Where Was Harry Potter Filmed? See 11 Iconic Real-Life Wizarding Sites

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - While it has been over a decade since we last joined Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger on their daring adventures, the magic of the golden trio hasn't faded. Die-hard fans, affectionately known as Potterheads, continue to celebrate the beloved world of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series and its enchanting film adaptations.

Beyond the incredible stories lies a real-world question that continues to intrigue fans: where was Harry Potter filmed? Let’s embark on a journey across Britain to uncover the iconic filming locations that gave Hogwarts and its wonders a home. 

Harry Potter Filming Locations 

Harry Potter fans around the globe have long buzzed about the iconic filming locations that brought the wizarding world to life, from the ancient halls of Lacock Abbey to the slithery charm of the Reptile House at London Zoo. 

But if you are new to the magical fandom, let's explore some of the must-visit destinations that made movie magic happen, as highlighted by Visit Britain.

1. Reptile House, London Zoo 

Who could forget the moment young Harry first realized he could speak Parseltongue in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone? That unforgettable scene, where he chats with a Burmese python, was filmed back in 2001 inside the Reptile House at the London Zoo. While the movie featured a python, the actual enclosure now belongs to one of the world’s most venomous snakes, the black mamba.

2. Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire, Wales 

Featured in the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Freshwater West is one of the most popular Harry Potter filming locations. This beach once cradled a magical moment where Harry could hear nothing but the whisper of the sea at a secluded cottage. Unfortunately for Potterheads, the structure was only temporary and was taken down after filming wrapped.

3. King’s Cross Station, London 

King’s Cross Station is another must-visit London destination for Potterheads paying homage to the Hogwarts Express. Visit Britain noted that Platform 9 3⁄4 at King’s Cross Station was where the baggage trolleys began the magical journey. 

4. Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire, England 

Lacock Abbey was a prime Harry Potter filming location to explore, from stunning cloisters and classrooms to the Chapter and Potter houses. This desirable destination is open to the public daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. 

5. Leadenhall Market, London 

London’s Leadenhall Market appeared in the Harry Potter franchise as Diagon Alley. The famous entrance to the wizard’s pub, the Leaky Cauldron, is actually an optician located in Bull’s Head Passage. 

6. Alnwick Castle, Northumberland, England 

Potterheads can experience Madame Hooch’s broomstick training at Alnwick Castle, just like Harry received in the Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Stepping into the heart of this medieval marvel, fans will find themselves in the very courtyards and baileys where Hogwarts students once wandered between lessons, shared secrets, and lived out their magical routines.

7. Lambeth Bridge, London 

One of the most thrilling moments in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban when the triple-decker Knight Bus squeezes magically between two oncoming double-deckers was filmed on none other than Lambeth Bridge in London. This iconic scene turned the quiet stretch of road into a stage for one of the wizarding world’s wildest rides.

8. Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucestershire, England 

The majestic Gloucester Cathedral was transformed to represent the corridors of Hogwarts, where Harry and Ron were seen hiding from Moaning Myrtle and Nearly Headless Nick. The 1,300-year-old building was used for the first, second, and sixth Harry Potter films. 

9. Bodleian Library, Oxford, England 

The scholarly charm of Oxford University is where the historic Bodleian Library transformed into Hogwarts’ very own library in three of the Harry Potter franchises. Not far from this location, Christ Church College is where Potterheads first learned about Hogwarts as Harry and his fellow first-year wizards climbed the staircase to the Great Hall.

10. Durham Cathedral, Durham, England 

Durham Cathedral served as a majestic stand-in for Hogwarts in several Harry Potter films. It was here that Professor McGonagall famously taught Transfiguration, turning animals into water goblets. The cathedral’s cloisters also played host to a memorable scene with Ron in The Chamber of Secrets. And who could forget the heartwarming moment in The Philosopher’s Stone when Harry sent Hedwig soaring into the sky for the very first time? 

11. Millennium Bridge, London 

London’s majestic Millennium Bridge makes it to the list of Harry Potter’s iconic filming locations. In real life, this bridge connects Bankside with the City and St Paul’s Cathedral. Meanwhile, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince viewers watched the dramatic collapse of the Millennium footbridge. 

From medieval castles to bustling London streets, the filming locations of Harry Potter continue to enchant fans and travelers alike. Each site offers a unique window into the cinematic magic that brought J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world to life. 

Curious about more places where fantasy meets reality? Check out the Spirited Away real-life locations here.

Editor's Choice: Meet the New Wizards: HBO Harry Potter Series Cast Revealed

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News