Harry Potter is really something that transcends age. In the 90s people grew up with the wonderful books, and in the early noughties a whole new generation were introduced to the wizarding world by the incredible movies.
London and Harry Potter are intrinsically linked, parts of the books take place here, and virtually the entirety of the films were shot here. If you, or any of your family members are ‘Potterheads’, then London is the place to be.
Book a room at The Queens Park Hotel for one of the best hotels in London near Hyde Park. You’ll be perfectly situated to enjoy all the Harry Potter filming locations that the city offers, and you’ll find some of the best London hotels special offers.
No trip to the city would be complete without visiting the incredible Warner Bros. Studio Tour, where a huge portion of the films was shot. Let’s take a look at everything you need to know when visiting Hogwarts with the kids.
The Low Down
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour is essentially a living film set. It is where 90% of the incredible movies were filmed.
The sets have been left intact and filled with clothing, props, memorabilia, models and much more. You’ll find Dumbledore’s Office, The Gryffindor Common Room, The Great Hall and many other behind the scenes treats.
Hop on The Night Bus, Take a Look at Hogwarts like you’ve never seen it before and meet robot Hagrid!
You really don’t have to be a fan to enjoy this fascinating and in depth look into the magic of movies- it’s a great day out for the whole family.
Getting There
From your comfortable city centre room Queens Park Hotel, Bayswater Station is the best starting point.
Ride the Circle Line to Euston Square, then grab the train to Watford Junction. From here there is a free and easy shuttle to the door of the studio.
Value for Money
A family ticket that includes access for two adults, two children; or one adult and three children, is £118. That may sound a lot, but when compared to some of London’s other attractions it seems much more reasonable.
You can also spend as long as you want on the tour. There is no set route, or guide hassling you along to the next thing. Go at your own pace and get lost in the magic.
Food Options
There are a couple of options for food when you’re in the studio, The Studio Cafe and the Backlot Cafe.
Both offer hot food at a reasonable price and have a great range of stuff on the menu. You can also pick up a Butterbeer here; which, if you ever read the books, is one of the most enticing drinks ever thought up!
The Gift Shop
Normally gift shops seem a bit like a tacky gimmick stuck onto the end of a tour- but not in this case.
The gift shop feels like an extension of the tour, and some of the products on offer are truly incredible.
Opening Times
Your ticket will give you an entry time starting from 9am and continuing through the day- but once you are in, you can take as long as you like. The record is supposedly 14 hours!
Verdict
This is an absolute must visit destination for the whole family. You don’t even need to be a Harry Potter fan- there is enough to keep anyone interested here.
