Since childhood, the question of where Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is located has captivated imaginations worldwide. As a content creator for savewhere.net, and a devoted Harry Potter enthusiast, I’ve delved deep into the magical world to uncover the real-life locations that brought Hogwarts to life on screen. If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the wizarding world, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s embark on a journey to discover where Hogwarts is located, both in the magical realm and the real world!
Your Guide to Finding Hogwarts: Real and Imagined
This guide serves as your comprehensive resource to explore the various locations that represent Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films. From majestic castles to grand cathedrals, and immersive studio sets, we’ll uncover each piece of the puzzle that makes up the iconic Hogwarts we all know and love. Whether you’re planning a trip to the UK or simply satisfying your curiosity, prepare to be enchanted by the real-world magic of Hogwarts.
Is Hogwarts Castle Actually Real?
Let’s address the burning question: Is Hogwarts Castle a real, tangible structure? While the entirety of Hogwarts Castle as depicted in the films is not a single, existing place, the magic of cinema has masterfully blended CGI, detailed models, and numerous real-life locations across the United Kingdom to create the Hogwarts we adore.
Think of Hogwarts as a beautiful tapestry, woven from threads of different iconic landmarks. While you won’t find a single castle that is entirely Hogwarts, you can visit many of the breathtaking places that contributed to its on-screen magnificence.
So, Where Exactly is Hogwarts Located?
In the Harry Potter universe, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is nestled in the Scottish Highlands. This remote and mountainous setting perfectly encapsulates the mystique and seclusion of a magical institution hidden from the Muggle world.
However, when it comes to the real-life filming locations, the answer is more multifaceted and exciting. The cinematic Hogwarts is a brilliant composite of locations primarily in England and Scotland, with studio sets adding the final touches.
As your dedicated guide, I’ve undertaken extensive research to compile a detailed list of these locations, ranging from studio sets accessible to the public to historical sites you can explore. For those keen to delve even deeper, I highly recommend “Harry Potter: Magical Places from the Films,” a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes insights, production photos, and captivating facts that greatly informed this guide.
🎟️ Explore Hogwarts Locations with Guided Tours:
1. Discovering the Exterior Grandeur of Hogwarts Castle
The exterior of Hogwarts, its imposing facade and sprawling grounds, is instantly recognizable and deeply iconic. To experience the magic of Hogwarts’ exterior in real life, here are your best options:
OPTION A: The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Leavesden is an absolute must-visit for any Harry Potter fan. This is where over a decade of Harry Potter filmmaking magic unfolded, housing countless sets, props, and costumes used in the films.
As you approach the end of the tour, prepare to be awestruck by the magnificent model of Hogwarts Castle. This detailed miniature, enhanced with CGI in the films, is a breathtaking centerpiece. Witnessing its intricate detail up close is an emotional experience, and you might just find yourself tearing up at the sheer scale and artistry.
Detailed model of Hogwarts Castle on display at the Warner Bros Studio Tour in London, showcasing its intricate architecture and design
OPTION B: Alnwick Castle: A Real Harry Potter Castle in England
For those seeking a tangible castle that starred as Hogwarts, Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England, is your destination. This historic castle played a significant role in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
Alnwick Castle served as the backdrop for iconic scenes such as Madam Hooch’s flying lessons, Harry’s Quidditch training with Oliver Wood, and the dramatic crash landing of the Ford Anglia into the Whomping Willow. Exterior shots of Hogwarts throughout these films also prominently feature Alnwick Castle’s majestic walls and towers.
Adding to the enchantment, Alnwick Castle fully embraces its Harry Potter legacy, offering broomstick training sessions and “on location” tours that immerse you in the wizarding world. While located in the northeast of England, it’s an easily accessible and rewarding day trip from Edinburgh.
Important Note: Alnwick Castle stands out as the primary real castle used for Hogwarts filming. Other locations predominantly utilized churches, university buildings, and natural landscapes rather than actual castles.
OPTION C: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios
For a truly immersive Hogwarts experience, consider visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood or Universal Studios Florida. While technically theme parks, these meticulously crafted environments offer an incredibly authentic and awe-inspiring encounter with Hogwarts.
Having personally visited the Hollywood park, I can attest to its remarkable detail and emotional impact. These parks go far beyond typical theme park fare, offering a genuine sense of stepping into the wizarding world.
