Behind the Magic: Visiting Harry Potter Filming Locations in London

August 15, 2025

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Magical Harry Potter locations

My daughter grew up reading the Harry Potter series, written by J.K. Rowlings, and became quite a fan of the books and movies. When she was able to choose a location for our mother-daughter trip, she chose London primarily due to her love of Harry Potter.

London is home to the spellbinding world of Harry Potter due to London being the setting for the Harry Potter movies. You can find real-life filming locations hidden among the streets of London or locations that inspired J.K. Rowling’s wizarding imagination. Whether you snap a photo at Platform 9 3/4, wander the cobble stone streets of Leadenhall Market, or take a tour inside the Warner Bros. Studio for up close movie set views, you are sure to get excited about these Harry Potter inspired locations.

London offers a journey through the storybooks of Harry Potter that will be as enchanting as Hogwarts itself. Some locations may require a little bit of your imagination to see what once was a movie set while others will be completely obvious.

Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station

You cannot come to London without visiting King’s Cross Station, the place where Harry first departs for Hogwarts. The magical platform 9 3/4 doesn’t truly exist, but Harry Potter fans will truly enjoy this photo opportunity with the luggage trolley “vanishing” into the wall, where you can imagine running to catch the Hogwarts Express.

This photo stop is free to visit but the queue may be long. We waited over an hour to have our picture taken at this location. Staff are taking pictures of you during this photo op, but you are free to take your own pictures. You can purchase the professional pictures inside the store if desired. They do provide the Harry Potter scarfs for the photos and although you can take your own photos, they did seem annoyed at this. Maybe it was just the specific workers at the time.

Right next to it is the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 3/4, which is designed to look like Ollivander’s wand shop. Here you will find books, wands, sweet treats, jewelry, and exclusive collectables you cannot find anywhere else. Make sure you pick up a souvenir to take home in remembrance of this experience.

Address: King’s Cross Station, Euston Road, London

Tips

• The best time to go is early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid long queues.

• You do not have to pay to enter the station where the Harry Potter Shop is. This location is free to enter right outside the train gates.

• You can skip the photo opportunity and just visit the shop if desired.

• Take a walk to the main concourse of King’s Cross and find Platforms 4 and 5, which were used for the actual filming locations for the train scenes in the movie.

• Across the street is St. Pancras International Station, whose exterior doubled as King’s Cross in the films especially where Weasleys’ flying car takes off in Chamber of Secrets.

Leadenhall Market: Leaky Cauldron and Diagon Alley

Leadenhall Market is a beautifully covered Victorian market, filled with ornate glass ceilings, cobblestone walkways and boutique shops. Harry Potter fans will recognize it as a filming location in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001). In the film, parts of Leadenhall Market were used as a filming location for Diagon Alley, and the Leaky Cauldron’s entrance.

Diagon Alley exterior shots were filmed here in Leadenhall Market where you will find the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron from the movie Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Prisoner of Azkaban. The door location is a business so make sure not to disturb them as you take a picture.

Leadenhall Market address: Gracechurch Street and Lime State, London

Address to Leaky Cauldron door: 4 Bull’s Head Passage, London

Tips

• The market is full of restaurants, pubs, and cafes making it the perfect location to grab a bite to eat.

• This is located about 15-minutes to the Millennium Bridge.

• The door is easy to miss and tends to change color over time based on the current business decor; in 2024 it was yellow.

Goodwin’s Court and Diagon Alley

Goodwin’s Court, tucked in the heart of London, is an area that feels like stepping straight into the Harry Potter world. The narrow alley and 17th century Georgian houses are believed to have inspired the look and feel of Diagon Alley from Harry Potter films. Although this was never confirmed by J.K. Rowling as a filming location or inspiration for the book. The actual set was created at the Warner Bros. Studio, but this location still offers a glimpse of London’s history, with its preserved cobblestones and centuries-old architecture.

Address: Goodwin’s Court - Covent Garden, London.

Tips

• Visit early evening when the lamps glow creating a magical feel, but the daytime creates a quieter time for photo opportunities.

• The alley is between St. Martin’s Lane and Bedfordbury. It is easy to miss so look closely as you walk this area.

• This is a residential area, so keep noise to a minimum and respect others property.

• This is a 4-minute walk from Covent Garden.

Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square is one of London’s most iconic landmarks, filled with fountains, statues, and the site of the National Gallery. It also holds a special place for Harry Potter fans. The square was featured in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part Two (2011), during the dramatic escape scene where Harry, Ron, and Hermoine flee from Death Eaters after infiltrating the Ministry of Magic. As you stand in this area, imagine the trio running through the bustling streets, making this a must visit for Harry Potter fans.

Address: Trafalgar Square, London

Tips

• Take a photo with Nelson’s Column or the fountains behind you for a Harry Potter inspired shot.

• This location is also home to multiple shopping opportunities, and you can find many places to eat.

• For fewer crowds, head to the square in the early morning or late evening.

• This area is free to visit and is always open.

