Leadenhall Market

Leadenhall Market is a beautiful Victorian covered market in the City of London, known for its ornate architecture and its appearance in the Harry Potter films.

Located on Gracechurch Street in the heart of the historic financial district, Leadenhall Market grew to prominence in Victorian times, when the current structure was built, but it is actually much older. Dating back to the 14th century, it was known to be a meat, poultry and game market, standing upon what would have been the centre of Roman London. The Manor of Leadenhall was first listed to belong to Sir Hugh Neville in 1309. Many traders would congregate here by 1397, especially cheesemongers. By the 14th century, Lord Mayor Richard 'Dick' Whittington took over ownership of the building, and it was widely considered the best meat and fish market in London.

Fast forward to modern times and the market is still open daily, and has become a popular tourist attraction thanks to its beautiful interior. It was also immortalised on the silver screen, appearing in the first Harry Potter film as the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron Pub in Diagon Alley, one of Harry's first glimpses into the wizarding world. 

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Related Tours

Harry Potter Filming Locations in London: Private Tour in a London Taxi

Whether you're merely a muggle harbouring a belief in the wizarding world's existence or whether you remember He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, this Black cab tour will take you through several of the Harry Potter filming locations for the story of the boy who lived.

On your private driving tour inspired by the wizarding world, you will:

  • Travel in the comfort of a private London Taxi;
  • See all the film locations, used in all 8 movies, accompanied by a professional guide and Harry Potter fanatic!;
  • Stop for a memorable photo opportunity at ‘Platform 9 ¾’;
  • See where the external shots were used for the "Gringotts Wizarding Bank", Diagon Alley, and the Leaky Cauldron;
  • Follow the route of the ‘Knight Bus’ across the River Thames and around those windy streets;
  • Walk over the Brockdale Bridge, which collapsed in the opening scenes of the sixth film;
  • Browse Borough Market, home of the ‘Third-Hand Bookshop';
  • Finish your tour as a true insider of Harry Potter in London


It may not be September 1st, but unbeknownst to students, trains do depart from Platform 9¾ daily. Enjoy a quick photoshoot there before pushing through the barrier, so you don't miss the departure of the Hogwarts Express!

Prepare for your sorting ceremony and be sure you know which magical creature you want to bring with you to Hogwarts. Don't forget to visit Gringott's Wizarding Bank to pay for each of your treasures at the real entrance to Diagon Alley (muggles can't see it but pass by it daily at Leadenhall Market.)

Remember the loss of muggle life on Brockdale Bridge (known in the muggle world as 'Millennium Bridge') as you cross. But never fear, the Dark Lord is now defeated and there have been no death eater sightings for many years.

In just four hours, you'll traverse many of London's hidden passageways and filming locations for the iconic 8 films. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for Ernie Prang and Stan Shunpike navigating the Knight Bus throughout the city.

We promise even if you're not enough of a Potterhead to understand a single reference made in this tour, your guide is used to accompanying muggles and showing them the magic of the wizarding world, visible everywhere throughout London! 

DISCLAIMER: This tour is an unlicensed and unauthorised tour of sites featured in the film series 'Harry Potter' based on the eponymous novels by author J. K. Rowling, produced and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. Travel Curious Ltd. and this tour does not have any association with, or connection to, the film series 'Harry Potter', the author J. K. Rowling, and Warner Bros. Pictures.  

Power and Scandal: City of London Private Half-Day Walking Tour

Explore the 800-year history of the City of London, the global financial heart of Britain, with its melee of medieval streets, iconic skyscrapers, and historic buildings, and hear tales of the most notorious financial fraudsters through the ages.

On your private tour, you will:

  • See the major landmarks of the city like the Stock Exchange and the Bank of England, nicknamed the ‘old lady of Threadneedle Street’;
  • Visit the vibrant Leadenhall Market – popular with city workers for lunchtime drinks;
  • See the Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral alongside skyscrapers like the Gherkin and the Cheesegrater;
  • Hear how Lloyd’s of London began as Lloyd’s coffee house and the important role of the coffee houses in the financial district;
  • Learn about historic scandals of fraudulent trades, offshore banks, shady syndicates, and hoodwinking Ponzi schemes
  • Learn about the extraordinary story of the thieves of Threadneedle Street: American forgers who nearly broke the Bank of England in 1873;
  • End back at Threadneedles Hotel, where we encourage you to try their famous Gin and Tonic at Wheeler’s Bar!


