Harry Potter filming locations in the UK

For Harry Potter fans, exploring the magical filming locations around the UK is an unforgettable adventure. From the bustling streets of London to the dramatic Scottish Highlands, the UK is packed with real-life settings that brought J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world vividly to life on screen. Here’s your guide to the top filming locations that every Potterhead should visit.

1. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Location: Leavesden, Hertfordshire

No Harry Potter tour would be complete without visiting the iconic Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Walk through actual film sets such as the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and Platform 9¾. Discover authentic costumes, props, and behind-the-scenes secrets of how the films were made.

2. Alnwick Castle

Location: Northumberland

Alnwick Castle starred as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films. Visitors can explore the courtyard where Harry first learned to fly a broomstick and take part in magical broomstick training sessions!

3. Glenfinnan Viaduct

Location: Scottish Highlands

This spectacular railway viaduct appeared in several films, most famously as the route for the Hogwarts Express. Visitors can even take a steam train ride along the viaduct, recreating Harry’s journey to Hogwarts.

4. Christ Church College, Oxford

Location: Oxford, England

The beautiful architecture of Christ Church College inspired and appeared in various Hogwarts scenes, notably the dining hall. This historic college provides visitors with a true sense of stepping into Hogwarts.

5. Alnwick Castle

Location: Northumberland

The grounds of Alnwick Castle were used for several Hogwarts exterior scenes. Explore where Harry, Ron, and Hermione first learned to fly broomsticks in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

6. King's Cross Station

Location: London

Visit the famous Platform 9¾ at King's Cross Station, where Harry and friends began their journey to Hogwarts. Don’t miss the photo opportunity pushing a trolley through the magical barrier!

7. Lacock Abbey

Location: Wiltshire

This picturesque medieval abbey featured in several films, serving as classrooms and corridors of Hogwarts. Its historic cloisters offer fans a glimpse into Hogwarts’ interiors.

8. Durham Cathedral

Location: Durham

This stunning cathedral provided the setting for many Hogwarts scenes, including some memorable corridor and classroom shots. Visitors can retrace the steps of their favourite wizards and witches within this historic landmark.

9. Leadenhall Market

Location: London

Leadenhall Market, with its ornate Victorian architecture, was used as the filming location for Diagon Alley and the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron in the first film.

10. Gloucester Cathedral

Location: Gloucestershire

Used for many of Hogwarts’ interior scenes, including the memorable corridors and staircases, Gloucester Cathedral's stunning cloisters bring fans right into the heart of Hogwarts.