Everyone who grow up in the magic of Harry Potter would certainly dream of visiting the magical world. For more than two decades, generations after generations could only wish for getting their Hogwarts invitation letter, becoming student witches and wizards, and exploring every secret of Hogwarts castle. We used to cherish Harry’s magical society in our imagination—but today, London has opened the gates for all muggles who wished to experience a glimpse of a world where Dumbledore, the Weasleys, Harry Potter, and his much-loved owl Hedwig lives in. From the original Platform 9 3/4 to fan-build Potter-themed pub, here are top Harry Potter travel destination in England.
Oxford
There’s probably no city resonating the old-school vibe of Harry Potter than Oxford. This city is home of one of the oldest university in the world, archaic museums, and plenty of stunning architecture spread throughout the city. A true Potterhead—who most likely have watched the movies more than twice each—would be able to recognise several locations being the backdrop of the movie. You don’t have to travel into specific part of Oxford to feel the Harry Potter vibes—it’s all over the streets. But do visit the Christ Church College, which Dining Hall inspires the iconic Hogwarts Great Hall.
All In Harry Potter Travel: London
For all Potterheads, just a trip to London is enough to relieve their magical fantasy. This is the city where plenty Harry Potter filming locations were taken. London is rich in Harry Potter culture—it’s a serious business there. From pedestrian streets to Harry Potter inspired shops, you git everything here. In fact, the following sites we’re about to mentions are all located in London.
The Leaden Hall Market
This Victorian covered market is the right place if you want to see the Diagon Alley with your own eyes. Harry Potter’s producers used Leaden Hall to shoot the iconic wizard’s markets. Turn into “The Glass Ball” optician shop in the Bull’s Head Passage, where the exterior of Leaky Cauldron was taken from.
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The Warner Bros Studio
Nothing could beat the Warner Bros studio when it comes to harry Potter themed travel. Dive straight to the Warner Bros Studio Tour London — Making Harry Potter. Relieve every sets, props, costume, and every Harry Potter tidbit you could find. The studio will take you to rooms after rooms in Hogwarts castle, something that you could only picture in mind before. Some must-do on the studio includes; trying out Quidditch play, learn wand combat, and drink the phenomenal Butterbeer. Don’t forget to adore the 1:24 scale model of the Hogwarts castle itself that was actually used for aerial view and CGI scenes.
Kings Cross Station Platform 9 3/4
Could your Harry Potter tour be complete without a visit to the classical Platform 9 3/4 of Kings Cross station? The gateway to Hogwarts express and magical community from our muggle world. The platform is recognisable through a luggage cart—containing two trunks and one owl cage—vanishing halfway to the brick wall. As a place where Harry and the Weasley family went into every year, you could also feel their presence on the adjoining Harry Potter shop nearby.
The Cauldron
How many of us wishes to spark a light from our wand or watching smokes vaporise as our brewery turn colour in the cauldron? It’s time to do a little magic. The Cauldron is the newest addition to London’s Harry Potter cult. The magic of chemical science and technology results on a magical pub featuring with smokey cauldron, recipe books, and bright-colored “potions” ready to brew. Upon coming in, you would immediately equipped with a house robe to wear (you choose) and a wand. A perfect transition from muggle to an entry level witch/ wizard. The bartender—or should I say, Potion Master—would lead you to mix your first potions. You will see a set of ingredients that needs to chop, grind, and mix up, before turning into a concoction that you can drink. Such an experience, indeed.