With its eccentric mix of historic buildings and iconic skyscrapers, the City of London is a unique district in the heart of London with a history dating back over 800 years. Learn about the financial institutions that drive the City and hear the dramatic stories of fortunes made and lost through fair means and foul.

Learn of the rise and fall of the East India Company, forged banknotes by American fraudsters, the Lloyd's of London insurance scandal of the 1990s, the Poyais scam of 1825, and the South Sea Bubble implosion. Hear about charming thieves and audaciously dodgy investors through the ages.

Discover the origins of the East India Trading Company – a mercantile powerhouse that made a fortune on the back of the slave trade. Learn about the illegal sales of opium in China and the endemic corruption that led to its demise.

Entering Change Alley, your guide will describe the street as it stood 300 years ago - a crowded alley, filled with traders, rumour, and wild financial speculation: the collapse of the South Sea Bubble, a slave-trading business that shook Britain to its core.

Learn about the rise of Lloyd’s coffee house on Lombard Street – a popular place for sailors, merchants, and shipowners to gain their shipping news and discuss business and trade. It then became its own insurance business: Lloyd’s of London. It is now infamous for the huge scandal of the 1990s in which many lost millions.

End back at the elegant Threadneedles Hotel, where you'll hear the story of the scandal of the thieves of Threadneedle street - an attempted heist by American robbers that would have ruined the City had it not been spectacularly foiled. Perhaps enjoy a well-earned G&T at the Wheeler's Bar afterwards! 

Harry Potter Filming Locations in London: Private Walking Tour

Discover the many filming locations of the Harry Potter movies in muggle London on a private walking tour of the most famous landmarks of the city. Unlike other cities, London was used in many of the scenes, so you will have the opportunity to visit the actual sites that made it on the big screen!

On your Harry Potter private walking tour you will:

  • Start your tour at Westminster tube station used In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix;
  • Visit the entrance to the Ministry of Magic and the muggle Prime Minister's home;
  • Stop off at several well-known landmarks of London used in books and films, like St Paul's, Trafalgar Square, and Goodwin's Court;
  • Discover Picadilly Circus, where Ron, Hermione, and Harry almost get hit by a red London bus in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1;
  • Snap a photo of Harry Potter's bronze statue in Leicester Square;
  • Cross the Millennium Bridge - the site of the muggle killings by Death Eaters in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince;
  • End your tour at Leadenhall Market, Leaky Cauldron's entrance in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone; or at the Borough Market, the site where Harry disembarks after his ride on the Knight Bus.

Explore the literary and cinematic landmarks inspired by Harry Potter’s world on this magical tour of London with a private guide, who is also a Potter fanatic.

Prepare for your own sorting ceremony and be sure you know which magical creature you want to bring with you to Hogwarts. On this half-day tour, you'll traverse many of London's hidden passageways and filming locations for the iconic 8 films.

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for Ernie Prang and Stan Shunpike on the Knight Bus!

See Diagon Alley, the Leaky cauldron, and other spellbinding places - both obvious and hidden from muggle eyes. Enjoy fascinating trivia on the series and gain a lesser-known insight into the characters, author and actors.

Hear tales that even the most dedicated fans and Potterheads will not have heard before! With wands, quizzes and prizes, you will enjoy a unique wizarding experience.

Note: If you would like to visit Platform 9¾ after the tour to hop aboard the Hogwarts Express, your guide will be happy to direct you to King's Cross Station, a short tube ride away.

DISCLAIMER: This tour is an unlicensed and unauthorised tour of sites featured in the film series 'Harry Potter' based on the eponymous novels by author J. K. Rowling, produced and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. Travel Curious Ltd. and this tour does not have any association with, or connection to, the film series 'Harry Potter', the author J. K. Rowling, and Warner Bros. Pictures.  

The Ultimate London Tour: Private 6-Hour Tour in a London Taxi

Experience all that London has to offer in a day on this whistle-stop driving and walking tour of the most famous landmarks and sites that London is world-famous for, and see more of London in a day than most visitors will see in a week! 

