By Mac 
Updated 05/08/2025
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Key Takeaways: Harry Potter Filming Locations Tour
- Immersive Fan Experience: The tour offers a detailed journey through real London locations used in the Harry Potter films, bringing the wizarding world to life for fans.
- Iconic Film Sites: Highlights include Leadenhall Market (Diagon Alley), King’s Cross Station (Platform 9¾), Millennium Bridge (destroyed by Death Eaters), and Australia House (Gringotts Bank).
- Historical and Cinematic Context: Each site blends London’s rich architectural and cultural history with behind-the-scenes movie magic, deepening the experience for film and travel enthusiasts alike.
- Visitor-Friendly Tips: Each location includes practical information such as nearest tube stations, exact addresses, and fun facts, making the tour easy to follow on foot or via public transport.
- Hidden Gems and Fun Facts: From private residences like 12 Grimmauld Place to the real Reptile House where Harry first talks to a snake, the article uncovers lesser-known trivia and stories behind each site.
- Respect for Locals: The guide encourages respectful tourism in residential areas, such as Claremont Square and Great Scotland Yard, where filming took place but access may be limited.
- More Than Just a Tour: It’s not only a sightseeing trip—it’s a nostalgic, story-rich experience that connects visitors to both the Harry Potter films and the enchanting character of London itself.
Introduction
Step into the spellbinding world of Harry Potter with our complete guide to London’s most iconic filming locations. This magical tour will whisk you through the very streets and landmarks that brought J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world to life on screen. From the bustling alleys of Diagon Alley to the hidden entrance of the Ministry of Magic, follow in the footsteps of Harry, Hermione, and Ron as you explore the city like never before. Whether you’re a dedicated fan of the books and films or simply curious about the cinematic side of London, this immersive experience offers something for everyone.
Leadenhall Market – Diagon Alley
A must-visit for any Potterhead, Leadenhall Market was used as the entrance to Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Its charming Victorian architecture, cobbled walkways, and vibrant storefronts make it easy to imagine wizards hurrying off to buy spellbooks and cauldrons. As one of London’s oldest markets, dating back to the 14th century, Leadenhall adds a layer of real-world magic that perfectly blends with the fictional universe.
Key Details:
- Location: Gracechurch Street, London EC3V 1LT
- Nearest Tube Station: Monument or Bank
- Fun Fact: The Leaky Cauldron’s entrance is actually the blue door of an optician in Bull’s Head Passage. This hidden gem is often missed by casual visitors.
King’s Cross Station: Platform 9¾
No Harry Potter tour is complete without a visit to Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station, where Harry famously begins his journey to Hogwarts. The station has since embraced its magical association, creating a dedicated photo spot complete with a luggage trolley “disappearing” into the wall. Right next to it is a Harry Potter gift shop selling everything from Hogwarts scarves to chocolate frogs.
Key Details:
- Location: Euston Road, London N1 9AL
- Nearest Tube Station: King’s Cross St. Pancras
- Fun Fact: The real platforms 9 and 10 aren’t actually adjacent — the film location is between platforms 4 and 5.
The Millennium Bridge: A Scene from the Dark Times
The Millennium Bridge was spectacularly destroyed by Death Eaters in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, showcasing the wizarding world’s growing threat to Muggles. In real life, this steel suspension bridge offers scenic views of the Thames and connects two major cultural landmarks: St. Paul’s Cathedral and Tate Modern. As you cross, it’s easy to imagine the chaos from the film unfolding around you.
Key Details:
- Location: Thames Embankment, London
- Nearest Tube Station: Blackfriars or St. Paul’s
- Fun Fact: Nicknamed the “Wobbly Bridge” when it first opened due to unexpected swaying, it was quickly retrofitted to stabilize foot traffic.
Australia House: Gringotts Wizarding Bank
Located on the Strand, the stunning Australia House served as the exterior of Gringotts Bank in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Its marble interiors and gilded detailing perfectly fit the image of a wizarding bank run by goblins. Although the interior isn’t open to the public, you can still admire its magnificent facade and imagine the secret vaults lying beneath.
Key Details:
- Location: Strand, London WC2B 4LA
- Nearest Tube Station: Temple or Holborn
- Fun Fact: Australia House is the oldest Australian diplomatic mission and was opened by King George V in 1918.
St Pancras Renaissance Hotel: Entrance to the Magical World
Often mistaken for King’s Cross itself, the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel was used for exterior shots in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, where the flying Ford Anglia takes off. With its dramatic Gothic Revival architecture and towering spires, this building captures the grandeur and whimsy of the wizarding world.
Key Details:
- Location: Euston Road, London NW1 2AR
- Nearest Tube Station: King’s Cross St. Pancras
- Fun Fact: The hotel has appeared in numerous films and music videos, including a famous scene in the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe.”
Great Scotland Yard: Ministry of Magic Entrance
In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry and Mr. Weasley use a red telephone box on Great Scotland Yard to enter the Ministry of Magic. Although the telephone box was added just for the film, the street itself has long been associated with mystery and secrecy, formerly serving as the headquarters for London’s Metropolitan Police.
