10 Harry potter film locations in London

London is filled with iconic film locations that brought the Harry Potter series to life, which can be seen on a walking tour. From the bustling streets of the city to hidden gems, fans of the wizarding world can explore a variety of sites that served as backdrops for many unforgettable moments in the films.

Here’s a guide to some of the most notable Harry Potter film locations in London:

1. The Reptile House, London Zoo

The Reptile House is where Harry first discovers his ability to communicate with snakes in Harry Potter and the Philsopher’s Stone. London Zoo is located just outside of Regents park and is home to many endangered species.

Why Visit: A visit to London Zoo is not only a chance to see exotic animals but also to relive that pivotal moment in Harry’s life. The zoo itself is a fantastic day out for families and animal lovers. Other films such as, Jurassic Park and Goodbye Christopher Robin were also filmed here.

Click here for an entry ticket to London Zoo by GetYourGuide.

2. King’s Cross Station

Perhaps the most famous Harry Potter location in London, King’s Cross Station features the iconic Platform 9¾, where students board the Hogwarts Express. St. Pancras Station served as the exterior for King’s Cross Station in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and as a backdrop for the Hogwarts Express in other films.

Why Visit: Fans can snap a photo at the dedicated photo spot near the wall with a luggage trolley, as well as visit the nearby Harry Potter shop, which offers a wide range of themed merchandise. The Gothic architecture of St. Pancras is stunning, and it’s worth visiting to take in its grandeur and grab a bite to eat in one of the many cafes.

Click here to book Harry Potter Studio tours from King Cross by GetYourGuide.

3. Claremont Square

This charming square is where the exterior of Grimmauld Place, the ancestral home of the Black family and headquarters for the Order of the Phoenix, was filmed. The Black residence was number 12, magically located between 11 and 13. It is just a short walk from Kings Cross Station.

Why Visit: The square is a picturesque spot to explore, and while you can’t enter Number 12, it’s fun to imagine the magical happenings that took place within its walls.

4. St Pauls cathedral

St Pauls Cathedral was featured in the Prisoner of Azkaban, the stairwell features as part of Hogwarts leading to Professor Trelawney’s divination class. The stairs were designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1705. They are known as the geometric staircase and spiral 50 feet up.

Why visit: St Pauls Cathedral is one of London’s most famous landmarks, due to its stunning architecture. It is famous for being the location where King Charles III and Princess Diana got married. The Cathedral is famous for having the tallest dome in the world.

Click here for to book an entry ticket to St Pauls Cathedral.

5. Leadenhall Market

This historic market served as the exterior for the Leaky Cauldron, the entrance to Diagon Alley, in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Located in the financial district of London, Leadenhall Market is one of the oldest markets in London.

Why Visit: With its stunning and colourful Victorian architecture, Leadenhall Market is a vibrant place to explore. You can wander through the shops and enjoy a meal at one of the eateries while soaking in the atmosphere of the wizarding world.

6. Borough Market

Borough market features in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban as the entrance to the Leaky caldron. The entrance is ‘Chez Michele’, a small flower shop under the railway arch. Just next-door no.8 Stoney Street features in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, where Harry met Gilderoy Lockhart at the Third Shop Emporium.

Why Visit: Borough Market dates back to the 12^th century and is premium food market based just south of the Thames. It is one of the largest and oldest food markets in the capital.

7. The Millennium Bridge

Millennium bridge appears in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, where it is destroyed by Death Eaters at the beginning of the film. To muggles the bridge is known as the wobbly bridge, as pedestrians experienced swaying when walking over it on opening day in 2000. Lambeth bridge

Why Visit: The Millennium Bridge offers stunning views of the Thames and landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral. It’s a great spot for a walk or a photo opportunity, with the movie magic in mind.

8. Australia House

This building served as the interior of Gringotts Wizarding Bank, where Harry goes to the bank with Hagrid in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. However, in the Deathly Hallows, the bank was rebuilt in the Warner Bros studio, as a dragon smashes through the bank ultimately destroying it.

Why Visit: Although you can’t go inside, the impressive architecture is worth a visit. The grand entrance and interior of the building truly capture the essence of the wizarding bank.

9. Westminster Tube Station & Great Scotland yard

The entrance to the Ministry of Magic appears in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, where wizards and witches enter through a phone booth. Westminster tube station is where Arthur Weasley struggles to get through the tube gates in the muggle world to the Ministry. Great Scotland Yard features in the Deathly Hallows where Ron and Hermoine used Polyjuice potion to sneak into the Ministry of Magic.

Why Visit: Although you can’t access the Ministry of Magic, visiting Westminster Tube Station allows you to see the iconic entrance from the films and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of one of London’s busiest areas.

10. Piccadilly/ Shaftsbury Avenue

When Harry, Ron and Hermione are attacked by death eaters in the Deathly Hallows part 1, where do they disappear to.. Piccadilly circus! Hermione remembers as a child coming to Shaftsbury Avenue with her parents to the theatre.

Why Visit: Experience London’s hustle and bustle at the bottom of Regents street, where you can watch street acts or visit London’s top west end shows.

London is a treasure trove of Harry Potter film locations that bring the magic of the series to life. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets or visiting iconic landmarks, each site offers a unique glimpse into the world of wizards and witches. From snapping a photo at Platform 9¾ to enjoying a meal at Leadenhall Market, these locations allow fans to create their own magical experiences in the city. So grab your wand and get ready to uncover the magic of Harry Potter in London!