We’ve all seen and loved the Harry Potter movies, and we’ve all read and loved the books, but have you experienced the Wizarding World for yourself? If you love Harry Potter, or maybe your kids love it too, well then this is for you. If you aren’t a fan and are worried you would have to spend your entire vacation at a theme park just to keep your Harry Potter fans happy, think again! These filming location ideas will ensure that everyone, HP fans or not, will enjoy their trip and make memories that will last a lifetime. Below are the filming locations or places of interest that any fan will need to have on their bucket list. While traveling to such locations, one can pass the time through games like ket qua xo so.
Top 7 Harry Potter Filming Locations
1. Alnwick Castle, England
This castle is the inspiration for Hogwarts so this is a must-see for any Potter fans. It is also the filming location for many of the iconic scenes in the Harry Potter movies. When visiting this beautiful castle there is so much to do and see for both fans and history buffs alike. Take part in Broomstick Training, where you will learn to fly on a broomstick just like your favorite HP characters who learned to fly in the movies. Enter the Dragons Lair if you are brave enough where you will have to battle magical forces, conquer challenging obstacles, and come face to face with a terrifying dragon. Or take an Alnwick On Location Film Tour where you will get to see the actual places where Harry Potter was filmed, as well as other movies and shows like Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves, and Downtown Abby.
For the non-HP fans or those that are interested in more than just the movie, take a Historical Ground Tour, a State Room tour, learn archery and its equipment such as that bowstring, or stay for quick 10-minute talks about the history of the castle. You can also join in the Medieval fun in the courtyard with Medieval crafts and costumes.
Alnwick Castle in Alnwick in the English county of Northumberland, United Kingdom.
2. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland
One of the most memorable scenes from many of the movies is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the famous train track that curves through the beautiful green hills. You can take the Jacobite Train across this bridge for yourself. Just don’t plan your trip in mid-August as the Ginnfinnan Gathering and Games takes place and shuts down the train and bridge. The Viaduct also looks over the location where Bonnie Prince Charlie defied the British Royal Crown and the Jacobite Rising began.
Jacobite Train, West Highland Railway Line, Scotland.
3. Durham Cathedral, England
Another of the many filming locations for Hogwarts, this particular location was used for many of the outdoor hallways, courtyard, and classroom scenes. The Cathedral Church of Christ, Blessed Mary the Virgin, and St Cuthbert of Durham is located in the city of Durham about 5 hours north of London, towards Scotland, and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Durham Cathedral used as many Hogwarts outdoor scenes in the Harry Potter movies
4. Warner Bros. Studio Tour, London
Tour magical sets, explore authentic props, and discover original costumes at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London. This award-winning tour is a must for every Harry Potter fan! Learn how the special effects team created the magic on screen. Find out how magical creatures were brought to life. Check out the art department to see actual sketches and live scale models of your favorite scenes. Don’t forget to visit the Studio Shop for your very own wand, or apparel. Don’t miss the Gringotts Bank set will open in April 2019! And because this is in London, this makes for a great half-day trip for the HP fans, while the non-HP fans get to see historical London.
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5. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando, Florida or Los Angeles, California
You didn’t think that we would get through a blog about Harry Potter destinations and not talk about these two theme parks dedicated to the story, did you? Both theme parks are located at Universal Studios Florida and Hollywood. If you are a fan there is no other place that allows you to immerse yourself so completely into the story. This magical place is amazing for all ages but the majority of rides at both the Wizarding World and Universal Studios are geared towards older kiddos who need a thrill! They are also adding a new ride on June 13, 2019, called Hagrid’s Magical Creature Motorbike Adventure!
Fox Travel advisor, Tahnee and her son, in front of the Hogsmeade Entrance at Universal Studios Hollywood
6. Platform 9 3/4, Kings Cross, London
BHP (Before Harry Potter), was just a standard train station, but because of HP, this has turned into a tourist destination for every fan. As a huge fan myself, when I was there 12 years ago, I was able to take my picture at Platform 9 3/4 when there were not many other HP tourist options there. Now thousands of people visit and take their pictures there. It’s a must for every HP fan.
Fox Travel advisor, Tahnee, at the real Platform 9 3/4 in London, England
7. Christ Church Great Hall, Oxford
This filming location was used as the Great Hall in all the Harry Potter movies, as well as served as the location for Dumbledore’s office. This is probably one of the most recognizable locations from the movies as so many important and iconic scenes were filmed here. Christ Church was founded nearly 500 years ago when Cardinal Wosley, then adviser to King Henry VIII, to improve education and train young men for an active life in the Church and State. While here you can take a walking tour of the property.
Oxford Old Hall
FAQ AboutHarry Potter Filming Locations
- Was Harry Potter filmed at Universal Studios?
- While Universal Studios hosts “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” attractions, the Harry Potter movies were not filmed there. They were primarily filmed in the United Kingdom.
- Where were the Harry Potter movies filmed?
- The movies were primarily filmed in various locations across the United Kingdom, including historic sites, studios, and landscapes.
- Where was Harry Potter filmed?
- Harry Potter was filmed in several locations across the United Kingdom, including iconic landmarks, studios, and landscapes.
- What castle was Harry Potter filmed in?
- Various castles were used as filming locations for Harry Potter, including Alnwick Castle, Durham Cathedral, and Gloucester Cathedral.
- Where is Hogwarts filmed?
- Hogwarts was primarily filmed at various locations across the United Kingdom, including Alnwick Castle, Durham Cathedral, and other historic sites.
- What castle did they film Harry Potter in?
- Multiple castles were used as filming locations for Harry Potter, including Alnwick Castle, Durham Cathedral, and Gloucester Cathedral.
- Where were the Harry Potter castle scenes filmed?
- Castle scenes were filmed at various locations, including Alnwick Castle, Durham Cathedral, and other historic sites in the United Kingdom.
- Where is the Hogwarts Great Hall filmed?
- The Hogwarts Great Hall scenes were primarily filmed at Leavesden Studios in England, now part of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.
- Where did they shoot Harry Potter?
- It was shot at various locations across the United Kingdom, including historic landmarks, studios, and landscapes.
- Where is the castle Harry Potter was filmed in?
- The castle scenes in Harry Potter were filmed at various castles across the United Kingdom, including Alnwick Castle, Durham Cathedral, and Gloucester Cathedral.
Do you want to know more about all the filming locations in the UK and worldwide? Download our FREE Ultimate Harry Potter Bucket List Guide Here.
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If you are a Potter Head, or maybe your kids are, a UK vacation is right up your alley! Non-HP fans can enjoy the incredible history, beauty, and entertainment these locations offer while also having your Potter Head fans excited to see where their favorite book was brought to life.
If you are interested in planning your own Harry Potter (or not-so-Harry Potter) vacation, contact Tahnee or your favorite Fox Travel advisor at 281-363-0808. We will ensure that your vacation, wherever you go, is magical!