On your private full-day tour, you will: 

  • Travel in style in a private London Black Cab with a licensed cab driver;
  • See London's most famous attractions, including 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 2 Tudor Palaces;
  • Discover St.James's Palace, the historic residence of the British monarchy;
  • Catch the world-famous ‘Changing the Guard’ ceremony at Buckingham Palace if your tour's pick-up time is at 10 am or earlier (subject to weather conditions and schedule changes);
  • Take a stroll down Parliament Square, located in front of the Palace of Westminster and discover its surrounding landmarks;
  • See Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower), Westminster Abbey and statues of iconic figures such as Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Nelson Mandela, and Mahatma Gandhi, among others;
  • Pass by 10 Downing Street, home to the British Prime Minister;
  • Feel the bustling energy of Piccadilly Circus, an iconic entertainment centre featured in many movies and tv shows; 
  • Marble Arch,
  • See St Paul’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Sir Christopher Wren;
  • Admire Kensington Palace, a historic royal residence located in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea with intricate architecture and lush gardens;
  • Snap a photo at the London Eye and the Shakespeare's Globe,
  • Explore Borough Market, a culinary hub for locals and visitors alike where you can find fresh produce, artisanal foods, and international delicacies;
  • Get breathtaking views of the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, a defining symbol of the city of London for its distinctive design, its unique location and for being showcased in multiple films building an even larger cultural significance,
  • Capture a memorable photo at Abbey Road and more!

Please note: that the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, but can be subject to change and weather conditions. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays you will see the changing of the Horseguards at Horse Guards Parade on Whitehall. You can check the schedule here: https://changing-guard.com/dates-buckingham-palace.html

London is a modern capital with an ancient past as for centuries it has occupied a central place in the rich fabric of British life and history. Your expert driver-guide will introduce you to one of the world's most multi-faceted and fascinating cities, home to the King, and aeons of Royal history, not to mention Shakespeare's Globe and a thrumming West End theatre scene.  

On your private, full-day tour in a Classic Black Cab, you'll stop along the way for many photo opportunities and hear the stories of many of the most famous buildings of Britain's Capital city as well as take the opportunity to stroll and explore some of the Victorian alleys and markets such as Covent Garden in the West End and Leadenhall market in the East End (featured in Harry Potter movies). 

This comprehensive tour will include stops all over the city, including Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, Kensington Palace, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and many more. 

At each place, you'll be able to capture your memories and share your amazing day on Instagram, before being dropped off at a location of your choice.


IMPORTANT: This tour does not enter any attractions and no tickets are included

The Extended Ultimate London: Private 8-hour Tour in a London Taxi

If you are looking to visit all of London’s iconic landmarks in a full day, then The Extended Ultimate London Tour is the perfect option for you!

On your private 8-hour tour, you will: 

  • Travel in style in a private and iconic London Taxi;
  • Embark on a memorable journey through the heart of the city of London and immerse yourself in Westminster's grandeur and charm;
  • See more of London in a day than most visitors will see in a week!;
  • Catch the popular ‘Changing the Guard’ ceremony at Buckingham Palace if your reservation pick-up time is 10 am or earlier (Subject to weather conditions and schedule);
  • Enjoy a well-deserved lunch break at a traditional British Pub (lunch not included in the price);
  • See London's most famous attractions, including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, 10 Downing Street, Piccadilly Circus, Marble Arch, Kensington Palace, the London Eye, Shakespeare's Globe;
  • Stand in awe of Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece: St Paul’s Cathedral at the end of the famous Millennium Bridge;
  • Marvel at the engineering work of the Tower Bridge that spans the River Thames and captures breathtaking views of the historic Tower of London;
  • Admire Trafalgar Square, home to the magnificent National Gallery and Nelson's Column;
  • Explore Mayfair, the upscale district renowned for its elegance and exclusivity;
  • Visit Leadenhall Market and Borough Market
  • Discover musical and film locations of interest and hidden gems;
  • Snap memorable photos at the most famous sights such as Abbey Road


Please note: that the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace happens on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, but can be subject to change and weather conditions. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays you will see the changing of the Horseguards at Horse Guards Parade on Whitehall.
You can check the schedule here: https://changing-guard.com/dates-buckingham-palace.html


With a rich history spanning centuries, this tour offers you the opportunity to explore London's most iconic landmarks, from the grandeur of the world-known Westminster Abbey and St Paul's Cathedral to the ancient Tower of London and the iconic Tower Bridge.

In addition to the well-known attractions, your driver-guide will show you some of the hidden gems of the city, including charming Victorian alleys and bustling markets such as Covent Garden in the West End and Leadenhall Market in the East End, famously featured in the Harry Potter movies.

