If you're a Harry Potter fan, a tour of the Warner Brothers Studio Tour London is an absolute must. If you're thinking about going, these are the things you'll want to know about the experience.
Where is it? The Warner Brothers Studio Tour London is located in Watford, just north of London and not too far from Heathrow Airport or central London.
When can I visit? You can visit Monday - Friday. Some Saturdays may be available depending on availability and demand. Tours commence every 15 minutes, and each last 90 minutes (approx. 3 hours)
How much does it cost? Tickets start at £32 per person, which includes VAT making it £38 per ticket.
How do I buy tickets or tour? Tickets can be purchased online or by phone (tickets are unavailable at the site itself).
What does a ticket get me? A ticket gets you access to the whole tour and all areas and activities, 3D glasses for use in the 3D tour (and if you want to keep them) as well as a commemorative souvenir programme and lanyard, a map of the studio showing how it all fits together, entrance into two of the soundstages, access to part of the outdoor filming areas as well as an audio guide to accompany you on your journey through this fantastic site.
What should I wear? You can wear brown shoes and clothes as long as you are comfortable with them. Alternatively, you can get a pair of black dress shoes at the studio for £6. Prices vary for other items such as a cloak, scarf, or hat.
Can I take my camera? Yes, however, you will need to ask before use so that those exercising the right of photographic activities on the site can be granted access. Those wearing a camera are asked to wear a lens cap and strap.
Can we go outside? Yes, the weather is always great in Watford, and you can see wandering around the studio grounds after your tour.
Is there anything else I need to know? For children aged 4-11 years old, it's suggested they wear thin layers as they will get freezing during the tour. No hot drinks are served on the site, but there is a cafe nearby if you want to stock up on something. The whole tour takes approximately 3 hours, so if you're planning on being back by 1:30 pm, it's not too bad to be back either in time for an afternoon tea (Tickets for this are not included in the step-on price).
Who runs it? The tour is run by Warner Brothers, who also own the rights to Harry Potter.
When does it start/when does it finish? Tours commence every 15 minutes, each lasting 90 minutes (approx 3 hours). This means you can plan your day around the time, but you may have to leave earlier or later than planned. The last entry is 6 pm, so you will only see a small portion of the site, and some activities may not be available.
What do I bring? There's a complete list of what to get if you want to join the tour on the website, so check this before going. You will need a camera with a lens cap and strap for those taking photos.
What if it rains? The studio is outdoors, so that the weather can change quickly, and you may have to leave early or later than planned. There are local shops nearby if you need to stock up on food.
How do I get there? The studio is located just off Watford Way from the A40 London Road in Watford (opposite the shopping precinct at Barnet). It's 4 miles from central London and 1 mile from Watford town center. It's about a 1-hour walk from London Stansted Airport in Stansted Mountfitchet. It's also about 20 minutes from Watford Junction train station and 10min away from Watford High Street station.
There are a limited number of places available for tours, so book your Harry Potter studio tour in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment. Once you have your ticket, go ahead and plan your day! The studio is straightforward to find, and there are loads of local shops nearby if you need any last-minute supplies.
Once on-site, make your way to the Studio Tour Reception (nearest the clock tower on the map), where they will direct you with all the information you'll need before setting off on tour.
How to get there by public transport? The studio is located just off Watford Way from the A40 London Road in Watford (opposite the shopping precinct at Barnet); it's 4 miles from central London and 1 mile from Watford town center. It's about a 1-hour walk from London Stansted Airport in Stansted Mountfitchet. It's also about 20 minutes from Watford Junction train station and 10min away from Watford High Street station.
Are there pictures/videos available? Yes, you will get a souvenir program from the studio, and if you have a camera, you can take photos or videos of the landscape, filming, and props. Otherwise, you can ask for advice about this during your tour.
Are there any walking tours available? There are walking tours for those who may not have time to join the tour or for school visits. You can book these online [http://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/tours-offered/] or by phone (tickets are unavailable at the site itself).
What are the main features of the tour? The tour includes the three main soundstages, sets, and areas used for filming, a cutting room, costume department, props storage, and special effects.
How do I get into the studios? You need a ticket to enter.
How do I get around inside the studio? Walking around inside with free use of public buses that stop outside and lots of map markers helping you find your way around is straightforward. There is also staff that can help you along your way.
What will I see on the Warner Bros Studio Tour? The tour will allow you to go inside three of the large soundstages used for filming, as well as sets and areas used for filming scenes in Harry Potter and other films such as 'The Holiday.' You'll also see many props from your favorite movies, costumes, and special effects.
What's the schedule for the Warner Bros Studio Tour? The tour includes the three main soundstages, sets, and areas used for filming, a cutting room, costume department, props storage, and special effects.
The tour takes approximately 3 hours. The last entry is 6 pm, so you will only see a small portion of the site, and some activities may not be available.
Is there a place to leave my bags and stuff while I'm on tour? There are lockers (no keys) in the reception area that you can use for storage; either leave them with staff or bring them with you.
Are there any discounts available? You can purchase an annual pass for the studio, which will give you exclusive access to all of the films made in the studios and discounted entry tickets for all visitors.
Are there any other activities on site? There are lots of activities and shows on-site to do if you have time. You can go to the Prop Shop where you can buy replicas from your favorite films or stand in the Great Hall and be filmed saying a few lines from Harry Potter. You can also go inside the Great Hall, where they will perform a magic show, and you can choose a wand that fits your hand.
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