Are you a Harry Potter fan wondering where the magic of the series was brought to life? You’ve come to the right place. We’re about to embark on a journey to discover where was Harry Potter filmed.
We understand the curiosity and fascination that comes with wanting to know more about the real-life locations that served as the backdrop for the magical world of Harry Potter. It’s not just about knowing the places; it’s about reliving the magic that made the series a global phenomenon.
As film enthusiasts with a keen interest in the Harry Potter series, we’ve delved deep into the filming locations of this beloved franchise. We’ve researched and compiled a comprehensive list of the key filming locations that brought J.K. Rowling’s magical world to life on screen.
This guide is for all Harry Potter fans, film enthusiasts, and travelers interested in visiting the real-life locations that served as the backdrop for the series. Whether you’re planning a Harry Potter-themed trip or just curious about the filming locations, this guide is for you.
We share your love for the Harry Potter series and the curiosity to explore the places where the magic was filmed. We’re excited to take you on this journey and help you discover the real-life locations that were transformed into the magical world of Harry Potter.
In this guide, we’ll explore the filming locations of the Harry Potter series, from the iconic Hogwarts Castle to the magical Diagon Alley. We’ll also share some fun facts about the series and the filming process. So, grab your wand, hop on your broomstick, and let’s embark on this magical journey!
Where Was Harry Potter Filmed?
The majority of the Harry Potter film series was filmed in England, with many notable locations being used as backdrops to bring the Wizarding World to life.
The Harry Potter filming locations were primarily filmed at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden near Watford, where all eight of the films were shot over a period of 10 years.
Other famous filming locations include Alnwick Castle in Northumberland where the flying lessons were filmed, Christ Church College at Oxford where some of the classroom scenes were shot, and Durham Cathedral where professor Dumbledore’s funeral took place.
The exterior shots for Hogwarts Castle were mainly filmed at Goathland railway station in North Yorkshire. The lake where Harry and his friends competed in the Triwizard Tournament was filmed at Derwentwater Lake and the Durmstrang ship scenes were filmed at Loch Shiel.
The magical Diagon Alley where Harry bought his supplies for Hogwarts was built in London’s Leadenhall Market, while additional filming occurred at Gloucester Cathedral where the Mirror of Erised scene took place.
The Forbidden Forest where Harry encountered the giant spider Aragog was filmed in Black Park in Buckinghamshire and the Quidditch matches were filmed at Virginia Water Lake.
Many of these filming locations have become iconic spots where Harry Potter fans can visit to experience the magic of being transported into this beloved book series.
The Story of Harry Potter
The story of Harry Potter spans ten years (2001-2011) and is based on a series of books written by J. K. Rowling. It’s the story of a young wizard, Harry Potter and all his friends who are students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. It is set in a fantasy world of magic in England.
The Harry Potter Cast
The two main actors were Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson. Other actors include John Cleese, Richard Harris, Ian Hart, Maggie Smith, Julie Walters, John Hurt, Richard Griffiths, Robbie Coltrane, Alan Rickman, and Warwick Davis to name just a few.
The Harry Potter Directors
There were eight films in all. Chris Columbus directed the first two Harry Potter movies, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban was directed by Alfonso Cuaron. The fourth movie, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, was directed by Mike Newell. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows were directed by David Yates.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone Box Office Details
- Film Budget: $125,000,000
- Opening weekend: $90,294,621
- Gross (US & Canada): $318,886,962
- Gross (World): $1,023,842,938
Fun Facts About Harry Potter
The flying Ford Anglia and the Hogwarts Bridge are actually located in a car park at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden.
On the last day of filming, one of the actors dressed up as Dumbledore, and all of the Harry Potter stars shot their final scenes together around a campfire where they sang songs and shared memories of their time on set.
The Hogwarts Express train is actually an old steam locomotive called the GWR 4900 Class 5972 Olton Hall which was used to pull the carriages around Scotland where some of the scenes were filmed.
The wand shop Ollivanders where Harry bought his wand was shot at two different locations. the exterior shots were filmed at Borough Market in London and the interior shots were filmed at Leadenhall Market.
Did Harry Potter Receive Any Awards?Â
Many of the Harry Potter movies won awards. Most notably:
- People’s Choice Awards – 2013
- Empire Awards, UK – 2006
- Costume Designers Guild Awards – 2002
- BMI Film & TV Awards – 2002
- Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films, USA – 2002
- Academy Awards, USA 2002 – Nominee
- BAFTA Awards, 2002 – Nominee
And many more throughout the years.Â
What is England Famous For?
When most people hear the word England, they usually think of the monarchy, Buckingham Palace, and Downton Abbey.Â
England is also known for Stonehenge which is another iconic landmark and world heritage site located in Amesbury in the south of England near Salisbury.Â
To this day, no one knows how Stonehenge got there but it is believed to have been built around 5,000 years ago during the Neolithic period, around 2500 BC. Along with Buckingham Palace, It is one of the main attractions in England.Â
Other fun attractions include Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Tower of London, and London Bridge. You can also take the Harry Potter tour. The tour is in Harry Potter Studios in London and takes about three and a half hours to complete but there’s no time limit on how long you spend on the tour.
Things to Do in England
You couldn’t possibly be bored touring England. It’s a fairly large country with Wales to the west and Scotland to the north.Â
Take a tour of Buckingham Palace, explore the theme parks, visit the Tower of London and the London Zoo, take the Harry Potter Bus Tour of London, and visit Stonehenge. These are just a few of the many things you can do in England.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Hogwarts Castle located in real life?
The castle used in the movie series is Alnwick Castle located in Northumberland, England.Â
How far is it from London to Hogwarts?
Hogwarts is about 450 miles from London.
For anyone who was a kid or had young children between 2001 and 2011 will have a special place in their hearts for the Harry Potter movie series. I don’t think I’ve ever met a kid who didn’t like this franchise.
Additional Film Location Resources
If you are looking for more film locations, insider information and behind the scenes footage of your favorite movies – here are some additional posts for you to check out:
England is a great place to visit. When you visit, be sure to take the family on a Harry Potter tour. The kids will love it!Â
Have you ever explored England? Be sure to leave a comment below.
