Harry Potter made an entire generation wonder whether Hogwarts was hiding somewhere in Britain, just waiting for the right owl to deliver an acceptance letter. While the magic came from special effects, many of the films’ most iconic settings were real castles, cathedrals, libraries, villages, and railway stations you can still visit today. You can stroll through Hogwarts-inspired corridors, stand where famous scenes were filmed, or hop aboard the railway immortalized as the Hogwarts Express. Sure, your chances of learning magic are slim, but your camera roll will have a very different opinion. Keep reading to discover the real Harry Potter locations every fan should visit.
#1: Alnwick Castle – England
Alnwick Castle stands in Northumberland, about 35 miles north of Newcastle, and has overlooked the countryside since the late 11th century. The fortress became the exterior of Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. The Outer Bailey hosted Harry’s first flying lesson, and visitors can still join broomstick training sessions on those same lawns. The castle usually welcomes guests from late March through October, with special Christmas events in December.
