The Harry Potter film series, based on eponymous novels by author J. K. Rowling, are a phenomenon. In total, all 8 films in the series raised $7.7 billion at the box office. And even more importantly the franchise captured the hearts and minds of a generation, who were swept up in the magical world of the valiant boy wizard. The Harry Potter films were proudly shot in the UK. And many incredible locations in England served as the visual backdrop to this wondrous series of films. Here, in part one of our Harry Potter series, we outline the Potter filming locations in England that you can visit today.
1. Durham Cathedral
The stunning Durham Cathedral was utilised for interior and exterior shots of Hogwarts, Harry’s fictional school of magic. Founded in the 11th century, you will recognise the Cathedral from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, The Chamber of Secrets and The Prisoner of Azkaban.
Durham Cathedral.
The city of Durham is found in the north-east of England, 264 miles from London, 187 miles from Birmingham, 125 miles from Edinburgh and 67 miles from York. The city is serviced by trains from across the country, including 14 daily trains from London
2. Alnwick Castle
Alnwick Castle was used as a filming location for Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and The Chamber of Secrets, also serving as an exterior location for Hogwarts. Located in Northumberland, England, the castle is a great day out of fans of Potter as visitors can enjoy broomstick training, dragon quest, historic tours and experience medieval crafts.
Dumbledore entertains the crowds at Alnwick Castle.
Entry to the castle is £14 for adults and £7.20 for children. The castle is located a short bus ride from Alnmouth, and there are fast direct trains from Newcastle, Edinburgh and London.
3. New College, Oxford
Oxford University’s New College was founded in 1379 by William of Wykeham, and is one of the University’s oldest constituent colleges. The college featured prominently in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire when people sported the "Potter stinks" badges during the Triwizard Tournament.
The city of Oxford.
If you’re travelling from London, Oxford is the perfect day trip. Trains leave every 30 minutes (60 minutes Sunday) from London Paddington and travel directly to Oxford in 60 minutes. The alternative, cheaper option, is to travel by the Oxford Tube or Oxford Express coaches from Victoria Coach Station. Architecturally striking, and located on Holywell Street in the centre of the city, New College charges a small £3 entrance fee.
4. Lacock Abbey
Visitors to the Cotswolds should make a stop at Lacock Abbey, which was the setting for Professor Snape's class on potions in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. The Abbey was also featured in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
The cloisters of Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire.
Lacock village is located in Wiltshire, 3 miles south of Chippenham. It is a 2 hour drive from London and approximately 30 minutes drive from the City of Bath Spa. Its Abbey offers beautiful gardens and medieval cloisters, which also served as a filming location for Pride and Prejudice, Moll Flanders and Emma.