Thanks to London's unique architecture it can be transformed seamlessly from a modern metropolis to a timeless period setting. So it's no wonder many acclaimed films, including the Harry Potter franchise, have chosen London as their primary filming location. The city's pool of talented crews and state-of-the-art studios provide an ideal infrastructure to support big-budget blockbusters and low-budget independent films alike.
The Harry Potter franchise highlighted the city's iconic landmarks and showcased its ability to transform into fictional wizarding world locations like Gringotts Bank and Diagon Alley. We hope this list of Harry Potter London locations inspires you with endless possibilities for film and TV locations in London.
The Harry Potter films, based on the beloved book series by J.K. Rowling, were primarily shot across various locations in the United Kingdom, with the majority of the interior scenes filmed at the iconic Leavesden Studios in Hertfordshire.
The grand, historic architecture of the UK provided the perfect backdrop to bring the wizarding world to life on the silver screen. Durham Cathedral for example stood in for the school's corridors, the picturesque village of Lacock in Wiltshire served as the setting for the quaint town of Hogsmeade, and some exterior shots of the imposing Hogwarts castle were filmed at Alnwick Castle in Northumberland.
And of course, London served as the backdrop for numerous iconic spots for the magical adventures of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, which we will explore below.
This iconic central London landmark has been a vital part of the city's infrastructure for over 150 years. As one of the busiest train stations in Europe, it handles millions of passengers each year, connecting London to destinations across the country via an extensive network of rail lines.
And right next door is the beautiful St Pancras station. Constructed in the mid-19th century, the station's stunning Gothic Revival design features intricate brickwork, soaring arched ceilings, and a grand facade adorned with ornate stone carvings.
The scenes of the famous train platform 9 3/4 where Harry and friends board the Hogwarts Express were shot on location at King's Cross station, but actually between platforms four and five.
Nestled in the heart of London's bustling financial district, Leadenhall Market stands as a testament to the city's rich architectural history. This magnificent Victorian-era marketplace, with its ornate wrought iron and glass canopy, dates back to the 14th century when it served as a hub for trading meat, poultry, and other agricultural goods. Today, the market's elegant, covered walkways and charming stalls continue to captivate visitors, offering a delightful contrast to the modern skyscrapers that surround it.
In the Harry Potter films, this Victorian-era market in the City of London stood in for the magical Diagon Alley. Specific locations used include the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron pub, the market's ornate architecture and cobblestone streets providing a perfect magical backdrop.
For more historic filming locations, explore 'Bridgerton' top filming locations in England.
The iconic Millennium Bridge in London is a stunning feat of modern engineering and design that has become a beloved landmark along the River Thames. Opened in 2000, this sleek, pedestrian-only suspension bridge stretches gracefully across the river, connecting the City of London on the north bank to the Tate Modern art gallery on the lively Southbank. Designed by renowned architect Sir Norman Foster, the bridge's clean lines and minimalist aesthetic create an elegant structure floating above the busy Thames.
The bridge was used to dramatic effect in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince where it was destroyed by Death Eaters using special effects in post-production.
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Claremont Square in north London is a charming, historic public square. Situated in the heart of Islington, the square is defined by the elegant Georgian townhouses that line its perimeter with their stately facades and wrought-iron balconies. At the centre of the square stands a picturesque garden, a perfect example of one of the borough's leafy havens.
This quiet residential square in Islington was used as the exterior of 12 Grimmauld Place, home to Harry's Godfather Sirius Black and the headquarters of the Order of Phoenix.
Australia House is the official headquarters of the Australian High Commission in the UK, and also the longest continuously occupied foreign embassy in London. Constructed in the early 20th century, this grand, belle époque style building commands attention with its imposing facade of Portland stone, adorned with intricate carvings and towering columns. The building serves as a hub of diplomatic activity, hosting a range of events, cultural exhibitions and meetings.
The interior of this impressive building was used as the location for Gringotts Wizarding Bank. The lavish marble halls and giant chandeliers give the wizarding bank a grand and historic feel.
Located in Regent's Park, London Zoo opened in 1828 and is the world's oldest scientific zoo and currently home to over 650 species of animals. The zoo's many educational programs and interactive exhibits shed light on the importance of conservation efforts, inspiring guests to become advocates for endangered species and their fragile ecosystems. Visitors can marvel at the Komodo dragons, hand-feed the giraffes, or explore the lush, tropical butterfly house.
In the iconic zoo scene from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Harry Potter releases a Burmese python from its enclosure in the Reptile House at London Zoo. The filmmakers shot this memorable moment on location in the zoo's actual Reptile House, using the same enclosure that houses the facility's black mamba snake.
As the main thoroughfare running south from Trafalgar Square towards Parliament Square, Whitehall is recognized as the centre of the UK government. Numerous government departments and ministries line the street, including the Ministry of Defence, Horse Guards, and the Cabinet Office.
The intersection of Scotland Place and New Scotland Yard served as the filming location for the entrance to the Ministry of Magic in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. In the film, Harry Potter and Mr. Weasley enter a prop phone booth at this location, which does not actually exist in the real-world setting.
Harry Potter has ignited the imaginations of millions of children and adults worldwide. We hope these Harry Potter London locations will also spark your imagination when it comes to TV and film locations, whether you're shooting a historical/ period film, an epic fantasy or a modern crime thriller.
If you're looking to secure a film location in the city, find out how to get filming permission in London.
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