Fountain photo credit Foursquare

Entrance to Ministry of Magic at Great Scotland Yard

Great Scotland Yard is a quiet street in Westminster that holds a big secret for Harry Potter fans. In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007), this filming location is where visitors enter into the Ministry of Magic. In the film, Harry and Mr. Weasley walk along Great Scotland Yard before entering a red telephone box that transports them down into the Ministry.

Address: Great Scotland Yard, London

Tips

• Great Scotland Yard is off Whitehall, near the Horse Guards Parade. It’s a small side street.

• No phone booth can be found here as it was added only for the movie.

Photo credit sceen-it.com

Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

The Houses of Parliament and the clock tower, Big Ben, appear briefly in Harry Potter films. In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007), Harry and the members of the Order soar past the illuminated Houses of Parliament and Big Ben on broomsticks as they escort him across the River Thames of Grimmauld Place.

Address: Westminster, 1 Parliament Square, London

Tips

• Standing on Westminster Bridge offers beautiful views of both Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

• Best photos happen at night when the clock face and Gothic towers are illuminated recreating the look of the film scene.

• Fewer crowds are seen in the early morning or late evenings and the sunset makes gorgeous photos.

• Take a guided tour of Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Buckingham.

St Paul’s Cathedral and the spiral staircase

St Paul’s Cathedral is another iconic London landmark. Doting a magnificent dome high above the trees and skyline, the architectures and rich history create a beautiful location to stop and ponder at its beauty. Inside the cathedral, the spiral Geometric Staircase in the Southwest Bell Tower was used as the staircase leading up to Professor Trelawney’s Divination classroom in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004).

Most of the cathedral is open to the public but access to the actual staircase is restricted. Even so, the magic of this location makes it worth stopping at.

Address: St Paul’s Cathedral, St Paul’s Churchyard, London

Tips

• Entry into St Paul’s Cathedral requires a ticket (unless you attend a service). Purchase your St Paul’s Cathedral admission tickets here.

• Arrive early in the morning for fewer crowds.

• Photos are not permitted inside the cathedral, but the exterior will make some spectacular Harry Potter inspired shots.

Westminster Tube Station underground passages

You will find this location played a small role in Harry Potter as an inspiration for the Ministry of Magic and underground passages. In the films Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007) and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009), the filmmakers needed realistic London underground environments for scenes where wizards move through Muggle tunnels into hidden locations.

Address: Westminster Station, London

Tips

• This is a functioning station so use caution as you are taking pictures near the tiled walls or staircases.

Photo credit Alamy

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Millennium Bridge and Death Eaters

The Millennium Bridge which stretches across the Thames River, is a large steel suspension footbridge. You might recognize it from the opening scene of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009).

In the film, Death Eaters swarm through London and destroy the Millennium Bridge in a dramatic sequence, sending Muggles tumbling into the Thames. Obviously, the bridge never collapsed in real life as it was movie magic, so it is safe to walk on.

Address: Millennium Bridge, Thames Embankment, Southwark, London

Tips

• Standing at the north end near St Paul’s Cathedral for a beautiful photo of the bridge leading to the Tate Modern.

• Early morning offers a quieter photo opportunity but at sunset the bridge lights up and the city glows.

• The bridge is always open for you to walk on, just use caution at night and do not climb on the railings as the river is below the bridge.

Australia House: Gringotts Bank

The grand Australia House on the Strand is an impressive building and is instantly recognizable as the interior of Gringotts Wizarding Bank. In Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001), the marble hall with expansive chandeliers and towering pillars was used as the setting where Harry first steps into Gringotts with Hagrid to withdraw money from his vault. You cannot go inside but you can view the grand exterior. Goblins were later added with special effects, but the building itself provided the bank’s opulent look.

This location is not open to the public as it serves as the Australian High Commission. You can still admire the beauty of the exterior and view the inside from the front door windows.

Address: Australia House, Strand, London

Tips

• You cannot go inside the Australia House so enjoy the outside only, it is worth the stop.
  

  Photo credit nationalrail.com

Picadilly Circus

Picadilly Circus is one of London’s busiest squares and is famous for its bright neon billboards. Harry Potter fans will recognize this location from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One (2010). After fleeing Bill and Fleur’s wedding, Harry, Ron, and Hermoine land in the middle of Picadilly Circus. In danger, they dodge traffic and rush through the square before escaping Death Eaters.

Address: Picadilly Circus, 13 Trocadero Coventry Street, London

Tips

• If you want to enjoy this iconic location, visit it at night when the neon billboards are lit up and the square looks like it does in the movie.

• This is one of the busiest parts of London, so be prepared for crowds. Other than a Harry Potter filming location, this area is full of local landmarks such as restaurants and stores that you can find in the USA so nothing unique to London.

St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel

The St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel, located next to King’s Cross Station, is recognizable as part of the iconic Hogwarts Express scene. In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002), exterior shots of the hotel’s Gothic facade were used to create the look of Hogwarts’ magical arrival points. Most interior shots of Hogwarts were filmed elsewhere; the hotel’s exterior is a must-see when in the area.

Address: St Pancras Hotel, Euston Road, London

Want to stay at this exquisite hotel? Book the St. Pancras London Hotel here.

