If you’re a Harry Potter fan, the UK is your ultimate playground. The Harry Potter film franchise brought to life so many magical places—from gothic castles and bustling markets to breathtaking natural backdrops. Whether you’re a seasoned Potter nerd or just beginning your journey into the magical world of Harry Potter, these are the places every fan should add to their bucket list.
Here are the 10 best Harry Potter places to visit in the UK for a truly magical experience…
1. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
Nothing beats the studio tour for the ultimate Harry Potter experience. Located just outside London, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour lets you step onto the actual sets used in the Harry Potter movies. Walk through the Great Hall, see the Hogwarts Express, and sip Butterbeer in the wizarding world of Harry Potter.
This is the official Harry Potter experience and an absolute must visit for every Harry Potter fan. It’s full of Harry Potter activities, Potter merchandise, and behind-the-scenes secrets from the Harry Potter film franchise.
Best for: The full world of Harry Potter experience.
2. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scottish Highlands
All aboard the Hogwarts Express! The Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scottish Highlands is where Harry and Ron first soared across the countryside in a flying Ford Anglia in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
For the ultimate experience, hop aboard the Jacobite Steam Train, which follows the same route as the Hogwarts Express. This is one of the most iconic Harry Potter filming locations and truly feels like stepping into the Potter film.
Best for: Recreating the famous scene where Harry first rides the Hogwarts Express.
3. King’s Cross Station, London
Visit Platforms 9 and 10, where Harry and his friends catch the Hogwarts Express. Don’t miss the Harry Potter shop at Platform 9¾, a treasure trove of Harry Potter merchandise and gifts.
It’s a bustling place to visit in London, and while you’re here, you can even have your photo taken as if you’re disappearing through the wall just like Harry.
Best for: A quick and magical visit in the UK.
4. The Elephant House, Edinburgh – The Birthplace of Harry Potter
Often dubbed the birthplace of Harry Potter, this cosy café in Edinburgh is where J.K. Rowling spent time writing the Harry Potter books. The view of Edinburgh Castle in the distance may have even inspired her vision of Hogwarts.
Best for: Visiting the places that inspired J.K. Rowling.
5. Leadenhall Market, London – Diagon Alley Vibes
This gorgeous Victorian market doubled as Diagon Alley in the first Harry Potter film, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. You can even see the exterior used for the Leaky Cauldron.
Leadenhall Market is a historic filming location, and it’s worth a visit even if you’re just exploring places around London.
Best for: Soaking in the magical atmosphere of Harry Potter locations.
6. Alnwick Castle, Northumberland – Where Harry Learned to Fly
Alnwick Castle starred as Hogwarts in Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. It’s the scene where Harry first learns to fly on a broomstick and where Harry and Hagrid walk together for the first time.
Best for: Fans of the first Harry Potter adventures.
7. London Zoo – Where Harry Speaks Parseltongue
The London Zoo‘s Reptile House is where Harry finds out he can talk to snakes in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. This moment was a turning point in the Harry Potter series. Unfortunately, the original reptile house is closed at the present time.
Best for: Reliving an unforgettable Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s moment.
8. Christ Church College, Oxford – Real-Life Great Hall
The dining hall at Christ Church College inspired the design of the Great Hall in the Harry Potter movies. The Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford offer some of the most photogenic spots for fans.
Best for: Exploring Hogwarts-style grandeur.
9. The Potter Shop at Platform 9¾ – A Shopping Paradise for Potterheads
If you’re looking for Harry Potter-themed souvenirs, the Potter shop at Platform 9¾ is a dream come true. With Potter merchandise, wands, robes, and even exclusive collectables, it’s a place every Harry Potter fan needs to visit at least once.
Best for: The ultimate Harry Potter shop at platform experience.
10. Themed Walking Tours in London – Discover Hidden Gems
Take a Harry Potter walking tour through London and discover the Harry Potter locations used throughout the Potter movies. From the Leaky Cauldron to Diagon Alley, and even the Ministry of Magic entrance, this is your chance to visit several Harry Potter scenes in one magical journey.
Best for: Getting your steps in with a side of spellbinding trivia.
Your Magical Journey Awaits…
Whether you’re planning a trip to the UK or just dreaming of one, these magical destinations are packed with Harry Potter-themed adventures. Each filming location and place to visit is steeped in cinematic magic and full of Harry Potter charm.
Every fan of the Harry Potter series deserves to walk in Harry and Hermione’s footsteps, explore the wizarding world, and relive the magic of the Harry Potter universe in the real world.
So grab your wand, hop on your broom, and start ticking off the best places to visit from your Potter bucket list!