- Beyond Platform 9 ¾: Other Harry Potter sites in London
Platform 9¾ at London King’s Cross Station marks the secret gateway where young witches and wizards board the Hogwarts Express, and it’s become a top Harry Potter London experience. Whether you grew up reading J.K. Rowling's book series, you’re a film fanatic, or you’re just a Muggle who wants to add a touch of magic to your London trip, Platform 9 ¾ in London is one of the main King’s Cross Station attractions.
We’ve put together a guide detailing how to get to Platform 9 ¾, the best ways to travel there by train, nearby attractions, and our tips for taking the perfect photo with the famous trolley. With its central location, reliable train connections and easy access from anywhere in London, travelling by train is the perfect way to start your magical journey.
Visiting Platform 9¾: What to know on your visit
Where is Platform 9¾?
You’ll find the Platform 9 ¾ photo opportunity at King’s Cross Station, which is served by mainline trains and London Underground services, making it easily accessible from anywhere in London.
How to find Platform 9 ¾ whilst at King’s Cross
Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross is located inside the main concourse close to platforms 9 and 10. Simply follow the signs inside the station; it’s within walking distance of any station exit in just a couple of minutes.
Platform 9 ¾ experience details
The highlight of this King’s Cross Station attraction is the Platform 9 ¾ photo opportunity at the famous trolley in the wall, where you can pose as if you’re about to run straight through to board the Hogwarts Express. There’s also a shop selling Harry Potter merchandise nearby.
As you might expect from a Harry Potter London experience, Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross can get busy at the weekend, but weekday mornings tend to be quieter. There are even options to pre-book professional photo sessions with props.
Platform 9 ¾ opening hours
Platform 9 ¾, London, is typically open daily, from 08:00 to 21:00, and 09:00 to 21:00 on Sundays.
Note: Times can vary, so check the official Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ website before you visit.
Nearby attractions and things to do
Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾
Right next to the iconic photo opportunity, you’ll find the official Harry Potter Shop, which sells an extensive range of wands, scarves, robes and merchandise, perfect for taking a piece of the wizarding world home with you.
King’s Cross and St Pancras Station
King’s Cross is an architectural landmark itself. The adjacent St Pancras International is also worth exploring for its stunning neo-Gothic architecture - film fans will recognise its exterior as the one used for King’s Cross Station in the Harry Potter films. They also boast a wide selection of cafés, restaurants and shops.
Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard
Just a short walk from the station, you’ll find Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard, offering a mix of shopping, dining and culture. Granary Square’s famous fountains and canals provide a perfect spot for a stroll, and Coal Drops Yard has boutiques and restaurants surrounded by industrial architecture.
British Library
If you’re a book lover, take a wander to the British Library and explore its permanent exhibitions, including historical manuscripts like the Magna Carta and original Beatles lyrics, rare books and original documents from history.
How to get to Platform 9¾ by train
Getting to Platform 9¾, London is easy, thanks to King’s Cross Station’s excellent transport connections.
From the London Underground: King’s Cross is served by the Circle Line, Hammersmith & City Line, Metropolitan Line, Piccadilly Line and Victoria Line. This makes it easy to reach from almost anywhere in London.
From National Rail: If you’re travelling from outside London, King’s Cross has direct train services to and from major cities including Cambridge, Peterborough, Leeds and York. Other destinations across the UK are also accessible via direct or connecting services.
Travel Tips
● For long-distance journeys, buying tickets in advance can save money and guarantee a seat, which you can do easily.
● Weekday mornings and late afternoons are peak travel times, and travelling outside these times usually means a quieter station.
● Using a Railcard or buying Split Tickets can reduce travel costs.
Our tips for a smooth Platform 9¾ visit
To make your trip to Platform 9¾ as magical as possible, take a moment to do a bit of planning before you go.
● Time your visit wisely - If you want to avoid long queues and hanging around, arrive early in the morning or in the late afternoon. Weekends and school holidays are especially busy
● Bring your camera or smartphone - The iconic trolley halfway into the wall is the perfect photo opportunity, so be sure to take your own pictures. There’s also an official photo area with themed props.
● Give yourself enough time - You should plan to spend between 30 and 45 minutes at Platform 9¾ if you want to enjoy the experience fully. This includes time for your photo and browsing the shop without feeling rushed.
● Dress the part - If you’ve already been sorted into your Hogwarts House, dress the part and make your photo even more memorable
● Combine Platform 9¾ with other Harry Potter experiences - Consider combining your visit to Platform 9¾ with other experiences, such as a Harry Potter walking tour around London, which can take you to filming locations and magical landmarks.
Beyond Platform 9 ¾: Other Harry Potter sites in London
● Leadenhall Market: The real-life Diagon Alley and entrance to the Leaky Cauldron.
● Millennium Bridge: The bridge destroyed by Death Eaters in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
● Australia House: The interior was used for Gringotts Wizarding Bank (note that public access to the interior is restricted).
● Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter: While not in central London, it is the ultimate destination for fans. This section can serve as a natural place to link to tour tickets or travel packages.