Harry Potter Day | The magical world of Harry Potter, created by J.K. Rowling, has captured the hearts of millions around the globe. For fans of the series, the enchanting story of a young wizard and his friends navigating the trials and tribulations of the wizarding world is more than just a series of books and movies; it's a cherished part of their lives. So much so in 2012, David Cameron, the Prime Minister of Britain then, declared May 2 as International Harry Potter Day. This day was chosen as Harry Potter defeated Lord Voldemort during the Battle of Hogwarts on May 2. On this day, Potterheads around the world pay homage to this fictional, magical world.
While the magical universe may seem accessible only to witches and wizards, the Harry Potter Pilgrimage allows Muggles (non-magical folks) to step into Hogwarts, Diagon Alley's enchanted world, and beyond.
Hop on your broomsticks and fly back to the time when Madame Hooch’s flying lesson became Potter’s first foray into the world of Quidditch. This castle's ground was the set for the first film's scene that saw Harry discover his innate talent, and was also the place where his and Malfoy's intense snitch-chase scene was shot.
Wander through the State Rooms, adorned with impressive art collections and reflecting centuries of history. Explore the Keep, the heart of the castle, and its various chambers. Discover the intriguing stories of the Percy family, the castle's long-standing residents. Stroll through the beautiful Alnwick Garden, a contemporary garden with the impressive Grand Cascade and the quirky Poison Garden.
The stunning Northumberland Coast, with its dramatic castles like Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh, is a short drive away. Explore the vast Northumberland National Park, offering hiking trails and breathtaking landscapes. Visit the historic market town of Alnwick itself, with its charming shops and the Barter Books, one of the largest second-hand bookstores in Britain. Discover the fascinating Holy Island of Lindisfarne, accessible by a tidal causeway.
The castle's main visitor season is generally from late March/early April to the end of October. During this time, all attractions and activities are usually available. Late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers the best weather for exploring the castle grounds and gardens. Summer (July and August) is the peak season and can be busier.
While we wouldn’t advise running through the wall between platform 9 and 10, the real scene was shot at the arched wall between platform 4 and 5. But you can always head to the platform 9, 10, and 11’s entrance and find yourself a small memoir of the impact of the series: a trolley disappearing into the wall of Platform 9¾.
Admire the stunning Victorian architecture, particularly the beautifully restored Western Concourse with its iconic arched roof. Explore the various shops and restaurants within the station, offering a wide range of goods and cuisines. The adjacent St. Pancras International Station, with its grand Gothic architecture, is also worth admiring.
Explore the trendy Coal Drops Yard, a former Victorian coal store now home to unique shops and restaurants. Stroll along the Regent's Canal, offering picturesque waterside walks. Visit the British Library, housing a vast collection of books and historical documents. Discover the innovative art and design exhibitions at Central Saint Martins. Explore the diverse culinary scene and nightlife of the surrounding King's Cross and Granary Square areas.
Best Time to Visit
King's Cross Station is a transport hub that is open and busy year-round. As such, there isn't a specific "best time" to visit in terms of weather or crowds, as it's consistently active. However, if you're specifically interested in the Platform 9 ¾ photo opportunity, be aware that queues can be longer during peak tourist seasons (summer holidays, school breaks) and weekends. Visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays might result in a shorter wait.
In the first movie, the Divinity School was used as Hogwarts' infirmary, and was featured again in film four, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," when Professor McGonagall teaches the boys how to prep for Yule Ball (especially Ron, much to the amusement of his brothers and friends).
Things To Do at Divinity School
Take a guided tour to see the magnificent Divinity School, a masterpiece of English Gothic architecture and the University's oldest teaching room, with its stunning vaulted ceiling. Tours often include access to Duke Humfrey's Library, the oldest reading room; and the Radcliffe Camera, an iconic circular building. Visit the Weston Library, which hosts public exhibitions showcasing the Bodleian's vast collections, and has a cafe and shop. The Old Schools Quadrangle provides a glimpse into the historic heart of the University.
Explore the prestigious Christ Church College, with its grand architecture and cathedral. Visit the Ashmolean Museum, Britain's oldest public museum, housing art and archaeology. Wander through the charming streets and explore the various University of Oxford colleges, each with its unique history and architecture. Climb Carfax Tower for panoramic views of the city. Ponder scientific history at the History of Science Museum.
Best Time to Visit
The library and Divinity School are generally open year-round, but opening hours and tour availability can vary. Late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers pleasant weather for exploring Oxford's sights, including the exterior of the Bodleian buildings and gardens. Booking guided tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, as they are the primary way to see the historic interiors.
The set for many of the scenes in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," especially The Great Hall, which was replicated in the film studios to create the grand Hogwarts Hall. Its 16th-century staircase was the place for Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy’s famous first interaction, as well as the first years’ meeting with Professor McGonagall.
Things To Do at Christ Church College
Explore Tom Quad, the largest quadrangle in Oxford, dominated by Tom Tower designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Visit Christ Church Cathedral, which uniquely serves as both the college chapel and the city's cathedral. Admire the Christ Church Picture Gallery, housing an important collection of Old Master paintings. Wander through the tranquil Christ Church Meadow, offering beautiful riverside walks.
