Experience the magic of Halloween at Hogwarts with a spine-chilling, after-hours event at the Studio Tour in London, where you’ll be drawn into the darker side of the wizarding world. Begin your evening in the Great Hall, sipping a themed cocktail or mocktail under a ceiling adorned with Jack-o-Lantern pumpkins, just as seen in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. From here, explore the darkened Studio Tour, where trick-or-treat stations await with magical sweet treats, sure to delight every sweet tooth. Beware, though—there may be some tricks alongside the treats. Tickets go on sale 12th September.
The original and ongoing Studio Tour offers a truly immersive experience, exploring the very studios where all eight Harry Potter films were brought to life. Your journey begins with a guided tour of the Great Hall, after which you’re free to wander through iconic sets at your own pace. You’ll discover locations like the Gryffindor common room, Dumbledore’s office, Hagrid’s hut, the Forbidden Forest, and Diagon Alley.
For lunch, you can relax in the “backlot” outdoor area, with familiar sights like Privet Drive, where you can walk through number 4 and peek into Harry’s bedroom under the stairs. The infamous Butterbeer is also available here, a hit with both kids and adults. After refuelling, explore an exhibit showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship that brought the films to life. With over 4,000 people involved in a decade of production, the scale of work is remarkable—from costume designers to make-up artists, each detail contributing to the success of the series.
Kids will enjoy interactive experiences such as wand practice and a close-up look at Weasley’s flying Ford Anglia. Meanwhile, adults can marvel at the intricate set designs and props. The Studio and Backlot Cafés offer sandwiches and hot meals, but feel free to bring your own snacks, as the tour is quite long and can be thirsty work. It’s worth noting that while the café serves plenty of kid-friendly drinks, no alcohol is available—so if you’d planned on enjoying a glass of wine during the evening, you may want to adjust those expectations!
The tour concludes in a merchandise-packed shop, filled with fluffy owls, wands, and t-shirts. It’s advisable to set a budget in advance if you’re visiting with children, as the enticing array of items can lead to impulsive purchases!
For those travelling by train, the Studio Tour is accessible via a 15-minute shuttle bus from Watford Junction, with the bus fare included in the ticket price. Electric, ‘muggle-powered’ buses add to the fun. If you’re driving, parking is complimentary. Family saver tickets are available for £138, covering two adults and two children, or one adult and three children, making it an affordable alternative to a West End show or other premium London attractions.
Hidden extras, such as photo opportunities, videos, and posters, are sprinkled throughout the tour, adding even more magic. Visitors can capture their own memories, except in the green rooms where photography is restricted. Timed entry ensures a smooth flow of guests, giving you plenty of time to explore. Tours begin at 9 am, with varying closing times, though the Studio is closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.