Are you a die-hard Harry Potter fan dreaming of visiting the Wizarding World? If you want to walk the halls of Hogwarts, sip Butterbeer at Hogsmeade, or visit real-life filming locations, then keep on reading this guide that will transport you straight into J.K. Rowling’s wizarding universe!
From the cobbled streets of Edinburgh to the enchanting sets of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, we’ve rounded up the best Harry Potter travel destinations every Potterhead must visit. And if you’re planning your own magical journey, don’t forget to grab The Ultimate Harry Potter Travel Guide for a definitive list of all the magical places around the world so you don’t miss a single spellbinding spot in your wizarding journey!
Table of Contents
1. Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter (London, UK)
For any Harry Potter fans out there, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London, UK, is the ultimate Harry Potter travel destination. This behind-the-scenes attraction takes you deep into the making of the movies, characters, scenarios, and more, allowing you to explore in depth the iconic sets, props, costumes, creatures, and more.
At the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, you will be able to walk through The Great Hall (and sometimes even be able to be the one to open the doors), visit Diagon Alley, walk through the Forbidden Forest (and even bow to Buckbeak), visit Privet Drive, explore the Greenhouses (where you will be able to interact with the mandrakes and take iconic photos for your Instagram), and more. Sometimes, in some of these places, you can interact with some elements, like lights, thunder (in the forbidden forest), plants, and more.
Along the tour, you will be able to see original props like Harry’s Nimbus 2000, where you can take a photoshoot riding a broom through the air, or London, and you can also shoot a video of you yelling up and the broom flying to you. You will also see Dumbledore’s Office, where you interact with the pensieve and take photos.
At the beginning of the tour make sure to ask for a stamp book because along the tour, you will see many spots where you can stamp this book, which is filled with curiosities.
Most recently, they added a new ministry of magic expansion and Professor Umbridge’s office, so make sure you don’t miss it!
At the tour, you will also be able to enjoy a cold Butterbeer at the studio café or try one of the Butterbeer ice creams (which are delicious!), and you get to keep the glasses.
Make sure you don’t miss the amazing shops inside tour, both the one at the beginning and the one in the middle, They are filled to the brim with amazing Harry Potter goodies you will want to take home.
And if you are in the United Kingdom and want to know and visit more Harry Potter filming locations make sure to grab the Ultimate Harry Potter Travel Guide, which most of all Harry Potter filming locations around the globe!
Pro Tips
- Make sure to book in advance because tickets sell out pretty quickly
- To make the most of your day, since the tour lasts at least 4-5 hours (without accounting for the shops), you can opt to book a hotel or accommodation near the Studios, that way you will also be able to visit some of the other Harry Potter filming locations near there (which are all detailed here). In that case, from previous experience, we recommend booking through Trip.com, since they have the most accessible prices.
2. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – (Orlando, Hollywood, Japan, Beijing)
If were planning to visit Orlando, Hollywood, Japan or Beijing, there’s no better Harry Potter travel destination than The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios. These magical theme parks bring the Wizarding World to life with stunningly detailed sets, thrilling rides, and interactive experiences. Every corner of these parks is designed to make you feel like a real witch or wizard.
Each park offers an unforgettable mix of attractions, but some fan-favorite experiences include Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, a ride inside Hogwarts that takes you on a wild adventure through iconic scenes from the films, and Escape from Gringotts, a thrilling roller coaster through the depths of the wizarding bank, complete with dragons and Death Eaters. You can also ride the Hogwarts Express between park areas, visit Ollivanders to get your own interactive wand, and cast spells at various hidden locations throughout the parks.
No trip is complete without indulging in wizarding treats—sip on a frothy Butterbeer, try a Chocolate Frog, or dine at the iconic Three Broomsticks and Leaky Cauldron. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a dream destination for fans of all ages, offering a magical escape into the world of spells, potions, and adventure!
3. Alnwick Castle (Northumberland, UK)
Alnwick Castle in Northumberland served as Hogwarts Castle, in many iconic scenes across the movies Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, making this one of the best Harry Potter travel destinations.
