By Mac 
Introduction
Discover the magic of the wizarding world with our comprehensive London Harry Potter Filming Locations Tour. This guide will take you through the enchanting streets and landmarks of London that served as the backdrop for many iconic scenes from the beloved Harry Potter series. From the bustling Diagon Alley to the secretive Ministry of Magic, immerse yourself in the locations that brought J.K. Rowling’s world to life.
Explore Diagon Alley at Leadenhall Market
Leadenhall Market is a must-visit for any Harry Potter fan. This picturesque Victorian market was used as the entrance to Diagon Alley in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”. Stroll through the cobblestone paths and vibrant shops, and you can almost hear the hustle and bustle of witches and wizards.
Key Details:
- Location: Gracechurch St, London EC3V 1LT
- Nearest Tube Station: Monument or Bank
- Fun Fact: The Leaky Cauldron’s entrance is actually the blue door of an optician shop in Bull’s Head Passage.
King’s Cross Station: Platform 9¾
No Harry Potter tour is complete without visiting King’s Cross Station. Head to the famous Platform 9¾, where Harry begins his journey to Hogwarts. There’s a photo opportunity with the trolley halfway through the wall, perfect for any Potterhead.
Key Details:
- Location: Euston Rd, London N1 9AL
- Nearest Tube Station: King’s Cross St Pancras
- Fun Fact: The Harry Potter shop nearby offers a wide range of magical merchandise.
The Millennium Bridge: A Scene from the Dark Times
Walk across the Millennium Bridge, which featured in “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”. The bridge was dramatically destroyed by Death Eaters in the movie, though in reality, it offers a stunning view of London’s skyline.
Key Details:
- Location: Thames Embankment, London
- Nearest Tube Station: Blackfriars or St. Paul’s
- Fun Fact: The bridge connects St. Paul’s Cathedral and Tate Modern.
Australia House: Gringotts Wizarding Bank
The grand exterior of Australia House was used to depict Gringotts Wizarding Bank. This iconic building on the Strand is where you can imagine goblins managing the finances of the wizarding world.
Key Details:
- Location: Strand, London WC2B 4LA
- Nearest Tube Station: Temple or Holborn
- Fun Fact: The interior scenes of Gringotts were also filmed in Australia House.
St Pancras Renaissance Hotel: Entrance to the Magical World
The majestic St Pancras Renaissance Hotel served as the exterior of King’s Cross Station in the films. Its Gothic architecture and grandeur make it a perfect stand-in for the magical entrance to Platform 9¾.
Key Details:
- Location: Euston Rd, London NW1 2AR
- Nearest Tube Station: King’s Cross St Pancras
- Fun Fact: This hotel is often mistaken for King’s Cross itself in the movies.
Great Scotland Yard: Ministry of Magic Entrance
Great Scotland Yard was used as the location for the visitors’ entrance to the Ministry of Magic in “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”. It’s where Harry and Mr. Weasley enter a red telephone box to descend into the Ministry.
Key Details:
- Location: Great Scotland Yard, London SW1A 2HN
- Nearest Tube Station: Westminster
- Fun Fact: The actual red telephone box used in the film is a prop and not present at the location.
Piccadilly Circus: A Frenzied Escape
In “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1”, Harry, Ron, and Hermione are seen running through Piccadilly Circus to escape Death Eaters after narrowly escaping an attack at Bill and Fleur’s wedding.
Key Details:
- Location: Westminster, London W1J 9HS
- Nearest Tube Station: Piccadilly Circus
- Fun Fact: The scene was filmed late at night to avoid the usual hustle and bustle of this famous junction.
The Reptile House at London Zoo: A Serpent’s Secret
Visit the Reptile House at London Zoo where Harry first discovers his ability to talk to snakes in “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”. It’s an intriguing spot for any fan wanting to relive Harry’s first magical encounter.
Key Details:
- Location: Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY
- Nearest Tube Station: Camden Town or Regent’s Park
- Fun Fact: The Burmese python that Harry speaks to in the film was actually a computer-generated image.
Claremont Square: 12 Grimmauld Place
Claremont Square in Islington served as the exterior for 12 Grimmauld Place, the ancestral home of Sirius Black and the headquarters for the Order of the Phoenix.
Key Details:
- Location: Islington, London N1
- Nearest Tube Station: Angel
- Fun Fact: The actual building is a private residence and not open to the public.
Borough Market: The Leaky Cauldron
In “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban”, Borough Market stands in for the Leaky Cauldron’s entrance. Harry disembarks the Knight Bus here before heading into the wizarding pub.
Key Details:
- Location: 8 Southwark St, London SE1 1TL
- Nearest Tube Station: London Bridge
- Fun Fact: Borough Market is one of the oldest food markets in London, dating back to the 12th century.
Conclusion
Embarking on a London Harry Potter Filming Locations Tour offers a unique opportunity to step into the magic of the wizarding world. Each location brings to life the scenes from the beloved films, making it a memorable experience for any fan. Whether you’re visiting Leadenhall Market’s Diagon Alley or the grandeur of Australia House’s Gringotts, London’s Harry Potter filming locations provide a magical adventure through the city.
