Everybody wishes to journey through the realms of Harry Potter. It is a dream for many Potterheads and fans worldwide.
Two such fantastic Harry Potter attractions are in Orlando and London, each offering unique magic.
Choosing between the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando and the Warner Bros Studio Tour London can be as challenging as picking the right spell in a duel.
Let’s dive into what makes each destination special, guiding you to choose your next magical adventure.
About Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando Resort is a spellbinding tribute to J.K. Rowling’s beloved series, offering an immersive experience into the magical universe.
Spread across two parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, this magical realm offers an unparalleled immersive experience.
Dive into the wonders of Diagon Alley at Universal Studios, where the breathtaking escape from Gringotts awaits with its multi-dimensional thrill ride.
Then, board the Hogwarts Express from King’s Cross Station to travel to Hogsmeade Village in Islands of Adventure, where the Hogwarts Castle houses the groundbreaking Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter offers an unforgettable journey for fans and newcomers alike, inviting all to explore the magic and mystery of Harry Potter’s world.
About Warner Bros Studio – The Making of Harry Potter London
Take an extraordinary behind-the-scenes look at the making of one of the most beloved Harry Potter film series in history.
This Studio tour invites fans to step into the actual sets, discover the magic behind the spellbinding special effects, and explore the intricate detail within the costumes and props used in the Harry Potter films.
Walk through the iconic Great Hall of Hogwarts, wander down Diagon Alley, and explore the depths of the Forbidden Forest.
The tour provides a unique glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating the cinematic world of Harry Potter.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is a must-visit destination for fans of the series, providing an unparalleled insight into the creativity and imagination that turned J.K. Rowling’s books into a visual spectacle.
Snapshot
| Warner Bro Studio London Opening Hours: from 8.30 am to 10 pm Time needed: 3 to 4 hours Best time: Summer Season Ticket prices: From £99. Nearest station: Watford Junction Location: Leavesden, UK Address: Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR, UK. Get Directions Buy Tickets | Universal Studios Orlando Hours at Universal Studios: 9 am to 7 pm Time Needed: 1 day (8 to 10 hours) Best Time: Early mornings Ticket Cost: From £150 Nearest Airport: Orlando International Airport Location: Universal Orlando, USA Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819. Get directions. Buy tickets |
Comparison Warner Bros Studio Tour London Vs Universal Studios Orlando
| Aspect | Warner Bros Studio Tour London | Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Leavesden, near London, UK | Universal Studios, Orlando, Florida, USA |
| Size | Extensive studio tour | Two immersive theme park lands |
| Theme | Behind-the-scenes movie making | Interactive and immersive theme park |
| Iconic Attraction | Hogwarts Great Hall, Diagon Alley | Hogwarts Castle, Diagon Alley |
| Other Notable Features | Original sets, costumes, props | Thrilling rides, interactive spells |
| Children’s Area | Interactive exhibits | Flight of the Hippogriff, interactive wand experiences |
| Exclusive Experience | Studio tour with a filmmaking focus | Ride the Hogwarts Express between parks |
| Dining Options | Backlot Café with Butterbeer | The Leaky Cauldron, Three Broomsticks |
| Shopping | Exclusive Harry Potter merchandise | Ollivanders, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes |
| Additional Amenities | Butterbeer, special exhibits | Interactive wands, live performances |
| Proximity to Other Attractions | London attractions nearby | Inside Universal Studios, near other theme parks |
Location and Accessibility
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Orlando, is located within Universal Orlando Resort and Islands of Adventure in Orlando.
Universal Studios Orlando, situated in the heart of Florida, offers easy access to travelers worldwide.
The resort is conveniently located near Orlando International Airport, making it a seamless tourist destination.
The exact address is 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819. Get Directions on the map
The Harry Potter theme park of the resort brings the magic of Harry Potter to life across two immersive lands, Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, situated at a 1-mile distance from each other.
Universal Orlando, Florida, also has the Hogwarts Express to transport guests back and forth between these two Harry Potter lands.
On the contrary, Warner Bros Studio Tour London is located in Leavesden, just outside London.
The address of Warner Bros. studio is Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR, UK. Get Directions on the map.
You can see the sets, costumes, and props used for the Harry Potter films. The Studio is easily accessible by train or coach from London’s city center.
The studio provides shuttle services from the Watford Junction station, ensuring a convenient journey for visitors. Know how to reach Warner Bros Studio.
You don’t have to worry about parking if traveling in your car or renting a taxi. Details about Parking.
Expected Crowd Level
Being part of a major theme park resort, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Orlando attracts approximately 30,000 visitors daily, especially during school holidays, weekends, and summer months.
Early morning and late evening are slightly less crowded.
The interactive rides, live shows, and the overall theme park experience contribute to its high visitor volume.
