Explore Harry Potter Filming Locations in the UK

The Harry Potter series brought the magic of the wizarding world to life using real-world locations across the UK. From towering castles to picturesque villages, these sites not only served as iconic backdrops in the films but also hold rich histories of their own. If you've ever wondered where was Harry Potter filmed? or what is the Hogwarts Castle location? This guide will take you through the most enchanting spots, many of which can be explored on unforgettable journeys through England, Scotland, and Wales.

Last updated:14.02.2025

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland – The First Hogwarts

Alnwick Castle is one of the most recognizable Harry Potter filming locations, as it stood in for Hogwarts in the first two films. The castle’s vast courtyards were the setting for Harry and his classmates’ first broomstick lessons, including the moment when Neville Longbottom’s broom takes on a mind of its own.
Beyond its Harry Potter fame, Alnwick Castle is a breathtaking medieval fortress with lavish interiors and stunning gardens. It’s the perfect place to explore on an Essence of England & Scotland tou r, which takes travelers through some of the UK’s most historic sites.

2 million

were used to construct parts of the castle during restorations
20+ rooms

open to the public, showcasing grand medieval interiors
15 acres

stunning gardens, including the famous Poison Garden

Durham Cathedral, County Durham – The Quiet Halls of Hogwarts

Durham Cathedral’s magnificent cloisters appeared as Hogwarts corridors in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, creating the perfect setting for scenes of young wizards navigating their way through Hogwarts. The Chapter House, with its impressive medieval stonework, was also transformed into Professor McGonagall’s classroom, where she famously introduced first-years to the art of Transfiguration. The cathedral’s striking Romanesque and Gothic architecture, dating back to 1093, made it an ideal stand-in for the wizarding world’s most famous school.
Beyond its Harry Potter connection, Durham Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Norman design. The cathedral houses the tomb of Saint Cuthbert, one of England’s most revered religious figures, and the final resting place of the Venerable Bede, the famous 8th-century scholar. Towering 66 meters (217 feet) high, its central tower offers breathtaking views over the city and the River Wear. The cathedral’s library contains over 30,000 early printed books and manuscripts, making it one of the most significant collections in Britain.
Durham itself is a hidden gem in Northern England, with its charming riverside walks, cobbled streets, and historic castle, which together form one of the best-preserved medieval cityscapes in England. The city’s Durham Castle, now part of Durham University, has stood for nearly 1,000 years and remains one of the best examples of Norman military architecture in the country.
Durham itself is a hidden gem in Northern England, with its charming riverside walks and impressive Norman architecture. For those wanting to see both England’s medieval treasures and Scotland’s dramatic landscapes, the Best of Britain tour is an excellent way to experience the rich history and beauty of the region.

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Durham Cathedral is the first cathedral in England to be entirely built with stone vaulted ceilings, a groundbreaking architectural achievement in the 11th century. At the time, most large buildings used wooden roofs, which were more susceptible to fire. The cathedral’s innovative ribbed vaulting technique not only made the structure more fire-resistant but also influenced the development of Gothic architecture across Europe.

Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire – Potions and the Mirror of Erised

Lacock Abbey is another crucial Hogwarts filming location, used for Professor Snape’s Potions classroom and the halls where Harry first encounters the Mirror of Erised. The abbey’s medieval cloisters and centuries-old stone walls make it an atmospheric location that feels like stepping straight into the wizarding world.

Lacock is just one of many picturesque English villages worth exploring, and it fits perfectly into an Splendid Ireland Journey journey, which takes you through the heart of the country’s historic sites and beautiful countryside.

Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucestershire – The Haunted Corridors of Hogwarts

Gloucester Cathedral played an eerie role in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, where its ancient stone corridors became the setting for the chilling messages left by the Basilisk, warning of the Chamber’s return. The haunting words, “The Chamber of Secrets has been opened. Enemies of the heir, beware,” appeared on the cathedral’s historic walls, making it one of the most recognizable Harry Potter filming locations. The intricate fan-vaulted cloisters, dating back to the 14th century, were also featured in various Hogwarts hallway scenes, where students hurried between classes and mysterious events unfolded.
Beyond its magical connection, Gloucester Cathedral boasts a history spanning over 1,300 years, with origins dating back to 678 AD. It is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Britain, featuring breathtaking stained-glass windows, medieval tombs, and the whispering gallery, where sound travels in an unusual way across the vaulted ceiling. The cathedral is also the resting place of King Edward II, who was buried here in 1327 following his dramatic downfall.
The cathedral is located in the Cotswolds, a region known for its rolling green hills, charming stone villages, and thatched-roof cottages. Exploring this region on a Best of Scotland with Fort William tour allows you to experience England’s most enchanting landscapes, while also venturing into Scotland’s dramatic Highlands, historic castles, and stunning lochs. From medieval history to cinematic magic, Gloucester Cathedral and the Cotswolds provide an unforgettable journey through Britain’s most captivating sights.