Key Details:
- Location: Great Scotland Yard, London SW1A 2HN
- Nearest Tube Station: Westminster
- Fun Fact: Today, Great Scotland Yard is home to a luxury hotel with a nod to its secretive past.
Piccadilly Circus: A Frenzied Escape
In Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1, Harry, Ron, and Hermione make a chaotic escape through Piccadilly Circus after fleeing an attack at Bill and Fleur’s wedding. Filming took place late at night to capture the dramatic lighting and bustling atmosphere of this iconic junction.
Key Details:
- Location: Westminster, London W1J 9HS
- Nearest Tube Station: Piccadilly Circus
- Fun Fact: This famous intersection has featured in countless films and is known for its massive LED displays and vibrant nightlife.
The Reptile House at London Zoo: A Serpent’s Secret
At the Reptile House in London Zoo, Harry discovers he can talk to snakes, an early hint of his unique connection to Voldemort. The enclosure still exists today and features educational displays about reptiles and amphibians, making it a fun and informative stop for all ages.
Key Details:
- Location: Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY
- Nearest Tube Station: Camden Town or Regent’s Park
- Fun Fact: The scene was filmed in front of the black mamba enclosure, although the speaking snake was added using CGI.
Claremont Square: 12 Grimmauld Place
Tucked away in Islington, Claremont Square stood in for 12 Grimmauld Place, the ancestral home of Sirius Black and headquarters for the Order of the Phoenix. The street’s dark brick facades and quiet atmosphere made it an ideal stand-in for the hidden, magical property.
Key Details:
- Location: Islington, London N1
- Nearest Tube Station: Angel
- Fun Fact: Because it’s a residential area, visitors should be respectful when taking photos.
Borough Market: The Leaky Cauldron
In Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Borough Market doubles as the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron, where Harry disembarks from the Knight Bus. As one of London’s oldest and most beloved food markets, it’s a great place to grab a bite while soaking up some magical atmosphere.
Key Details:
- Location: 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL
- Nearest Tube Station: London Bridge
- Fun Fact: The specific location used in the film is now a flower shop, but the area retains its historic charm.
Conclusion
A London Harry Potter Filming Locations Tour is a magical way to see the city through the eyes of your favourite wizards. From secret Ministry entrances to enchanted market streets, each location adds another layer to the spellbinding story that’s captivated millions. Whether you’re wandering through Leadenhall Market or crossing the Millennium Bridge, these real-life film spots offer a unique blend of cinema and city exploration. Perfect for fans of all ages, this tour is not just about nostalgia — it’s a celebration of storytelling, imagination, and the enchanting spirit of London itself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to book a guided tour to visit these Harry Potter filming locations in London?
No, most of the locations mentioned, like Leadenhall Market, King’s Cross Station, and Millennium Bridge are public and free to visit. However, guided tours (walking or by bus) are available and offer extra details, trivia, and a more immersive experience.
Is Platform 9¾ a real platform at King’s Cross Station?
Not exactly. The real platforms 9 and 10 are separated by train tracks, not a brick wall. The Platform 9¾ photo spot is actually located inside the main concourse near the Harry Potter gift shop. It features a trolley “disappearing” into the wall and is open daily.
Can I go inside Australia House to see Gringotts Bank?
Unfortunately, no. Australia House is home to the Australian High Commission and is not open to the general public. You can, however, admire the stunning exterior, which doubled as Gringotts in the films.
Where exactly is the Leaky Cauldron entrance in London?
In Philosopher’s Stone, the entrance is a blue door in Bull’s Head Passage within Leadenhall Market. In Prisoner of Azkaban, the filming location moved to an area near Borough Market (now a flower shop).
Is 12 Grimmauld Place (Claremont Square) accessible to visitors?
Claremont Square is a residential area in Islington. You can view the exterior and take photos from the street, but the buildings are private homes and not open to the public.
Is the red phone box from the Ministry of Magic scene still there?
No, the red telephone box used in Order of the Phoenix on Great Scotland Yard was a film prop and has since been removed. Still, the location makes a fun photo stop for fans.
How long does it take to visit all the locations?
If you're doing a self-guided walking tour, set aside at least 4–6 hours to comfortably visit 6–8 main sites. You can spread it across a day or two if you plan to explore museums, markets, or nearby attractions.
Are these locations suitable for kids or families?
Absolutely. Kids will love the magic of the locations, especially the photo spots at King’s Cross and London Zoo. Just be sure to plan ahead and build in breaks for younger visitors.
Are there Harry Potter studio tours in London too?
Yes! While not included in this London locations tour, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is a separate, all-day experience located in Leavesden, about 20 miles from London. It’s highly recommended for serious fans.
What should I bring on a self-guided Harry Potter tour?
Comfortable shoes, a Transport for London (TfL) travel card or Oyster card, water, and your phone or camera. A printed checklist or map can also help if you're not using a tour app.