Universal offers various skip-the-line ticket options, and interactive app features to manage waits and enhance the visitor experience amidst the crowds.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London draws more than 6,000 visitors daily.
The crowd level is generally more controlled and moderate because the park limits the number of visitors daily, as tickets must be purchased in advance.
Despite the timed entry system, it can still feel crowded inside popular sets and exhibits, especially during peak visiting hours.
Weekdays during school terms are usually less crowded.
Experiences and Attractions: Warner Bros Studio Tour London Vs Universal Studios Orlando
Ready your wands and be prepared for the wonders that lie ahead at Harry Potter World Orlando and London.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando
Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a magical experience that transports visitors into the world of Hogwarts.
From rides like “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts” to interactive wand experiences at Ollivanders, there’s so much to enjoy.
Visitors can also ride the Hogwarts Express between the parks and explore the magical streets of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
Younger wizards and witches can enjoy the Flight of the Hippogriff, a family-friendly coaster.
Harry Potter World London: Warner Bros Studio Tour
Warner Bros Studio Tour London focuses on the cinematic journey, allowing fans to walk through magnificent sets like the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and the Forbidden Forest.
Highlights of the tour include the opportunity to board the original Hogwarts Express at Platform 9 ¾, marvel at the detailed model of Hogwarts Castle, and see the Potions Classroom, Dumbledore’s office, and Hagrid’s hut, among other memorable sets.
It features exclusive looks at the artistry behind the films, including temporary exhibits focusing on different themes or aspects of the series, such as the Dark Arts, Hogwarts in the Snow, and more.
The studio focuses on different aspects of the production, from special effects to the art department’s creations.
One of the highlights is the green screen experience, where you can ride a broomstick just like in the movies, adding to the excitement.
It’s a deep dive into the craft of filmmaking, enriched by detailed insights into the props, costumes, and special effects that brought all Harry Potter creatures to life.
Dining and Shopping: Warner Bros Studio Tour London Vs Universal Studios Orlando
Both locations offer unique dining and shopping experiences that immerse visitors in the world of Harry Potter.
Harry Potter World Orlando boasts the Leaky Cauldron and Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour.
You can also savor the tastes of the wizarding world with a meal at the Leaky Cauldron or Three Broomsticks, and don’t forget to try a frothy Butterbeer.
Explore shops brimming with magical merchandise, from Dervish and Banges to Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, where the magic of the books and films come to life.
Harry Potter Studios London offers a taste of the wizarding world with Butterbeer at the Backlot Café. Read More about Dining options.
The Harry Potter World London gift shop offers a wide range of exclusive Harry Potter merchandise, from wands and robes to unique collectibles, allowing visitors to take a piece of the magic home with them.
Opening Hours, Visit Duration and Best Time to Visit
Here’s your comprehensive guide for an unforgettable visit to the two most magical Harry Potter destinations on the planet.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando:
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando welcomes visitors 365 days a year, casting spells from as early as 9 am, with closing times that change with the seasons.
To truly embrace the magic, consider arriving at the gates by 8.30 am, ensuring you’re among the first to enter this enchanting world.
We recommend you spend at least a day fully enjoying both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, especially considering the additional attractions at Universal Studios.
Visitors usually spend three hours at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando and the rest of the time at other Universal Studios attractions.
The best time to visit is during the off-peak seasons, typically in late winter or early fall.
Peak seasons include summer (June-August), spring break, and major holidays like Christmas and New Year.
During these times, the parks can get extremely crowded, with long waits for rides and attractions.
Universal Studios Orlando often hosts special events, such as Halloween Horror Nights and holiday celebrations, which is the best time to visit this attraction.
If these events interest you, plan your visit accordingly.
Warner Bros Making of Harry Potter Studio
Warner Bros. Studio London operates weekdays from 9.30 am to 8 pm, extending to 8:30 am-10 pm on weekends.
Weekday hours may vary, opening at either 8.30 am or 9.30 am and closing at 8 pm or 10 pm.
The Harry Potter studio tour generally takes around three to four hours, but Harry Potter enthusiasts may wish to linger longer.
Weekdays during the school term are less crowded, offering a more leisurely experience.
Similar to Orlando, the busiest times are during school holidays, including summer, Christmas, Easter, and half-term breaks. Weekends tend to be busier than weekdays.
You must also check the studio’s calendar for special events or themed experiences that align with your interests.
These events are Warner Bros best time to visit, offering unique opportunities to attract more visitors.
Tickets: Warner Bros Studio Tour London vs Universal Studios Orlando Price
One of the most sought-after options for Warner Bros Studios London is the roundtrip transfer ticket from London to the Warner Bros Studio Tour.