At this filming location, you can be a part of the broomstick training experience, where you will get to learn how to fly a broomstick in the very same spot Harry did.
Beyond Harry Potter, Alnwick Castle is filled with a rich history dating back over 1,000 years, which makes this a great visit for everyone, and not only for Harry Potter fans.
Pro Tips
- To enhance your visit, check out their seasonal Harry Potter-themed events, to make the most out of your visit
- To make the most of your day, it’s best to opt to book a hotel or accommodation near the castle, so you will also be able to visit and explore some of the lands around, as well as the other Harry Potter filming locations near there (which are all detailed here). In that case, from previous experience, we recommend booking through Trip.com, since they have the most accessible prices.
4. King’s Cross Station (London, UK)
Every Hogwarts student’s journey begins at Platform 9¾, making King’s Cross Station one of the most iconic Harry Potter travel destinations to visit. While the real Hogwarts Express may not be departing anytime soon, you can still visit the famous Platform 9¾ photo spot, where a half-disappeared luggage trolley is embedded into the wall, creating the perfect illusion of stepping into the wizarding world. Fans line up daily to capture this magical moment, and best of all, a staff photographer is on hand to snap professional pictures—though you’re welcome to take your own as well!
Right next to the photo spot is the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾, a must-visit for collectors and fans. This charming store is designed like Ollivanders, complete with shelves stacked with wands, house scarves, collectibles, and exclusive merchandise you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re searching for your house robes or a personalized Hogwarts acceptance letter, this shop is the perfect place to find a magical souvenir.
Pro Tips
- For the full experience, hop on a train from King’s Cross to Scotland, retracing Harry’s journey to Hogwarts.
- If you visit on September 1st, you’ll witness the Back to Hogwarts Day celebrations, where you will some of the stars, earn some goodies, and be a part of the amazing Harry Potter community
- Check out the Harry Potter travel guide so you plan out your day full of Harry Potter-themed activities and places since King’s Cross Station connects many of the Harry Potter filming locations and experiences.
5. Edinburgh – (Scotland)
Edinburgh is a city filled with magic, history, and cobbled streets that seem straight out of the Wizarding World—and for good reason. This is where J.K. Rowling wrote much of Harry Potter, drawing inspiration from its atmospheric alleys, grand castles, and hidden courtyards. A visit to Edinburgh offers fans the chance to walk in the footsteps of the author and explore the real-world locations that helped shape this beloved series.
One of the most famous stops is The Elephant House Café, often referred to as the “birthplace of Harry Potter.” It was here, while sipping coffee with a view of Edinburgh Castle, that Rowling penned early chapters of the books. Though the café’s original location is currently closed due to fire damage, a second location opened on Victoria Street. Another key location is Victoria Street, a winding, colorful road that is said to have inspired Diagon Alley, with its quirky shops and medieval charm, filled with amazing Harry Potter shops that you can’t miss.
The magic of Edinburgh is woven into every street, making it a truly enchanting destination for any Potterhead looking to connect with the origins of the Wizarding World, and if you want to know all the Harry Potter-themed places, filming locations, and experiences in Edinburg read the Ultimate Travel Guide, which tells you all the places, restaurants, experiences and more that every Harry Potter will want to know!
Pro Tips
- For the ultimate Harry Potter fan, you stay at the hotel where J.K. Rowling stayed in and completed Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, and left a handwritten note on a marble bust to commemorate the moment, The Balmoral Hotel, you can even stay in her suite.
6. The Jacobite Steam Train – (Scotland)
If you’ve ever dreamed of riding the Hogwarts Express, the Jacobite Steam Train is the closest you can get to experiencing the magic in real life. Running through the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, this vintage steam train follows the same route used in the Harry Potter films, making it a must-experience for any fan. The journey spans 84 miles round-trip, taking you through rolling green hills, deep valleys, and serene lochs that feel straight out of a fantasy novel.
