Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter (WBSTL) has been named winner of the Large Visitor Attraction of the Year award, sponsored by Howes Percival, at the East of England Tourism Awards 2023-2024.

WBSTL has welcomed over 17 million visitors from around the world since opening in 2012. 

The attraction in Watford, Hertfordshire, gives visitors a chance to explore the studios where all eight Harry Potter films were produced. 

From authentic sets to behind-the-scenes secrets, WBSTL showcases the British talent and artistry that went into creating the Wizarding World.

Visitors can explore the Forbidden Forest, wander down Diagon Alley, step into the iconic Great Hall, look inside Professor Sprout’s greenhouse and board the original Hogwarts Express at Platform 9 ¾. 

During its almost 12-year history, WBSTL has continuously invested in expanding the attraction and developing its programme of annual features to encourage repeat visits.

The judges said their visit to WBSTL “will live long in the memory”, describing it as “an unforgettable day” and “a totally immersive experience into the wizarding world”. 
They added: “Each part of the tour was magical and most impressive was the detail that went into the sets, costumes and the special effects”.

When asked if she had any advice for anyone thinking about entering the awards next year, Vicki White, contact centre manager at WBSTL, said: “Our mission as an attraction is to exceed expectations,” and added that the judges want to know about how you’ve done things. 

“Whether [you’re] a big attraction, small attraction, pub, accommodation provider – how are you meeting and exceeding your business expectations?

“That can make you really proud of the work you do.”

The other finalists in this category were Hertfordshire Zoo and ROARR!

The winners of the East of England Tourism Awards 2023-2024 were announced at Snape Maltings, Suffolk on Thursday, February 15. To find out about all of the winners, click here.

For more information about the awards, please visit tourismawards.co.uk

About the sponsor

Howes Percival is a leading commercial law firm offering a wide range of legal expertise, from corporate, employment, property, licensing, planning and litigation, to estate planning and tax law.

The business has a wealth of experience advising clients in the leisure and tourism industry.

In a sector that is greatly influenced by economic change, Howes Percival understands the business challenges you face and the need to respond quickly to opportunities in your industry.

Its clients range from international corporations to family-owned businesses
working across the full spectrum of the leisure and tourism sector.