The Harry Potter studio, where the films were shot.

1. 10 minArrival

   Arrive 20 minutes before your slot. There is a security check and a free cloakroom for coats, backpacks and pushchairs.

2. 215 minIntroduction and Great Hall

   A short film, then the doors of the Great Hall open. It is the only group stretch; after that you go at your own pace.

3. 31 h 30Sets and costumes

   Dumbledore's office, classrooms, costumes and original props. This is where people linger most.

4. 430 minPlatform 9¾ and the Backlot

   The Hogwarts Express at its platform and, halfway round, the open-air Backlot, with its café and a non-alcoholic butterbeer bar.

5. 51 hDiagon Alley and the Hogwarts model

   Diagon Alley and, at the end, the huge model of the castle used in filming. You leave through the shop.

What to bring

• Your booking on your phone, with the time slot
• A contactless or Oyster card for the train
• Comfortable shoes: you spend about three hours on your feet
• A phone battery pack: everyone takes lots of photos
• A jacket: the Backlot is outdoors

1. 1
   Take one of the first slots

   First thing in the morning the Great Hall and Diagon Alley are less crowded.

2. 2
   Eat halfway round

   The Backlot Café is right in the middle and stops children running out of energy.

3. 3
   Set a budget for the shop

   It is at the exit and there is no avoiding it. Better to decide on the train.

4. 4
   Check the seasonal events

   From 14 November 2026 to 17 January 2027 there is "Hogwarts in the Snow", with snow-covered sets, and it gets busier. After that come Hogwarts House Spirit (23 January – 19 April 2027), a summer event (13 May – 6 September) and Dark Arts (24 September – 7 November).

5. 5
   Afternoon tea is booked with the ticket

   The Afternoon Tea at The Hogwarts Table, from £42.50 per person, can only be added when buying the ticket, with a 90-minute sitting in the dining room under the enchanted ceiling, not in the Great Hall.