The Hogwarts Castles within these parks are not mere facades; they house thrilling rides that are consistently ranked among the best theme park attractions globally. The queue areas themselves are designed to replicate iconic Hogwarts interiors, enhancing the immersive experience. Beyond the castle, the Wizarding World offers a plethora of Harry Potter delights, from savoring Butterbeer to dining at the Three Broomsticks and indulging in treats at Honeydukes.
A frothy glass of Butterbeer at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a must-try beverage for any visitor seeking the full wizarding experience
2. Stepping into the Harry Potter Great Hall
The Great Hall, with its soaring ceilings, long tables laden with feasts, and floating candles, is a quintessential image of Hogwarts. For many, including myself, experiencing the Great Hall in real life is a cherished dream. Here’s how you can make that dream a reality:
OPTION A: Christchurch College, Oxford: Inspiration for the Great Hall
Christchurch College in Oxford played a vital role in the early Harry Potter films, serving as a location for several Hogwarts scenes. Notably, the staircase leading to Christchurch’s Great Hall is instantly recognizable as the staircase students ascend to enter the Hogwarts Great Hall for the first time in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
This staircase also appears in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, such as in the scene where Harry and Ron encounter Filch after their Ford Anglia mishap, and in a flashback scene featuring Tom Riddle.
While the actual Great Hall at Christchurch was not used for filming, it served as the primary inspiration for the Great Hall set built at Leavesden Studios. The dimensions and architectural style of the studio set closely mirror Christchurch’s hall.
A picturesque view of the Great Hall at Christchurch College, Oxford, showcasing its grand architecture and historical significance
To enhance your visit, consider booking an insider’s Christchurch Harry Potter tour to learn more about the college’s connection to the films and bypass potential queues. During my own visit to Christchurch Great Hall, I was struck by its resemblance to the on-screen Great Hall, realizing that this is a real dining hall used by university students – a truly inspiring thought!
OPTION B: The Great Hall at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
To experience the actual Great Hall set used in the Harry Potter films, a return trip to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is essential. This set, meticulously modeled after Christchurch Great Hall, also incorporates design elements from other iconic British landmarks, such as Westminster Hall in the Houses of Parliament, believed to have inspired the Great Hall’s distinctive ceiling.
Keep an eye on the official Warner Bros. Studio Tour website for special events, such as breakfast in the Great Hall, which offer extended time to soak in the atmosphere of this iconic set.
3. Finding the Hogwarts Train Station
Who hasn’t dreamt of arriving at Hogwarts via the Hogwarts Express? The steam train, the bustling platform, and Hagrid’s warm farewells at the end of term – these are cherished images of the journey to and from Hogwarts.
While the Hogwarts Express itself is represented by the Jacobite Express steam train in Scotland (a ride you can actually book!), the station used for filming is Goathland Train Station in North Yorkshire, England.
Goathland Station offers a tangible connection to the films. While the CGI-rendered Hogwarts Castle backdrop is absent, the station itself is remarkably similar to its on-screen depiction, making it a must-visit for dedicated fans seeking the real Hogwarts station and Hogsmeade stop.
4. Exploring the Hogwarts Dormitories
If you’re curious about the cozy Gryffindor dormitories, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London once again holds the key. Here, you can explore meticulously recreated dormitory sets, including the Gryffindor Common Room and the boys’ dormitory shared by Harry, Ron, and their friends.
Fun fact: The Gryffindor Common Room features tapestries inspired by the 15th-century “Lady and the Unicorn” tapestries from the Cluny Museum in Paris. The set designers were so captivated by these artworks that they obtained permission to reproduce them for the set.
The Gryffindor boys' dormitory set at the Harry Potter Studio Tour in Leavesden, showcasing the small beds and Gryffindor house colors
Seeing the dormitory set in person reveals the surprisingly small size of the beds. Despite the actors growing significantly throughout the filming years, the beds remained the same size. Clever camera angles were employed to maintain the illusion of proportion – a testament to the magic of filmmaking.
5. Visiting the Hogwarts Library
For bookworms and knowledge-seekers, the Hogwarts Library is a place of immense fascination. If you’re wondering where the real-life Hogwarts Library is located, the answer lies in Oxford.
For Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, filming took place in the Duke Humfrey’s Library, part of the Bodleian Libraries at Oxford University. This magnificent library, dating back to the 15th century, is the oldest reading room at Oxford and is open for tours.
While a set was later constructed at Leavesden Studios for subsequent films, the Duke Humfrey’s Library remains the original and authentic Hogwarts Library location.
6. Discovering the Hogwarts Hospital Wing
Staying within Oxford, you can also visit the location used for the Hogwarts Hospital Wing in the early films: the Divinity School, also part of Oxford University. Its stunning fan-vaulted ceiling is instantly recognizable from scenes in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
Scenes filmed here include Harry’s recovery after his encounter with Professor Quirrell and his unfortunate bone-regrowing incident courtesy of Gilderoy Lockhart. The Divinity School also makes a brief appearance in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
While the Hospital Wing set was later recreated at Leavesden Studios, the Oxford Divinity School offers a glimpse into the original filming location.
7. Exploring Hogwarts Classrooms and Offices
While many Hogwarts classrooms and offices eventually transitioned to studio sets at Warner Bros. Studios, the initial films utilized real-life locations to establish authenticity. Here are some Hogwarts classroom locations you can visit:
A glimpse into a classroom set at the Warner Bros Studio Tour, showcasing the detailed props and set dressing that bring the Hogwarts learning environment to life
OPTION A: Professor Quirrell’s Defense Against the Dark Arts Classroom
Professor Quirrell’s Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was filmed at the Warming Room in Lacock Abbey. Lacock Abbey’s cloisters and other rooms also feature prominently in the film.
Note: Later Defense Against the Dark Arts classrooms were studio sets at Leavesden, with set dressing adapted to reflect each professor’s personality. Quirrell’s classroom remains unique as the only one filmed on location.
OPTION B: Snape’s Potions Classroom
Snape’s Potions classroom in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was filmed in the Sacristy at Lacock Abbey. This set was also recreated at Leavesden Studios for subsequent films.
While the studio set is more detailed and film-like, the Sacristy at Lacock Abbey offers the original filming location, although it may appear less visually striking in its current state.
The Sacristy at Lacock Abbey in Lacock, England, the real-life location for Snape's Potions classroom in the first Harry Potter film
OPTION C: Professor McGonagall’s Transfiguration Classroom
Professor McGonagall’s Transfiguration classroom was filmed in the Chapter House at Durham Cathedral. This location is featured in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
Note: Access to the Chapter House may be restricted to group tours and may incur an additional cost. Check Durham Cathedral’s website for tour information.
OPTION D: Professor Flitwick’s Charms Classroom
Professor Flitwick’s Charms classroom, the setting for Hermione’s iconic “it’s leviOsa, not levioSAAAA” line, is located at the Fourth Form Room at Harrow School in Middlesex. Tours of Harrow School are available, offering a chance to visit this iconic classroom.
The oak walls of this classroom bear signatures of former students, including Winston Churchill.
OPTION E: The Stairway to the Divination Tower
The grand staircase leading to Professor Trelawney’s Divination classroom is found in St Paul’s Cathedral in London. This cantilevered staircase appears in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
OPTION F: Other Hogwarts Classrooms and Offices
Many other Hogwarts classrooms and offices were filmed on sets at Leavesden Studios. These sets, including Dumbledore’s Office and Umbridge’s Office, are accessible on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour.
8. Exploring the Hogwarts Grounds
Beyond the castle interiors, the Hogwarts grounds offer a vast and varied landscape. Here’s how to explore parts of the Hogwarts grounds in real life:
OPTION A: The Landscapes Surrounding Hogwarts
The dramatic landscapes surrounding Hogwarts are inspired by the Scottish Highlands, particularly Glencoe. Production Designer Stuart Craig drew inspiration from Glencoe, sending teams to capture photography for background shots.
Glencoe served as a filming location for Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, the most extensive on-location shoot in Scotland for the franchise. Visiting Glencoe allows you to experience the real landscapes that shaped the visual identity of Hogwarts’ surroundings.
OPTION B: The Forbidden Forest
The Forbidden Forest, off-limits to Hogwarts students, utilized various forests across the UK for filming. While the magical elements were added through sets and CGI, you can visit these real-life Forbidden Forests:
- Black Park, Buckinghamshire: Used throughout the franchise, including Hagrid’s Hut in early films and scenes from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
- Frithaden Beeches Wood, Chiltern Hills: Once home to the real-life model for the Whomping Willow (collapsed in 2014). Featured in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
- Burnham Beeches, Buckinghamshire: Featured in later films, including Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1.
