A magical day out just outside London has been officially recognised as one of the planet's ultimate festive destinations. The Warner Bros Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter has been crowned the world's best Christmas attraction, achieving a perfect festive joy score.
A Spellbinding Festive Triumph
In a global study conducted by travel experts at AttractionTickets.com, the Watford-based studio tour soared to the number one position. It earned an impressive Christmas joy score of 9.75 out of 10. This remarkable rating sees it share the pinnacle of the list with the iconic Central Park in New York City.
The research assessed destinations worldwide to discover which locations radiate the most Christmas spirit. While frosty New York parks and enchanting Disney resorts were strong contenders, it was the home of the wizarding world that conjured up the most festive magic.
Hogwarts in the Snow: The Secret to its Success
The studio tour's seasonal offering, 'Hogwarts in the Snow', is the key to its yuletide appeal. During the winter months, the iconic film sets, including the Great Hall and Diagon Alley, undergo a breathtaking festive transformation. Visitors can explore the intricate details of the props, costumes, and sets from the beloved film series, all adorned with a layer of cinematic snow and Christmas decorations.
Oliver Brendon, CEO of AttractionTickets.com, analysed the results. "From the data, it's clear that the settings where people feel most festive are those that are internationally sought-after and have Christmas-specific events, alongside encouraging inclusive family-centred experiences," he said.
Global Festive Rankings Revealed
The study revealed a strong showing for several destinations. New York City proved to be the world's Christmas joy capital, securing five spots in the top 15. Following the joint leaders, the top attractions are:
- Grand Place - Grote Markt, Brussels, Belgium (9.7/10)
- Bryant Park, New York, USA (9.65/10)
- Walt Disney World Resort, Florida, USA (9.55/10)
The UK performed notably well, with Center Parcs Longleat Forest in Wiltshire also making the list with a score of 9.45. Other British entries included Center Parcs Sherwood Forest and Center Parcs Elveden Forest. The list highlights a mix of traditional festive markets, iconic cityscapes, and family-focused holiday resorts.
For those planning a last-minute festive break or already dreaming of Christmas 2026, this ranking offers a powerful insight into where to find unparalleled seasonal cheer. The Warner Bros Studio Tour London has proven that a touch of cinematic wizardry, located less than an hour from the capital, can create a world-beating Christmas experience.