Departing from Victoria Coach Station, priced at £104 for visitors aged 16 years and above.
Youth tickets for ages 5 to 15 receive a £5 discount, with a reduced price of £99.
For younger visitors aged three to four, tickets are attractively priced at £40, a substantial £59 lower than adult tickets, making it a family-friendly option.
Children aged two and below enjoy free admission to Warner Bros Studio Making of Harry Potter tours, enhancing the appeal for families.
This ticket is designed to simplify commuting for those unfamiliar with London’s public transport system.
Other than this, you can also opt for a fully-guided Harry Potter World Ticket priced at £170 per person.
Numerous other Warner Bros studio tours in London are available, including a branded bus round-trip transfer tour that will pick you up from King’s Cross, the platform the movie character left for Hogwarts.
But if you are up for some fun and want to go on adventurous and fun rides, Universal Studios Orlando is the place for you.
Pick from the Universal Studios Orlando tickets and book your visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Orlando.
For Universal Studios Orlando, the Adult tickets (10 years and above) are priced at £158, while child tickets (3 to 9 years) cost £155, with free entry for infants up to two years old.
Exclusive deals are available for locals and U.S. & Canadian citizens, including Universal Studios Orlando Florida Resident Tickets at £115 per person.
If you plan to visit only the Universal Studios Islands of Adventure, you could get a separate ticket priced at £72 per person.
Or the Universal Studios Florida, where you can find the actual Wizarding World of Universal Studios just for £68 per person.
While Warner Bros Studios London offers an immersive Harry Potter experience with competitive pricing, Universal Studios Orlando provides a broader array of attractions and a variety of ticket options.
Warner Bros Studios appeals to Harry Potter enthusiasts, and Universal Studios caters to those seeking a diverse theme park experience.
The choice between the two depends on individual preferences.
Note:People visiting Warner Bros Studios in London with their families should opt for a family round-trip transfer tour of the Making of Harry Potter.
There are plenty of other Warner Bros Studio tours available. You can find one that suits your travel style, needs, and budget.
Contents
Which is Better– Warner Bros Studio Tour London or Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando
Choosing between the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando and the Warner Bros Studio Tour in London depends on what kind of magic you’re seeking.
Universal Studios Orlando is an expansive complex divided into distinct themed lands, one of which is the world of Harry Potter.
It is represented through themed rides, interactive experiences, and environments like Hogwarts Castle and Hogsmeade, providing the ultimate experience for Potterheads.
If immersive rides and the thrill of walking through a magical village appeal to you, Orlando’s parks are a must-visit. Buy Tickets.
In summary, Universal Studios Orlando allows visitors to walk around the theme park for a mystical and magical Harry Potter world that feels authentic but is ultimately an amusement park experience.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that while Universal Studios Orlando provides an exciting Harry Potter experience, it differs from the authentic sets at Warner Bros Studio in London.
If you’re drawn to the cinematic history of the Harry Potter series and wish to explore the craft behind the magic, the studio tour in London will not disappoint. Buy Tickets.
Whichever path you choose, a spellbinding adventure awaits.
FAQ
Which is better, Harry Potter London or Orlando?
For a behind-the-scenes immersive experience, Harry Potter London (Warner Bros Studios) is better.
It allows you to walk in the footsteps of the film’s cast and crew.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a theme park adventure with thrilling rides and a vibrant atmosphere, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando (Universal Studios) is a better choice.
Which is better, Warner Bros or Universal Studios?
The decision between Warner Bros and Universal Studios depends on individual preferences.
Warner Bros Studios caters to Harry Potter enthusiasts with an immersive behind-the-scenes tour, while Universal Studios offers a broader theme park experience with diverse attractions and thrilling rides.
How much are the prices for Warner Bros Studio Tour London Vs Universal Studios Orlando tickets?
For Warner Bros Studios in London, ticket options include a roundtrip transfer ticket from London priced at £104 for visitors aged 16 and above.
For Universal Studios Orlando, ticket prices vary, with adult tickets (10 years and above) priced at £158 and child tickets (3 to 9 years) costing £155.
Specific ticket options are available for different attractions within Universal Studios Orlando, offering a range of prices to cater to diverse preferences and budgets.
Which Harry Potter destination, Warner Bros Studio Tour London or Universal Studios Orlando, attracts more visitors?
While both destinations are popular among Harry Potter fans, Universal Studios Orlando typically attracts more visitors due to its expansive theme park complex and diverse attractions.
It attracts more than 10 million visitors annually.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando is often crowded, especially during peak seasons and holidays.
However, Warner Bros Studio Tour London also sees more than 2 million visitors yearly.
Visitors are eager to explore the authentic sets and behind-the-scenes magic of the Harry Potter films.
