The ultimate Harry Potter UK roadtrip | what to see and where to stay

King’s Cross station: As any Harry Potter fan knows, King’s Cross is where Hogwarts pupils catch the Hogwarts Express from Platform 9 ¾. Located in the main concourse, pose with the luggage trolley disappearing into the wall and even go next door for some Harry Potter souvenirs.

Warner Bros Studio Tour: Just one stop on the underground from King’s Cross to Euston and then only a 20-minute train ride to Watford you can spend a whole day at the wonderful Harry Potter World at the Warner Bros Studio Tour. From marvelling at the remarkable sets and costumes to fun activities such as riding a broomstick and drinking butter-beer, this is a must for all Harry Potter fans.

London Zoo: In the first film, Harry talks to a boa constrictor at London Zoo and makes the enclosure glass disappear. The zoo, situated in London’s Regent’s Park, makes for an excellent day out for the whole family.

Lacock Abbey: Not only is Lacock a picturesque village in Wiltshire worth stopping by because of the quaint little cottages and quintessentially British heritage,  but is also the location of the stunning Lacock Abbey, which stood in as Hogwarts in the first movie, and also features in the new Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald movie, too.

Gloucester Cathedral: Harry Potter fans can take a tour of Gloucester Cathedral – a remarkable building steeped in medieval history –  which also features in several pivotal moments from different films including the troll scenes for The Philosopher’s Stone, as well as being home to the original door from the Gryffindor common room.

Christchurch College: The inspiration for The Great Hall in Hogwarts, Christchurch Hall is a must-see even though no filming actually took place here.

Bodleian Library: Although the library has been around since 1602 and is one of the oldest libraries in Europe, it is better known now as Hogwarts library. Meanwhile, the Hogwarts Restricted Section is the Arts end of the medieval Duke Humfrey’s Library, the oldest reading room at the Bodleian.

Divinity School: You may recall the breathtaking gothic vaulted ceilings of the Hogwarts infirmary – well, head to the Divinity School and you’ll be blown away by them in person.

New College Cloisters: You can follow in the footsteps of Harry through the unmistakable cloisters which feature most prominently in The Goblet of Fire.

Durham Cathedral: Dominating the skyline of Durham city is the magnificent cathedral which has appeared in many of the Harry Potter films including The Chamber of Secrets and Prisoner of Azkaban. Most recognisable will be the exteriors and interiors, particularly the cloisters.

Alnwick Castle: Remember when Harry and the class first take their flying lessons with Madam Hooch in The Philosopher’s Stone? The Outer Bailey of Alnwick Castle in Northumberland is where the scene was filmed. Meanwhile, the courtyards and baileys of Alnwick Castle were used to film students and staff going about their daily activities.

Loch Shiel, Lochaber: The awe-inspiring Loch Shiel features as Hogwarts Lakes in many of the films. It’s worth a visit for the sheer dramatic scenery across the water and surrounding countryside.

Eilean na Moine and Loch Eilt, Lochaber: This enchanting small island is the final resting place of Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore – and where Voldemort steals the Elder Wand in The Deathly Hallows Part I.

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Lochaber: Perhaps one of the most iconic and instantly recognisable moments is when the Hogwarts Express makes its way across this Victorian railway viaduct. You can also ride it yourself on the famous Jacobite steam train.