Discover the Magic: Real-Life Harry Potter Filming Locations in the UK

For Harry Potter fans, visiting the real-life filming locations can be a truly magical experience. The UK is home to numerous sites where the beloved movies were brought to life. Let's explore some of the most iconic locations and how you can visit them.

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

Alnwick Castle served as a stand-in for Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films.


Scenes filmed here:

  • Madam Hooch's broomstick flying lessons (Philosopher's Stone)
  • Quidditch lessons (Philosopher's Stone)

How to visit:

  • Open from March to October
  • Offers "Broomstick Training" sessions for visitors
  • Located in Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 1NQ

Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucestershire

The cathedral's cloisters were transformed into Hogwarts corridors for multiple films.
Scenes filmed here:

  • Various corridor scenes, including the troll scene (Philosopher's Stone)
  • "The Chamber of Secrets has been opened" writing on the wall (Chamber of Secrets)

How to visit:

  • Open year-round
  • Guided tours available
  • Located at 12 College Green, Gloucester GL1 2LX

Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire

This 13th-century abbey was used for various Hogwarts interiors.


Scenes filmed here:

  • Professor Snape's Potions classroom (Philosopher's Stone)
  • Harry finds the Mirror of Erised (Philosopher's Stone)

 

How to visit:

  • Open throughout the year (check website for specific dates)
  • National Trust property
  • Located in Lacock, Chippenham SN15 2LG

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scottish Highlands

This iconic railway viaduct is featured in several films as part of the Hogwarts Express journey.
Scenes filmed here:

  • Hogwarts Express crossing the viaduct (Chamber of Secrets, Prisoner of Azkaban)

How to visit:

  • Viewable year-round
  • Jacobite Steam Train runs from May to October
  • Located near Glenfinnan, Inverness-shire PH37 4LT

Leadenhall Market, London

This Victorian covered market was used as Diagon Alley in the first film.


Scenes filmed here:

  • Exterior of the Leaky Cauldron (Philosopher's Stone)

How to visit:

  • Open daily, shops have individual hours
  • Free to visit
  • Located at Gracechurch Street, London EC3V 1LT

King's Cross Station, London

The real Platform 9¾ is located between platforms 4 and 5 at King's Cross.
Scenes filmed here:

  • Harry's journey to Hogwarts in multiple films

How to visit:

  • Open daily
  • Photo opportunity at the permanent Platform 9¾ installation
  • Located at Euston Road, London N1 9AL

Durham Cathedral, Durham

This cathedral was used for various Hogwarts interior and exterior shots.
Scenes filmed here:

  • Hogwarts quadrangle (Philosopher's Stone)
  • Professor McGonagall's classroom (Chamber of Secrets)

How to visit:

  • Open daily
  • Guided tours available
  • Located at The College, Durham DH1 3EH

Tips for Visiting Harry Potter Filming Locations

  1. Plan ahead: Some locations may require advance booking.
  2. Respect the sites: Many are working buildings or protected areas.
  3. Bring a camera: Capture your magical moments.
  4. Consider guided tours: Some locations offer Harry Potter-themed tours.
  5. Check opening times: Hours may vary seasonally.

 

Visiting these real-life Harry Potter filming locations offers a unique opportunity to step into the magical world created by J.K. Rowling and brought to life on screen. From ancient castles to bustling London markets, each site provides a glimpse into the enchanting universe of Harry Potter while showcasing the diverse beauty of the UK.

Gloucester Cathedral's cloisters were transformed into Hogwarts corridors for multiple Harry Potter films
Durham Cathedral was used for various Hogwarts interior and exterior shots

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (1997)
Orphaned Harry Potter discovers he's a wizard and begins his magical education at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he makes friends and faces the dark wizard who killed his parents.

 

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (1998)
In his second year at Hogwarts, Harry investigates a series of attacks on students and uncovers the legend of a secret chamber within the school.


Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (1999)
Harry's third year is marked by the escape of a dangerous prisoner from the wizard prison Azkaban, who seems to be hunting Harry.

 

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2000)
Harry is mysteriously entered into a dangerous wizard tournament and must compete against older, more experienced students while uncovering a sinister plot.

 

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2003)
As Harry faces disbelief about Voldemort's return, he starts a secret defense group and deals with teenage angst, while a new threat emerges at Hogwarts.

 

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2005)
Harry learns more about Voldemort's past and the secret to his power, while danger infiltrates Hogwarts and he faces a devastating loss.

 

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2007)
In the final book, Harry, Ron, and Hermione leave school to find and destroy Voldemort's remaining Horcruxes, leading to an epic final battle at Hogwarts.


While not part of the main series, there's also:
 

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (2016)
This stage play script follows Harry's son, Albus Severus Potter, as he struggles with his family's legacy and inadvertently meddles with time, creating alternate realities.