The Bodleian Library and Divinity School are adjacent and offer a deep dive into academic history. Explore other prestigious Oxford colleges like Merton College and Magdalen College. Visit the Ashmolean Museum, Britain's oldest public museum. Climb Carfax Tower for panoramic city views. Stroll along the charming streets and browse the shops of Oxford's city centre.
The college is generally open to visitors year-round, but opening times can vary, and certain areas might be closed due to academic activities. Late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers pleasant weather for exploring the college and its grounds. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry.
Gloucester Cathedral’s cloisters and high ceilings, with its Gothic architecture featured in many Harry Potter films, especially the hallway that led to the Gryffindor Common Room.
Things To Do at Gloucester Cathedral
Marvel at the Norman architecture of the nave and crypt, some of the best surviving examples in the UK. Explore the stunning Perpendicular Gothic choir and presbytery, a masterpiece of design in stone, glass, and wood. Visit the tomb of King Edward II, a significant historical site. Admire the Great East Window, once the largest stained glass window in the world.
Explore the Gloucester Docks, a beautifully preserved Victorian port with museums, shops, and restaurants. Visit the Museum of Gloucester to learn about the city's Roman and medieval past. Discover the Beatrix Potter Shop and museum. Explore the historic streets and architecture of Gloucester city centre. The cathedral also serves as a gateway to the scenic Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean, both offering stunning landscapes and charming villages.
Best Time to Visit
The cathedral is open year-round, but the late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offers the best weather for exploring the cathedral and the surrounding city.
Find Leaky Cauldron and Diagon Alley intriguing? Visit London’s Leadenhall Market, which was used as Diagon Alley in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," soon after Harry finds out he is a wizard, and is also the site for many intriguing plot buildups as the series progresses.
Things To Do at Leadenhall Market
Admire the ornate painted roof, intricate ironwork, and the overall grandeur of its Victorian architecture, dating back to the 14th century (though the current structure is from the late 19th century). Explore the diverse range of boutique shops, restaurants, cafes, and pubs housed within its historic lanes. Soak in the bustling atmosphere, particularly during weekday lunch hours.
The towering "Gherkin" (30 St Mary Axe) is a modern architectural marvel just a short walk away. Explore the historic Bank of England Museum. Visit the impressive St. Paul's Cathedral. Walk across the famous London Bridge and see the Tower of London. Discover the vibrant Borough Market (a bit further south).
Leadenhall Market is open and can be enjoyed throughout the year. However, the market has a different feel depending on the time of day and week. It's typically busiest during weekday lunch hours with city workers. Evenings and weekends can be quieter, offering a more relaxed atmosphere to appreciate the architecture.
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Anyone on a Harry Potter pilgrimage cannot afford to ignore these studios, which are Mecca to Potterheads. Used in the filming of all the Harry Potter films, the studios house many of the props and elements used in the production.
Step into the magical world of Harry Potter at this incredible studio tour located just outside London. Walk through the Great Hall, the magnificent dining room of Hogwarts. Explore Diagon Alley, the wizarding shopping street, complete with Ollivanders Wand Shop and Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes. Board the original Hogwarts Express on Platform 9 ¾. Wander through the Forbidden Forest, encounter animatronic creatures, and discover secrets of the filmmaking. See iconic sets like Dumbledore's office, the Potions Classroom, and the Ministry of Magic. Marvel at the intricate costumes and props used in the films, from Harry's first wand to the Golden Snitch. Discover the artistry behind the special and visual effects, and see the incredible model of Hogwarts Castle.
Nearby you can explore the town of Watford, where the studios are located. For those interested in aviation, the de Havilland Aircraft Museum is a short drive away.
It's a popular attraction year-round, but booking tickets well in advance is essential regardless of the season. Late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers pleasant weather for travel to and from the studio. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. It is crucial to book your Studio Tour tickets online in advance as they do not sell tickets at the door, and time slots often sell out quickly.
It is hard to think of Harry Potter without Dobby, his trusted ally and elf. Dobby dies in the first part of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," and is shown being buried outside the Shell Cottage. The scene was shot at Freshwater West Beach in Pembrokeshire in Wales.
Freshwater West is a popular spot for surfing due to its consistent waves, and you'll often see surfers in the water. Explore the rock pools at low tide, teeming with marine life. Take a walk along the vast expanse of sand and admire the rugged coastline. Birdwatching is also popular here.
Visit the picturesque harbour village of Castlemartin. Explore the stunning Barafundle Bay, considered one of Wales' best beaches. Discover the dramatic cliffs and coastal walks around Stackpole Quay and the Bosherston Lily Ponds. The historic Pembroke Castle, the birthplace of Henry VII, is a short drive away. Explore the charming town of Tenby with its colourful harbour and sandy beaches.
The late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offers the best weather for enjoying the beach and the Pembrokeshire Coast. Summer (July and August) is the warmest and busiest period. Spring and early autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and exploring with fewer crowds. Be aware that the weather on the Welsh coast can be unpredictable, so it's always wise to be prepared for changes. Surfing conditions are often good year-round, but you'll need appropriate gear outside the summer months.
This story was first published on May 3, 2022; and it has since been updated.
