Harry Potter Tourism: 10 Real-World Places Potterheads Need To See At Least Once

Fans of the Harry Potter franchise may never get over the disappointment of not receiving their Hogwarts letter on their 11th birthday. Attending the magical school is the dream of young Potterheads everywhere, but never fear. Although fans can't attend the real School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, they can get pretty close by visiting the many Harry Potter themed tourist attractions that have been cropping up over the years.

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Potterheads can finally taste butterbeer, sleep in dormitories similar to the Gryffindor common room, and enjoy the view that Harry would have on the Hogwarts Express. These are some of the best tourist destinations where Potterheads can experience the magic.

10 Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle is located in the English county of Northumberland and dates back to the 11th century. The castle grounds were a filming spot for several scenes in the Harry Potter films, including Madam Hooch's flying lesson and where Oliver Wood first taught Harry about Quidditch. Alnwick Castle offers tours, educational workshops, and even broomstick training.

9 The Making Of Harry Potter At Warner Bros. Studio

Experience "The Making of Harry Potter" by taking a tour of Warner Bros. Studio in London. Potterheads can see real props and costumes from the Harry Potter films, explore Gringotts Wizarding Bank, and visit a re-creation of Platform 9 3/4.

This award-winning experience is sure to make any fan feel like they are on the actual set of Harry Potter.

8 The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter

In Los Angeles, California, Orlando, Florida and Osaka, Japan, fans can feel like kids again and explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Sip butterbeer at Hogesmead, ride past Hagrid's magical creatures on his flying motorbike and even purchase a wand from Diagon Alley. With themed shops, food, rides, and more, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is an experience that Potterheads can't miss.

7 The Elephant House

The Elephant House is one of the best gourmet tea and coffee houses in Edinburgh. But what Potterheads need to know is that J.K. Rowling spent hours writing the Harry Potter books over coffee at this very cafe.

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Fans can sip delicious drinks in the very same coffee house where the magic was made, and don't forget to grab a marker and add your note to the bathroom walls before you leave.

6 The London Zoo

ZSL London is the world's oldest scientific zoo. There are thousands of animals to see, but Potterheads should make sure they visit the Reptile House before they leave. There, they can see where a famous scene in Harry Potter and The Sorcerer's Stone was filmed when Harry spoke to a Burmese python and accidentally released it from the zoo.

5 The Millennium Bridge

The London Millennium Footbridge is a steel suspension bridge for pedestrians crossing the River Thames in London.

In Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Death Eaters destroyed this bridge in the opening sequence, but don't worry, the real thing is still standing for fans to enjoy. The Millenium Bridge is also a great place for a photo of  St. Paul's Cathedral and the River Thames.

4 Kings Cross Station

Yes, King's Cross Station really exists and it's one of the busiest train stations in the United Kingdom. Despite being a fully functional train station, King's Cross also offers some exciting opportunities for Potterheads.

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Fans can take a photo with the famous luggage trolley smashed into Platform 9 3/4. There is also a shop stocked with Harry Potter gear for the road.

3 The Jacobite Steam Train

All aboard the Hogwarts Express! The Jacobite Steam Train is described as the greatest railway journey in the world. The train runs from Fort William to Mallaig, but Potterheads will want to pay special attention to the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

This location was made famous for filming the exterior shots of the Hogwarts Express and the scene where Ron and Harry fly the magic car to Hogwarts. The Jacobite runs from April to October and is available for booking ahead of time.

2 The Georgian House Hotel

The Georgian House Hotel in London offers a truly magical experience. Stay in wizard themed rooms that conjure a mysterious and gothic feel, complete with stained glass windows, trunks, cauldrons, and four-poster beds.

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Pimlico Pantry, located within the hotel, offers a magical three-course afternoon tea or the opportunity to concoct your own wizard cocktail. The hotel also offers a walking tour of London attractions featured in "The Making of Harry Potter" at Warner Bros. Studio London.

1 Czocha Castle

Potterheads who are looking for a truly immersive experience should check out the Czocha Castle in Poland. Thanks to the College of Wizardry, fans can spend three days immersed in a magical live-action role play (LARP).

They will be assigned a character, sorted into their houses, attend magical classes, and live in the halls of a real castle. The ultimate experience!

NEXT: Harry Potter: 7 Settings From The Movies That Were Just Like The Books (& 3 That Were Changed Completely

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February 07, 2021 at 06:30AM