- Swinley Forest, Bracknell: Used for miscellaneous scenes in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1.
OPTION C: Hagrid’s Hut
Hagrid’s Hut was initially constructed and filmed at Black Park in Buckinghamshire for the first two films. For Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, it was relocated to Clachaig Gully in Glencoe, Scotland.
You can visit a Hagrid’s Hut set at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, showcasing the detailed construction and clever use of scale to create the illusion of Hagrid’s size.
A detailed recreation of Hagrid's Hut set at the Warner Bros Studio Tour, allowing visitors to step into the home of the beloved gamekeeper
OPTION D: Hogwarts Bridge (Wooden Bridge)
The iconic wooden bridge, first appearing in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, is another set you can visit at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.
While the studio tour offers the set, a 50-foot section of the bridge was transported to and filmed against the backdrop of Clachaig Gully in Glencoe, Scotland, for the film.
OPTION E: The Great Lake
The Great Lake of Hogwarts is a composite of locations. Virginia Water Lake in Surrey, England, was used for filming actors, while background shots often incorporated Scottish lochs such as Loch Shiel, Loch Eilt, and Loch Arkaig.
Virginia Water Lake is recognizable from scenes in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
The serene waters of Loch Shiel in Scotland, one of the Scottish lochs used as inspiration and background scenery for the Great Lake at Hogwarts
9. Hogwarts Corridors and Interior Locations
Many Hogwarts interior scenes, particularly in the early films, utilized real-life locations. As the franchise progressed, custom-built sets at Leavesden Studios became more prevalent. Here are some notable real-life locations for Hogwarts interiors:
OPTION A: Gloucester Cathedral
Gloucester Cathedral served as a prominent Hogwarts interior location in the first two Harry Potter films. Its stunning architecture is recognizable in scenes from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
Gloucester Cathedral’s corridors and cloisters are featured in numerous scenes, including the troll incident in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and the discovery of the Chamber of Secrets message in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
The majestic Gloucester Cathedral, showcasing its stunning Gothic architecture and cloisters, a key filming location for Hogwarts interiors
OPTION B: Lacock Abbey
Lacock Abbey in Wiltshire is another significant Hogwarts filming location. In addition to classrooms, Lacock Abbey’s Chapter House served as the Hogwarts Study Hall, and its cloisters and corridors appeared in numerous scenes.
Visiting Lacock Abbey offers a truly immersive Hogwarts experience, especially during quieter periods when the magical atmosphere is palpable.
OPTION C: Durham Cathedral
Durham Cathedral in North East England provided locations for Professor McGonagall’s Transfiguration classroom and the Hogwarts “quad,” the outdoor hallways frequently seen in the films.
Durham Cathedral’s quad appears in snowy scenes in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and in various scenes in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
OPTION D: New College, Oxford
New College, Oxford, makes an appearance in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Its courtyard is featured in scenes involving the “Potter Stinks” badges and the memorable moment when Mad-Eye Moody transforms Draco Malfoy into a ferret.
Other Key Hogwarts Locations at Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Many other beloved Hogwarts locations were purpose-built sets at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. These include:
The Clock Tower Courtyard
The Clock Tower Courtyard, first seen in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, is a stunning set featuring a fountain with eagle and serpent motifs, a nod to director Alfonso Cuarón’s Mexican heritage.
The Chamber of Secrets
The Chamber of Secrets set, while not a real location, drew inspiration from London sewers and Scottish rock faces, creating a dramatic and memorable environment.
The Hogwarts Owlery
The Owlery set at Leavesden, while entirely constructed, is fascinating for its behind-the-scenes details, including the use of both real and animatronic owls and the challenges of filming scenes with large numbers of owls.
Still Curious About Hogwarts Locations?
I hope this comprehensive guide has answered your questions about where Hogwarts is located in real life! From majestic castles to historical cathedrals and immersive studio sets, the magic of Hogwarts is brought to life in diverse and fascinating locations across the UK. If you have any further questions or favorite Hogwarts sets I might have missed, please share them in the comments below!
