Head to Hogwarts: The UK’s best Harry Potter filming locations

Harry Potter fans travel from all over the world to explore the places that brought the wizarding world to life.

With filming for the series taking place across Britain, you are never far from an iconic location, which will bring the Hogwarts magic to life. 

Here, Travel News Blitz’s Sam Condy breaks down five must-visit Harry Potter filming locations.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

Known to fans as the route of the Hogwarts Express, the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scottish Highlands is one of the most famous filming locations in the series.

Fans gather below the viaduct to watch the iconic steam train chug across the bridge and disappear into the Scottish Highlands. 

However, it gets even better; fans can board the iconic train and enjoy an 84-mile round trip widely regarded as one of the most scenic railway journeys worldwide. 

Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle stood in for Hogwarts during the first two films, and the castle is mostly recognised for its courtyard, which hosted the broomstick training sessions with Madam Hooch.

Visitors can join broomstick lessons, explore the courtyards, and walk the grounds just like Harry and Ron.

Alnwick Castle is, without a doubt, one of the more immersive Harry Potter experiences, and is a must-visit if you find yourself with an afternoon free in the area.

READ MORE: Seven of the best things to see and do near the Harry Potter Bridge in Scotland

King’s Cross Station

No Harry Potter pilgrimage is complete without a visit to Platform 9¾.

Inside the concourse, you’ll find the luggage trolley halfway through the wall - the perfect photo stop before browsing the official Harry Potter shop next to it.

It’s a quick stop, so it proves to be a perfect opportunity to enjoy a quick Harry Potter fix during a busy day of touring in London.

Christ Church, Oxford

Christ Church’s Great Hall inspired the design of Hogwarts’ iconic dining hall.

Not only that, but the building's iconic staircase saw Harry, Ron and Hermione first introduced to Professor McGonagall on their arrival at the wizarding school. 

Walking through the corridors feels like stepping directly into the wizarding world.

It’s one of the most atmospheric spots in the series’ filming history.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Perhaps the biggest must-visit for Potterheads on this list, London’s Warner Bros. Studio Tour is like some sort of Harry Potter heaven. 

The walk-through exhibition and tour take you on a journey through many of the series' most iconic sets, from Diagon Alley to The Great Hall.

Not only that, but fans will get to see many authentic props and models that were used to make the movies all the more magical. 

Fans can also take some much-needed rest and enjoy a Butterbeer at one of the many on-site food spots.

READ NEXT: Seven iconic New York City filming locations

Sam Condy

Sam is studying journalism and media comms at Strathclyde University and also works in Glasgow. He supports St Mirren but also has a soft spot for Man Utd and West Ham. He likes boxing, tennis and golf and grew up in Paisley.

https://twitter.com/samcondyy
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