10 Must-Visit Destinations for Harry Potter Fans

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More than a quarter of a century since Harry Potter first graced our pages, the magical world continues to captivate fans across the globe. From the rolling hills of England to the mist-shrouded landscapes of Scotland, these ten spellbinding destinations are a must-visit for any Potterhead. So grab your wand, hop on your broomstick, and explore the enchanting hubs of the wizarding world.

Warner Bros Harry Potter Studio Tour, Leavesden, England

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The Warner Bros Studio Tour in Leavesden allows you to step beyond the pages of J.K. Rowling’s books and see the sets where the magic happened. You will see the Great Hall, the Forbidden Forest, and Dumbledore’s office. Think of which magical creature you would like to be a pet as you wonder at the intricacies of wand-making and potion-brewing.

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland, England

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With its imposing stone walls and lush gardens, Alnwick Castle was the backdrop for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Imagine soaring through the skies on a Nimbus 2000, chasing the Golden Snitch over the Quidditch pitch where Harry, Ron, and Hermione honed their flying skills. And don’t miss the Poison Garden—where mandrakes and wolfsbane thrive—ideal for aspiring herbologists.

“4 Privet Drive,” Bracknell, England

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Walk through the suburban street of “4 Privet Drive” and relive Harry’s less-than-magical childhood. Peek through the curtains of the Dursley residence, where owls never delivered acceptance letters, and broomsticks were strictly forbidden. But perhaps there’s more to this ordinary façade than meets the eye. What secrets lie behind those neatly trimmed hedges?

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland

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Is that a Hippogriff soaring alongside you? The Glannan Viaduct, nestled in the rugged Scottish Highlands, is no ordinary railway bridge. It’s the iconic path of the Hogwarts Express, which transports young wizards and witches to the academy. Standing atop the viaduct, you can hear the train’s rumble as you gaze out your compartment window at the Black Lake and Forbidden Forest.

Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station, London, England

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You can watch the bustling Muggle world transform into the enchanting wizard world as your trolley passes through the solid barrier at Platform 9 3/4. Steam surges from the chimney of the scarlet Hogwarts Express, and the clatter of trunks, the laughter of students, and the promise of adventure await you.

Glencoe, Scotland

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Do you dare go where Harry and his friends encountered Aragog’s offspring? The misty peaks and ancient woodlands in Glencoe evoke the eerie beauty of the Forbidden Forest. Go to the heart of this forest, where centaurs roam and unicorns tread. Listen for the whispers of the Whomping Willow and the rustle of invisibility cloaks.

Durham Cathedral, Durham, England

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A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, Durham Cathedral inspired the majestic Hogwarts School. Its vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows recall the Great Hall, where feasts and magical ceremonies were conducted. What feast from the Harry Potter world would you wish for if you sat at the long wooden tables as floating candles lit the space?

Victoria Street, Edinburgh, Scotland

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Take a stroll along Victoria Street, where its colorful buildings resemble wizard robes. The cobbled lane inspired J.K. Rowling when she created Diagon Alley. Don’t forget to check out Aha Ha Ha Jokes for magical pranks or The Cauldron Shop for cauldrons of all sizes.

The Shambles in York, England

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This medieval street is frozen in time, preserved from centuries past, thanks to its overhanging timber-framed buildings. Visiting this place will make it easy to imagine witches and wizards haggling with apothecaries for rare ingredients or purchasing enchanted quills.

Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford, England

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Stand before Christ Church Cathedral, whose grandeur inspired the Great Hall at Hogwarts. Cathedral ceilings, stained glass windows, and long wooden tables elicit the magic of feasts and Sorting Ceremonies. Can you imagine dining here, surrounded by floating candles? And would Peeves the Poltergeist join in mischief?

Written by Devin J