About the
Harry Potter Studio

About the Warner Bros' Harry Potter Studio

Step into the fantastical world of wizardry at the Harry Potter Studios in London, where potions brew and spells come alive for an unforgettable journey into the very essence of magical storytelling! Muggles from across the world are welcome to discover the magic behind one of cinema’s most beloved sagas.

Every corner holds a tale, and every set whispers stories of heroism and friendship, transporting you into a world where the lines between reality and magic blur. From wand-wielding adventures, to the secrets of Hogwarts’ enchanted halls, the Harry Potter Studio is a realm where fantasy meets filmmaking!

Harry Potter Studio Highlights

Hogwarts Unveiled

Ready to unlock the magic spellbinding wonders at the Harry Potter Studios in London? Step onto the real set of the Great Hall, the very heart of Hogwarts' grand feasts and gatherings and wander through Diagon Alley and its wizarding storefronts oozing charm, from Ollivanders' wand shop to the glistening facade of the Gringotts bank.

The iconic Hogwarts Express awaits at Platform 9¾, ready for another enchanting journey, while brave souls can venture into the Forbidden Forest, home to creatures both majestic and mysterious. To get a deeper understanding of the movie alchemy, the Art Department reveals the craftsmanship behind the sets and creature effects that brought J.K. Rowling’s vision to life.

Must-see at the Harry Potter Studio

The Great Hall

As the grand gateway into the world of wizards, the Great Hall dazzles with its towering stone walls and enchanted ceiling that mirrors the sky. Step inside and relive magical gatherings and monumental events from the movies. Whether it’s the Sorting Hat ceremony, the Yule Ball, or Halloween feasts, memories of the hall resonate with every Potterhead. For special events, the Great Hall transforms with themed decorations, pulling you deeper into the wizarding world.

Hogwarts Express

All aboard the Hogwarts Express! Stationed at Platform 9¾, the Hogwarts Express stands ready to transport wizards of all ages to their beloved school. Board the scarlet locomotive, walk through the compartments, and relive scenes of Harry’s first chocolate frog or his many adventures with Hermione and Ron. While you are there, don’t forget to snap a photo by the luggage trolley vanishing into the wall or try out the Green Screen Experience to immortalize your visit.

Art Department

Deep within the Studios, the Art Department reveals the creative processes that birthed the locations, objects and creatures of the Harry Potter saga. From detailed set blueprints to tiny prop designs, this is where Hogwarts came to life. Explore intricate models, sketches, and concept art that charted the journey of Rowling’s imagination to the big screen. For the aspiring witch or wizard artist, this section offers a rare glimpse into the heart of movie magic.

Interesting facts about the Harry Potter Studio

What is the Harry Potter Studio?

The Harry Potter Studio, located in Leavesden near London, is a unique behind-the-scenes cinematic experience dedicated to the Harry Potter film series and featuring sets, costumes, props, and special effects.

There, you can take deep dive into the beloved wizarding universe and explore iconic locations such as the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, the Forbidden Forest and many more. Additionally, the Making of Harry Potter tour hosts regular and seasonal themed events, shows and exhibitions throughout the year.

When was the Harry Potter Studio built?

The Harry Potter Studio started as an aircraft factory in the 1940s and later turned into a production site for Rolls-Royce and an airfield.

It wasn’t until the mid-1990s though that production companies began using its vast hangers to shoot movies such as the James Bond’s “GoldenEye”, the “Star Wars” prequel “The Phantom Menace” and, of course, the “Harry Potter” movie adaptations.

After the film series concluded in 2011, Warner Bros. purchased Leavesden Studios and converted them to house the permanent “Making of Harry Potter” studio exhibition.

What makes the Harry Potter Studio so special?

Potterheads of all ages have the opportunity to truly immerse themselves in the magical world of Harry Potter by visiting the Harry Potter Studio Tour. Unlike other similar attractions, the Warner Bros London Studio Tour allows you to walk through actual film locations, like the Great Hall and Diagon Alley.

Additionally, this behind-the-scenes journey features authentic costumes, and props that were used in the iconic movies, as well as exhibitions on the art, visual effects and creature animatronics that brought the world of Harry Potter to life.

Navigating the Harry Potter London Studio

After entering the main lobby and heading left to the hub, you will find the tour entrance point by the main café and food hall.

The tour begins with a walk through the majestic Great Hall and a section of interior sets used in the movies. You will also find a Green Screen Experience there, where you can ride on a broom (with the help of movie magic). From there, the tour continues to the Dark Arts exhibition and the eerie Forbidden Forest, before taking you to Platform 9¾, where there is another Green Screen Experience.

Next up is the Backlot and a convenient café, where you can catch your breath and treat yourself to some Butterbeer or a quick bite, before heading on to the Creature Effects, the Gringotts Wizarding Bank, the Vaults and finally, Diagon Alley. Before concluding your Harry Potter Studios tour, you can visit the art department are and the impressive model room. The tour exit will lead you to the gift shop and the hub.

Click here for a full Harry Potter Studio Tour guide.

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