This self-guided Harry Potter walking tour takes you through magical London locations that inspired J.K. Rowling and served as filming spots for the beloved movie series.
Starting Point: King’s Cross Station
Begin your journey at King’s Cross Station (N1C 4AP), where you’ll find the famous Platform 9¾ photo opportunity with a trolley disappearing into the wall.
The Platform 9¾ shop next door offers authentic Harry Potter merchandise and professional photos (open daily 8am-10pm).
Walking Route Highlights
- Leadenhall Market (EC3V 1LR) – The Victorian market that doubled as Diagon Alley in the films
- St. Paul’s Cathedral (EC4M 8AD) – The Geometric Staircase inspired the Divination Stairwell at Hogwarts
- Millennium Bridge – Featured in the dramatic opening scene of Half-Blood Prince
- Australia House (WC2B 4LA) – Interior served as Gringotts Wizarding Bank
- Cecil Court (WC2N 4EZ) – The real-life inspiration for Diagon Alley
Practical Tips
- Total walking time: 2-3 hours
- Distance: 4 miles
- Best time: Early morning to avoid crowds
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring your camera and water bottle
Free Photo Opportunities
- Platform 9¾ (expect queues during peak times)
- Leadenhall Market entrances
- Millennium Bridge views
- Cecil Court shopfronts
Hidden Gems
Stop by House of MinaLima (157 Wardour Street, W1F 8WQ), showcasing original Harry Potter graphic art and props.
Visit The Cursed Child play’s home at Palace Theatre (W1D 5AY) for stunning architecture and photo opportunities.
Browse Davenports Magic Shop (7 Charing Cross Underground Arcade) for real magical supplies and tricks.
Food and Drink Stops
- The Leaky Cauldron (Borough Market) – filming location and great food market
- Cutter & Squidge (20 Brewer St, W1F 0SJ) – offers wizard-themed afternoon tea
- The Cauldron (5d Stoke Newington Rd, N16 8BH) – magical cocktail making experience
Alternative Transport Options
Use the London Underground between locations to save time (day passes available from £13.10).
Consider joining an organized tour if you prefer guidance and additional movie trivia.
Essential Planning Tips
- Download offline Google Maps for the route
- Book photo slots at Platform 9¾ online during peak season
- Check opening hours for indoor locations
- Carry cash for small shops in Cecil Court
Most locations are accessible daily without entrance fees, except for specialty shops and experiences.
Download the official Harry Potter Fan Club app for additional location information and augmented reality features.
Safety and Accessibility
- Most locations are wheelchair accessible
- Main streets are well-lit and patrolled
- Tourist information points available along the route
- Emergency services: Dial 999 or 112
Best Seasons to Visit
- Summer – Longest daylight hours but crowded
- Autumn – Perfect atmospheric conditions, like in the films
- Winter – Magical Christmas decorations at locations
- Spring – Moderate crowds and pleasant walking weather
Additional Photo Spots
Exterior Locations
- Claremont Square (Grimmauld Place filming location)
- Piccadilly Circus (featured in Deathly Hallows)
- Scotland Place (Ministry of Magic entrance)
Interactive Experiences
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour (30 mins from London)
- Harry Potter Photographic Exhibition
- Platform 9¾ VR Experience
Conclusion
This self-guided tour offers an immersive journey through London’s magical connections to Harry Potter. From iconic filming locations to inspiration points, visitors can experience the wizarding world while exploring historic London landmarks.
Remember to respect local businesses and residents while photographing locations. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for the best experience. Updates to locations and openings can be found on the official Harry Potter fan websites.
FAQs
- Where does the Harry Potter London walking tour typically start?
The tour typically starts at Westminster tube station, near the Thames River, as this area features iconic filming locations including the Ministry of Magic scenes shot at Scotland Place. - Which London bridge was destroyed by Death Eaters in the films?
The Millennium Bridge was featured in “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” during the Death Eater attack scene. While the actual bridge still stands, in the film it dramatically collapses into the Thames. - Where can I find Platform 9¾ in London?
Platform 9¾ is located at King’s Cross Station. There’s a permanent installation with a trolley appearing to disappear into the wall, complete with a Harry Potter shop nearby. It’s free to take photos. - What Harry Potter scenes were filmed at Leadenhall Market?
Leadenhall Market was used as Diagon Alley in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.” The entrance to the Leaky Cauldron was filmed at 42 Bull’s Head Passage within the market. - How long does a complete Harry Potter walking tour of London typically take?
A comprehensive self-guided walking tour typically takes 3-4 hours, covering approximately 2-3 miles between Westminster and King’s Cross Station. - Where is the entrance to the Ministry of Magic located in London?
The entrance to the Ministry of Magic was filmed at Great Scotland Yard and Scotland Place, near Westminster tube station. The telephone booth scene was shot at this location. - Can I visit the actual Warner Bros. Studios from central London?
Yes, while not part of the walking tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is accessible via shuttle bus from Watford Junction station, which can be reached by train from London Euston. - Which London Underground stations were used in the Harry Potter films?
Westminster Underground Station was featured in “Order of the Phoenix” when Harry and Mr. Weasley travel to the Ministry of Magic hearing. London Bridge Station was also used in filming. - Where can I find the House of MinaLima in London?
The House of MinaLima is located at 157 Wardour Street in Soho, featuring original graphic props and artwork from the Harry Potter films. It’s free to visit. - Which London streets were used to film the Knight Bus scenes?
The Knight Bus scenes were primarily filmed on Lambeth Bridge and along the north bank of the Thames, with additional shots taken on various streets in central London including Palmers Green.
