Harry Potter is undoubtedly one of the most popular book and movie franchises of all time, and London has played a significant role in bringing J.K. Rowling’s magical world to life. From Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studios, there are plenty of must-visit locations for any Harry Potter fan in London. Here are 12 famous locations and experiences from the Harry Potter series in London that any fan should check out.
Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station
King’s Cross Station is where young wizards and witches depart for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry via Platform 9 3/4. You can find a replica of the famous platform between platforms 9 and 10, complete with a trolley disappearing into the wall. It’s a popular photo opportunity for fans, and the Harry Potter Shop nearby has a wide range of souvenirs and merchandise.
St. Pancras International Station
In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Ron and Harry take the flying car to Hogwarts and end up landing on the roof of a train. This iconic scene was filmed at St. Pancras International Station, which has since been transformed into a luxury hotel. Fans can still visit the station and take a photo at the location where the scene was filmed.
Leadenhall Market
Leadenhall Market is a historic market in the City of London and was used as a filming location for Diagon Alley in the first Harry Potter film. It’s a great place to visit for some magical shopping, with its ornate Victorian architecture and unique shops.
Borough Market
Borough Market is a bustling food market in Southwark that was used as a filming location for the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. It’s a great place to grab some food and explore the narrow streets and alleys nearby.
Great Scotland Yard
Great Scotland Yard is a historic building that was once the headquarters of London’s Metropolitan Police. In the Harry Potter series, it’s the location of the entrance to the Ministry of Magic. While you can’t go inside the building, it’s worth visiting to see the iconic entrance and take a photo.
Australia House
Australia House is a grand building on the Strand that was used as the exterior of Gringotts Bank in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. While you can’t go inside the building, it’s worth visiting to see the impressive architecture and take a photo in front of the entrance.
Millennium Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral
The Millennium Bridge is a pedestrian-only bridge that spans the River Thames and offers stunning views of the city. In Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, the bridge is destroyed by Death Eaters, and St. Paul’s Cathedral is visible in the background. It’s a great location for a stroll and some sightseeing.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is a must-visit for any Harry Potter fan. It’s the location where the films were made, and visitors can see authentic sets, props, and costumes from the movies. The tour includes the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, Hogwarts Express, and many other iconic locations from the films.
House of MinaLima
The House of MinaLima is a free-to-enter exhibition and store in Soho that showcases the graphic designs from the Harry Potter movies. Visitors can see original artwork, posters, and props from the films, and the store sells a range of Harry Potter merchandise.