Throughout the tour, there will be many photo opportunities and plenty of time to soak up the history and culture of the city.

After a full day of exploration, you'll be dropped off at a location of your choice in Central London.

Don't miss this chance to experience London's wonders, finest landmarks and hidden treasures and create memories that will last a lifetime!


IMPORTANT: This tour does not enter any attractions and no tickets are included

Movies, Magic and Music: Private 4-Hour Tour in a London Taxi

London’s streets, landmarks, and lively neighbourhoods have served as the backdrop for countless films, from classic black-and-white masterpieces to modern blockbusters. They’ve also provided inspiration for scores of talented musicians who have called the city home over the years. Based on some of the most requested stops on our Premier Classic London tour, our jam-packed movies, magic and music route offers an exhilarating ride through London with a charismatic cabbie-guide that knows the streets like the back of their hand, showing you intriguing corners of the city related to the Beatles, Harry Potter, and other great British icons.

On this half-day private taxi tour, you will:

  • Travel in the comfort of a private and iconic London Taxi;
  • Enjoy convenient hotel pick up and drop off from central London;
  • See a carefully curated selection of emblematic London landmarks, with a few surprises thrown in;
  • Make your way to Abbey Road, where the Beatles recorded some of their biggest hits, and recreate the famous photo at the zebra crossing;
  • Pass by the London homes of Paul McCartney and John Lennon;
  • Head into Central London, where the streets are seeped in history, from the prestigious Pall Mall to the sophisticated Savile Row;
  • Take in picture-perfect London locations like the Mall, Buckingham Palace and the City of Westminster and learn how they have been immortalised on the silver screen;
  • Stop by Leicester Square, the heart of London’s cinema district, where many glamorous film premieres take place;
  • Discover key Harry Potter filming locations at real London buildings that double as Gringotts and Diagon Alley;
  • Hear fascinating stories from your passionate cabbie-guide at every turn.

Set out on a dazzling journey through the sights, sounds and spellbinding stories of London on this private half-day adventure in an iconic London Cab. With a licensed cabbie as your personal guide, a local who knows every shortcut, side street and star-studded secret of the city, you’ll be collected straight from your central London hotel and whisked into a world where legendary music, blockbuster cinema and British magic come vividly to life.

While the exact order of your itinerary can vary depending on your driver and the location of your hotel, you'll soon find yourself in the place every music lover dreams of: Abbey Road in St John’s Wood. You’ll have the opportunity to stand on the famous zebra crossing where the Beatles made history and soak up the atmosphere of the studios where the band recorded their greatest hits. Nearby, you’ll pass the former London homes of Paul McCartney and John Lennon, glimpsing the quiet neighbourhood streets that once echoed with the footsteps of rock ’n’ roll royalty. You will also spend time in the heart of the capital, where some of London’s most renowned streets unfold before you. You’ll glide along posh Pall Mall, soak in the pomp and circumstance of the Mall (with views of Buckingham Palace), and roll through the grand avenues of Westminster, places that have starred in countless films and remain at the centre of British pageantry. You'll pause at Savile Row, the elegant home of bespoke tailoring, where your guide will reveal yet another chapter of Beatles lore: the site of the group’s final public performance.

Heading into the buzzing West End, you’ll pass through Leicester Square, the glamorous gateway to London’s cinema district. This is where film premieres light up the night, crowds gather to spot stars on the red carpet, and movie history is made again and again. Then it is time to step into another realm entirely, the world of Harry Potter. Visit real London locations that have transformed into some of the wizarding world’s most recognisable settings, from the grand Australia House (Gringotts Bank), to the sleek curves of the Millennium Bridge, to the atmospheric arcades of Leadenhall Market, which inspired Diagon Alley. Fans young and old will feel the magic in every moment.

Throughout the journey, your cabbie-guide brings the stories to life with an infectious passion for London’s cultural tapestry, mixing insider knowledge, film trivia, musical legends and a few delightful surprises tailored to your interests. Combining must-see landmarks, unforgettable movie moments and musical milestones, this exhilarating taxi tour is a fun and immersive way to experience London at its finest.

Please note that the sites listed are the main highlights typically included on this route; however, the exact stops may vary depending on traffic conditions, road closures, and events taking place in the city on the day of your tour. Distances between locations can be considerable, which may affect the order, inclusions and duration of each stop. If you have any specific preferences or requirements, please inform your driver at the start of the tour—they will do their best to tailor the experience accordingly. 

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