One of the most magical moments of the ride is crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the stunning 21-arched bridge that appears in multiple Harry Potter movies. Fans will remember it from scenes like Harry and Ron’s wild adventure in the flying Ford Anglia and the Dementor attack in Prisoner of Azkaban. Seeing the train curve over this iconic bridge is a breathtaking sight—so make sure to have your camera ready!
Beyond its Harry Potter connections, the Jacobite Steam Train is often considered one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys. It passes through charming villages, rugged mountains, and even Loch Shiel, which served as the backdrop for Hogwarts Black Lake. Whether you’re sipping on Butterbeer (bring your own!) or simply enjoying the view, this experience is pure magic from start to finish. And during the train ride, you can also buy sweets and merch from their own food trolley, similar to the Harry Potter movies. If you want to fully immerse yourself in the Harry Potter vibe, book a first-class compartment—just like the ones seen in the films—and let your wizarding adventure begin!
Pro Tips
- For the ultimate Harry Potter experience, book a first-class compartment, since they are just like the ones seen in the movies.
- Be aware that the tickets sell out quickly so book in advance
- Consult the website regularly for booking purposes and from notices from West Coast Railyways for any cancellations.
7. Lacock Abbey – (Wiltshire, UK)
Tucked away in the picturesque village of Lacock, Wiltshire, Lacock Abbey is a must-visit for Harry Potter fans looking to step into the real-world Hogwarts. This historic abbey, with its medieval architecture and atmospheric cloisters, was used as a filming location for multiple scenes in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Walking through its ancient stone hallways, you’ll instantly recognize the Hogwarts corridors where students hurried between classes, as well as the underground Potions classroom, where Professor Snape first intimidated Harry and his classmates.
One of the most iconic spots in Lacock Abbey is Snape’s Dungeon, where young witches and wizards learned the art of potion-making. The dimly lit room, with its medieval stone walls and eerie atmosphere, is exactly how you’d imagine a classroom run by the strict Potions Master. Another highlight is the Herbology Greenhouse, where students studied magical plants—though be careful, as Mandrakes have been known to scream!
Beyond its Harry Potter connections, Lacock Abbey is a must-visit for its rich history dating back to the 13th century. It has beautiful gardens, a historic cloister, and a museum showcasing its long history. The surrounding Lacock Village is equally enchanting, with its well-preserved medieval cottages and cobbled streets, making it feel like a step back in time. Whether you’re exploring Hogwarts’ hidden corners or simply soaking in the magical atmosphere, Lacock Abbey is a must-visit for any Harry Potter fan!
Pro Tips
- To make the most of your day, it’s best to opt to book a hotel or accommodation near the castle, so you will also be able to visit and explore the nearby village, as well as the other Harry Potter filming locations around (which are all detailed here). In that case, from previous experience, we recommend booking through Trip.com, since they have the most accessible prices.
So, Which Harry Potter Travel Destination Will You Visit First?
The world of Harry Potter is filled with incredible destinations, each offering a unique opportunity to experience the magic in a way that’s both immersive and unforgettable. From the iconic Hogwarts Castle in Alnwick to the real-life Hogwarts Express in the Scottish Highlands, every spot holds a piece of the wizarding world that fans can explore and enjoy. Whether you’re reliving movie moments or stepping into J.K. Rowling’s inspiration, these magical destinations promise to transport you into the heart of the Wizarding World.
However, exploring all these Harry Potter travel destinations can be hard without a guide to help you along your journey, that is where The Ultimate Harry Potter Travel Guide comes in—your go-to resource for planning the perfect Potter-themed adventure! Inside, you’ll find expert travel tips, detailed itineraries, and insider secrets about each location—plus practical advice on the best times to visit, hidden filming spots, and must-try experiences for every die-hard fan. This guide covers it all, ensuring you don’t miss a single enchanting detail and make the most of every magical moment.
Ready to embark on your own wizarding adventure? Start planning today and create memories that will last a lifetime! ✨
And don’t forget to share your experiences with fellow Potterheads—whether it’s through social media or a magical travel journal. The world of Harry Potter is waiting for you to discover it, one enchanted destination at a time!