Tip for Visiting Gloucester Cathedral:
Arrive early to explore the stunning cloisters before the crowds arrive, especially if you're a Harry Potter fan looking to capture the perfect photo of Hogwarts’ iconic corridors. Join a guided tour to learn about the cathedral’s 1,300-year history, its breathtaking stained-glass windows, and the tomb of King Edward II. Don’t miss the Whispering Gallery—stand at one end and whisper, and someone on the other side will hear you clearly!

Stacy Chernicava

Travel Expert

Leadenhall Market, London – The Entrance to Diagon Alley

Leadenhall Market, with its ornate Victorian architecture, became the entrance to Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The blue door of an optician’s shop in Bull’s Head Passage was transformed into the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron.
A visit to London isn’t complete without exploring its hidden passageways and historic markets.

Whether you’re wandering through Harry Potter’s world or discovering England’s rich heritage, the Mesmerizing Wales tour is a fantastic way to experience the best of both worlds.

An interesting fact about Leadenhall Market is that it dates back to 1321, making it one of the oldest markets in London. Originally a hub for meat, poultry, and fish traders, it later evolved into a fashionable Victorian shopping arcade in 1881, designed by architect Sir Horace Jones, who also designed Tower Bridge. Its stunning ornate roof, cobbled pathways, and vibrant red, green, and gold detailing made it the perfect choice for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, where it was used as the exterior of Diagon Alley and the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron.

King’s Cross Station, London – Platform 9¾

No Harry Potter trip is complete without visiting King’s Cross Station, home to the legendary Platform 9¾, where young witches and wizards board the Hogwarts Express. While the platform itself is fictional, fans can visit the famous Platform 9¾ photo spot, where a trolley is seen disappearing into the wall, creating the illusion of stepping into the wizarding world. The queue for photos can get long, so arriving early is recommended. Next to the platform, the Harry Potter Shop is designed like Ollivanders, offering an extensive collection of wizarding memorabilia, including house scarves, wands, and exclusive collectibles.
King’s Cross Station itself is one of London’s busiest transport hubs, connecting travelers to destinations across the UK, including Edinburgh, York, and the Scottish Highlands. The station dates back to 1852 and features impressive Victorian architecture, seamlessly blending historic charm with modern travel conveniences. Right next door, St. Pancras International—another filming location—was used for the exterior shots of the station in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Its grand Gothic façade makes it one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world.
London serves as the starting point for many magical journeys. Whether you’re embarking on a Scotland adventure or a full exploration of the UK, tours like the Splendid Ireland Journey make it easy to combine iconic landmarks with off-the-beaten-path destinations. From the wizarding sights of London to the enchanting landscapes of the British Isles, it's the perfect way to experience the magic beyond the screen.

Sign for platform 9 and three quarters at kings cross station Universal Studios

What to Know about Harry Potter Filming Locations in the UK

Where was Harry Potter filmed in the UK?

Travel Expert:

Many Harry Potter scenes were filmed across the UK, with key locations including Alnwick Castle and Durham Cathedral for Hogwarts exteriors, Gloucester Cathedral and Lacock Abbey for interior shots, and Leadenhall Market as Diagon Alley. Scotland’s Glenfinnan Viaduct was used for the Hogwarts Express route, while Lavenham served as Godric’s Hollow. Other notable filming locations include Freshwater West in Wales and various London landmarks such as King’s Cross Station.
Where in the UK does Harry Potter take place?

Travel Expert:

The Harry Potter series is primarily set in fictional locations inspired by real places in the UK. Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is depicted as a remote Scottish castle, while Diagon Alley and the Ministry of Magic are set in London. Godric’s Hollow, Harry’s birthplace, is based on historic English villages like Lavenham. The Hogwarts Express departs from King’s Cross Station in London, traveling through the Scottish Highlands.
Where is the Harry Potter experience in the UK?

Travel Expert:

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter in Leavesden, near London, is the ultimate Harry Potter experience. This immersive attraction features original sets, costumes, and props, including the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office, and Diagon Alley. Visitors can also explore real filming locations such as Alnwick Castle, Durham Cathedral, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct to relive iconic moments from the films.

Exploring Harry Potter filming locations across the UK brings the magic to life while showcasing the country’s rich history and stunning landscapes. From Alnwick Castle’s broomstick lessons to the Glenfinnan Viaduct’s Hogwarts Express route, each site offers a glimpse into the wizarding world. For a seamless journey through these iconic spots, BritainTours provides expertly crafted itineraries that blend history, culture, and cinematic magic into an unforgettable adventure.