerses visitors in the magical retail experience, making it a highlight for keen fans.

The free admission to this shop means you can browse at leisure, and the guide’s assistance helps you find the perfect keepsake from your Harry Potter adventure.

Photo Opportunities at Leicester Square and the Harry Potter Statue

The tour continues to Leicester Square, home to the Harry Potter Statue and a hub of UK cinema. This 20-minute stop offers vibrant photo opportunities with the statue and views of London’s movie premiere scene. It’s a lively area where fans can easily imagine the cinematic magic that Harry Potter films helped to create.

The square’s energetic atmosphere and famous surroundings make it a memorable stop for photo enthusiasts and film buffs alike.

Walking through Westminster’s Potter Filming Locations

Next, the guide takes a 30-minute stroll through Westminster, pointing out filming locations from the Harry Potter movies. Many buildings and streets here served as backdrops in the films, and seeing them in real life adds a tangible connection to the cinematic universe.

This walk offers a mix of sightseeing and storytelling, helping fans visualize scenes from the films as they pass historic landmarks. It’s an engaging way to combine history with Harry Potter lore.

Exploring Borough Market’s Magical Food Market

The vibrant Borough Market is known for its diverse food stalls and lively atmosphere, but it also features in Harry Potter filming locations like the Leaky Cauldron and Third Hand Emporium. The 15-minute stop here allows visitors to enjoy some of London’s best food and browse market stalls.

While no additional tickets are required, the market’s lively environment is perfect for fans wanting to experience a real London food scene intertwined with Harry Potter filming locations.

Sightseeing at London Bridge and Harry Potter Inspiration

The walk ends near London Bridge, a location that has inspired many scenes and references in JK Rowling’s universe. This 30-minute stop offers a chance to see a familiar sight from the Harry Potter stories, with some film locations and architectural details that fans find interesting.

The proximity to the London Dungeon then makes it convenient for the next part of your day—an immersive 2-hour journey through London’s darker history, included with the tour. The walk along London Bridge connects the wizarding world with London’s real history.

The London Dungeon: A Darker Adventure

Following the walking tour, the London Dungeon awaits with its 2-hour immersive experience. This attraction is included in the ticket price and promises a theatrical, sometimes spooky look at London’s past. It combines storytelling, rides, and live actors to entertain and educate about London’s darker episodes.

While not part of the walking tour itself, the Dungeon offers a fun, adrenaline-filled contrast to the daytime sightseeing, appealing especially to those interested in London’s macabre history.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour departs at 9:30 am from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station, a central and easily accessible meeting point. It involves two tube journeys, so travelers should prepare with a contactless bank card, Oyster, or Travel Card.

The group size is limited to 15 people, ensuring a more personalized experience. The tour includes admission tickets to both the Globe Theatre and the Charles Dickens Museum, adding cultural depth to the Harry Potter universe.

Guests are advised to bring snacks and drinks, as food is not included, and to arrive early for photos at King’s Cross. The tour is suitable for most travelers and is wheelchair accessible, with service animals allowed.

Honest Look at the Tour’s Strengths and Limitations

While the tour offers a well-rounded experience with a knowledgeable guide, and small-group intimacy, there is one notable review highlighting a significant issue: a missed meeting at the start, resulting in an unfulfilled experience. This incident underscores the importance of arriving promptly and the potential impact of logistical hiccups.

Nevertheless, the included visits to major Harry Potter filming locations, the opportunity to shop at the House of Spells, and the visit to the Globe Theatre and Dickens Museum contribute substantial value. The combination of film locations, literary landmarks, and the London Dungeon creates a diverse and engaging day for fans and culture enthusiasts alike.

Final Thoughts on the Harry Potter London Experience

This 5-hour walking tour balances the magical with the historic, making it ideal for fans eager to see key Harry Potter filming sites alongside London’s literary and cultural heritage. The small group size and included tickets enhance the experience, giving personalized attention and access to iconic venues.

While logistical issues can occur, the tour’s highlights—such as Platform 9 ¾, the House of Spells, and the London Dungeon—make it a rewarding journey through London’s cinematic and literary scenes. Fans of Harry Potter, London history, and vibrant neighborhoods will find plenty to enjoy here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers a 5-hour guided walking tour, admission tickets to the Globe Theatre and Charles Dickens Museum, and tickets to the London Dungeon. It also includes visits to Harry Potter filming locations and shopping at two Potter shops with a discount code.

What should I bring for the tour?
Guests should bring snacks, drinks, and a contactless bank card, Oyster, or Travel Card for tube journeys. Arriving early at King’s Cross helps with photos, and comfortable shoes are recommended for walking.

Is the tour accessible for all?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers and is near public transportation. It is wheelchair accessible and allows service animals.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund. Changes less than 24 hours before are not accepted.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so visitors should plan to bring their own snacks and beverages for the day.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes near London Bridge, with the London Dungeon as the final attraction, allowing for easy access to subsequent activities or transportation.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.

What is the best time to join the tour?
The tour departs daily at 9:30 am from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station. Early arrival is recommended for photos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the London Dungeon is included for those interested in London’s darker history. However, younger children should be aware of the spooky nature of the Dungeon.

How do I book the tour?
Booking can be done online through the provider’s platform, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.