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Harry Potter Statue

Where the boy wizard takes flight in London's cinematic heart—a bronze tribute to magic and movie history.

4.5

A bronze sculpture of Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter riding his Nimbus 2000 during a Quidditch match stands in Leicester Square's north terrace. Part of the 'Scenes in the Square' interactive statue trail celebrating cinema history, this monument commemorates the iconic scene from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, whose world premiere took place in this very square in 2001. The statue remains a beloved photo spot for fans and visitors exploring London's entertainment district.

A brief summary to Harry Potter Statue

  • 1 Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7NA, GB
  • Duration: 0.25 to 1.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or during weekday afternoons to avoid peak crowds and capture clearer photographs without large groups in the background.
  • Listen to the free 'Scenes in the Square' audio tour available on streaming platforms to learn fascinating trivia about the Harry Potter films and the other statues throughout the square.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions including the LEGO Store, M&M's World, and the Japanese Centre, all within walking distance on Leicester Square.
  • During winter months, Leicester Square transforms into a festive wonderland with seasonal decorations and markets, adding extra magic to your visit.
  • Explore the other statues on the 'Scenes in the Square' trail to discover cinema history spanning over a century, from classic characters to contemporary heroes.
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Getting There

  • Underground (Tube)

    Leicester Square station is directly beneath the square, served by the Northern and Piccadilly lines. Journey times from central London locations range from 5–15 minutes depending on your starting point. The station exits place you directly into Leicester Square. Single fares within London zones cost approximately £1.75–£2.80 depending on distance.

  • Walking from Nearby Stations

    Piccadilly Circus station is a 4-minute walk to the south, while Covent Garden station is approximately 5–7 minutes to the east. Both stations offer alternative access if Leicester Square is temporarily crowded. The walk is straightforward through pedestrianised streets with clear signage.

  • Bus

    Multiple bus routes serve Leicester Square, including routes 14, 19, 24, 29, and 176. Journey times vary from 10–30 minutes depending on your starting location and traffic conditions. A single bus fare within London costs £1.75 for contactless payment or Oyster card.

  • Taxi or Ride-Share

    Black cabs and ride-share services operate throughout London. Journey times to Leicester Square vary significantly based on traffic, typically ranging from 10–40 minutes from central locations. Costs generally range from £8–£25 depending on distance and time of day.

Harry Potter Statue location weather suitability

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Discover more about Harry Potter Statue

A Wizard Takes Flight in London's Entertainment Heart

In the heart of London's West End, where cinema history comes alive, stands a bronze figure frozen mid-flight on a broomstick. The Harry Potter statue depicts Daniel Radcliffe as the young wizard soaring through the air on his Nimbus 2000, captured in the moment of his first Quidditch match against Slytherin from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. Unveiled in September 2020, this sculpture occupies the north terrace of Leicester Square, just metres from the Cineworld Cinema where the film's world premiere took place nearly two decades earlier in 2001. The statue has become one of the most photographed monuments in the square, drawing visitors from around the globe who wish to stand alongside the world's most famous wizard.

Part of a Cinematic Legacy Trail

The Harry Potter statue forms part of 'Scenes in the Square,' an interactive and free statue trail that celebrates over a century of cinema magic. Launched in February 2020, this collection brings beloved film characters to life in bronze, creating an open-air gallery dedicated to the art of filmmaking. Harry Potter joined the original eight statues—including Paddington Bear, Mary Poppins, Mr. Bean, Batman, and Gene Kelly in Singin' in the Rain—each representing different eras and genres of cinema. The trail extends throughout Leicester Square's gardens and terraces, allowing visitors to wander freely among these iconic figures. An accompanying audio tour, available on various streaming platforms and hosted by Alex Zane, provides trivia, movie clips, and background information about each character and the films they represent, enriching the experience for cinema enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Leicester Square's Evolution as a Cultural Landmark

Leicester Square itself carries centuries of history, transformed from a private aristocratic garden in the 1600s into London's premier entertainment district. Named after Robert Sidney, the 2nd Earl of Leicester, the square was originally closed to the public but opened in 1640 following public pressure. By the 18th and 19th centuries, it had become the vibrant hub of theatrical and cinematic culture it remains today. The square underwent a major £15.3 million redevelopment in 2012, featuring new granite paving, enhanced landscaping, and improved public spaces. Today, Leicester Square hosts more than 52 red-carpet film premieres annually at venues like the ODEON Luxe Leicester Square and Vue, cementing its status as the epicentre of British cinema and a destination for film lovers worldwide.

The Statue's Artistic Significance and Design

Crafted in bronze to match its companion statues throughout the square, the Harry Potter sculpture captures a pivotal moment from the beloved film franchise. The artist's attention to detail brings the scene to life—Harry's determined expression, the dynamic pose of flight, and the distinctive Nimbus 2000 broomstick all contribute to the statue's appeal. The sculpture stands as a testament to the enduring cultural impact of the Harry Potter films, which have shaped popular culture for over two decades. The statue's placement on the north terrace ensures it remains visible and accessible to the thousands of visitors who pass through Leicester Square daily, whether they are attending theatre performances, catching film premieres, or simply exploring London's West End.

A Gathering Place for Fans and Photographers

Since its installation, the Harry Potter statue has become particularly popular with children and families, rivalling even Paddington Bear in terms of visitor engagement. The accessible location and photogenic nature of the sculpture have made it a focal point for social media content, with visitors queuing to capture their own moments alongside the flying wizard. The statue's presence transforms Leicester Square into a pilgrimage site for Harry Potter enthusiasts, many of whom have grown up with the films and books. The surrounding area offers numerous cafés, restaurants, and shops, allowing visitors to spend extended time in the square while enjoying the atmosphere of London's entertainment district. Whether visiting for the statue alone or as part of a broader exploration of Leicester Square's cultural offerings, the Harry Potter monument provides a tangible connection to the magic that has captivated audiences worldwide.

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