2026 marks 25 years since the Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone hit the big screen and influenced an entire generation.
At the time the book was originally published in 1997, it was a modest debut from a first-time author. Today, it’s almost impossible to overstate the enormous impact Harry Potter has had on readers, filmgoers, and would-be wizards the world over, though the numbers provide a good indication: over 120 million copies have been sold across the globe, and the book has since been translated into 85 languages, with 8 films already in existence and the trailer for the new HBO television adaptation finally revealed.
This summer, there’s never been a better time to discover the legacy of Harry Potter in London, thanks to a number of magical festivities at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour with the NEW feature – First Year at Hogwarts
First Year at Hogwarts: Where the Filmmaking Magic Began
Revisit the magic where Harry Potter began with this brand new feature – from original props like the Golden Snitch to authentic sets like the Hogwarts Express, and more, there’s so much to see once you embark on a magical journey through the Studio Tour. Celebrate 25 years of movie magic the second you step into the authentic Great Hall set – decorated with Gryffindor house banners to celebrate the moment Gryffindor clinches the House Cup at Harry’s first-year End of Term Feast.
Plus, head to the Backlot Stage to immerse yourself in a brand-new show – the Secrets of Sound Effects – to explore how the art of Foley brought the magic to life on screen, before heading to the demonstration stage to see how flying lessons and Quidditch lessons were filmed.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the challenges Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger faced during their first year at Hogwarts – from the original self-playing harp that lulled Hagrid’s three-headed dog Fluffy, to sleep to a brand new photo opportunity during a giant game of Wizard Cheese (including the original Knight that Ron sacrifices himself on in the display!)
Keep exploring Harry Potter throughout London
Still looking for more magic? There’s also the unmissable Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour – follow our knowledgeable guides through Central London on this half-day tour, and even avowed Muggles will see the city through new eyes.
Beginning at Westminster Tube station (or the entrance to the Ministry of Magic, as visitors will soon discover) you’ll see a number of famous London landmarks while discovering the secret corners that have wound up in the Harry Potter films (or inspired J.K. Rowling’s limitless imagination).
Peep into Downing Street to see where the Prime Minister resides (and where conversation between the Muggle and Wizarding Worlds takes place) before venturing past Trafalgar Square (a popular film location), Cecil Court (on which Diagon Alley is modelled), St. Paul’s Cathedral (whose design inspired the Order of the Phoenix), and the City of London School (which Daniel Radcliffe attended). Visitors will also traipse across Millennium Bridge, catch glimpses of inspiring locations along the South Bank, and finish off their tour at Platform 9 ¾ in Kings Cross.
With all this and more to enjoy, make 2026 the year you embark on a Harry Potter-themed tour of London. Happy to travel further afield? Discover the Cotswolds through a Harry Potter Filming Locations tour in the picturesque village of Lacock – find out more here.
And who knows…in the future, you might even be able to explore by broomstick!
