Be enchanted by the historical hotspots in the film franchise.
Oxford’s rich history and dramatic architecture served as a spellbinding set for the Harry Potter film franchise – and it can be just as magical for your visit to the city. The University of Oxford and its surrounding scenery doubled as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
The university dates back to the 12th century, and is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Fun fact: British actress Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger, attended both school and university in Oxford. Take a walk – or cycle – down the cobbled streets and channel your main character energy. If you’re a Potterhead planning a trip, here are the must-see Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford.
Bodleian Library
There are not many libraries in the world that hold nearly every book ever published in the United Kingdom and Ireland – but the Bodleian Library is one. A must-visit for both bookworms and Harry Potter fans, it played a key role in the magical world of Hogwarts.
The Divinity School is the university’s oldest purpose-built teaching and examination room. The medieval hall doubled as the Hogwarts Infirmary, and also featured as the classroom where Professor McGonagall teaches the students to dance before the Yule Ball in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This historic library was used as Duke Humfrey’s Library in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, and featured as the setting for magical discoveries.
The Bodleian Library is spread across three buildings in the city centre: the Old Library, Radcliffe Camera, and Weston Library. The Weston Library is free to enter. To visit the Old Library or Radcliffe Camera, book a Bodleian guided tour. If you want the full Hogwarts experience, book the Duke Humfrey’s Library Tour. Broomsticks are optional.
Christ Church College
Christ Church is one of Oxford’s most iconic and visited colleges – and not just because it inspired Hogwarts. The alumni include 13 British Prime Ministers, from Anthony Eden to Alec Douglas-Home. Visitors are welcome to explore this historic site, which featured in several memorable Harry Potter scenes.
The famous stone staircase appears in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, when Harry, Ron, and Hermione first arrive at Hogwarts and are greeted by Professor McGonagall. The college’s corridors were also used as filming locations, including the scene where Hermione points out Harry’s father’s Quidditch trophy. While the Great Hall at Christ Church was not used directly for filming, it served as the inspiration for the Hogwarts Great Hall. The version seen in the films was recreated on a set at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, located in Leavesden, Hertfordshire.
There’s plenty to explore at Christ Church beyond its wizarding wonders. The Picture Gallery boasts artwork by Botticelli, and the marvellous meadows include roaming cows. Visitors can book a guided or self-guided tour. Live out your dreaming spires dreams, and book a bed and breakfast experience during the Easter and summer holiday.
New College
New College boasts an amazing list of actors in its alumni, from Hugh Grant to Kate Beckinsale. The college is not only steeped in academic tradition, but it’s also a star of the big screen. The college features prominently in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, from its cloisters to its courtyard. The atmospheric settings were used in the scene when Mad-Eye Moody turns Draco Malfoy into a ferret in front of a shocked Harry and friends. The ferret was later turned back by Minerva McGonagall.
If you’re planning a visit, enter through the hidden alley on New College Lane – this was the original entrance and dates back to the 14th century. Once inside, don’t miss the walled gardens, which burst into colour with magnolias, peonies and red dahlias. It’s a peaceful place, and complements the charming connection between Oxford and the world of Harry Potter.
GO: Visit www.visitbritain.org for more information.