For Potterheads who dream of immersing themselves in the world of Harry Potter, there are a few journeys they can make from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station to transport themselves to Hogwarts.
Many head for The Making of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London (which is actually in Watford), some further afield to Florida for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando.
But the real incendio is in Oxfordshire, as many of Hogwarts real locations are in the city of Oxford. Within the historic city’s walls, you’ll discover a treasure trove of Harry Potter filming locations that will transport you straight into the wizarding world. Ideal for wizards and muggles alike in this magical world of the beloved series
If you are planning on visiting from America or Japan, you can fly into Heathrow and easily get the train from London Paddington to Oxford. Fans of Harry Potter can easily see these in just one day too, although a weekend in the City of Dreaming Spires is always worth your time with many great things to do and see on your visit.
There are official walking tours, were you get great information and guaranteed entry. But for those who fancy doing it at their own pace, this self-guided tour will take you on an adventure to discover the captivating locations and architecture that inspired and appeared in the beloved Harry Potter series and played a significant role in J.K. Rowling’s magical world.
From ancient college buildings to majestic libraries, follow in the footsteps of Harry, Ron and Hermione as you experience the secrets and magic first-hand on this unforgettable self-guided tour of Harry Potter’s Oxford.
What are the Oxford Harry Potter locations
These Oxford locations filmed for the Harry Potter movies are in order of walking and easily reversed. You do walk past the pub on the way to New College, but it’s a nicer end point:
Christ Church College (Located in St Aldates, OX1 1DP)
Entry fee is £16. Tickets must be booked in advance, and the hall is closed from 12:00 to 14:00 on weekdays.
- Great Hall: While the actual Great Hall scenes were filmed at Warner Bros. Studios, Christ Church’s hall inspired the set.
- Bodley Staircase: Featured in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” when new students arrive at Hogwarts and in “Chamber of Secrets” when Harry and Ron encounter Filch after flying the car.
- Cloisters: Used for scenes where Hermione shows Harry his father’s Quidditch trophies.
Bodleian Old Library (OX1 3BG)
- Divinity School (entrance fee is £2.50): Served as Hogwarts’ Infirmary in multiple films. Key scenes include Harry recovering from his encounter with Voldemort and the Yule Ball dance lessons.
- Duke Humfrey’s Library (guided tour £6): The Hogwarts library’s Restricted Section where Harry sneaks in under his Invisibility Cloak.
New College (Holywell Street, Oxford OX1 3BN)
Entrance fee is £8. The cloisters are accessible, and the famous tree can be seen from outside if you don’t enter.
Cloisters: Featured in “Goblet of Fire” during the scene where Harry is taunted by students wearing “Potter Stinks” badges.
Oak Tree: The spot where Malfoy is turned into a ferret.
The Turf Tavern (4-5 Bath Place, OX1 3SU)
Not a filming location technically, but popular with the cast and crew during the filming. It’s a great spot to grab a drink and soak in the atmosphere where the actors once relaxed.
Self-Guided Tour of the Harry Potter Oxford Locations Route
Christ Church College
No exploration of the Harry Potter locations in Oxford would be complete without mentioning the iconic Christ Church College. Among the 39 University of Oxford colleges, Christ Church stands out as the most renowned and significant in England. Built in 1524 it was later extended by King Henry VIII and is steeped in history.
Many famous people from Lewis Carroll to Hugh Grant have passed through its doors as well as 13 Prime Ministers. Many aspects of the college were either used for filming or as inspiration for the films due to its rich architecture, vaulted ceilings, and beautiful surroundings.
While author J K Rowling was rejected in her application to study at Oxford University, you’ll instantly see why it fired her imagination and inspired the locations described in the books.
Bodley Tower staircase
In the film adaptation of “The Philosopher’s Stone,” there is a memorable scene where Harry, Ron, and Hermione ascend a magnificent staircase to meet their Gryffindor house leader, Professor McGonagall. This Bodley staircase was also the inspiration for the moving staircases featured in all the films. Bodley Tower is a captivating Harry Potter filming location in Oxford. Its grandeur and intricate design make it a perfect fit for the magical atmosphere portrayed in the movies.
The staircase leads to a room known as Hall, and its historical significance goes beyond the world of Harry Potter. Interestingly, Lewis Carroll, the author of “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” once expressed his dissatisfaction with the bells from the cathedral that were relocated to the tower, prompting him to write critical articles about their perceived inadequacy.
Dining hall
This Christ Church dining hall is a true gem for Instagram enthusiasts, as it bears a striking resemblance to the iconic Hogwarts Great Hall. While filming didn’t actually take place here, it is widely recognised as the most famous Harry Potter location in Oxford.
