A Muggle’s Guide to Harry Potter’s Britain

Britain brings to life the wizarding world of Harry Potter. Experience the magic of the destinations that inspired J.K. Rowling’s legendary series by visiting these sites!

Elephant House, Edinburgh

Often referred to as the birthplace of Harry Potter, this gourmet coffee shop was the site where J.K. Rowling put pen to paper, crafting her early novels. She took inspiration from nearby surroundings like Edinburgh Castle and the character-filled streets.

King’s Cross Station, London

All aboard the Hogwarts Express! As any Potter fan knows, you have to run at the wall between Platforms 9 and 10 in order to reach Platform 9 3/4. While we don’t recommend running at the wall (because you’re like a muggle), you can snap a picture or visit the shop to purchase Harry Potter memorabilia.

Millennium Bridge, London

Located in central London, the bridge is identifiable by its unique shape. It is features in the intro scene of Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, shown being destroyed by death eaters.

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

This iconic British castle became even more famous when its exterior was used to represent Hogwarts in the early movie adaptations. Recall the scenes in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone where the students are learning to fly their broomsticks? That scene was shot in the Outer Bailey of Alnwick Castle.

Leadenhall Market, London

One of London’s oldest markets was used as the filming location and inspiration behind Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. The entrance to The Leaky Cauldron is also filmed here (although it’s actually an optician’s office!).

Glenfinnan, Scotland

The Hogwarts Express is often shown rolling through lush countryside and over a spectacular viaduct – the Glenfinnan Viaduct! This is one of the most recognizable locations used in the Harry Potter films. And a real steam train runs on the tracks, making a visit here feel almost as authentic as seeing the real Hogwarts Express would feel.

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