A Magical Journey Begins

As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for experiences that can captivate both adults and children alike. The Warner Bros. Studio Harry Potter Tour in Greater London promised just that—a chance to step into the enchanting world of Harry Potter. With my three kids in tow, we embarked on this magical journey, eager to explore the sets and secrets behind one of our favorite film series.

Upon arrival, the excitement was palpable. The grand entrance, accompanied by the iconic Harry Potter theme music, set the tone for what was to come. We decided to fuel up at the café next to the tour entrance, a tip I highly recommend for families. A hearty meal can make all the difference when you’re about to embark on a long and thrilling adventure. While the café didn’t have pumpkin pasties or cauldron cakes, the butterbeer was a hit with the kids, and it was a delightful way to start our day.

Exploring the Wizarding World

The tour itself was nothing short of magical. Walking through the Great Hall, we were transported into the world of Hogwarts. My kids were thrilled to see the Sorting Hat and tried to spot all the hidden golden snitches. The Gryffindor common room, Snape’s lab, and Dumbledore’s office were just as we had imagined from the films.

One of the highlights was the Forbidden Forest, where we encountered a life-size model of Buckbeak and the giant spider, Aragog. The attention to detail was astounding, and it was a joy to see my children’s faces light up with wonder. The tour also included a visit to Platform 9 ¾, where we snapped a family photo with the trolley, a memory we’ll cherish forever.

For those planning a visit, I suggest taking your time to explore each section. The tour is designed to be immersive, and there’s so much to see and do. Don’t rush through it; let your family soak in the magic at their own pace.

Souvenirs and Sweet Treats

As we made our way through the tour, we discovered three separate gift shops, each offering a unique selection of Harry Potter merchandise. The first shop, located after the Forbidden Forest, had a charming collection of Christmas and Hogwarts-themed items. The second shop at the 9 ¾ station was a sweet tooth’s paradise, filled with wizarding sweets and train memorabilia.

However, the largest and most impressive shop awaited us at the end of the tour. It was a treasure trove of wands, plushies, LEGO sets, and jewelry. I recommend saving your shopping for this final stop, as it has everything the previous shops offer and more. Depending on your budget, you might want to set aside £50-150 for souvenirs, as it’s easy to get carried away with impulse buys.

Before heading home, we made sure to bundle up, as some parts of the tour, like the Knight Bus and Privet Drive, are outdoors. The warmth of the coach ride back to London was a welcome comfort after a day filled with magical discoveries.

In conclusion, the Warner Bros. Studio Harry Potter Tour is a must-visit for any family with a love for the wizarding world. It’s an experience that will leave you spellbound and create memories to last a lifetime. Harry Potter Studio Tour