The dining hall at Christ Church College served as the inspiration for the magnificent Great Hall at Hogwarts. Although the actual filming occurred at Gloucester Cathedral, the film set was meticulously designed to replicate the ambience of this remarkable room. Rows of elegant dark wooden tables, adorned with timeless paintings on the walls, and bathed in ethereal light streaming through a dramatic window, create an atmosphere that couldn’t be more enchanting.
Cloisters
At Christ Church College in Oxford, you’ll find another captivating Harry Potter filming location; the cloisters. These charming, traditional semi-open hallways served as the backdrop for several memorable scenes in the beloved film series. Harry, Ron and Heromonine are seen running through these corridors to get to class and later Harry is here when he starts to sense the whispers of Voldemort.
Walking through the cloisters, you can immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere that Rowling so greatly describes and relive the moments that brought the world of Harry Potter to life.
Christ Church entrance fee & opening times – The entrance fee ranges are free for children under 5, £18 for adults (18+) and £17 for children (5 to 17yrs), students (18+ with ID) and seniors over 60. For more details on the prices, just check their site here. Entry is free for Oxford residents and Oxford staff and students.
Given that Christ Church is both a working college and a cathedral, certain areas, including the Hall and Cathedral, may occasionally be closed to visitors. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, it is recommended to check the known closures page and book your tickets online in advance. This will help you plan your visit accordingly and avoid any disappointments as I suspect you will want to see all the best Harry Potter Oxford spots.
Duke Humfrey’s Library
The renowned Bodleian Libraries, comprising several libraries, are not only Oxford’s primary research centre but also the second-largest library in the UK, following the British Library in London. With a history dating back to the 14th century, the Bodleian Libraries house a staggering collection of 13 million items, including maps and manuscripts. Very reminiscent of the magical treasures one would expect to find at Hogwarts!
Among the libraries within the Bodleian, Duke Humfrey’s stands out for its intimate and inviting atmosphere. This particular library played a role as a filming location in The Philosopher’s Stone. In a memorable scene, Harry, concealed beneath his invisibility cloak, explores Hogwarts Library while on a quest for clues, contemplating the audacious act of stealing a book.
Duke Humfrey’s Library Entrance information – Duke Humfrey’s, one of the captivating Harry Potter locations at Oxford University, is not accessible to the general public without a guided tour. However, arranging a visit is hassle-free as you can easily book an official tour through the Bodleian website. Tours are available for as low as £6 and offer two options: a 30-minute or a 60-minute tour.
The Divinity School
The Divinity School is also part of the Bodleian Libraries and you’ll find this famous room just a minute’s walk away from Duke Humfrey’s. During the filming of the Harry Potter series, the enchanting Divinity School, with its medieval charm, played a significant role. It was featured as the Hogwarts infirmary, where students sought healing and care.
Additionally, the Divinity School provided the setting for the memorable scene in The Goblet of Fire, where Professor McGonagall gracefully instructed students in the art of dance for their Yule Ball during the Triwizard tournament. This historic location adds a touch of magic and authenticity to the Harry Potter experience in Oxford.
Divinity School entrance fee – You’ll be glad to know that this is one of the cheapest Harry Potter locations in Oxford at £1. However, if you’re taking a Bodleian Library tour to see the Duke Humfrey’s Library then the room is included.
New College Cloisters
A visit to New College Oxford offers a quieter and more affordable alternative to exploring Christ Church. Tucked away from the bustling centre of Oxford, you’ll be delighted by the expansive grounds, including a spacious quad, a charming field, a majestic cathedral, and a captivating dining hall.
While the aesthetic appeal is undeniable, it’s the association with Harry Potter filming at Oxford University that draws visitors in. Particularly the memorable scene where Malfoy who is sitting on a huge oak tree has a confrontation with Harry but is then transformed into a ferret by Mad-Eye Moody. You can find this same tree within the cloisters.
To fully immerse yourself in this Harry Potter filming location in Oxford, make your way to the cloisters. These atmospheric walkways adorned with large, open windows overlook the picturesque quad. It’s not uncommon to envision Hogwarts students strolling along these very same corridors depicted in the films. This specific cloister at New College gained fame for its appearance in the enchanting Goblet of Fire.
New College entrance fee – From October to March, there is a window of opportunity to visit free of charge between 2 pm and 4 pm. However, for the remainder of the year, there is a nominal entry fee of £8 to access the premises and it’s free to under 7’s. The two entrances to the location are Holywell Street and Queen’s Lane.
It’s always worth checking the official website for updates and planned closures.