Photo credit booking.com

The Market Porter Pub

Located in London’s Borough Market area, The Market Porter is a historical pub famous for its ales and cozy atmosphere. The pub’s exterior was used in the filming of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009). In the movie, it appears in the sequence where Harry and Dumbledore travel through London to track down Horcruxes, adding a touch of wizarding-world charm. The interior shots were filmed elsewhere but the pub still holds the magic of the streets once roamed by Harry Potter actors.

Address of The Market Porter: 9 Stoney Street, London

Hours of Borough Market: Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm

Tips

• The area tends to be less crowded early evening.

• Try a traditional British ale or pub dish inside The Market Porter.

• Snap a photo of the exterior for a Harry potter connection.

• Enjoy Borough Market with its large variety of foods to try right next door.

Harry Potter Theatre show

No London trip is complete without visiting the Palace Theatre to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. This two-part stage play continues the story of Harry, now a Ministry of Magic employee, and his youngest son, Albus Severus Potter. The show brings the world to life with magical effects, and an unforgettable story.

Address: Palace Theatre, 113 Shaftesbury Avenue, London

You can purchase Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Part 1 and 2 theatre tickets here. You will be purchasing tickets for both shows at this link.

Tips

• Tickets sell out quickly especially on the weekends. Book tickets in advance.

• Evening shows give you the opportunity to visit the sights during the day before the show.

• Arrive early to grab your chosen seat and take in the theater’s historical interior and grab a snack, drink or merchandise.

Where to stay in London

Stay close by making it easy to get to each Harry Potter location. Use booking.com to book your next London stay or check out these top options below.

1. Stay at the popular Hoxton, Southwark hotel with 2 onsite restaurants and within walking distance to many Harry Potter locations.

2. Page Hotels offer boutique accommodations and are close to Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square. Enjoy the rooftop restaurant with views of the city.

3. The Sanctuary House Hotel near Big Ben offers a pub on the ground floor so you can experience British pub foods and drinks while relaxing after a long day of sightseeing.

4. The Ruby Lucy Hotel offers 4-star comfort with city views and a coffee shop. Located near Big Ben.

Other Harry Potter London Tours

• Harry Potter Bus filming locations tour - Hop aboard the purple bus Routemaster, to visit famous Harry Potter locations with a guided tour.

• Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour with Transportation from London

• Harry Potter Filming Locations: Private Black Cab Tour in London

2-Day Self-Guided Harry Potter Walking Tour

Day 1

1. King’s Cross Station - Platform 9 3/4 and Harry Potter Shop

   1. King’s Cross Station, Euston Road

2. Australia House - Gringotts Bank

   1. Strand

3. Great Scotland Yard - Ministry of Magic

   1. Westminster, Great Scotland Yard

4. Westminster Tube Station

   1. Westminster Station

5. Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

   1. 1 Parliament Square

6. Millennium Bridge

   1. Thames Embarkment

7. St Paul’s Cathedral - Geometric Staircase

   1. St Paul’s Churchyard

8. Harry Potter Theatre Show

   1. Palace Theatre, 113 Shaftesbury Avenue

Day 2

1. Goodwin’s Court - inspiration for Diagon Alley

   1. Covent Garden

2. Leadenhall Market - Leaky Cauldron and Diagon Alley

   1. Gracechurch Street

3. Trafalgar Square - Deathly Hollows

   1. Trafalgar Square

4. Picadilly Square - Deathly Hollows

   1. Picadilly Circus, 13 Trocadero Coventry Street

5. The Market Porter - Half-Blood Prince pub

   1. 9 Stoney Street

Tips

1. Use Big Bus Tours to help get around the city. We loved viewing the city from the top deck on Big Bus Tours.

2. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

3. Use the Tube for longer connections such as between King’s Cross Station and Millennium Bridge.

4. Save this blog post to help guide you on this tour.

5. Make sure to stop and eat or do a little shopping along the way. Grab a sweet treat at my favorite chocolate place, Laderach Chocolate.

Other London favorite blog posts

• The Perfect Budget Friendly 5-Day Self-Guided Tour of London, England

• Eat Like a Local: Best Places to Eat in London for Every Budget

• Tower Bridge: A Must-See Historical Landmark in London

Your favorite Harry Potter guide

Exploring London must include this sightseeing tour, leading you to some magical Harry Potter filming locations. From the excitement of taking a train to King’s Cross Station, wandering the alleyway of Goodwin’s Court, or experiencing a theatre production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, you are sure to be excited as you step into Harry Potter’s world and visit the iconic film moments. You can soak up the locations in 2-days or use my 5-Day Self-Guided Tour of London to spread it out over several days.

Enjoy the journey,

Meet the author: Jennifer

I am a girl who loves to travel and enjoys sharing expert family travel advice. I am a content creator and influencer on Instagram with years of travel experience and provide readers with advice, tips, and details on adventurous travel and tips on saving money while boondocking or traveling across the US. You can find me dreaming up our next epic vacation or outside exploring natural landscapes. I am a fearless roadtripper who isn’t afraid to explore new and off the path adventures.

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