New College Courtyard & Tree
If you’re looking to keep the costs down, then you can see the oak tree for free. If you have the time and budget, it is highly recommended to explore the interior of New College. However, if you’re short on time or prefer to stay outdoors, make sure to visit the iconic Bridge of Sighs and stand underneath it. From there, when facing New College, you’ll catch a glimpse of the magnificent tree. It’s worth noting that the New College Courtyard also served as a Harry Potter filming location in the movie “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.”
The Turf Tavern
While not officially a Harry Potter filming location in Oxford, this eccentric pub holds a special place in the hearts of the cast members. Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe among others frequented the pub during the filming of the first film. Imagine the delight of the locals when they walk into their beloved pub only to find great wizards such as Dumbledore enjoying a pint!
It’s a missed opportunity that the pub wasn’t featured in the films, as its surroundings perfectly evoke the enchanting atmosphere of Hogwarts. As you wander through the narrow and cobbled St Helen’s Passage, you’ll get to see similarities that would fit right into any Harry Potter movie.
Quidditch
If immersing yourself in the beautiful buildings of Oxford still leaves you wanting more, perhaps a real-life Quidditch match will satisfy the Harry Potter fanatic in you. Yes, Quidditch is now a real game, although it has changed name to ‘Quadball’. Oxford has two teams, the Radcliffe Chimeras and the reserve team the Quidlings.
Die-hard fanatics of the film in America decided it wasn’t enough to enjoy Quidditch through the films and created their own version, real-life broomsticks included. Quidditch has gained popularity over the years and incorporates many aspects of the imagined game including the role of the seeker to capture the golden snitch, sadly the magical element of flying has not yet been actualised.
Today it is an international game with a World Cup and its own official association. Oxford’s Club was one of the first to be founded in the UK and if you fancy watching a game whilst in Oxford you can find any upcoming events via their website and Facebook contact details.
Harry Potter Shops
Shop of Secrets on Broad Street offers a range of magical souvenirs, including rare collector items.
House of Wonders on Cornmarket Street, inspired by Borgin & Burkes, stocks clothes, souvenirs, and sweets.
Flaggs and Watsons of Oxford on Broad Street also offer a variety of Harry Potter merchandise
Museum of Natural History
Though not used in the films, the Oxford University Museum of Natural History inspired many of the artefacts and props seen in the Harry Potter movies, such as those in “The Knight Bus”
Essential Tips for Exploring Harry Potter Locations in Oxford
- Check College and Library Websites: Before visiting the Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford, it’s important to check the individual college websites and the Bodleian Libraries website. Each college operates independently and may have closures or restricted access due to exams or other events.
- Allocate Sufficient Time: Plan to spend around 2-4 hours exploring the various Harry Potter locations in Oxford. With a number of things to see you will want to fully immerse yourself in the magic, take as many photos as you can and take in the unique atmosphere of each site.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Be prepared for some walking, including navigating cobbled streets and pathways. Comfortable shoes will ensure you can enjoy a walking tour without discomfort.
- Consider Staying Overnight: If you’re visiting Oxford from London for the Harry Potter tour, consider staying overnight. Oxford offers something for all with a wealth of attractions from its famous landmarks to museums beyond the Harry Potter locations. With plenty of hotels in the area, staying at least one night will give you more time to explore the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
- Stay in Oxford University Colleges: Consider immersing yourself in the authentic Oxford experience by staying in one of the Oxford University colleges. Outside of term time, many of these historic colleges open their doors to guests.
Where else was Harry Potter filmed?
The film series was primarily filmed in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Various locations were used, including the enchanting landscapes of Wales, King’s Cross Station, and the Warner Bros. Studio.
The iconic Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry was brought to life using a combination of real-life locations and elaborate sets.
Where was Hogwarts filmed?
The fictional school was located in the Scottish Highlands, although its exact location is kept secret of course and could only be accessed by the Hogwarts Express from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station in London.
The exterior scenes are Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, and the interior shots include Durham Cathedral, Gloucester Cathedral, Lacock Abbey in Wiltshire and the Oxford locations above.
Other Useful Information
Travel and Transportation
Getting There: Oxford is well-connected by train, bus, and car. Trains run regularly from London Paddington, taking about an hour.
Getting Around: Oxford is a compact city, best explored on foot. Bicycles are also popular, with rental options available. Public buses cover most areas if you prefer not to walk, and there are sight seeing hop on/off buses too.
Weather
English weather can be unpredictable, but modern forecasts can be accurate now. It would be wise to bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes to stay prepared for any conditions.
Things to do in Oxfordshire Guides
Thanks so much, can all of this be done in a day?
Hi, yes it can be done in 2-4 hours very easily. Obviously it depends on how long you want to stay at the locations.